Have pets cared for off-premises during photography
Exterior
Remove vehicles
Close all windows
Store away toys, bicycles, etc.
Store away seasonal items
Stow all garden tools, supplies, and hoses
Straighten and arrange outdoor furniture
Clean outdoor areas (deck, pool, walks)
Mow lawns and manicure gardens
(Winter) Clear snow and ice from the driveway and walks
Before the day of photography, your home should be thoroughly cleaned, carpets vacuumed, and floors washed. All windows, mirrors, and other glass or shiny surfaces should be washed and polished. Your entire home should gleam, both inside and out.
For your photography, your house should be bright. Turn on all the lights, open all window blinds and shades, turn on any gas fireplace, and maybe light a few candles.
The house should also be free of distractions. Move pets (and people) to another location, and remove all vehicles from the property and street front.
Be ready in advance for the photography. The photographer will not assist with the staging, neither will they move furniture or wait for you to get things prepared.
