When it comes to short-term rentals, first impressions aren’t just important—they’re everything. A well-staged photoshoot can mean the difference between a listing that blends in and one that stands out, leading to higher booking rates, premium pricing, and a flood of five-star reviews.
Luxury travelers want to picture themselves relaxing, celebrating, and unwinding in style—and your photos should make that vision effortless. Whether you’re working with a professional photographer or shooting your own images, here’s how to capture the essence of a high-end stay and create listing photos that guests can’t scroll past.
1. Start With the Hero Shot
Your first image needs to be a showstopper. It’s the one that appears in search results, social media shares, and marketing materials. Choose a shot that highlights the property’s biggest selling point—whether that’s a sparkling pool, breathtaking view, or luxurious interior.
Pro Tips for the Hero Shot:
✔ Golden Hour Magic – Shoot during the golden hour (just after sunrise or before sunset) for warm, inviting lighting.
✔ Lights On, Curtains Open – Turn on all indoor lights and open curtains to create an airy, welcoming feel.
✔ Drone Shots for Scale – If your property has an epic setting (lakefront, hill country, city skyline views), an aerial photo adds an instant wow factor.
2. Stage for a Lifestyle, Not Just a Space
Guests aren’t just booking a home—they’re booking an experience. Set the stage by styling rooms in a way that makes guests feel like they’re already there.
Kitchen & Dining Area
• Set the dining table with elegant plates, wine glasses, and a charcuterie board.
• Highlight high-end appliances—if you have an espresso machine, stage a cup of coffee with a croissant on the counter.
Living Room & Lounge Spaces
• Drape a luxurious throw blanket over the couch and place a few stylish coffee table books.
• Light a candle or set up a cocktail tray with a shaker and glasses to create a sense of relaxation.
Bedroom & Bathroom
• Fluff the pillows, smooth out the duvet, and add a cozy throw for a hotel-like feel.
• Roll up white towels, place a plush robe on the bed, and add spa essentials (bath salts, candles, luxury soaps) to the bathroom.
3. Capture the Pool & Outdoor Experience
Outdoor spaces can seal the deal for many guests, so make sure they shine.
Poolside Perfection
• Arrange lounge chairs with towels and sunglasses for a resort-like feel.
• If you have a pool or hot tub, turn on the lights or fire up the jets for added ambiance.
• Set up a tray with cocktails or fresh fruit—a simple detail that adds a touch of luxury.
Al Fresco Dining & Fire Pit Vibes
• If you have an outdoor kitchen or BBQ, stage a meal with wine, candles, and bistro lights.
• Arrange cozy seating around a fire pit with blankets, marshmallows, and a glass of wine.
4. Highlight Special Touches & Luxury Amenities
The little things make a big impression—and they can help justify premium pricing. Capture details that elevate the guest experience:
✅ A well-stocked bar cart or coffee station with espresso pods and artisanal syrups.
✅ Plush robes and slippers neatly placed on the bed or bathroom counter.
✅ Smart home features like a voice-controlled lighting system or high-end speaker setup.
✅ Outdoor extras like paddleboards, bikes, or a well-maintained garden space.
5. Add a Human Touch (Without Showing Faces)
Photos that suggest movement and warmth make a home feel more inviting. Instead of empty rooms, try subtle, lifestyle-inspired touches:
• A hand pouring wine into a glass.
• Feet dipping into the pool.
• A steaming cup of coffee on a patio table.
• A cozy blanket draped over a chair with an open book nearby.
These types of shots create a sense of relatability—helping guests imagine themselves in the space.
6. Keep It Natural & Well-Lit
Luxury is all about effortless elegance, and that should come through in your photos.
✔ Use natural light whenever possible—turn off harsh overhead lights and avoid using a flash.
✔ Shoot with a wide-angle lens to showcase spaciousness, but be mindful of distortion.
✔ Keep it clean and uncluttered—remove excessive decor, personal items, and anything that doesn’t serve the aesthetic.
Final Thoughts: Creating a Story With Your Photos
Your Airbnb listing is more than just a place to stay—it’s a destination, an experience, and a dream getaway. The right photos tell a story that inspires guests to book instantly.
By taking the time to stage, style, and capture the details that matter, you’re not just elevating your listing—you’re setting the stage for more bookings, better reviews, and a thriving Airbnb business.
So, grab your camera, light some candles, and get ready to showcase the kind of luxury that guests can’t resist!
