How to prepare your property for a photo shoot

A great shoot is mostly decided before the camera comes out. When a property is prepared well, the photographer can spend the day on light, composition and atmosphere instead of moving furniture and hiding cords. Here is the checklist we share with hotels, cafés and vacation rentals before every shoot.

Two to three weeks before

Agree on the shot list

Every shoot should begin with a shot list: the rooms, spaces, amenities, food and moments you want captured, in order of priority. It helps everyone plan the day and ensures nothing important is missed.

Fix the small things

Cameras notice everything. Walk the property with fresh eyes and take care of the details that are easy to overlook day to day.

• Replace burnt out bulbs and make sure every bulb in a room matches in color
• Touch up scuffed paint, chipped trim and worn furniture
• Repair or remove anything broken, from blinds to cabinet handles
• Clean windows inside and out, especially those with a view

Plan the schedule around light

Exteriors, pools and spaces with big windows often look best at specific times of day. Share any timing constraints with your photographer, such as housekeeping schedules, restaurant service or events, so the plan can work around them.

Arrange people if you want lifestyle images

If you want guests or staff in a few shots, confirm who will take part and what they will wear. Simple, solid colors that suit your brand usually work best.

The day before

Rooms

• Hold the rooms you want photographed so they can be fully prepared
• Make beds with crisp, freshly pressed linens and plump every pillow
• Clear nightstands, desks and counters of everything except intentional styling
• Hide cords, remote controls, signage and anything branded by a third party

Bathrooms

• Polish glass, mirrors and fixtures until they shine
• Fold fresh towels neatly and set out your best amenities
• Remove toiletries, bins and bath mats unless they are part of the style

Food and drink

If dining is on the shot list, plan which dishes and drinks will be photographed and when. Plated food looks best fresh, so a short window with the kitchen works better than a long one.

The morning of the shoot

• Open curtains and blinds to let in natural light
• Turn on every lamp and light that is part of the design
• Switch off ceiling fans, televisions and screens
• Move cars, carts and equipment away from exteriors and entrances
• Add fresh flowers, fruit or greenery where it feels natural
• Have one person on site who can unlock doors and make quick decisions

For cafés and restaurants

Cafés move fast, so a little extra planning helps.

• Schedule the shoot outside your busiest hours
• Prepare your signature drinks and best sellers, plus one or two seasonal items
• Wipe down counters, menus and the espresso machine
• Clear the bar of clutter and stage cups, pastries and plants with care

For vacation rentals

Rental listings are judged in a few swipes, so every room needs to feel welcoming.

• Put away personal photos, mail and everyday items
• Style the kitchen with a few simple touches, like a bowl of lemons or a coffee setup
• Set the outdoor area as if guests are about to arrive
• Make sure the hot tub, fire pit or pool is clean and ready to show

What to expect on the day

Most photographers start with the spaces that depend on light, such as exteriors, pools and rooms with big windows, and work through the shot list from there. Expect each room to take some time: furniture may be adjusted slightly, lamps moved and pillows restyled for the camera. Everything is put back afterward.

It helps to keep one or two rooms ready ahead of the photographer, so there is never a wait between spaces. If staff or guests are appearing in shots, schedule them for a specific window rather than asking them to wait all day.

Finally, keep the photographer informed about anything changing on the property, like a delivery, a wedding setup or a busy breakfast service. A quick heads up lets the plan adapt smoothly.

Small details that make a big difference

The best photos feel effortless. That ease almost always comes from careful preparation.

Even numbers of pillows, straight lampshades, matching hangers and towels folded the same way all add up to a calm, premium feel. Ask your photographer what styling they recommend for your space; a few small adjustments can make the difference between a nice photo and one that stops someone mid scroll.

Ready when you are

Every Zyre Collective shoot begins with a shot list shared before arrival, so your team knows exactly what to prepare and when. You will find answers to common questions on our FAQ page, and you can explore the full range of shoots on the services page. When you are ready, request a conversation and we will start planning together.