It’s important to make your listing stand out on holiday rental sites like Airbnb and VRBO, where there is a lot of competition. A good first impression can make the difference between a potential guest clicking through your ad and not clicking at all. Even though services and descriptions are important, high-quality, eye-catching photography is one of the best ways to get people interested and turn that interest into bookings.
Here’s how to capture the essence of your vacation rental and make it shine on Airbnb and VRBO:
1. Showcase the Unique Features of Your Property
Every vacation rental has something special that makes it unique, whether it’s a stunning view, an architectural feature, or a cozy corner perfect for reading. The key is to capture these special elements through airbnb photographers. For example, if your property has large windows that overlook breathtaking views, focus on framing the shot to highlight both the interior and the view. Likewise, if you have beautifully designed furniture or unique artwork, make sure these elements are in the shot and in focus.
2. Use Natural Lighting to Your Advantage
A picture can be saved or lost by how well it is lit. Natural light is always the best option because it makes spaces feel warm, inviting, and airy. Aim to photograph your vacation rental during the day when the natural light is at its peak, typically in the morning or early afternoon. Open all curtains or blinds to let in as much light as possible, and avoid using harsh artificial lighting that can create unappealing shadows or cause your space to look overly staged.
For evening or night-time shots, subtle lighting can create a cozy ambiance. Consider using lamps, accent lights, or even candles to add warmth and a welcoming feel to the space.
3. Capture Wide-Angle Shots
Vacation rental guests want to see the full picture of your property. Wide-angle shots are great for showing the flow of a room and helping guests imagine themselves inside the space. A wide shot of the living room, for example, gives viewers a sense of how spacious the area is and how the furniture is arranged. It’s also essential to take wide-angle photos of the kitchen, bedrooms, and any other major rooms or features. If your property has multiple rooms or distinct spaces (such as an outdoor patio), make sure to capture each of these areas as well.
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However, avoid overdoing it with the wide-angle lens. Too much distortion can make your space look uncomfortably stretched out, so be sure to balance wide shots with more intimate, well-composed images that showcase the property’s character.
4. Stage the Space for Maximum Appeal
Staging is a powerful tool to help bring the space to life. You don’t need to overdo it, but adding small touches like fresh towels, vases of flowers, or a bowl of fruit can elevate the mood of the room. Ensure the furniture is arranged in a way that looks inviting, clean, and functional. If the property has outdoor space, such as a patio or balcony, make sure it’s staged to reflect how guests would use it — perhaps with a few chairs, a table, or even a glass of wine.
A tidy space will always photograph better, so make sure everything is in place and clutter is kept to a minimum.
5. Include Lifestyle Shots
Guests want to envision what it would be like to stay at your property. One way to do this is by including lifestyle shots in your photography. These shots help people imagine themselves enjoying their time at the property. For example, set up a table for a romantic dinner on the patio or take a shot of a guest lounging on the couch with a cup of coffee. These types of images help convey the atmosphere of the space and allow prospective guests to picture themselves experiencing it.
6. Highlight Amenities and Extras
Many travelers are drawn to properties with exceptional amenities, so it’s important to showcase these in your photos. If your home has a hot tub, a pool, a fully stocked kitchen, or an outdoor grill, these things can make it stand out. Take close-up shots of these amenities, and if possible, show them being used. For example, capture someone enjoying a warm bath in the hot tub or grilling dinner outdoors.
7. Stay Authentic and Avoid Over-Staging
While professional photos are essential, authenticity should always be the focus. Avoid making your vacation rental appear too perfect or staged to the point where it doesn’t reflect the actual experience of staying there. Guests value transparency and want to know what to expect when they book. Overly edited photos or misleading shots may lead to disappointment when guests arrive.
Conclusion
Capturing the essence of your vacation rental for platforms like Airbnb and VRBO is about more than just taking pictures — it’s about telling a story and inviting guests into your space. By focusing on your property’s unique features, using natural lighting, and staging thoughtfully, you can create a visual representation that truly captures the atmosphere and charm of your rental. Remember that great photography not only highlights your property’s best attributes but also helps build trust with potential guests, leading to more bookings and positive reviews.