Managing your STR photo shoot...tips for new hosts

[Theresa Holl]

So you've heard again and again that you need "better pictures" on your Airbnb listing. You have a photographer/influencer on the way and assume they're working in your best interest so all you have to do is stay out of their way...right? Nope. Here are some key pointers on how to manage your short term rental photo shoot.

1. If it's an influencer coming to photograph your site, have a contract in place asking for a set number of posts, reels, stories and maybe a live stream while on site as well as the 40-55 pictures you're paying for.

2. Ensure they use a wide lens and have the low, mid and high angle shots taken.

3. Ensure you can tell how the rooms connect by the photos. People want a sense of that flow before they book. Open all the interior doors so it's obvious how things flow.

4. Set everything on fire...seriously. If there's a fireplace or fire pit, get lit!

5. Get a shot of ALL the kitchen gadgets laid out on the counter.

6. For your own website and instagram footage, get drone shots including the view of and from the house. Also get the "tight reveal" shot where the drone goes over the top and off into the distance, highlighting the main view. This one is huge!  You might also get the stunning :hero image: for your own website from these drone shots.

7. Have a focal point in every room, art, a rug, something eye-catching for a subject that ties the room together and make sure at least a few shots have low depth of field and focus on that feature (blurry background...hence focal point).

8. Have an "instagrammable space" like a mural on the wall with your hashtag prominently displayed.  This will get you free content from your guests for years to come.

9. If it's an influencer using an iPhone, have a wide lens attachment ready for them and a lighting kit waiting in the manager's closet. They are available on Amazon and these are critical for real estate photography.