Airbnb Photographer: Is it Worth Hiring One for Your Listing?

When guests are scrolling through Airbnb listings, the first thing that catches their eye is the photos. High-quality images can make your rental stand out, attract more travelers, and ultimately lead to more bookings.

But does this mean you should hire a professional Airbnb photographer? And how much does it cost? Can you learn to take great photos yourself? Let’s dive into it.

Benefits of Hiring a Professional Airbnb Photographer

When travelers are searching for a place to stay, you have a very short window to grab their attention—usually just a few seconds. Great photos can make all the difference. According to Airbnb, hosts with professional photos tend to earn more, with a potential increase of up to 20% in earnings compared to other listings in the area. They also receive about 20% more bookings.

Professional photographers know how to showcase your property in the best light, highlighting its unique features and creating an inviting atmosphere. This can help you increase your occupancy rate, boost your rental income, and build a successful business.

Managing an Airbnb property can be time-consuming, especially with multiple listings. Many hosts use vacation rental software like Hospitable to automate tasks and save time.

Airbnb Photographer Cost

Professional Airbnb photographers focus on creating visually appealing images that tell a story and evoke emotions. They charge more than regular real estate photographers because their goal is to make your property look inviting and full of character.

These photographers use high-quality cameras, lenses, lighting equipment, and tripods to capture the essence of your space. They have experience in interior design photography, know how to stage rooms effectively, and can adjust settings for different lighting conditions.

Airbnb offers a pro photo program where hosts can connect with professional photographers. You can request a price quote based on your property's size and location. If you decide to go with this service, Airbnb will connect you with a local photographer, usually within 48 hours. The photographer will take 2-3 images per room, and professional editors will enhance the photos before uploading them to your listing.

It’s important to note that this service is offered once per listing and is non-refundable once the shoot begins. The cost will be deducted from your future payouts, so there's no upfront payment required. However, this service is only available if freelance photographers are in your city.

How to Choose an Airbnb Photographer

If you prefer, you can also hire an Airbnb photographer independently. This choice depends on your budget and goals as a host. When choosing a photographer:

• Research photographers in your area.
• Review their portfolios to see if their style matches your property.
• Discuss your needs and expectations with them.
• Prepare for Your Photo Shoot

Whether you hire a professional or decide to take photos yourself, preparing your space is crucial:

• Declutter and clean your space thoroughly.
• Remove personal items and valuables.
• Turn on natural light by opening blinds and curtains.
• Make beds with neatly arranged bedding.
• Arrange decorative objects on surfaces.
• Clean countertops and display kitchen appliances.
• Hang towels neatly in bathrooms.
• Can You Take Photos Yourself?

If hiring a professional photographer is not feasible, you can take photos yourself using a smartphone. Here are some tips:

• Use natural light whenever possible.
• Capture the entire room, highlighting key features.
• Edit photos to enhance colors and brightness.

Ultimately, great photos can significantly improve your Airbnb listing's appeal and lead to more bookings. Whether you hire a professional or do it yourself, investing in quality images is worth considering.