Why You Need Professional Photos for Airbnb (and How to Get Them)

You’ve done the hard work. You’ve acquired a house or converted a room into the perfect Airbnb space. You’ve loaded it with amenities and special touches to make your guests feel right at home. Now it’s time to invest in photography for Airbnb! 

Photos of your Airbnb space can make or break your success on the app. Poor photos can literally cost you thousands of dollars while investing in professional photography is a small, one-time investment that pays off big time. Keep reading to learn more about why to get professional photos for Airbnb and the benefits of hiring a freelance photographer vs. going through Airbnb’s StudioNow service.

Should You Get Professional Photos for Airbnb?

First things first… yes! Absolutely! They don’t just make your listing look better. They give you a real return on your investment as well. 

1. First Impressions Matter

Your Airbnb photos are the first thing your potential guests see when they come across your listing. High-quality, professional photos can make an immediate impact. They can highlight the best aspects of your space, show off its unique charm, and instantly attract more clicks.

2. Increase Your Bookings

Did you know that listings with professional photos tend to get more bookings? It's true! According to Airbnb, listings with professional photos get 28% more bookings, can charge 26% higher per night, and earn 40% more overall than those without professional photos. Great photos for Airbnb can make your property stand out among a sea of other listings, increasing your visibility and enticing more people to book your space.

3. Boost Your Reputation

Investing in professional photography for Airbnb doesn't just make your listing look good—it also boosts your credibility as a host. It shows that you're serious about providing a top-notch experience for your guests. Plus, it gives you a competitive edge in the ever-growing Airbnb market. 

How Do You Get Professional Photos on Airbnb?

If I’ve convinced you to take professional photos of your listing, now you’re probably wondering how to make that happen. You have two options: Hire a freelance Airbnb professional photographer who specializes in real estate photography or go through Airbnb’s photography service, which partners with StudioNow. 

Option 1: Hire a Freelance Airbnb Professional Photographer

The first (and best) option is to find a freelance photographer near you to capture photos of your listing. This option yields significantly more benefits for you and the pro you hire.

A Personal Touch for Your Property

When you hire a freelance photographer, they often bring a personal touch to their work. Instead of rushing through the job, they can spend more time understanding your property and its unique elements. This deeper comprehension allows them to capture the essence of your space, resulting in more personalized and creative photos that truly represent your Airbnb listing.

Showcasing a Unique Style

By choosing a freelancer, you can select someone whose aesthetic aligns with how you want to present your Airbnb property. Whether you're after a bright and airy feel, a cozy and warm atmosphere, or a sleek and modern look, you can find a freelance photographer who can bring your vision to life. While novice photographers might not have an “eye” for your style, a professional photographer has the skill to adhere to your style and how you’ve decorated and transformed your space––all while upholding the quality standards you’re looking for.

Direct Communication for Clear Expectations

One of the benefits of hiring a freelance Airbnb professional photographer is the direct line of communication. You get to discuss your vision and expectations with them directly, ensuring there's no misunderstanding or misinterpretation. This clear channel of communication can lead to a smoother workflow and better end results, as the photographer knows precisely what you're looking for.

Cost-Effective Without Compromising Quality

Freelance photographers often operate with less overhead costs than larger companies. This lean business model can translate into lower rates for you, making professional photography for Airbnb more accessible. And the best part? This cost-effectiveness doesn't mean compromising the quality of your photos. You can still expect top-notch, captivating images that draw potential guests to your listing.

Experienced and Passionate About Their Skill

Photographers who are with StudioNow can often be underqualified. Because there is no specific degree requirement to join the platform, the quality and experience of photographers vary. When you hire through a middleman, it’s more likely that you’ll get someone who is just starting out or doing photography as a hobby. Of course, there are exceptions. 

However, if you have high professional standards or expectations for your Airbnb photos, it’s best to hire an Airbnb professional photographer directly who you know has the experience and skill you’re looking for–someone who understands the needs of hosts and can capture your listing in the best possible light.

Option 2: Use Airbnb’s Photography Service Through StudioNow

Airbnb offers a convenient option for hosts: the platform's own photography service via StudioNow. This service is designed to streamline the process of getting professional pictures of your listing, but it's important to consider the whole picture before making your decision.

Convenience at Your Doorstep

One of the main advantages of using Airbnb’s photography service is its convenience. You don't have to spend time searching for a photographer or finding the right fit for your budget. Everything is handled within the platform, saving you time and effort.

Partnership with Freelance Photographers

Airbnb’s photography service works by partnering with freelance photographers. On paper, this might seem like a win-win situation—hosts get professional photos, and photographers get business. However, the reality can be less rosy.

The Flip Side of the Coin

While the service might be beneficial for hosts, it's not always as advantageous for the photographers involved. StudioNow takes a substantial cut from what you pay for the service. This means that the photographers, despite doing most of the work, end up receiving only a fraction of the earnings.

This arrangement may lead to photographers feeling undervalued and underpaid. In turn, this could potentially affect the quality and passion they put into their work. After all, everyone wants to feel that their efforts are fairly compensated.

So, while Airbnb’s photography service through StudioNow is certainly an option, it's important to weigh the pros and cons. It might be more beneficial in the long run to invest directly in a freelance Airbnb professional photographer who can dedicate their time and creativity and receive fair compensation for capturing your listing. 

Looking for Photography for Airbnb in Los Angeles?

If you own an Airbnb property in Southern California and are looking to enhance its appeal, consider professional real estate photography services. Good quality photos can make a world of difference, transforming your listing from average to exceptional.

As a professional real estate photographer, I understand the power of compelling visuals in attracting potential guests to your property. I aim to capture the unique charm and atmosphere of your Airbnb, showcasing its best features and making it stand out amidst a sea of listings.

With my keen eye for detail and expertise in lighting and composition, I can help bring your property to life through images. Whether it's the cozy corner of the living room, the stunning view from the balcony, or the intricate details of the decor, each photograph will tell a story that invites viewers to imagine themselves in your space.

If you're ready to give your Airbnb listing the boost it needs to catch the eye of potential guests, let's connect. I'd be thrilled to discuss how my professional Airbnb photography services can help elevate your property. Schedule a consultation today. Let's turn your Airbnb property into a visual delight that no guest can resist!