The Ultimate Photography Checklist for Your Vacation Rental

Professional photography is no longer optional if you're serious about turning your property into a profitable vacation rental. High-quality, visually striking photos inspire an emotional connection with potential guests, encouraging them to choose your property over others. Studies show that listings with professional photos on Airbnb receive twice as many bookings compared to those with amateur images. This guide from Lodge Compliance provides actionable tips to make your vacation rental stand out and attract more guests.

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1. Clean and Declutter

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Before taking any photos, ensure your property is spotless and well-organized:

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• Interior: Make all beds neatly, arrange furniture thoughtfully, and remove personal items.

• Exterior: Refine landscaping, clear pathways, and clean outdoor furniture.

• Amenities: Showcase key features like pools, hot tubs, or fire pits.

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Presenting a clean, clutter-free space makes it easier for guests to imagine themselves enjoying your property.

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2. Hire a Professional Photographer

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If photography isn’t your strength, hire a professional who specializes in real estate or vacation rentals. Two great options include:

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• Airbnb's Professional Photography Service: High-quality, but only available to eligible hosts, and images are uploaded directly to your listing.

• Independent Photographers: Offers full rights to digital and print-ready images for use across multiple platforms.

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A professional photographer can capture your property in the best light, highlighting its unique features.

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3. Set the Scene with Perfect Lighting

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Lighting can transform your space. Follow these tips for optimal results:

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• Shoot Interior Photos Between 10 AM - 2 PM: Take advantage of natural light without overexposing the windows.

• Use Warm Lighting: Create a cozy and welcoming atmosphere.

• Exterior Photos: Capture during early morning or late afternoon for soft, natural light.

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Balanced lighting makes rooms feel brighter and more spacious.

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4. Capture Every Room

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Provide a complete visual tour by photographing every space:

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• Bedrooms: Showcase the bed, closet, and any special features.

• Bathrooms: Capture all bathrooms with a focus on cleanliness and modern fixtures.

• Kitchen and Dining: Highlight appliances, layout, and seating arrangements.

• Living Areas: Take wide-angle shots of sofas, TVs, and entertainment spaces.

• Entryways and Corridors: Don’t overlook hallways and entry points.

• Exterior and Neighborhood: Show landscaping, parking, and nearby amenities.

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Upload multiple angles for each room to give guests a full perspective. Learn more in our guide on Essential Tips for Vacation Rental Hosts.

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5. Focus on the Best Features

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Showcase the amenities that make your property unique:

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• Infinity pools, smart fireplaces, or private patios.

• Hammocks, gardens, or scenic views.

• Accessibility features like ramps or stair lifts.

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Highlighting standout features can set your rental apart from competitors.

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6. Use the Right Camera Techniques

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For hosts taking their own photos, remember these tips:

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• Shoot Level: Keep your camera straight to avoid distorted images.

• Shoot Wide: Use wide-angle shots to capture entire rooms.

• Avoid Portrait Mode: Horizontal images work best on listing platforms.

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Professional photographers will already know these techniques, but DIY photographers should keep these in mind for best results.

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7. Choose the Correct File Format and Size

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Ensure your images meet platform requirements:

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• Resolution: Minimum of 1200 x 800 pixels.

• DPI: 72 DPI for online platforms.

• Color Mode: RGB for web use.

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Incorrect formats can result in blurry or low-quality images. Review platform-specific guidelines to avoid upload issues.

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8. Upload More Photos for Better Engagement

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Listings with more photos tend to perform better. Capture multiple angles and showcase various features. If a platform allows up to 24 photos, use every slot. More visuals increase transparency and build guest trust.

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9. Include a Floor Plan

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Adding a floor plan can set your listing apart by providing clarity on the layout:

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• Use tools like RoomSketcher or Homestyler to create accurate floor plans.

• Highlight room sizes and locations to minimize guest inquiries.

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This extra detail improves booking confidence and reduces misunderstandings.

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How Lodge Compliance Can Help

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Lodge Compliance offers comprehensive solutions for vacation rental owners:

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• Professional Photography Referrals: Connect with experienced real estate photographers.

• Listing Optimization: Maximize visibility on booking platforms.

• Compliance Support: Ensure your property meets local rental regulations.

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Attract more guests and increase bookings. Request a Demo to discover how Lodge Compliance can elevate your property.

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Turn Your Property into a Profitable Vacation Rental

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Professional photography can significantly impact your booking rates. Clean, well-lit, and detailed photos create trust and help guests visualize their stay. Start capturing your property in its best light and watch your bookings grow.