Your listing photos are the first thing buyers see — and in Lancaster County's competitive market, first impressions happen online, not at the front door.
Studies show that listings with professional photography sell 32% faster and attract significantly more showings than those with amateur photos. But even the best photographer can only work with what's in front of them. A little preparation before the shoot makes an enormous difference in the final results.
Here are 10 practical steps every Lancaster, PA seller should take before a real estate photo shoot.
1. Declutter Every Surface
The camera exaggerates clutter. What looks "fine" in person looks chaotic in a photo. Before the shoot, clear off:
- Kitchen countertops — put away appliances, dish racks, mail, and anything that doesn't belong
- Bathroom counters — store toiletries, toothbrushes, and personal items under the sink
- Shelves and side tables — keep only 1–2 decorative items maximum per surface
- Dining tables — completely clear, or set simply with a centerpiece only
Pro tip from Hasan: "I always tell sellers — if you're unsure whether to remove something, remove it. You can always put it back. You can't un-photograph clutter."
2. Open Every Blind and Curtain
Natural light is your best friend in real estate photography. Before I arrive, open every blind, curtain, and window shade in the home. My HDR photography technique captures the full range of light, but the more natural light available, the better the result.
3. Turn On Every Light
Go through the entire home and turn on every lamp, overhead light, and under-cabinet light. Replace any burned-out bulbs before the shoot. Use warm white bulbs (2700K–3000K) throughout for a consistent, inviting feel.
4. Remove Personal Photos and Items
Buyers need to picture themselves living in your home. Temporarily remove:
- Family photos from walls and shelves
- Children's artwork from refrigerators
- Personalized door mats or signs
- Religious or political items
5. Make Every Bed Perfectly
A perfectly made bed with smooth, wrinkle-free linens communicates care and cleanliness. Use your best bedding, fluff all pillows, and add a throw blanket at the foot for a hotel-like finish.
6. Deep Clean Reflective Surfaces
Mirrors, glass shower doors, stainless steel appliances, and windows show every smudge in high-resolution photography. The day before the shoot, clean:
- All mirrors — streak-free
- Shower doors and tiles
- Stainless steel appliances
- Windows (interior side especially)
7. Prepare the Exterior and Lawn
Before your exterior shoot:
- Mow the lawn and edge the borders
- Sweep the driveway, walkways, and porch
- Remove cars from the driveway
- Put away garden hoses, trash cans, and children's toys
- Place a simple potted plant or seasonal flowers by the front door
8. Depersonalize Pet Areas
Remove pet bowls, beds, litter boxes, and toys from all visible areas before the shoot.
9. Set the Temperature and Reduce Distractions
- Secure pets in a crate, garage, or with a neighbor
- Ask family members to be out of the home if possible
- Put the toilet seat down in every bathroom
10. Do a Final Walk-Through
30 minutes before I arrive, do a slow walk through every room. Pay attention to:
- Electrical cords and cables — tuck them behind furniture
- Kitchen sink — clear and dry
- Trash cans — moved to garage or hidden
- Tissue boxes and cleaning products — stored out of sight
What Happens After the Shoot
Once I complete your session, I deliver fully edited MLS-ready images within 24–48 hours. Every photo is professionally processed with HDR blending, perspective correction, and color calibration.
Ready to book your real estate photography session in Lancaster, PA?
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Hasan Akbas is a professional real estate photographer serving Lancaster, York, Harrisburg, and surrounding areas. With 20+ years of experience and work published in BBC, The Guardian, Time Magazine, and Forbes.