How To Take Good Airbnb Photos

Introduction.

When it comes to Airbnb, great photos can make or break your listing.

People scrolling through Airbnb aren’t just reading about your place; they’re making snap judgments based on the images they see.

With the right photos, you can stand out, attract more clicks, and fill up that booking calendar faster than ever.

In this guide, I’ll share how to capture the best photos for your Airbnb listing, even if you’re using a smartphone.

From lighting and composition to tips for making small spaces look big and welcoming, I’ll cover everything you need to know to create images that pop.

I’ll also touch on the tools you might consider using, the pros and cons of hiring a professional, and answer some of the most common questions about Airbnb photography.

Ready to make your listing shine?

Why Good Photos Matter on Airbnb

According to Airbnb, listings with high-quality photos get more views and more bookings. In fact, an Airbnb study showed that better images could help hosts increase their earnings by up to 40%.

With over 6 million listings on the platform, a well-crafted photo set can make all the difference between a guest clicking on your listing—or skipping over it.

Well-shot images do more than just showcase your space; they tell a story, helping potential guests imagine themselves there.

They want to feel like they can relax and enjoy the space, and the right images help them picture that.

How Do I Take Good Airbnb Photos?

1. Set the Scene with Lighting.

• Natural light: This is your best friend. Open all the curtains, and shoot in the daytime, ideally around mid-morning or late afternoon. This is when natural light is most flattering, creating a warm and inviting look.
• Avoid harsh lighting: Bright noon light can create hard shadows, which isn’t ideal. Cloudy days can also provide soft, even lighting that’s great for photos.
• Turn on all lights: Even if you have natural light, switching on lamps and overhead lights adds depth and makes spaces look cozier.

2. Declutter and Clean Up.

• Tidy up: Remove any clutter, personal items, and any unnecessary knick-knacks. Clear counters, tuck away cords, and make the bed neatly.
• Styling matters: Simple touches like placing a couple of cushions, arranging flowers, or adding a cozy blanket can make a big difference in how welcoming your space looks.

3. Choose the Right Angles.

• Shoot from chest height: This angle generally works well because it gives a natural perspective. Shooting too high or low can distort the proportions of a room.
• Highlight the best features: Is there a fireplace, a large window, or a beautiful outdoor view? Make sure to capture these in a way that draws the viewer’s attention.
• Wide shots: Use a wide-angle lens or your phone’s wide-angle mode to capture more of the room. But don’t go overboard; overly wide shots can make rooms look stretched or unnatural.

4. Framing and Composition.

• Rule of thirds: Imagine your image divided into thirds, both vertically and horizontally. Try to position the main points of interest along these lines or at the intersections.
• Symmetry: In some cases, like for beds or dining tables, centring your shot works well, creating balance and harmony.
• Lead the eye: Use lines like windows, countertops, or doorways to guide the viewer’s eye naturally through the image.

5. Editing Basics.

• Brightness and contrast: A little adjustment here can make your photos pop, but avoid going overboard.
• Colour correction: Keep colours true to life. Subtle adjustments are fine, but heavily filtered photos can look misleading.
• Avoid over-saturation: Over-saturated photos may look great at a glance but often feel unnatural to viewers.

6. Consider Using a Professional Photographer.

• Pros: A professional will know the best techniques for lighting, framing, and editing. Airbnb even has a network of photographers, and listings with professional images tend to get more bookings.
• Cons: This can be pricey. A professional photoshoot typically costs between $150 and $300, depending on your location.

Pros and Cons of Hiring a Professional vs. DIY Photography

Frequently Asked Questions About Airbnb Photography

1. Do I need a professional camera?

• No, many smartphones today have excellent cameras that can work perfectly for Airbnb photos. As long as you pay attention to lighting, composition, and editing, a good smartphone can yield impressive results.

2. How many photos should I upload to my listing?

• Airbnb recommends including at least 10 photos. Make sure to cover the main rooms (bedroom, kitchen, living room, bathroom), any unique features (outdoor space, views), and a few close-up details to give a complete feel.

3. What’s the best time of day to take photos?

• Mid-morning or late afternoon typically offers the best natural lighting. Avoid shooting at night or in harsh midday light if possible.

4. Can I use editing apps, and if so, which ones?

• Yes, you can use editing apps. Adobe Lightroom, Snapseed, and VSCO are popular options that offer robust editing tools to enhance your photos subtly and naturally.

5. Should I take photos in landscape or portrait mode?

• Landscape mode generally works better, as Airbnb’s layout showcases landscape images best, making them appear larger and more immersive on the screen.

Conclusion.

Creating compelling photos for your Airbnb listing can seem intimidating at first, but with these tips, it’s manageable.

From understanding lighting to mastering the art of decluttering and framing, there’s a lot you can do to make your space look inviting and unique.

Whether you decide to snap the shots yourself or bring in a pro, good photos are an investment that can truly pay off in terms of more views, better bookings, and happier guests.

So, are you ready to pick up your camera and show your space in the best possible light?