Great photos can make or break your Airbnb listing. They’re the first thing potential guests see, and high-quality images help increase bookings. But what if you don’t have an expensive camera? No problem! With the right techniques, lighting, and a smartphone, you can still capture professional-looking photos that make your property stand out. Here’s how.
1. Use Natural Light to Your Advantage
Lighting is everything in photography. The best photos are taken during daylight hours when natural light is abundant.
- Shoot in the morning or late afternoon for soft, natural lighting.
- Open curtains and let in as much light as possible.
- Avoid using your phone’s flash—it creates harsh shadows and unnatural colors.
2. Declutter and Stage the Space
A clean, well-staged space looks more inviting and helps guests imagine themselves staying there.
- Remove personal items and clutter.
- Add small decorative touches like fresh flowers, throw pillows, or neatly folded towels.
- Make sure beds are neatly made, and furniture is arranged in a way that maximizes space.
3. Use a Smartphone with a High-Quality Camera
You don’t need a DSLR—modern smartphones have fantastic cameras.
- Use an iPhone 13/14/15 Pro, Samsung Galaxy S22/S23 Ultra, or Google Pixel 7/8 Pro for sharp images.
- Turn on HDR mode for better balance between light and shadows.
- Hold your phone steady or use a tripod to avoid blurry images.
4. Shoot from the Right Angles
The way you position your camera can make a small space look bigger and more inviting.
- Shoot from waist level for a natural perspective.
- Take photos from the corners of rooms to show depth and dimension.
- Capture multiple angles of each space so guests can get a full view.
5. Highlight Key Features
Make sure your best amenities stand out.
- If you have a stunning view, capture it from the best vantage point.
- Showcase unique elements like a fireplace, rooftop terrace, or luxury bathtub.
- Take close-up shots of stylish decor or premium amenities.
6. Edit for a Polished Look
A little editing can enhance your photos and make them pop.
- Use free apps like Snapseed, Lightroom Mobile, or VSCO.
- Adjust brightness, contrast, and sharpness for a crisp, clean look.
- Avoid over-editing—keep colors natural and true to life.
7. Follow Airbnb’s Photo Guidelines
Airbnb has specific recommendations for listing photos.
- Use landscape (horizontal) format for all images.
- Upload high-resolution photos (at least 1024 x 683 pixels).
- Prioritize high-quality images for the first five pictures, as they appear in search results.
8. Take a Variety of Shots
Guests want to see the entire property, not just a few angles.
- Include exterior shots to show the building and entrance.
- Capture every room, including the kitchen and bathrooms.
- Take close-ups of details like cozy bedding, coffee stations, or smart home features.
Final Thoughts
You don’t need expensive gear to take professional-looking Airbnb photos. With natural light, smart staging, and the right angles, your smartphone can capture stunning images that attract more bookings. If you’re serious about maximizing your listing’s potential, investing time in quality photography is one of the best moves you can make.
Need help optimizing your Airbnb listing? Let’s work together to make your property stand out!