In the competitive world of short-term rentals, first impressions matter. Potential guests browse through countless listings, and high-quality, captivating photos are often the deciding factor in whether someone books your property. Whether you’re renting out a charming flat in the city or a countryside retreat, showcasing your space effectively is crucial. This guide will walk you through the do’s and don’ts of short-term rental photography to help make your listing stand out.
Natural light is your best friend when it comes to photography. Bright, airy images create a welcoming atmosphere and give a true sense of the space. Avoid harsh artificial lighting that can create unflattering shadows or make rooms appear smaller.
Tip: Shoot during the day when natural light is abundant. If necessary, enhance the lighting by opening curtains or blinds to let in as much light as possible.
While editing can enhance photos, overdoing it can lead to unrealistic depictions of your rental. Heavy filters or excessive color adjustments can make your property look different from what it actually is, potentially leading to disappointed guests when they arrive.
Tip: Stick to basic edits like cropping, adjusting brightness, and enhancing contrast. Keep the colors true to life to give a more authentic representation.
A little bit of staging can go a long way in making your space feel more inviting. Small touches like fresh towels, a vase of flowers, or a strategically placed coffee cup can make a room feel more lived-in and cozy, giving potential guests a taste of what it would feel like to stay in your home.
Tip: Make sure the space is tidy, uncluttered, and well-organized. If you want to show off a specific feature, like a cozy reading nook or a beautiful view, make sure to highlight it with thoughtful styling.
It’s important to focus on the key features of your property, but distractions can pull attention away from what matters. Avoid clutter, personal items, or anything that could detract from the overall appeal.
Tip: Clear away unnecessary items such as personal photos, old magazines, or electronics that aren’t being used. Keep the space simple and clean to let the design of the room speak for itself.
Variety is key when it comes to listing photos. Show a range of angles and perspectives to give guests a complete view of your space. Include wide-angle shots of each room, close-ups of unique features, and images of any outdoor areas.
Tip: Include shots of each room (living room, bedrooms, kitchen, bathrooms) and any amenities like a balcony, garden, or pool. If you’re near a popular attraction or have stunning views, make sure to capture that as well.
While you don’t need to have a professional camera to take good photos, using a smartphone with a low-quality camera will result in grainy, unprofessional-looking shots. Invest in a decent camera or hire a professional photographer if necessary.
Tip: Modern smartphones have great cameras, but if you can, use a DSLR or mirrorless camera for even better results. The right equipment can make a noticeable difference in the sharpness and quality of your images.
Guests are often looking for something unique in a property. Whether it's a cozy fireplace, a luxurious hot tub, or a stylish home office space, make sure to highlight special features that set your rental apart from the competition.
Tip: Focus on features that would appeal to your target market. If your space is family-friendly, include shots of the kids' room or outdoor play area. If you cater to business travelers, highlight the workspace and amenities like high-speed Wi-Fi.
While interior photos are essential, the exterior of your property plays a crucial role too. Showing the front of the building or the surrounding landscape can help potential guests envision themselves arriving at your property.
Tip: Capture the outside of your home during golden hour—either early in the morning or just before sunset. This soft, warm light makes the exterior look inviting and adds a professional touch.
When photographing your property, give guests a sense of how they’ll experience it. For example, you could include a photo of someone relaxing on the couch, cooking in the kitchen, or lounging on the balcony.
Tip: If possible, include people in your shots (just make sure they’re not in the way of the main focus). Showing the space being used can help potential guests picture themselves in it.
Guests appreciate the little things. Close-up shots of plush towels, fresh linens, stylish decor, or a beautiful coffee setup can add character to your listing and give a sense of the care and attention to detail you've put into the space.
Tip: Focus on the unique details that make your rental stand out. If your property has artwork, beautiful furniture, or designer fixtures, make sure these are included in the photos.
Golden hour, the period shortly after sunrise and just before sunset, offers soft, warm lighting that’s perfect for interior and exterior shots. The natural light during this time can enhance the mood of your images and create a welcoming, cozy vibe.
Tip: Plan your photo shoot during these times for the best possible lighting, especially for outdoor shots or spaces with large windows. The natural light will add a magical touch to your property’s images.
While it’s important to highlight your property’s best features, don’t overwhelm potential guests with too many shots of the same thing or cluttered angles. Less is often more when it comes to creating a clear, inviting photo album.
Tip: Choose a few key photos for each space. For example, don’t overwhelm the living room with ten different angles. One good wide shot and a couple of detailed close-ups will do the job.
In addition to static photos, consider including a 360-degree photo or virtual tour of your space, which allows potential guests to get a real feel for the layout and flow of the property. This is especially useful for larger homes or unique spaces where photos alone may not do justice to the layout.
Tip: There are apps and services available that can help you capture immersive 360-degree photos. These can be a great addition to your listing and make your space stand out.
Even with the best camera equipment and editing, photos will only look good if your space is clean. Before photographing your property, go over a thorough cleaning checklist. Pay attention to hidden areas like under the beds, behind furniture, and bathroom corners.
Tip: Clean your space thoroughly before photographing, paying extra attention to details like dust, fingerprints on glass, and smudges on surfaces. A sparkling-clean home makes for a much more inviting listing.
If your rental has unique features, such as proximity to local attractions, a stunning view, or a luxurious hot tub, make sure these are front and centre in your photos. These selling points are what will set your property apart from others, so be sure to showcase them well.
Tip: If you have a great view from your windows or balcony, make sure to capture it. Similarly, if you offer something special—such as an outdoor kitchen, a pool, or a game room—ensure these features are well-highlighted in your shots.
Photos can become outdated quickly, especially if you’ve made updates or changes to your rental. Be sure to regularly update your photos to reflect the most current version of your space.
Tip: Always check the resolution and clarity of your images. Low-resolution or blurry photos can make your property look less desirable, so aim for sharp, high-quality images that reflect your rental at its best.
If your rental is in an area where seasons change dramatically, or if there are seasonal activities (like skiing in the winter or beach days in the summer), including these in your photos can help set expectations for guests.
Tip: If it’s winter, show how your space looks with a cozy fireplace or warm blankets. If it’s summer, highlight outdoor living spaces like patios, gardens, or balconies with a barbecue or alfresco dining setup.
The kitchen and bathroom are often the most scrutinized areas in a rental property, so make sure to show them at their best. A clutter-free kitchen with clear countertops and gleaming appliances can make the space feel spacious and inviting. Similarly, the bathroom should look clean, fresh, and well-organized.
Tip: Make sure the sink area is tidy, and consider placing neatly folded towels or a plant on the countertop. In the kitchen, show off sleek appliances, bright countertops, and any attractive cookware or glassware you may have.
Short-term rental photography is one of the most effective ways to market your property and attract potential guests. A little planning, attention to detail, and high-quality images can make a significant difference in how your property is perceived and how quickly it gets booked. Whether you choose to handle photography yourself or hire a professional, following these do’s and don’ts will ensure you present your space in