You don't need to adjust the window coverings

Keep Window Treatments Natural — Unless the View Deserves to Shine

When it comes to blinds and curtains, there’s no need to open everything up just for the sake of brightness. In professional real estate photography, the lighting is carefully managed, so it’s more important that the window treatments look tidy and natural — not forced or overly staged.

Leave Them How You Normally Keep Them

In most cases, blinds and curtains can be left the way they’re typically arranged in your home. If they’re already even and aligned, that’s likely how they’ll appear in the photos. The goal is to show the home as it really lives — clean, organized, and comfortable — not artificially staged for dramatic lighting.

When to Open Window Treatments

If the window has a beautiful view — like a backyard with a pool, a landscaped garden, or a furnished patio — go ahead and open the blinds or drapes to feature that visual asset. You want to let buyers see the best parts of the home, and sometimes the view is one of them.

When to Keep Them Closed

If the view outside isn’t flattering — for example, if it includes a neighbor’s parked car, a blank fence, or street clutter — it’s better to leave the window coverings closed or partially angled. This helps reduce distractions and keeps the focus on the interior space.

Neatness Matters More Than Light

Professional photographers bring lighting with them. The natural light coming through the windows is just one component, not the only source. What matters most is that blinds and curtains are straight, clean, and in good condition. Crooked or tangled window treatments can be more distracting than helpful in a photo.

By keeping window treatments natural and thoughtful, you help create a balanced, welcoming atmosphere that complements the rest of the home — whether the windows are open or not.