Photo Day 101: Your First Showing Is Online

I'm going to say something that may sound dramatic:

The first showing of your home doesn't happen when a buyer walks through the front door. It happens online.

Before someone schedules a showing, they've probably already looked through every photo, watched the video, studied the kitchen, zoomed in on the backyard, and decided whether your house deserves a spot on their Saturday tour.

Which is why, when it comes to photos and video...

I don't play. 😂

We're Not Just Cleaning—We're Editing

A clean house and a photo-ready house are two different things.

Cameras pick up everything, and everyday items that barely register when you're standing in a room can make a photo feel surprisingly cluttered.

So for photo day, we're going beyond normal tidying. I want horizontal surfaces as clear as possible - kitchen counters, bathroom vanities, nightstands, dressers. You’ll hide trash cans and laundry baskets, remove refrigerator magnets, wrangle cords, tuck away pet supplies, and pre-pack anything you don't need.

This is also why I recommend removing family photos for pictures. We want buyers looking at the house and imagining their life there - not studying yours.

Think less “Does someone live here?” and more “Could I live here?”

Morning-of: The Final Polish

On photo day, make the beds, wipe down appliances, and clean the mirrors. Those tiny details make a surprisingly big difference on camera.

Then, about 15 minutes before we begin: cars out of the driveway, lights on, and blinds open.

And then...

LEAVE. 😂

I love you, but this is my playground.

Give Me About Three Hours

I recommend budgeting approximately three hours for photos and video.

We may not need every minute, but I don't want to rush. We're creating the photos, video, and marketing assets that will introduce your house to the market.

And yes, I may ask you for a few favorite songs beforehand. Your house is getting its moment. It deserves a soundtrack. 🎶

Why I'm So Particular About This

Once your listing goes live, we don't get another first impression.

Great marketing can't change your location, floor plan, or price - but it can make sure buyers understand why your house deserves their attention.

That's my job.

Your job is to give me the cleanest possible canvas.

Clear the counters. Hide the dog bowls. Move the cars. Turn on the lights.

Then hand me the keys and let me cook. 📸🎥✨