October 23, 2025
Why Photo Prep Matters

A clean, consistent photo session can make or break your online inventory. Before the camera clicks, a little prep goes a long way toward making your dealership’s vehicles look more professional and helping shoppers trust what they see. At Dealer Image Pro, we’ve created a simple, step-by-step Pre-Shoot Checklist to help every session run smoothly and efficiently.

Whether you’re shooting on-site or outside, this checklist ensures every vehicle shines — literally and figuratively.

Exterior: The Foundation of a Great Photo

Before starting your photo shoot, take a few moments to prep the car’s exterior. These simple steps make your shots look polished and consistent across your entire inventory.

  • Clean and free of rain or snow: Nothing ruins a shot faster than water spots or streaks. Always dry the surface thoroughly.
  • Front end facing the sun (if outdoors): Proper lighting highlights the vehicle’s details and reduces harsh shadows.
  • Headlights turned off: Keeps reflections minimal and focuses the viewer’s attention on the car’s lines.
  • All doors closed and windows up: This ensures symmetry and a showroom-ready look in every angle.

Pro tip: A quick microfiber wipe on chrome and glass before shooting can make all the difference.

Interior: Details That Sell

Your interior shots tell a story and shoppers are paying attention. Make the inside of every vehicle look as fresh as the day it arrived.

  • No warning lights on the dashboard: A clear dash shows the car is ready to go.
  • Remove paper mats, trash, and personal items: Cleanliness is key to professionalism.
  • Lower headrests: It opens up the cabin and makes the space feel larger in photos.
  • Sunroof cover opened: Natural light creates depth and a warm, inviting tone.
  • Use a microfiber cloth on camera lens and screens: Prevent smudges and reflections that distract from the details.

Final Thoughts

The difference between a quick snapshot and a professional dealership photo often comes down to preparation. With this simple checklist, your vehicles will always be ready for their close-up — helping you attract more clicks, build trust with buyers, and move inventory faster. Download a copy of our checklist to use during your shooting process.

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