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PRE-SHOOT CHECKLIST

1. The "Must-Do" Fundamentals (The 15-Minute Rule)

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  • Turn ON every light: This includes overheads, lamps, under-cabinet lights, and even hood lights.

  • Turn OFF every fan: Moving fan blades cause a blur that ruins the "stillness" of a luxury shot.

  • Open all window treatments: Open blinds and curtains fully to maximize the natural light of the Jersey Shore.

  • Clear the Driveway: Move all vehicles completely out of sight (not just down the street, but out of the camera's view).

  • Hide the Trash: Move all indoor and outdoor trash/recycling bins into the garage.

2. Exterior & Curb Appeal

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  • Landscape Check: Mow the lawn, trim hedges, and blow away stray leaves or sand from walkways.

  • Remove Clutter: Hide garden hoses, sprinklers, toys, and yard tools.

  • Pool & Patio: Remove the pool cover, clear out the "Polaris" vacuum, and arrange patio furniture neatly. If you have an umbrella, open it!

  • Seasonal: If it’s out of season, remove holiday decorations or dead potted plants.

3. The Kitchen (The Heart of the Home)

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  • Clear the Counters: Remove everything that shouldn't be there except appliances. 

  • Fridge Check: Remove all magnets, photos, and calendars from the front and sides of the refrigerator.

  • Sink & Windows: Ensure the sink is empty of dishes and the window above it is spotless.

  • Hide the Essentials: Put away dish soap, sponges, and hand towels.

4. Living & Dining Areas

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  • De-Clutter Surfaces: Clear off coffee tables and mantels. Leave only 1–2 high-end decorative items (like a single book or a vase of fresh flowers).

  • Tidy the Tech: Hide all visible remotes and try to tuck away or "snake" messy power cords.

  • Straighten Up: Fluff every pillow and straighten every chair. Symmetry is key for high-end photography.

5. Bedrooms & Bathrooms

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  • The Hotel Bed: Make beds with fresh, wrinkle-free linens. Ensure bed skirts are straight and pillows are fluffed.

  • Personal Items: Clear nightstands of all books, charging cables, and medications.

  • Bathroom Clear-Out: Remove all toothbrushes, shampoos, and soaps from the counters and showers.

  • The Golden Rule: Toilet lids MUST be down.

6. Important Note on Pets & People

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  • Secure Pets: Please have pets in a kennel, in the garage, or off-site during the shoot. I love animals, but we don't want them (or their bowls and crates) in the listing photos!

  • The "Invisible" Owner: To allow me to move quickly and focus on the artistry of the light, I recommend that homeowners and agents remain in a separate area or leave the property during the session.

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