Your Listing Photos Are Costing You Thousands—Here’s the Fix

At Aviary Creations, we know that first impressions sell homes. In today’s digital market, your listing photos are that first impression. To help listing agents like you get the most out of every shoot, we’ve put together our top tips for preparing a home before our camera ever clicks.

Whether it’s a cozy condo or a sprawling estate, these steps will help your listings shine in every frame.

1. Declutter Like You’re Moving Tomorrow

Less is more in real estate photography. Clear off countertops, hide pet bowls, stash cords, and remove personal items. Clean, open spaces help buyers picture themselves in the home instead of the current owners.

Pro Tip: Kitchen counters should be almost bare with only a bowl of fruit or a few staged items.

2. Clean Everything

Photos pick up what the eye might miss. Smudged mirrors, dusty baseboards, or streaky windows? They’ll show! A deep clean makes a huge difference, especially in kitchens and bathrooms.

3. Light It Up

Natural light is your best friend. Open blinds and curtains to let it pour in. Replace any burnt-out bulbs and consider contrasting the bulb color.

Aviary Creations recommends:

• Bright White - for grey, blue, and cool tones

• Soft White - for red, orange, and warm tones

4. Stage for the Lens, Not Just Life

Photography sees space differently than the human eye. Arrange furniture to make rooms feel open and functional. Consider removing oversized or excess pieces that might crowd the frame.

Need help staging? Ask us—Aviary Creations works with amazing local stagers or can offer light virtual staging services.

5. Don’t Forget the Outdoors

Curb appeal counts in photos, too! Mow the lawn, sweep porches, remove seasonal decorations, and tuck away hoses or garden tools. If there’s a pool, uncover and clean it.

Seasonal Tip: For fall and winter listings, add tasteful seasonal touches like a clean wreath or potted mums.

6. Create a Shot List Together

Every home is different. If there are features you want us to highlight—like custom cabinetry, a killer view, or a luxury bathroom—let us know in advance. We’ll tailor the shoot to tell the home’s story.

7. Plan for a Smooth Session

Homeowners (and pets) should be out of the house during the shoot whenever possible. This helps us move quickly, capture every angle, and avoid distractions in photos.

Need a checklist for sellers? We’ve got a FREE printable to download—Click Here!

Ready to Book?

At Aviary Creations, we’re more than photographers, we’re your marketing partner. We’re here to make your listings stand out, sell faster, and leave a lasting impression.

Your listing deserves to be seen in the best light (literally and figuratively). Let’s make it shine together.
— The Aviary Creations Team

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