5 tips to take great photos of your vacation rental

1. Set the scene

It may sound obvious, but ensure that the place is impeccably clean before capturing pictures. Remove any clutter, make sure kitchen surfaces gleam, empty the bins, clean the windows, smooth the bed sheets, and ensure that toilet seats are down. However, don't forget to create a welcoming atmosphere and add a personal touch that allows guests to envision themselves in your property, especially for those seeking a unique experience.

Quirky apartment by Holyrood Palace, Edinburgh hosted by Travelnest.

2. Daylight works best

When taking indoor photos, it's best to make the most of natural light. Find out the time of day when each room receives the most direct sunlight to capture the best shots. Avoid using the camera flash as it can create harshness in the photo. In case there's not enough natural light, you can turn on the lights to create a pleasant and welcoming atmosphere. For outdoor photos, make sure to wait for a sunny day or dawn, especially during the golden hour to take the best photos.

Winter escape luxury Hobbit house with Hot tub hosted by Travelnest.

3. Show off unique features

Whether it's a warm fireplace and hot tub, a beautiful garden, or a breath-taking view, let these distinctive elements enhance the visibility of your property in top search rankings and captivate potential guests. Remember to showcase the most impressive aspect of your property, which can be a unique feature, in the cover photo of your property listing. The cover photo is crucial, as it should be the most flattering and attention-grabbing representation of your space.

Stunning 1-Bed Cabin in Isle of Skye hosted by Travelnest.

4. Showcase accessibility features

Highlight the amenities that cater to guests with limited mobility. Put a spotlight on the convenience of wide doorways, seamless floor transitions, and essential grab rails.

5. Getting the best angle

When photographing your property's rooms, it is crucial to accurately capture their essence. To do this, it is important to ensure that you get the angles right. It can be challenging, but capturing the right angles can make a significant difference between a great photo and an average one. Follow these tips from Travelnest to capture the best angles when taking photos:

• When capturing shots of your space, remember to shoot from eye level. Avoid any tilting or distortions that might compromise the authenticity of the image. By capturing the space neutrally, you will provide guests with a genuine and immersive experience, as if they were truly there themselves.

• Use wide-angle photos to showcase a room, providing your audience with a complete view of the layout and size. This makes it easy for people to understand. If you want to highlight specific items, such as a high-tech TV or an exercise bike, mid-range photos are better suited. They allow you to zoom in on these items.

• Detail shots are great for capturing unique features of your space that showcase its personality and charm. Stand in the corner of a room with your lens set to its widest setting to effectively capture these details. If you have a tripod, using one can also help you achieve steady shots.

• Height can always enhance room shots, so try taking some photos standing on a sturdy chair in a corner of the room. However, please be cautious and prioritize safety.

Bell Tent in a glorious Devon vineyard hosted by Travelnest.

In conclusion, taking great photos of your vacation rental is crucial for attracting guests and securing bookings. The quality of your photos can greatly influence how potential guests perceive your property and impact its visibility in search results. Remember to set the scene by ensuring your property is clean and inviting, while also highlighting unique features that make it stand out. By following these tips, you can take stunning photos that will entice guests and help maximise your bookings.