Planning Your Shot List

Having a systematic approach to shooting a property saves time and ensures you don't miss anything. Here's how I plan and execute a typical shoot.

For a typical 3-bedroom house, I aim for 20-25 images:

1. Front elevation (hero shot), 1-2 images

3. Kitchen, 2-3 images (wide shot, detail, different angle)

13. Detail shots, 2-3 images (fireplace, period features, view from window)

I always start with exteriors while the light is good (assuming daytime), then work through the interior systematically. I go room by room, starting from the entrance and working through the property in a logical flow. This mirrors how a buyer would walk through the home.

For a standard 3-bed house, I allow 1.5-2 hours on site. This breaks down roughly as:

Not every property is the same. A period cottage with exposed beams and an inglenook fireplace deserves more detail shots than a modern new-build. A property with stunning views needs window shots. A home with a beautiful garden needs more exterior coverage. Read the property and adjust your shot list accordingly.

Before every shoot, confirm the following with the estate agent or client:

This five-minute conversation prevents misunderstandings and ensures you deliver exactly what the client expects.

When you first arrive at a property, resist the urge to start shooting immediately. Walk through every room with your eyes, not your camera. Note which rooms have the best light, which angles work, and which spaces need extra attention. This mental walkthrough typically takes 5-10 minutes and saves you significantly more time during the actual shoot.

Occupied homes require more time and diplomacy. You'll need to:

For every key room, take at least two compositions, your primary shot and a backup from a different angle. This gives the agent options and protects you if one angle has an issue you didn't notice on the camera's small screen (a reflection, a shadow, a crooked frame on the wall).