How to Source the Right Photographer for Your Airbnb Listing

First impressions matter—here’s how to capture them.

Your Airbnb listing's photos are your most powerful selling tool. Without a strong cover image and a thoughtfully staged shoot, you might not even get seen—let alone booked. Here’s how to find the right photographer and what to consider before your shoot.

What to Look For in a Photographer

You're not just hiring someone to snap a few wide angles. You're looking for someone who knows how to create that "WOW" factor: sky replacement, all lights on, perfect staging, flattering angles, and proper lighting.

• Must understand the difference between real estate and vacation rental photography

• Should shoot at optimal times of day (golden hour or twilight for exteriors)

• Should provide enough variety to make your first 5 photos diverse (e.g., pool, kitchen, bedroom, aerial, detail shot)

  
  

Where to Find Good Leads

• Instagram: Search hashtags like #hudsonvalleyrealestatephotographer

• Google: Try "[Your Town] vacation rental photographer"

• Facebook: Look in STR or Airbnb host groups for referrals

  
  

Questions to Ask Before Hiring

• How long have you been shooting real estate and vacation rentals?

• Do you offer any staging services?

• What is your turnaround time?

• How many final images are included?

• Do you shoot at twilight or offer aerials?

• Can we reschedule if the weather isn’t ideal?

  
  

Day-of Photography Checklist

• Unit should be 100% cleaned and staged

• Blow up pool toys, place games and towels for vibe

• Turn on all lights, including exterior and string lights

• Fire up fire pit and hot tub if applicable

• Remove trash, broken items, and clutter

• Photographer should have access codes in advance

  
  

Shot List Must-Haves

• Bathrooms (3-4 photos each: sink, tub, toilet, angles)

• Bedrooms (3-4 per room: bed, closet, windows, amenities)

• Kitchen (4-5 shots: appliances, island, dining nooks)

• Living room, game room, dining room, patio

• Pool/hot tub, balcony, exterior twilight shot

Before

After

Pro Tip: Exteriors should always be shot at twilight for the most scroll-stopping image. This could be the difference between appearing in search or being skipped.

A professional shoot is one of the most valuable investments you can make in your listing. Don’t cut corners—the right photographer will help your property shine and get noticed.

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