Arrival Time & Shoot Prep – What to Expect
I typically arrive within a 30-minute window of the scheduled time. So if I say 10:30, you can expect me anytime between 10:30 and 11:00. I always send my live ETA on the way, but please note that Charlotte traffic can be unpredictable.
A few quick prep steps before I arrive can make a huge impact on the final photos. These are simple and take only a few minutes, but they help bring out the best in your space. Feel free to do them in a way that suits your style and setup.
Weather Questions I Often Get:
- Is a cloudy day bad for photos? Not at all—overcast days are actually great for photography. The soft light helps reduce harsh shadows and brings out color and detail.
- What if it rains? We can still shoot outdoors. It’ll appear just as it is—sometimes even better, with mood and texture that make the images feel more real and inviting.
Lighting
🌟 Turn off all lights and fans, except for fixtures with character (e.g., kitchen island lights) and bathroom lights, as they are typically smaller and darker.
💡 Ensure all light bulbs are of the same Kelvin temperature (tungsten yellow or daylight temperature) and intensity to avoid mixed lighting.
🛏️ Turn on all nightstand and side table lamps for a warm ambiance.
🔲 Keep the nightstands and lamps symmetrical to the bedding, and ensure the lamps are either centered or off-centered to your preference, but keep both sides the same.
Cleanliness and Organization
🗑️ Hide all trash cans, both indoors and outdoors.
🛋️ Arrange pillows perfectly and symmetrically with covers facing each other, avoiding random frills.
🛏️ Position bed throws approximately 40% towards the pillows for better close-up shots.
☕ Group kitchen essentials (coffee machine, toaster, etc.) together, hide cords as much as possible, and angle them 35-45% towards the stove.
🌞 Organize outdoor items (umbrella, string lights, cushions), removing any covers and placing them out of view.
🧽 Remove dishwasher soaps and ensure all fixtures are spotless.
This should keep things neat and camera-ready!
Electronics
📺 Turn off the TV and hide any visible power cords for a cleaner look.
