In my fifteen years wielding a camera, the thing that has called to me the most has been traveling to new places and capturing the essence through thoughtful photography.
Telling the story of the interiors, noticing the elements that make a space beautiful and that catch the light, and the compositions of the lines of the architecture and furniture, keeping note of balance and rhythm, all these things are swirling around in my head while I’m working. And then, of course, when I take it outdoors and capture the scenery and nature, that just adds so much to the story of a place.
Because I’ve basically been nerding out on this for a good chunk of my photography career, it’s all become such an internal process, and I’m going to try to explain some best practices for setting up your Airbnb or VRBO for success when it comes to photography (and beyond!).
Let the light in. When you photograph a space in natural light, you’re relying on ambient light that comes from the windows. In order to maximize this airiness and brightness in your listing photos, you’ll want to ensure that the light can find its way in. Avoid heavy blinds that break with frequent use or curtains that are burdensome to open. You want guests to easily be able to navigate the window coverings, and to experience as much natural light as possible.
Turn the lights off. This might feel counterintuitive (and contrary to real estate photography which has a TOTALLY different approach and purpose!) but keeping the lights off will ensure that the orange and yellow tones that artificial light casts does not make its way into your photos. That’s one of the simplest ways to ensure you have bright whites that feel clean and fresh. OK, and while we’re talking about lighting for your Airbnb, be sure to not use the cool “daylight” bulbs that have a sterile look! Warm light is the most welcoming for short term rentals (and just everyday life).
Layer your space. To avoid an Airbnb that feels clinical and quickly thrown together, take the time to collect accent pieces like throw pillows, cozy and beautiful blankets, shelf decor, and plenty of plants (living or artificial). A really basic room can be turned into an experience with 5-6 additional pieces and a little thought on placement. Guests don’t need a lot of practical storage or surface areas, so fill the shelves and surfaces thoughtfully and fully. I love it when I’m traveling and my Airbnb or VRBO has a lived-in feeling. I’ve often started novels I found on shelves to pick up on at home, leafed through inspiring interiors coffee table books found on the coffee table, and browsed a record collection. Not to mention, all these things add so much visual interest in your listing photography. These “lifestyle” elements tell the story of your short term rental and create warmth and relatability in your listing.
Give it a signature experience based on location. If your rental property is in the woods, having amenities like a hot tub, sauna and fire pit lead not only to great lifestyle imagery but to great guest experiences. If your location experiences different weather, be sure to stock it with things that guests can enjoy year round. Bags are great for summertime, but sleds and snowshoes are so cool in the winter! If you have a city oasis, consider an epic record collection, a great library of board games, and a walking guide that takes a guest through your favorite coffee shops, bookstores, and local burger joints. If you have a gift basket, include items from local businesses to encourage community and help your guest feel immersed in the micro-culture of your short term rental location.
There is so much more I want to say, so stay tuned for more Airbnb/VRBO/hospitality tips down the line. Till then, enjoy these images from the White Oak Chalet, a brand new Airbnb listing in the Poconos Mountains of Pennsylvania, which completely mastered all of the items I listed above.
Extremely spacious, settled in a quiet neighborhood a stone’s throw from a beautiful lake, and stocked to the brim with amenities and activities, this spot is begging for group travel. The theater room alone is super impressive (the first I’ve seen in a short term rental!), and it’s just the tip of the iceberg.
I stayed for a few days to capture the magic and kept thinking about how I wish I had all my friends with me (there would be room for all of them and more!). It’s the perfect spot for families traveling together or a group of friends wanting to get away from the bustle of New York City, Pittsburgh, or Philadelphia and into the quiet of the rolling forests. I especially loved paying a visit to Hickory Run State Park nearby, going for jogs in the winding streets of the neighborhood, and taking in the sounds of crickets at night. I even made a couple deer friends.
