Have you refreshed your holiday rental listing photos?

Why your first photo & top ten matter most

Let’s get real - your first photo is your golden ticket. This is the image that shows up in search results, fighting for attention alongside dozens of other properties. Make it unforgettable. Pick a shot that speaks to your property’s most desirable feature, a sun-soaked outdoor patio, a crackling fire in the living room, or a boutique-style bedroom that looks straight out of Pinterest. This could help to increase your earnings by up to 40%.

After that? Your next ten photos should tell a story about your holiday rental. Think of them as your highlight reel. These visuals should be clear, bright, and engaging, giving potential guests an overview of your space without overwhelming them. Think living areas, bedrooms, the kitchen, the showpiece bathroom, and don’t forget the extras (hot tubs, anyone?).

Still unsure what to focus on? Here’s a breakdown of key areas guests want to see and why.

The living areas

Your living spaces set the tone for your rental’s vibe, so make them count. Guests want to picture themselves relaxing and making memories here. Got plush sofas? Excellent. A large flat-screen TV? Perfect. Multiple living rooms or a cosy reading nook? Even better. Make sure your photos show off your seating options, the type of flooring (wooden floors, carpets, or rugs), and any standout features like a fireplace or floor-to-ceiling windows.

Bonus tip: Including natural daylight in your photos will make the room feel warmer and more inviting. Got allergies in mind? Highlight features like hard floors or hypoallergenic furnishings, as well as child-friendly items for families.

The kitchen and dining space

Here’s one thing all travellers have in common: they love an inviting kitchen. Whether your rental is suited to gourmet meals or late-night takeaway, your kitchen and dining area photos need to reassure guests that it’s a functional, pleasant space. Capture clean countertops, well-organised cabinets, and seating arrangements. 

Got extras, like a fancy coffee machine or a large dining table that’s perfect for family feasts? Make sure these are front and centre. Remember, the kitchen often determines the type of guest you'll attract; if it’s a chef’s haven, show it off. If it’s a minimalist space for breakfast before exploring, highlight its convenience.

Bedrooms that invite rest

Bedrooms sell dreams… literally. Your guests want to imagine crashing into a clean, comfy bed after a long day of adventuring. Showcase crisp linens, stylish décor, and bedside essentials like lamps or alarm clocks. Don’t forget to include shots of wardrobes or storage space because no one likes living out of a suitcase. Got an en-suite or Jack-and-Jill bathroom off the bedroom? Highlight these links visually, it’s a detail many guests will appreciate.

And if you’ve provided extra blankets, duvets, or throw pillows, include them in your photos to help guests see how fully-stocked and welcoming the space is.

Bathrooms that sparkle

Bathrooms might not be glamorous, but they’re high up on a potential guest’s checklist. A clean, well-lit bathroom is a must! Show off fixtures like the bath or shower, especially if it’s a dreamy walk-in. Make sure the space looks spotless, and if you’ve got a fabulous soaking bathtub or rainfall shower head, ensure they take centre stage. 

Accessibility features in your bathroom? This is a huge bonus for many travellers. Include photos of walk-in showers, handrails, shower benches, or any other accommodations designed for guests with mobility needs.

Outdoor spaces for summery bliss

With warmer months rolling in, outdoor spaces can be a game-changer for bookings, especially for families. Does your property have a patio, garden, or barbecue area? Guests will want to envision morning coffees outdoors or alfresco dinners under the stars. Capture these spots at their best; clean, inviting, and set up for relaxing or entertaining.

For properties with standout features like a hot tub, fire pit, or play area for the kids, this is your chance to shine. Include close-up shots that highlight every little detail that sets your outdoor space apart.

Show off unique amenities

Does your rental have a game room, a conservatory, or a pool table? These are features worth shouting about. Similarly, accessibility additions like ramps, wide doorways, or grab bars can make a world of difference to many potential guests. Take care to photograph these extras clearly; these unique selling points are valuable search filters for guests with specific needs.

Tips for taking photos like a pro

Now that you know what to showcase, here’s how to ensure your photos are scroll-stopping:

• Use natural light wherever possible for a brighter, more authentic feel.

• Declutter and stage your spaces to look both polished and lived-in. Think neatly folded towels, a well-placed book, or fresh flowers.

• Shoot from multiple angles to give a complete view of each room.

• Ensure high resolution photos to maintain quality across platforms.

• Hire a professional photographer if photography isn’t your strength, they'll capture your property’s best side and boost bookings more than you'd think.

Make your listing shine in every season

Revamping your photos isn’t just a one-time task. Seasons change, tastes evolve, and your rental should keep up. If you’ve updated the décor, made renovations, or the light changes dramatically between summer and winter, fresh photos can help your listing stay relevant and attractive.

Want your listing to be the one holiday makers rave about? Stay proactive. Quality photography combined with thoughtful, honest representation ensures that what your guests see is exactly what they get.

Showcase your property’s best today

Photos are your holiday rental’s front line. You can also increase your search rankings on Google by updating your listing - particularly with photos - regularly. With a little attention to detail and a focus on the key areas guests care about, you can boost interest, encourage bookings, and signal that your property is their next perfect getaway. Take time to refresh your photos every so often, and watch your calendar fill up fast. We’ve got further guidance on taking those all-important photos! See more here.

If you’re looking for more tips to elevate your holiday rental listing, sign up with Travelnest today. Here's to snap-worthy success!