Photo Inventory Best Practices

Good loss-site photos are the fastest way to build an accurate contents inventory. Here are best practices our specialists use.

Take Wide Shots First

Capture each room from multiple angles before zooming in. Wide shots establish context and help jog memory later.

Photograph in Sequence

Move clockwise around each room so nothing is skipped. Open cabinets, drawers, and closets as you go.

Capture Labels and Models

For appliances, electronics, and high-value items, photograph the make/model/serial number plate when possible.

Document Condition

Take photos of damage, soot, water staining, or mold. Condition matters for both valuation and coverage.

Don’t Sort First

Resist the urge to clean up before photographing. A post-loss scene tells a more complete story than a tidy room.