It’s no secret that Airbnb has created a new breed of entrepreneurs and micro-hoteliers the world-wide. Whether you Airbnb-out your personal home while on vacation or have a collection of investment properties you rent out on a regular basis, nothing sells your Airbnb more than the photos. And while there are tricks to boost your Airbnb listing’s placement like turning on “instant booking,” nothing will keep your listing atop the queue - and stop someone from scrolling past your listing - faster than knockout photography. I mean just think about the listings you click on and book when you travel.
To help make you maximize your bookings and rental income, we’re dishing on tips for a stunning Airbnb photoshoot. Not only that but this month only we’re offering a Vacation Rental Photography Special where we’re giving you all the essentials to be the host with the most. Take advantage of this July special while spots are still available.
Show Them The Outside
You may not always need to or want to lead with the home’s exterior, but to have a successful listing you’ll want to show people what they’re walking into. Even if your exterior is awful, show it - in the most strategic way, that is.
Maybe you have the cool backyard pool and fire pit, or if your outdoor space is minimal maybe that means showcasing the adorable side yard where there’s a bench for quiet contemplation, or simply the front door where you or your photographer’s curated a great vignette. Long story short, if you don’t show the outside, you’ll give travelers the impression you’ve got something to hide.
2. Less Is More
Skip out on all the stuff. You can convey a lot (e.g. a beautiful, authentic place to stay) with a little. There’s a reason hotels have only the essentials, because people feel most at peace when they walk into a room that feels light and airy, not weighed down and heavy. Crafting a design aesthetic doesn’t mean you need a million accessories, and neither do your photos.
3. Show The Lifestyle Experience
Guests are choosing to stay at an Airbnb over a hotel because they want to experience their stay as a local. Guests want to experience the atmosphere and lifestyle of the area. That means show them an overview of the space, yes, but more than that give them a taste of this experience through the photos. For example, Airbnb a classic Joshua Tree homestead? Show travelers what it’s like to wake up and sip a cup of coffee on the porch while watching the sun rise over San Gorgonio. Mix wide shots with vignettes and details. Style the shots. Show them what makes your home - and its experience - truly unique.