How to prepare your home for a Photoshoot (no tidying frenzy required)

If the words “photoshoot in your home” immediately trigger a mental image of vacuuming at 11pm and hiding laundry in the oven… let’s take a deep breath together.

You do not need to panic clean or redecorate your home to get beautiful photos. In fact, please don’t. Your home is already doing the job perfectly, because it holds the love, chaos, and comfort of your real life. And that’s what we want to capture.

That said, there are a few small ways you can prepare your home to help everything run smoothly - no wild scrubbing or panic required.

All cosy on the family couch

1. Focus on Light, Not Perfect Styling

When I arrive for an in-home photography session, the first thing I’ll do is look for the best natural light in your home. That’s where we’ll shoot.

So, the best thing you can do beforehand? Open your blinds and curtains and let the light in. That’s it. We don’t need moody candlelight or fancy lamps or actually any lights turned on in your home. Natural light and a relaxed atmosphere do all the heavy lifting.

2. Tidy Lightly. Like You Would for a Friend

No need to go full Marie Kondo. Don’t deep clean the bathroom. Just lightly clear a few surfaces in the spaces we’ll likely use; the main bedroom, the lounge, maybe the nursery or kids’ room. You can toss things in a basket and shove it out of frame if that helps (I’ve seen some truly heroic cupboard stuffing -zero judgment here).

Think of it like this: we’re not aiming for clean, we’re aiming for clear. Let the space breathe a little, but don’t erase the life from it.

Enjoying a play in the girls bedroom full of colour and joy.

3. Have a Couple of Outfit Options Handy

No need to dress like you’re going to the Oscars, comfort is key. Think soft textures, earthy or neutral tones, and outfits that make you feel good and move easily. Avoid big logos or anything too bright and busy (unless that’s your jam, I can totally capture bright colours!).

Bonus tip: if you’d wear it to a family brunch and still be comfy playing on the floor, it’s probably perfect.

4. Prep Your People, Not Just Your Space

Let the kids (and grownups!) know someone’s coming to take photos, but reassure them it’s not a “say cheese” situation. It’s just me, hanging out while you play, cuddle, read books, or bake muffins (bonus points for muffins, obviously).

If everyone’s relaxed and knows what to expect, the session flows beautifully.

Enjoying a snack mid photoshoot.

5. Embrace the Real Life Bits

That half eaten banana on the table? The lego explosion in the hallway? The fact that no one brushed their hair? Totally okay.

In fact, it’s more than okay. It’s real, and real is what makes these photos so meaningful. We’re not here to fake a perfect life. We’re here to remember the beautiful, messy, love soaked one you’re living right now.

The backyard is also a great place to take family photos.

Preparing for your home for a lifestyle in-home photography session shouldn’t feel like hosting the Queen. A bit of light tidying, some natural light, and your beautiful, chaotic family is all we need. I’ll take care of the rest.

When you book a session with me I send you through a pre shoot guide which will also talk you through how to prepare your home and yourself.

Ready to see your everyday magic, exactly as it is? Click here to book your session so we can make some beautiful images together.