How to Get Your Home Photo-Ready: A Homeowner’s Guide from Oregon Realty Photos

 
 

As a homeowner preparing to sell your property, you’ve likely heard that great photos are key to making a strong first impression. In today’s digital world, buyers scroll through listings online before ever stepping foot in a home—and stunning images can stop them in their tracks. At Oregon Realty Photos, we’ve spent years perfecting the art of real estate photography, and we’re here to share our insider tips to help you get your home camera-ready.

Follow these steps to showcase your home’s best features and make it irresistible to potential buyers.

1. Declutter Like You Mean It

Less is more when it comes to real estate photos. Walk through each room and remove anything that doesn’t serve a purpose or enhance the space. Think countertops free of appliances, coffee tables without stacks of magazines, and bathrooms without personal items like toothbrushes or shampoo bottles. The goal is to let buyers imagine their own lives in the space—not yours. A clean slate highlights your home’s potential.

2. Let the Light Shine

Natural light is a photographer’s best friend, and it’ll make your home feel warm and inviting. Open all blinds, curtains, and shades before the shoot. If you’ve got heavy drapes, consider pulling them back to let sunlight flood in. For interior lights, turn them all on—yes, even in the daytime! This adds depth and ensures every corner of your home looks bright and welcoming. Please double check and make sure all your light bulbs work properly and are the same color!

3. Stage with Purpose

You don’t need a professional stager to make your home pop in photos (though it definitely helps!). A few simple touches can go a long way: fluff pillows, straighten rugs, and set the dining table with a simple centerpiece like a vase of fresh flowers. If a room feels empty, add a plant or a piece of artwork to give it life. The trick is to keep it minimal but intentional—buyers want to see the space, not your decor collection.

4. Tackle the Exterior

Curb appeal matters just as much as the interior. Before your photo session, move all the cars, mow the lawn, trim bushes, and sweep the walkway. Hide trash cans, garden hoses, and kids’ toys out of sight. Extra points if you pick up after your pets! If you’ve got a porch or patio, add a pop of charm with potted plants or a clean outdoor seating area. At Oregon Realty Photos, we love capturing those picture-perfect exterior shots that draw buyers in from the first click.

5. Don’t Forget the Details

Little things can make or break a photo. Wipe down mirrors and windows to avoid smudges, replace burnt-out lightbulbs, and tuck away pet bowls or toys. Check that towels are neatly hung and beds are made with crisp, neutral linens. These small efforts ensure your home looks polished and move-in ready.

6. Trust the Pros

Once your home is prepped, leave the rest to us! At Oregon Realty Photos, we know how to capture your home’s unique charm—whether it’s the cozy fireplace, the spacious kitchen, or that breathtaking view of the Oregon landscape. We use top-notch equipment and techniques to make every shot magazine-worthy, helping your listing stand out in a crowded market.

Final Thoughts

Getting your home ready for photos doesn’t have to be overwhelming. With a little time and attention, you can transform your space into a buyer’s dream. And when your agent partners with Oregon Realty Photos, you’re not just getting pictures—you’re getting a showcase that sells.