How to Prepare Your London Property for a Professional Photoshoot

When it comes to selling or renting a property in London's competitive market, first impressions matter — and nothing makes a property stand out like high-quality, professional photographs. But to get the most from your property photoshoot, it's essential to prepare the space beforehand. Here's a simple, practical guide on how to get your London home or flat ready for the camera.

📅 1. Schedule the Shoot at the Right Time

Natural light is your best friend. In London, where weather can be unpredictable, aim to book your photoshoot for mid-morning or early afternoon when natural daylight is at its strongest. Discuss timings with your photographer in advance — they'll know how to work around seasonal light changes.

🧹 2. Declutter Every Room

Less is more in property photography. Clutter can distract potential buyers or tenants from your property's best features.

Checklist:

• Remove personal items like toothbrushes, toiletries, and family photos.
• Tidy up worktops in the kitchen.
• Put away shoes, coats, and miscellaneous items.
• Clear surfaces and shelves to create a clean, spacious look.

🛋️ 3. Stage Your Spaces

Staging isn't just for show homes — a few simple touches can dramatically improve your photos. Opt for minimal, tasteful staging that enhances the property's features without overpowering them. Consider using neutral colours and natural elements to create a welcoming atmosphere.

Ideas:

• Add fresh flowers or a bowl of fruit in the kitchen.
• Arrange cushions and throws neatly on sofas and beds.
• Set the dining table with simple, elegant tableware.
• Place a few tasteful accessories on shelves and side tables.
• Add a folded newspaper or Financial Times on a side table for a chic, London lifestyle vibe.
• Hide cables and electrical extension cords where possible.
• Remove all visible plug-in radiators or fan heaters.

Tip: Keep it neutral. Buyers want to imagine themselves in the space, so avoid overly bold or personal décor.

🧽 4. Deep Clean the Property

Cleanliness shows up in photos more than you might think — smudges on windows, dust on surfaces, and streaky mirrors can be distracting. Don't forget to hide household chemicals if they're not in designer bottles.

Focus on:

• Windows (inside and out)
• Bathrooms (tiles, mirrors, taps)
• Kitchen appliances
• Floors and carpets
• Light switches and doors
• Under sofas and beds (visible in wide-angle shots)
• Inside ovens and microwaves (especially for rental listings)

🪴 5. Use Greenery Strategically

A single plant can revive a room. London property photographers recommend:

• A fiddle-leaf fig in a corner
• Small succulents on bedside tables
• Fresh herbs in the kitchen window

Avoid plastic plants — they tend to look obvious in high-resolution photos.

💡 6. Check the Lighting

Ensure all light fixtures work, and replace any burnt-out bulbs. Use bulbs of the same warmth (cool or warm white) in each room for consistency. Pay attention to lamp Colour Rendering Index (CRI). CRI is a measurement of how naturally colours render under an artificial white light source compared to sunlight. It should be no less than 90.

Tip: On dull London days, your photographer will likely use additional lighting — but working with good ambient light always helps.

🌳 7. Don't Forget Outdoor Spaces

If your property has a balcony, garden, patio, or terrace, tidy it up. Outdoor spaces are a huge selling point in London.

Prepare by:

• Sweeping paths or decking
• Removing any construction materials, boxes, or garden hoses
• Cleaning patio furniture
• Trimming plants and hedges
• Removing bins and any additional clutter

📑 Final Touches: On the Day of the Photoshoot

• Open all curtains and blinds to maximise light.
• Turn off TVs and hide remote controls.
• Make the beds neatly and use ironed bedding.
• Hide pet bowls, beds, and toys.
• Take a few test photos with your phone — many find it easier to spot imperfections this way than with a quick glance.
• Do a final walkthrough before the photographer arrives.
• Once the photographer arrives, share all your requests, as only you know best what's worth highlighting — maybe you have a hidden button to switch on mood lighting in a room.
• Stay well away from the photographer's frame, as you may appear in reflective surfaces even when standing in another room.

✅ Summary

Preparing your London property for a professional photoshoot is about creating a clean, bright, and inviting space that appeals to the broadest audience. A little effort in decluttering, cleaning, staging, and lighting will pay off with stunning photographs that make your property stand out online — helping you attract more enquiries, faster viewings, and better offers.