Media Day Checklist
How to prepare your home so we capture it at its best.
A few simple steps before we arrive make all the difference.
Quick Overview
Declutter
Clear the counters and tidy every room.
De-personalize
Put away photos, toiletries, shoes and pet items.
Brighten up
Open all blinds. Turn on every ceiling light.
Final touches
Straighten furniture. Add fresh towels and a plant.
Outdoor spaces
Tidy the patio. Put away toys, tools and hoses.
Curb appeal
Hide the bins. Move cars off the driveway and street.
House Rules
Ready when we arrive
Tidy and staged. We shoot as is and can’t move items.
Nobody home
No owners, tenants, contractors or showings.
Pets away
Kennelled or off the property for the shoot.
By booking, you agree to these rules. Missed something? We can remove items in editing for $15 per photo.
Full Checklist
Click each section to expand the full room-by-room checklist.
- Ceiling lights on, lamps off
- Burnt-out bulbs replaced
- Blinds and curtains open
- Fans, TVs and screens off
- Shoes and coats in closets
- Keys, mail and clutter put away
- Toys and pet items put away
- Garbage and recycling hidden
- Floors vacuumed, surfaces dusted
- Counters clear, small appliances away
- Fridge front clear (magnets, photos)
- Soap, sponges and towels away
- Island centrepiece removed
- Appliances wiped clean
- Toiletries and shampoo put away
- Put out fresh, neutral towels
- Bath mats picked up
- Shower curtain open
- Mirrors and taps shined
- Coffee table and shelves clear
- Wires tucked away
- Family photos taken down
- Busy throws and pillows put away
- Table clear (placemats, dishes)
- Chairs straight and evenly spaced
- High chairs and boosters away
- Beds made, neutral bedding
- Nightstands clear
- Personal items put away (photos, jewellery)
- Laundry and baskets put away
- Closets tidy or closed
- Cars off the driveway and street front
- Bins out of sight
- Lawn cut, walkways swept
- Patio furniture clean and set
- Toys, tools and hoses put away
Frequently Asked Questions
No, the home needs to be empty: no owners, tenants, contractors or showings.
Usually 1–3 hours, depending on the home and the package.
No, we shoot as is and can’t move items.
All the main rooms. Tell your agent if there’s one to skip.
Yes, put away photos, toiletries, shoes and pet items.
It isn’t required, but staged homes photograph better.
Download the checklist
Save a copy to share with your client before their media day.
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