• Be shoot-ready: Staging needs to be done before I arrive, preferably the day before your photoshoot. I may move small items (flowers, pillows, etc.) to improve photo composition, but larger items need to be in place before I arrive, and staging accessories need to be in place as well.
• Declutter the space: Remove any unnecessary items like cleaning supplies, tools, spare parts, canisters, baskets, and anything else you don't want visible in the photos. Either store them out of sight or leave them ashore.
• Plan not to be seen: Only the captain and essential crew should be on board during the photoshoot, and they should remain in areas where they won’t be seen unless needed for the vessel's safe operation. Spaces overlap in the photos, people can cause shadows and reflections, and there is risk to equipment that will be setup throughout the yacht.
• Detail the yacht: Ensure the yacht is thoroughly cleaned and polished inside and out. While some sea spray is inevitable during movement, it's best to minimize it as much as possible.
• Avoid rinsing the exterior on the day of the photoshoot: Teak can dry unevenly, creating wet spots that are difficult to edit out of photos and impossible to remove from videos.
• Tidy up the dinghy garage: Remove all bulky items such as old deflated fenders, spare lines, water hoses, inflatable toys, and covers. Store them ashore.
• Set up exterior spaces properly: Remove all covers and store them away, preferably ashore. Place cushions and accessories in their designated spots.
• Prepare the wet bar and BBQ for close-ups: Ensure they are clean and free of clutter. Remove any small items from the sink – favorite spot to hide locks, keys, sunscreen, sunglasses etc.
• Clear the cockpit: Remove all shoes, shore power cords, ladders, and any other loose items.
• Prepare the jacuzzi / pool: If you have it onboard, remove the cover, fill it with water, and turn on the lights.
• Declutter the galley: A few decorative items on the counters are fine, but dishes, sponges, and cleaning supplies should be put away.
• Prepare the helm station(s): Stow away vessel documentation, pilots, and navigation aids. Remove covers from navigation instruments.
• Prepare the staterooms: Ensure all beds are neatly made, and personal items are put away.
• Organize the walk-in closet(s) (optional): If your yacht features large or well-appointed walk-in closets that may be photographed, declutter them. Consider staging with high-end garments such as suits, dress shirts, and dresses.
• Declutter the heads (bathrooms): Remove trash cans, toilet brushes, toothpaste, toothbrushes, razors, sponges etc. Opt for decorative items like unused soaps, candles, and flowers.
• Hide cords, remotes, chargers, and other small items: While some electrical cords might be unavoidable, try to conceal TV remotes, game consoles, and other visible cords for a cleaner look.
• Open blinds: Let in natural light to brighten the interior and showcase exterior views, giving the space a light and airy feel.
• Turn on all lights: Ensure all interior lights are switched on and functioning. Replace any burned-out bulbs at least 24 hours before the photoshoot.
• Tidy up the engine room: Remove any canisters, tools, cleaning supplies, and baskets, or store them neatly in their dedicated spaces. Clean up dust, rust, and any liquid spills.
• Turn on all interior and exterior lights: Ensure all lights throughout the yacht are switched on. Replace any burned-out bulbs at least 24 hours before the photoshoot.
• Check navigation lights: Make sure that all navigation lights are working. Replace any burned-out lamps at least 24 hours prior to the photoshoot.
• Prepare the jacuzzi / pool: If you have it onboard, remove the cover, fill it with water, and turn on the lights.
