My name is Bill Cook and I provide real estate photography services including eye-catching real estate photos, virtual tours, video walkthroughs, and more. I’m located in Bethesda, MD, and I serve the greater Washington DC, Maryland, and Virginia areas. I use professional lighting and advanced editing and post-processing techniques.
My goal is to provide you with the highest quality images that will catch the attention of home buyers and help your listing stand out from the crowd. To ensure your photoshoot appointment goes smoothly, safely, and we get the best possible photos, please complete the following checklist:
General Preparation
Cleaning and staging should be completed before I arrive, preferably the day before your appointment. I may move small items (curtains and blinds, picture frames, etc.) to improve photo composition or to remove any distracting objects. Larger objects, furniture, and staging accessories should be in place before I arrive.
Hide the People and Animals
Personally, I like dogs and cats but they should be secured or taken off the property before I arrive. MLS guidelines prohibit pets from being in pictures and it is important for my safety and the safety of my camera equipment. I also recommend hiding pet food and water bowls as well. All human occupants should plan on either being off the property or out of sight. Please remain in areas where you can’t be seen during the photoshoot.
Exterior Preparation
Cars Outta Sight
If possible, move cars away from in front of the home. Vehicles should not be parked in the driveway or in front of the home. We want a clear view of the property for the best possible photos.
Hide the Trash
Trashcans are ugly, hide them on the side of the house, or in the garage.
Where the Hose at
Put away any garden hoses the day before to avoid dripping water and creating unsightly puddles
Yardwork
The yard should be mowed/raked and cleared of any toys, bikes, tools, dog poop, or debris of any kind. Any outdoor/lawn furniture should be cleaned as well.
Pools & Water Features
If you have a pool and/or spa, please have them clean with covers removed. If you have fountains, waterfalls, or other water features please clean them and make them ready.
Interior Preparation
Clear the Clutter
In the kitchen and bathrooms, and entryways there are often numerous objects (dishes, sponges, soap, shampoo, towels, toothbrushes, refrigerator magnets, shoes, umbrellas, etc.) on the countertops. Tuck these items away in drawers and cabinets, and take out any throw rugs to ensure a clutter-free photo.
Bedrooms
All bedrooms should have their beds made, dressers cleared, and loose items put away.
Hide the Trash and Fans
Trashcans and table/floor fans are ugly, hide them in a closet or out in the garage.
Let there Be Light
Turn on all the lights in the house. Every room light and lamp; even that little light over the stove. Turn all the lights on and replace any dead bulbs. We want bright, well-lit rooms for our photographs.
Open the Blinds
Open all the blinds and curtains – Especially windows with a good view. We want to show-off every amenity that your home has to offer.
No Fans, Please
Turn off all ceiling fans and hide any portable fans in a closet or the garage.
Thank you for completing this preparation checklist. These tasks will help ensure that we get the best possible photos to help sell your property. If you have any questions, feel free to contact me.