Hire a pro for your short-term rental photos

May 4, 2024

First impressions are often made online and the visuals of your Airbnb listing can make or break a potential booking. While smartphones have made amateur photography more accessible, there’s a world of difference between snapshots and professionally curated images.

As a host, you want to showcase your space in the best light possible—literally and figuratively. While it might seem cost-effective to snap a few photos yourself, the time and effort required can quickly add up. Professional photographers bring expertise, equipment, and efficiency to the table.

Short-term rental (STR) consumers are smart. They are looking for rentals with the best representation of what they will get to reduce confusion. Trick photography or photography that misleads them can cause major issues, like not understanding the size of the space.

 Here are six reasons why investing in professional photography for your Airbnb photos is crucial to your success!

1. Capturing the Essence: Professional photographers have a trained eye for composition, lighting, and angles. They can capture the essence and unique features of your space that might be overlooked by an amateur. From the cozy nooks to the breathtaking views, a professional will highlight what makes your Airbnb special, enticing potential guests to book.

2. Stand Out from the Crowd: In a sea of listings, professional photography sets you apart from the competition. Eye-catching images grab attention and draw potential guests in. With vibrant colors, crisp details, and strategic framing, your listing will shine amidst countless others, increasing your chances of getting booked.

This is something we excel at! Check out this great video we did for our clients to show just how amazing of an escape their property is. 

We at Absolute Altitude believe that a picture is worth a thousand words, and our professional photographers are experts at storytelling through visuals. 

They know how to create a narrative that resonates with potential guests, evoking emotions and sparking their imagination. 

From showcasing the charm of a historic building to highlighting the modern amenities, every image contributes to the story of your Airbnb, inviting guests to become a part of it.

Another great tip: Create lifestyle content about the fun things you can do in the community your short-term rentals are in. This helps potential customers see how great the surrounding area is.

5. Boosting Bookings and Revenue: Investing in professional photography isn’t just an expense—it’s an investment that pays dividends. Studies have shown that short-term rentals with professional photos receive more clicks, inquiries, and bookings than those with amateur or DIY images. The increased visibility and appeal translate into higher occupancy rates and, ultimately, greater revenue for hosts.

From showcasing the charm of a historic building to highlighting the modern amenities, every image contributes to the story of your Airbnb, inviting guests to become a part of it.

5. Boosting Bookings and Revenue: Investing in professional photography isn’t just an expense—it’s an investment that pays dividends. Studies have shown that short-term rentals with professional photos receive more clicks, inquiries, and bookings than those with amateur or DIY images. The increased visibility and appeal translate into higher occupancy rates and, ultimately, greater revenue for hosts.

6. Building Trust and Credibility: Quality photography not only attracts guests but also builds trust and credibility. When potential guests see professional images, they perceive you as a serious and trustworthy host who cares about their experience. This positive impression can translate into glowing reviews and repeat bookings, fostering a loyal guest base.

Hiring a professional photographer for your Airbnb photos is a wise investment that yields numerous benefits. From showcasing your space in the best light to attracting more guests and boosting revenue, professional photography is a cornerstone of successful Airbnb hosting. 

If you want to elevate your Airbnb and stand out in a competitive market, entrust your visuals to the skilled hands of a professional photographer. Your guests—and your bottom line—will thank you for it.

Joel Yocca is the man with the plan, the owner & CEO of Absolute Altitude. The A2 team is prepared to provide you with the assets you need to level up in any market.

We plan your shots

Planning is key to capturing effective B-roll. Typically we are following a custom script that details each shot we want to get while we are at the property. 

We do this to make the best use of your time, and to make sure we can get in and out of the shoot efficiently.

We also specialize in the direction we give to the agent or other hired talent. The fact that we have experience in story-telling and directing people on what to do when adds big-time value.

We often identify unique features and architectural details that deserve attention. Consider the story you want to tell about the property – is it modern and sleek, cozy and rustic, or luxurious and opulent? Absolute Altitude will tailor your B-roll shots to align with this narrative.

     

     

     

     A focus on details

    Close-up shots of design elements like doorknobs, light fixtures, backsplash tiles, and unique architectural elements can add significant value. These shots give potential buyers a closer look at the quality and design features that set the property apart. Use a long lens if necessary to capture intricate details clearly.

    To make your video dynamic and engaging, we  vary your shots in terms of angles and movements. Here are a few techniques:

    • Panning: Slowly move the camera from one side to another to reveal a room or a feature.
    • Tilting and Pedestal Movements: Move the camera up and down to show the height and space either using a hinge or pole.
    • Tracking: Move the camera along a path, following a subject or moving through a space.
    • Static Shots: Hold the camera steady on a tripod to focus on specific elements.

     

    We Use the right equipment

    While a high-quality camera is essential, additional equipment can elevate your B-roll footage. We often get feedback about our price points, and that others are more affordable. We are very transparent about the quality we bring to each project. This means that we use the best equipment to capture high-resolution footage that is in focus, doesn’t shake, and is the appropriate color. We take pride in using the latest tech to make sure our clients and their collateral are captured in cinematic-quality footage.

    Some basic tools we use are (If we listed everything it would be a whole other blog, but here is a short break down of the types of tools that are in the back of our vehicles):

    • Gimbal: For smooth, cinematic shots, especially when moving through spaces.
    • Tripod: For steady, static shots that highlight specific features.
    • Wide-Angle and Prime Lenses: To capture more of the space in a single frame, giving viewers a comprehensive view. Prime lenses have a fixed focal length for tack-sharp images and dreamy depths of field.
    • Specialty lighting: Our lighting kits for high-end shoots are something that you will not find in your average real estate on-site shoot project.
    • Multiple cameras that are specific to the type of scene we are shooting.
    • Drone: For breathtaking aerial shots that showcase the property’s location and surroundings.
    • All the portable power and batteries to power your project!

     

     

     

    Final thoughts

    Capturing compelling B-rolls for real estate videos involves thoughtful planning, attention to detail, and the right equipment. Depending on the project we could have a multi-age script that we have crafted to make sure we create wow-worthy experiences for your portfolio.

     By focusing on the unique aspects of the property and using various shooting techniques, we can create a rich, immersive video that stands out to potential buyers. Remember, the goal of B-roll is to enhance the story you’re telling about the property, making it more appealing and memorable and that is our favorite story to tell.

     Joel Yocca is the man with the plan, the owner & CEO of Absolute Altitude. The A2 team is prepared to provide you with the assets you need to level up in any market.

     

     

    B-Roll Basics

    B-Roll Basics

    Creating an engaging real estate video involves more than just showcasing the property's main features. B-roll footage, the supplementary shots that add depth and context, plays a crucial role in enhancing the visual storytelling of a property tour. Essentially good...