Scrolling through Airbnb is like flipping through a glossy magazine. Some listings leap off the page — bright, inviting, and practically whispering “Book me!” Others? They fade into the background, overlooked and forgotten. That’s the magic of great Airbnb photography — it transforms your vacation rental from a simple stay into a must-have experience.
In today’s competitive market, high-quality photos are your golden ticket to capturing attention and filling up your calendar with bookings. Whether you’re investing in professional Airbnb photography or trying your hand at DIY, the right images don’t just show your space — they tell its story.
This guide will walk you through everything you need to know to make your listing stand out with great photos, from capturing those perfect angles to deciding if a professional photographer is worth the investment. Let’s make your property impossible to scroll past!
Why Airbnb Photography Matters
Your Airbnb photos are the first impression guests get of your property, long before they read the description or check your reviews. Stunning visuals don’t just attract attention, they establish trust, set expectations, and help potential guests imagine themselves enjoying your space.
High-quality photos of your short-term rental are building blocks of your marketing efforts, and can help boost bookings and revenue and build trust with guests.
Impact on Bookings and Revenue
Professional photography can significantly boost your property's performance.
According to Airbnb research, listings with professional photos earn:
- 28% more bookings
- 26% higher nightly rates
- 40% more overall earnings
Additionally, a study by Snappr found that high-quality property photos increased yearly revenue by an average of $2,455 per property.
Building Trust with Guests
Clear and accurate photos of your property help set expectations for guests, reducing the likelihood of cancellations and negative reviews. Guests are more likely to book properties that are well-represented visually, as it assures them of the quality and condition of the space. Airbnb itself emphasizes that high-quality images are one of the biggest factors for guests when deciding which listing to book.
DIY vs. Professional Airbnb Photography
Choosing between snapping your own photos or hiring a professional photographer is like deciding whether to bake a cake from scratch or order from a bakery. Both options can produce great results, but the right choice depends on your skills, tools, and resources.
Pros & Cons of DIY Photography
DIY photography is the budget-friendly hero, especially for new hosts. With a modern smartphone or a decent camera, you can capture surprisingly high-quality Airbnb photos that make your property look its best.
Taking your own photos gives you creative control and lets you experiment with different styles at your own pace. Plus, if you’ve got an eye for design, staging your property and capturing its charm can be incredibly rewarding.
However, DIY doesn’t mean winging it. To produce the best results, you’ll need to learn basic photography principles like lighting, composition, and editing to ensure your photos look polished.
You’ll also need to invest a little bit of money in basic equipment:
- Tripod
- Camera
- Ring lights and/or soft boxes
Ultimately, DIY is a great route if you’re willing to invest the necessary time, but beware: subpar photos can backfire, making even a beautiful Airbnb seem dull or cramped.
Pros & Cons of Hiring a Professional Airbnb Photographer
A skilled photographer has the expertise and equipment to make your space look its absolute best. They know how to highlight unique features, balance lighting, and create visually compelling images that make potential guests stop scrolling.
Professionals can also save you a lot of time and effort. While they’re busy crafting magazine-worthy professional Airbnb photos, you can focus on other aspects of your hosting business. And let’s not forget the confidence boost — when you know your listing looks incredible, it’s easier to justify premium pricing.
Of course, hiring a professional is an additional expense that can add up to a few hundred or even over $1,000.
Key Considerations When Choosing DIY vs. Professional Photography
- Your budget: Professional photography is an investment, but it often pays for itself through increased bookings. If your budget is tight, DIY might be the way to go initially.
- Property style and audience: If your listing has luxury or unique features, professional photos can emphasize what makes your property stand out. Budget-conscious travelers might not expect pro-quality photos, but high-end guests will.
- Your skill level: If the words “aperture” and “composition” make your head spin, hiring a professional might be worth the peace of mind.
How to Take Good Airbnb Photos
Great Airbnb photos don’t just happen—they’re crafted with care, attention to detail, and a sprinkle of creativity. Whether you’re working with a professional or going the DIY route, these Airbnb photography tips will help you create images that captivate and convert.
1. Stage and Declutter Your Space
Before you even pick up a camera, make sure your space is spotless and styled to perfection.
Start by decluttering every room:
- Remove anything that doesn’t add to the aesthetic: Minimalism is your best friend. Think clear countertops, tidy shelves, and neatly arranged furniture. Less truly is more when it comes to creating a visually appealing space.
- Hide personal items: Store away anything overly personal, like family photos, toiletries, or stacks of mail. Guests want to envision themselves in the space, not feel like they’re intruding on someone else’s home.
- Organize visible storage: Straighten bookshelves, fold blankets, and ensure drawers or cabinets that might be partially visible in photos are tidy. Even small details contribute to the overall impression.
- Remove duplicate or unnecessary furniture: If a room feels crowded, consider temporarily removing extra chairs or tables to make it appear more spacious.
Next, stage each room:
- Add thoughtful decor: Place a vase of fresh flowers on the dining table, arrange a few coffee table books, or include a bowl of fruit in the kitchen. These small touches add life and personality.
- Set the mood: If you have a fireplace, light it. If your property has a patio, set it up as if someone’s about to enjoy a drink or meal outside.
- Fluff and straighten linens: Make beds neatly, fluff pillows, and ensure all linens look crisp and clean. Wrinkled bedding can ruin an otherwise perfect shot.
- Highlight function: Show how spaces are meant to be used. For example, a workspace might feature a laptop and a cozy chair, or a kitchen might showcase a coffee maker with a mug ready to go.
- Check for symmetry: For a polished look, aim for balanced arrangements — matching nightstands on either side of the bed or a centered rug under a coffee table can make a big difference.
2. Get Great Lighting
Lighting can make or break your photos, and natural light is your best tool. Open up curtains, blinds, or shades to flood the space with soft, inviting light.
The best time to shoot? Midday, when the sun is high and casts fewer harsh shadows. If you’re shooting on a cloudy day, that’s even better — clouds act as a natural diffuser, creating evenly lit spaces. Avoid relying solely on overhead lights, which can cast unflattering shadows and make your space feel smaller.
3. Focus on Angles and Composition
The right angle can make even a small space feel expansive and inviting.
Stand in the corners of rooms to capture as much of the space as possible, and keep the camera at eye level for a natural perspective.
Use the "rule of thirds" to balance your shots: Imagine dividing your frame into a grid and placing key elements along the lines or intersections. For example, let a bed frame or sofa anchor the shot instead of leaving the frame empty.
4. Highlight Unique Features
Every property has its standout features. Maybe it’s a sun-drenched reading nook, a rustic fireplace, or a backyard view that steals the show. Your photos should tell a story about these details.
Capture them from angles that emphasize their charm and utility, like a wide shot of the patio with the grill fired up, or a close-up of the cozy bed with coordinated throw pillows. These touches help guests imagine themselves enjoying your space.
5. Edit with a Light Touch
After you’ve captured your shots, a little editing can go a long way. Use tools like Lightroom or Canva to adjust brightness, contrast, and saturation, but resist the urge to over-edit. The goal is to enhance, not mislead. Overly processed photos can set unrealistic expectations and lead to disappointed guests upon arrival.
How to Hire an Airbnb Photographer
Hiring a professional photographer for your Airbnb is one of the best investments you can make to elevate your listing and attract more bookings. However, finding the right person for the job requires more than a quick Google search. Follow this step-by-step guide to ensure you hire a photographer who will capture your property’s full potential.
1. Start with Local Research
Begin by looking for photographers in your area who specialize in real estate, Airbnb, or vacation rental photography. Many professionals focus on capturing homes and interiors, so they understand how to highlight spaces in a way that appeals to potential guests.
- Search online: Use terms like “Airbnb photographer near me” or “real estate photography [your city].” Platforms like Thumbtack, Snappr, and Houzz are excellent for finding local professionals.
- Ask for recommendations: Reach out to other Airbnb hosts in your area or join local host communities on Facebook or Reddit for referrals.
2. Review Portfolios
A photographer’s portfolio is a window into their style and expertise. Look for these key elements as you evaluate their work:
- Consistency: Do their photos have a clean, polished look across multiple properties?
- Lighting: Are the photos bright and inviting, with good use of natural and artificial light?
- Composition: Do they capture rooms from angles that make the space look spacious and functional?
- Diversity: Have they worked with properties similar to yours (e.g., urban apartments, rustic cabins, beachfront homes)?
3. Compare Packages and Pricing
Photographers often offer different packages depending on the size of the property and the number of images you need. Here’s what to consider:
- What’s included: Does the package cover editing, high-resolution images, and additional features like drone shots or video walkthroughs?
- Cost: Airbnb photographers typically charge between $300 - $1,000 per session, though rates may vary depending on location and experience.
- Flexibility: Can they accommodate special requests, such as a specific shoot time to capture natural light or additional shots of amenities?
Typical Airbnb Photography Package
Most Airbnb photography packages include a 1-2 hour shoot, basic editing, and digital delivery of images. Some photographers offer add-ons like virtual tours or drone shots.
Airbnb Photography Guidelines
To ensure your photos captivate potential guests and meet Airbnb’s standards, follow both technical requirements and best practices for creating engaging visuals. Here’s a detailed look at Airbnb photography guidelines and how to implement them effectively:
Airbnb’s Photo Requirements
- Resolution: Images should be at least 1024 x 683 pixels. Higher resolution photos are recommended for sharper, clearer visuals. Aim for at least 72 DPI (dots per inch).
- File format: JPEG or PNG are the preferred formats for uploads. This ensures compatibility and quick loading times on the platform.
- Aspect ratio: Stick to a 3:2 aspect ratio for the best display results on both desktop and mobile devices.
Suggested Photo Types
- Exterior shots: Start with inviting images of the building, driveway, or garden to help guests recognize the property and find the entrance upon arrival.
- Interior highlights: Capture every room, focusing on key spaces like bedrooms, the living room, kitchen, and bathrooms. Make sure to show multiple angles to give guests a complete view.
- Amenities and features: Showcase extras like a hot tub, pool, game room, or balcony views. Don’t forget practical amenities, like laundry facilities or a coffee station.
- Local attractions: If your property is close to beaches, parks, or iconic landmarks, include these in your gallery to entice potential guests looking for location-specific perks.
Number of Photos per Listing
While Airbnb doesn’t enforce a strict limit, having a sufficient number of high-quality images significantly boosts your listing’s appeal.
- Aim for 20-30 photos. This provides a comprehensive view without overwhelming potential guests.
- Include at least one image per room. This gives prospective guests a sense of the property’s layout and flow.
- Add multiple angles. A room can look vastly different depending on the perspective. Include wide shots for scale and close-ups to highlight special details.
How to Arrange Photos on Airbnb
- Start with a stunning cover photo: This should be your best shot — something eye-catching that highlights the property’s most appealing feature, like a cozy living room, a breathtaking view, or a luxurious bedroom.
- Follow with key spaces: Showcase the living areas, kitchen, and bedrooms next, as these are the spaces guests prioritize when booking.
- Close with extras: End with images of amenities, outdoor areas, or nearby attractions to leave a lasting impression.
- Add descriptive captions: Airbnb allows hosts to caption photos. Use captions to highlight key details and shed light on the layout of the space, such as “Spacious kitchen with modern appliances” or “Balcony off the living room with stunning sunset views.”
Airbnb Photography FAQs
Is Airbnb Photography Worth It?
Yes, Airbnb photography is absolutely worth the investment! Without high-quality photos, guests won’t be drawn to your listing over competitors. They’re also less likely to book your space if they don’t have a clear picture of what it looks like, or if your photos make the space look dark, dingy, or outdated.
How Much Do Airbnb Photographers Cost?
Professional Airbnb photography costs vary depending on location, property size, and the photographer’s experience. On average, you can expect to pay between $300 - $500 per session, though specialists may charge upwards of $800 - $1,000+.
Keep in mind that some professionals may charge extra for additional services like drone photography or video footage. If you’re on a tight budget, consider reaching out to local photography students or freelancers who may offer competitive rates.
Does Airbnb Provide Photographers?
Yes, Airbnb offers professional photography services in select markets. These photographers are trained to capture your property in the best light, ensuring your listing meets Airbnb’s quality standards.
Prices for Airbnb’s photography service depend on your location and property size, and the cost is deducted from future bookings as part of a deferred payment plan. To see if the service is available in your area, visit Airbnb’s Professional Photography page.
What Equipment Do I Need for DIY Airbnb Photography?
If you’re taking photos yourself, you’ll need:
- A camera: A DSLR or mirrorless camera is ideal, but a smartphone with a high-quality camera can work well for smaller budgets.
- A tripod: Stabilize your shots for clear, consistent results.
- Lighting tools: Natural light is best, but softbox lights or reflectors can help in darker spaces.
- Editing software: Use tools like Adobe Lightroom, Photoshop, or free apps like Snapseed to polish your images.
When is the Best Time to Take Photos of My Airbnb?
The best time to take Airbnb photos is during the day when natural light is at its peak. Aim for midday or early afternoon for evenly lit interiors. For outdoor shots, consider the golden hour (shortly after sunrise or before sunset) to capture warm, inviting lighting. Overcast days are also great for avoiding harsh shadows.
What Makes a Good Airbnb Cover Photo?
A good cover photo highlights the best feature of your property and grabs attention immediately. It could be a cozy living room, a breathtaking view, or a luxurious bedroom. A drone shot of the house or the property is also a great option! Regardless, the image should be bright, clear, and visually appealing, making potential guests want to click on your listing for more.
Great Airbnb Photos Start with a Beautiful Space
The foundation of stunning Airbnb photos is a thoughtfully designed and well-furnished space. Before you snap a single picture, your property should look its absolute best.
That’s where Minoan comes in.
Minoan is a centralized purchasing platform designed specifically for Airbnb and vacation rental hosts. Minoan members get discounts on high-quality furniture and decor from leading brands and retailers. From modern sofas to stylish dining sets, Minoan helps you outfit your property with pieces that are as functional as they are eye-catching.