Whether you’re a host, a guest, or just someone who loves scrolling through Airbnb listings, you’ve probably noticed something: the photos make a huge difference. I’ve been fascinated by how much impact a good image can have on a rental property, and I wanted to share some thoughts on why professional photography is such a game-changer in this space.

First Impressions Are Everything

Imagine you’re browsing for your next getaway. You’re flipping through listings—maybe a beach cottage or a city apartment—and what catches your eye first? The photos. Always the photos. It’s not the witty description or even the reviews that hook you—it’s that first visual glimpse. In my experience, I usually skim the description. A shaky, poorly lit phone pic can feel like a red flag, while a sharp, bright, professionally shot image pulls you in. It’s not about faking anything; it’s about showing a space at its best. Pros know how to capture the feel of a place—whether it’s a sunny kitchen or a cozy reading corner—and that’s what makes you want to book it.

It Can Seriously Boost Bookings

Here’s something I’ve picked on: listings with professional photos can see bookings jump by as much as 40%. Platforms like Airbnb are known for incentivizing high-quality photos. Guests can picture themselves there—lounging on that deck or cooking in that sleek kitchen—and they’re more likely to hit “reserve” without second-guessing. It’s kind of like how a great book cover makes you grab it off the shelf. The story might be amazing, but if the cover’s a mess, you might never find out. Good photography is the cover for a rental—it gets people in the door.

Standing Out in the Crowd

Let’s face it: short term rentals are everywhere these days. Whether it’s a touristy spot or a hidden gem, there’s always another listing vying for attention. I’ve noticed that properties with killer photos just stick with you. They don’t blend into the sea of “meh” listings. A pro photographer can zoom in on what makes a place unique—maybe it’s funky decor or a jaw-dropping view—and turn it into a scroll-stopper. It’s not about being flashy; it’s about showing off what’s already there. A well-angled shot of a backyard fire pit or a perfectly lit bedroom can be the difference between “maybe” and “heck yes” for a guest.

Less Hassle, Better Results

I’ll admit, I’ve tried taking my own photos before—for fun, not for a rental—and it was a disaster. Bad lighting, weird shadows, and way too much time spent for something that looked… okay at best. Pros take that stress off your plate. They swoop in, work their magic, and leave you with a set of images you can use anywhere—listings, social media, you name it. It’s a small investment for a big payoff, especially if you’re juggling a busy life. Just make sure you hire someone trained to take photos of a short-term rental.

Tips for Making It Work

If you’re thinking about going the pro route, here’s what I’ve learned from watching this play out:

• Set the Stage: A little tidying goes a long way—think fluffed pillows and a clean counter.

• Highlight the Good Stuff: Point out what’s special—like a hot tub or a killer view—so it gets the spotlight.

• Mix It Up: Wide shots, detail shots, maybe a cozy vibe with a blanket tossed just so—it all helps tell the story.

• Refresh When Needed: If the seasons change the vibe (think snowy mountains or autumn leaves), a quick update can keep things fresh.

• Pro Tip: Have people in the shot, so viewers can visualize themselves being there.

It’s About the Experience, Not Just the Booking

Great photos set expectations right. When a guest shows up and the place looks as good as (or better than) the pictures, they’re thrilled. Happy guests leave glowing reviews, tell their friends, and maybe even come back. It’s less about “selling” and more about delivering something real.

So, maybe reconsider and think about going pro. It’s an easy way to level up a rental without changing a thing about the space itself. Have you seen the difference good photos can make? I’d love to hear your take—or your own hosting tips—below!