Having professional photographs taken of your property is an important step if you are planning to sell or rent it. High-quality images help attract more interest online and can make your home stand out in a busy market. But what happens if you are still living in the property when the photographer visits? It is very common, and with a little preparation you can make the process smooth while showing your home in the best possible way.
Tidy Up Living Spaces
One of the most important steps is a quick tidy-up before the photographer arrives. Buyers or future tenants want to imagine themselves living in the home. If there is clutter everywhere, it can distract from the actual space. Focus on key areas such as the kitchen, living room, and bedrooms. Clear away dishes, toys, laundry, and anything lying around on surfaces. If you have pets, it’s also a good idea to remove bowls, beds, and litter trays for the photos. A simple sweep of visible areas makes a big difference without too much effort.
Hide Personal Items
While it is natural to have personal belongings out when you live in a home, for photography less is more. Family photos, children’s artwork on the fridge, or piles of paperwork should be tucked away. This helps make the rooms look tidy and neutral so that potential buyers can imagine the home as their own. A good tip is to use boxes or baskets to quickly store items before the photographer arrives. Once the session is done, you can put them all back in place.
Think About Lighting and Windows
Light plays a huge role in how a property looks in photos. Make sure curtains are open and blinds are raised to let in as much natural light as possible. Dusting windows and wiping mirrors or glass doors will also help reduce streaks or marks. If the day is a little dark, turning on lamps and overhead lights can help brighten rooms and create a welcoming effect.
Make Beds and Bathrooms Look Inviting
When people are still living in the home, the bedrooms and bathrooms can often look a bit too personal. Preparing them for photographs takes only a few minutes but has a big impact. Smooth out duvets and add a couple of cushions to make beds look neat. Clear bedside tables of clutter, leaving only a lamp or a small decoration. In the bathroom, hang fresh towels, close toilet lids, and put away toiletries. These small touches can transform the space from “lived-in” to “hotel fresh.”
Step Aside During the Shoot
The photographer may need to move around freely, so it helps to step aside where possible. While you don’t need to leave the house, try waiting out of shot while they are shooting. This avoids capturing reflections of people in mirrors or glass and saves time during editing. If you have children or pets, it may be helpful to plan an activity outside or in a part of the house that isn’t being photographed.
Be Flexible and Communicate
Finally, remember that property photographers are used to working in lived-in homes. If something cannot be moved, or if you have a specific concern, just let them know. They understand the balance between real life and presenting a property well. Good communication helps the process run smoothly and keeps stress levels low.
Living in the home while it is being photographed is very normal, and with a few small preparations, you can make sure your property looks its best. Focus on tidying, de-personalising the spaces, maximising light, and creating a welcoming feel. The photographer will handle the rest. Those professional images can make all the difference when it comes to attracting interest and getting great results in the property market.