How to prepare your home to be photographed

How to prepare your home to be photographed

The only 'rule' is to have fun with your creativity. Everything else that follows please just see as suggestions and ideas that will help you with the preparation. Colour can be fun. Don't be frightened to use it tastefully De-cluttering is a very good icea, but not to the extent that the property looks sterile. A good objective is to promote a ticy but comfortable- looking lifestyle. If you have a favourite view of your property's exterior or interior, then please tell the photographer when he/she arrives.

If you are unsure that a piece of furniture or a rug is right for your room, then best move it out of the way or disguise it before the photography takes place. Please make sure that all light bulbs are working, especially low voltage downlighters such as those found in many kitchens. Picture lights, too, are very effective at creating visual interest - when they are working. If possible, make sure that keys are available for French windows, and other windows and exterior doors, so that they may be opened if necessary.

Branded plastic bottles, such as washing-up liquid, shampoo bottles, toothbrushes and toothpaste etc. are best kept out of sight. Upmarket products, such as Molton Brown bottled soaps or similar, especially if they are colourful, would be an exception. Please tidy away papers: but in moderation, quality magazines and coffee-table books can acid to the lifestyle appeal.

Wintertime, if you have an open fireplace, there is nothing that creates a homely feel more than a roaring fire. Or, maybe the photographer could roll-up some newspaper; when lit for a few minutes this should create enough flame to photograph. Fires can also, sometimes, be added inpost.

Consider using props. For example, colourful vegetables (peppers, tomatoes) and a cottage loaf would work well in a farmhouse kitchen. Coloured glass, or bottles with coloured liquids complement contemporary, white or otherwise minimalist kitchens. Plumped sushions and straightened curtains always look good. Fold towels or hang up fresh fluffy towels in the bathroom and replace any shower curtains and bathmats with lovely clean, neutral ones. Glass shower screens - try to make those sparkle!