Taking appealing photos of your holiday rental property can without a doubt help attract more potential guests. Reliable and honest photos help cultivate trust and suggest professionalism which helps to attract guest bookings on Search and Stay.

Ultimately, investing in excellent holiday rental photos is a likely boost to your holiday rental property's overall success on Search and Stay. Good images play a pivotal role in capturing attention, driving bookings, fostering positive guest experiences and creating a lasting impression, which if matched by the real-life experience, can lead to repeat business and enthusiastic recommendations.

17 quick tips to remember to capture exceptional photos of your vacation rental:

  1. Clean and Stage the Property: Ensure the property is clean and well-maintained. Make beds, arrange furniture, and add decorative touches to make the space look inviting.
  2. Natural Light: Choose a time of day when natural light fills the rooms. Open curtains and blinds to let in as much light as possible.
  3. Use a Smartphone or Camera: You don't need a high-end camera. Most modern smartphones have good enough cameras for basic property photography. If you have a digital camera, that's a bonus.
  4. Horizontal and Vertical Shots: Capture both horizontal and vertical shots to show the property from different perspectives. Horizontal shots are great for showcasing spaciousness, while vertical shots work well for highlighting height.
  5. Wide-Angle Lens (If Available): If your smartphone or camera has a wide-angle option, use it to capture more of the room in a single shot. This can make spaces appear larger and more inviting.
  6. Compose Thoughtfully: Frame your shots to capture the best features of each room. Use the rule of thirds to balance the composition. Avoid capturing too much ceiling or floor – focus on the middle section of the room.
  7. Highlight Key Areas: Capture key appealing aspects of the property, such as a cosy reading nook, a well-equipped kitchen, or a comfortable outdoor seating area.
  8. Outdoor Spaces: Don't forget to photograph outdoor areas like patios, balconies, gardens, or swimming pools. These areas can be a big selling point for vacation rentals.
  9. Details and Amenities: Take close-up shots of special amenities, such as a jacuzzi, fireplace, coffee machine or stylish decorations. Showcase any features that set your property apart.
  10. Keep It Neat: Remove personal items like family photos and toiletries to create a neutral and clutter-free environment.
  11. Tripod or Stable Surface: If available, use a tripod or a stable surface to avoid shaky photos. This helps maintain clear, sharp images.
  12. Avoid Harsh Shadows: Direct sunlight can create harsh shadows. If shooting indoors, position yourself so the light is coming from a side or an angle that minimises shadows.
  13. Edit Lightly: Use basic editing tools to enhance your photos. Adjust brightness, contrast, and saturation if needed. Avoid excessive editing that makes the images look unrealistic or is not what your guests will find on arrival.
  14. Create a Sequence: When creating your listing on Search and Stay organise your photos in a logical sequence to give potential guests a virtual tour of the property.
  15. Showcase Views: if your property has scenic views, capture them from the windows or outdoor areas.
  16. Include People (Optional): Consider including photos of people enjoying the space. This can help guests visualise themselves having a great time during their stay.
  17. If you allow pets, be sure to include photos of pets in your photos, it makes it instantly obvious to guests looking to book that you are pet friendly. Which is a big plus for those who are travelling with their fur babies.

Remember, the goal is to provide an accurate representation of your holiday rental property while highlighting its best features.

Simple, well-composed photos can go a long way in attracting guests and setting their expectations for a comfortable and enjoyable stay.

NEXT STEPS:

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