How to Take Great Photos for your Airbnb listing

Written By Zac Harrison

Are you struggling to attract potential guests to your Airbnb listing ? It could be that your photos are not doing justice to your beautiful space.

In today’s highly visual online world, captivating photos are crucial for grabbing the attention of potential guests and increasing your bookings.

In this article, we will share expert tips on how to take great photos for your Airbnb listing. We’ll guide you through the entire process, from understanding your target audience to choosing the right equipment and editing your photos to perfection.

Don’t miss out on potential bookings because of subpar photos. By implementing the strategies we share in this article, you’ll be well on your way to attracting more guests and maximising your Airbnb revenue. So grab your camera, and let’s get started on taking great photos for your Airbnb listing.

The importance of great photos for your Airbnb listing

Airbnb has become a popular and lucrative platform for homeowners and property managers to list their spaces and attract guests from around the world. However, with the ever-increasing number of listings on the platform, it has become crucial to stand out from the competition. One of the most effective ways to do this is through high-quality, visually appealing photographs of your Airbnb property.

In the digital age, potential guests often make their booking decisions based on the first impression they get from a listing’s photos. Compelling and accurately representative images can significantly influence a traveler’s decision to book your space.

Things to consider

On the other hand, subpar or misleading photos can deter potential guests and result in fewer bookings, lower occupancy rates, and ultimately, less revenue for your Airbnb business.

The Importance of good listing photos

The importance of great photos for your Airbnb listing cannot be overstated. Visually engaging images not only attract more potential guests but also help to create a positive and accurate expectation of the property, leading to higher guest satisfaction and better reviews.

This, in turn, can further boost your Airbnb’s visibility and reputation, driving more bookings and repeat business. Investing time and effort into capturing the best possible photos of your Airbnb space is a strategic move that can pay off significantly in the long run.

How Many Photos Can You Put on Airbnb Per Listing?

Airbnb allows hosts to upload a maximum of 100 photos per listing, providing ample opportunity to showcase every aspect of your property. However, it’s important to note that the platform recommends using between 5 and 20 high-quality photos to effectively present your Airbnb space.

Why you should not post as many photos as you can

While you can technically upload up to 100 photos, it’s generally not advisable to do so, as it can overwhelm and confuse potential guests. Instead, focus on curating a well-thought-out selection of images that highlight the key features, amenities, and unique selling points of your Airbnb.

This will ensure that your listing is visually appealing, easy to navigate, and provides a clear and accurate representation of what guests can expect when they book your space.

Which photos should you include ?

When deciding on the number of photos to include, consider the size and layout of your Airbnb. Smaller spaces may only require 5-10 photos, while larger properties or those with multiple rooms and amenities may benefit from a more comprehensive 15-20 photo selection.

The goal is to strike a balance between providing enough visual information to attract potential guests and avoiding an overwhelming or cluttered presentation.

What Are the Requirements for Airbnb Photos ?

Airbnb has specific guidelines and requirements for the photos included in your listing. Understanding and adhering to these guidelines is crucial to ensure that your images are approved and displayed effectively on the platform.

Airbnb Requirements for professional photo’s

Firstly, Airbnb requires that all photos be in JPEG format and have a minimum resolution of 1024 x 683 pixels. This ensures that your images are of high quality and can be displayed clearly on various devices and screen sizes. Additionally, Airbnb recommends using photos with a 4:3 aspect ratio, as this is the optimal format for their platform.

Content

In terms of content, Airbnb has a few key requirements for the photos in your listing. Each photo should accurately represent the space, amenities, and features of your Airbnb property. Avoid using heavily edited or staged images that misrepresent the actual appearance of your space.

Airbnb prohibits the use of photos that contain watermarks, logos, or text overlays, as these can be distracting and detract from the visual presentation of your listing.

It’s important to ensure that your photos are well-lit, in focus, and free of any clutter or distractions. Airbnb recommends using natural lighting whenever possible, as this can create a warm and inviting atmosphere in your images.

By adhering to these requirements and best practices, you can ensure that your Airbnb photos are approved and displayed in the most effective way possible.

Styling and staging your space for the best photos

Airbnb Styling

In addition to capturing great photos, it’s essential to style and stage your Airbnb space to ensure that it looks its best in your listing’s images. Proper styling and staging can enhance the visual appeal of your property, making it more inviting and enticing for potential guests.

Make sure your Airbnb is tidy

Start by decluttering and cleaning your Airbnb thoroughly. Remove any unnecessary items, personal belongings, or distracting elements that could detract from the overall aesthetic of your photos. Ensure that the space is well-organised, with a clear and unobstructed flow throughout the rooms.

Next, focus on styling your Airbnb with intentional decor and furnishings. Arrange the furniture in a way that highlights the best features of each room and creates a warm, welcoming atmosphere. Incorporate pops of colour, cozy textiles, and decorative accents to add visual interest and personality to your space.

Pay attention to the little details, such as fresh flowers, artfully placed books, or strategically placed throw pillows, as these can elevate the overall aesthetic of your Airbnb photos.

Lighting

Consider the lighting in your Airbnb as well, as it can significantly impact the quality and mood of your photos. Utilise natural light as much as possible, and supplement it with strategically placed lamps or other lighting fixtures to create a cozy and inviting ambiance. Avoid harsh, direct lighting that can cast unflattering shadows or create an unnatural appearance in your images.

Should You DIY or Hire a Photographer for Your Images ?

As an Airbnb host, you have the option to either take the photos for your listing yourself or hire a professional photographer to capture the images for you.

Both approaches have their own advantages and considerations, and the decision ultimately depends on your specific needs, budget, and photography skills.

DIY

If you choose to take the DIY route, you can take advantage of the flexibility and control it offers. As the owner of the space, you have a deep understanding of the unique features and angles that best showcase your Airbnb.

Additionally, DIY photography can be a more cost-effective option, especially if you already have a decent camera and some basic photography skills.

Hiring a professional

However, it’s important to note that taking high-quality, visually appealing photos for your Airbnb listing requires a certain level of expertise. If you’re not confident in your photography skills or don’t have the necessary equipment, the results may not be as polished or impactful as you’d like. In this case, hiring a professional photographer may be the better choice.

Professional photographers bring a wealth of experience, technical knowledge, and specialised equipment to the table. They can capture stunning, high-resolution images that highlight the best features of your Airbnb and appeal to potential guests. Additionally, a professional photographer can provide valuable insights and recommendations on how to style and stage your space for the most effective photos.

Hiring an Airbnb professional photographer

While hiring a professional photographer may come with a higher upfront cost, the investment can pay off in the long run through increased bookings and higher occupancy rates.

By showcasing your Airbnb in the best possible light, you’ll be more likely to attract more guests and generate more revenue for your business.

Ultimately, the decision to DIY or hire a photographer for your Airbnb photos will depend on your specific needs, budget, and the level of quality you’re aiming to achieve.

Carefully weigh the pros and cons of each approach to determine the best solution for your Airbnb listing.

Interested in Airbnb Professional photography ?

If you are interested in professional photos we at Stayful can help, we have been providing professional photos for Airbnb properties since 2020, in addition we are an Airbnb management company so know what is required to make Airbnb properties stand out through professional photos.