10 Tips for Better Airbnb Photos

1. Use Natural Light Whenever Possible

Natural light is your best friend when photographing properties. It makes spaces feel larger, more inviting, and authentic. Here's how to maximize natural light:

• Time your photoshoot: Schedule during the "golden hours" (early morning or late afternoon) when light is soft and warm
• Open all curtains and blinds: Let as much natural light in as possible
• Avoid harsh midday sun: Direct sunlight can create harsh shadows and overexposed areas
• Turn off artificial lights: Mixing natural and artificial light can create color inconsistencies

If natural light is limited, use soft, diffused artificial lighting rather than harsh overhead lights. Consider using floor lamps or table lamps to create a warm, inviting atmosphere.

2. Stage Your Space Before Shooting

Staging doesn't mean you need expensive furniture or professional decorators. Simple staging can dramatically improve your photos:

• Declutter: Remove personal items, excess decorations, and anything that distracts from the space
• Add fresh touches: Fresh flowers, a bowl of fruit, or a stack of books can add warmth
• Make the bed: A well-made bed is essential for bedroom photos
• Fluff pillows and arrange cushions: Small details make a big difference
• Clear surfaces: Countertops, tables, and nightstands should be clean and minimal

Remember: Your photos should represent how the space looks when guests arrive, not your everyday living situation.

3. Shoot from Eye Level or Slightly Below

The angle you choose can make or break a photo. For interior photography:

• Keep the camera at eye level: This creates a natural perspective that viewers can relate to
• Use a wide-angle lens (or phone's wide mode): Capture more of the room without distortion
• Avoid shooting from too high or too low: Extreme angles can make spaces look distorted
• Shoot straight, not at an angle: Keep vertical lines vertical for a professional look

For exterior shots, consider shooting from slightly below to make the property appear more impressive, but don't overdo it.

4. Show the Best Features First

Your cover photo is the most important—it's what potential guests see first in search results. Choose a photo that:

• Highlights your property's best feature: A stunning view, beautiful living room, or unique architectural element
• Is bright and inviting: Well-lit spaces attract more attention
• Shows the entire space: Give guests a sense of the room's size and layout
• Creates an emotional connection: Make guests imagine themselves in the space

Follow with photos that tell a story: living areas, bedrooms, kitchen, bathroom, outdoor spaces, and any unique features.

5. Capture Multiple Angles of Each Room

Don't just take one photo per room. Capture different angles to give guests a complete understanding of the space:

• Wide shots: Show the entire room and its layout
• Detail shots: Highlight special features, artwork, or amenities
• Corner shots: Capture the room from corners to show depth
• Feature shots: Close-ups of fireplaces, views, or unique architectural elements

Aim for 3-5 photos per major room to give guests confidence in their booking decision.

6. Keep It Clean and Tidy

This might seem obvious, but it's worth emphasizing:

• Deep clean before shooting: Every surface should sparkle
• Hide cords and cables: Use cable management solutions or hide them behind furniture
• Remove trash cans and personal items: Keep them out of frame
• Clean mirrors and windows: Streaks and smudges are immediately noticeable
• Vacuum and mop: Floors should be spotless

Guests notice cleanliness in photos, and it directly impacts their perception of your property's quality.

7. Use a Tripod for Consistency

Even with modern phone cameras, a tripod (or phone tripod) can significantly improve your photos:

• Eliminates camera shake: Ensures sharp, clear images
• Allows longer exposures: Better for low-light situations
• Maintains consistent angles: Easier to compare and choose the best shots
• Enables HDR photography: Capture better detail in both bright and dark areas

You don't need an expensive tripod—even a simple phone tripod can make a huge difference.

8. Edit Your Photos (But Keep It Natural)

Post-processing can enhance your photos, but the goal is to make them look better, not fake:

• Adjust brightness and contrast: Make sure rooms are well-lit but not overexposed
• Correct color temperature: Ensure whites look white, not yellow or blue
• Straighten horizons: Use editing tools to fix any tilting
• Remove minor blemishes: Small touch-ups are fine, but don't remove permanent features
• Avoid heavy filters: Keep the look natural and authentic

Pro tip: Consider using AI photo enhancement tools like Elevance AI to automatically improve lighting, color, and sharpness while maintaining authenticity.

9. Include Lifestyle and Context Shots

Beyond just showing rooms, include photos that help guests imagine their stay:

• Outdoor spaces: Patios, balconies, gardens, or pool areas
• Neighborhood shots: Show what's nearby (restaurants, parks, attractions)
• Lifestyle moments: A coffee cup on the balcony, a book on the nightstand
• Views: If you have a great view, show it from multiple rooms
• Amenities: Highlight special features like a hot tub, fireplace, or workspace

These photos help guests visualize their experience and can be the deciding factor in their booking.

10. Update Your Photos Regularly

Your property photos should reflect the current state of your listing:

• Seasonal updates: Update photos when you change decor or make improvements
• After renovations: Immediately update photos after any upgrades
• Replace poor performers: If a photo isn't getting engagement, try a different angle
• Keep it current: Photos from years ago can mislead guests

Regular updates show that you're an active, attentive host, which builds trust with potential guests.

Final Thoughts

Great Airbnb photos are essential for success on the platform. They're often the difference between a booked calendar and empty dates. By following these 10 tips, you'll be well on your way to creating photos that attract more guests and justify higher rates.

Remember: Your photos should accurately represent your space while showing it in its best light. Authenticity builds trust, and trust leads to bookings and great reviews.

If you're looking to take your photos to the next level without hiring a professional photographer, consider using AI photo enhancement tools. They can help you achieve professional-quality results at a fraction of the cost.