Airbnb Photography Tips: Capturing the Details Guests Love
In the world of vacation rentals, photos are often the first impression a potential guest has of your property. A well-written description matters, but stunning visuals are what truly inspire someone to click “Book Now.” For historic homes especially, capturing the little details — like original wood floors, antique furniture, or a cozy clawfoot tub — can be the difference between blending in and standing out.
At The John Brown House, we’ve learned that it’s not just about photographing the rooms; it’s about highlighting the experience guests will have when they stay. Here are some tips to help you capture the details guests love — and boost your bookings through beautiful, scroll-stopping photos.
1. Showcase Character and Charm
Every Airbnb has a story, and photos should reflect it. For historic homes, highlight what makes your property unique: exposed brick, wood beams, original floors, or vintage hardware. These elements tell guests they’re booking more than just a bed — they’re booking an experience steeped in history and charm.
Tip: Zoom in on textures like wood grain, tile patterns, or ornate light fixtures. These shots bring out personality that wide-angle photos often miss.
2. Balance Wide Shots with Detail Shots
Yes, wide-angle photos of entire rooms are important, but don’t stop there. Guests also want to see the details that make your space special. Try a mix of:
Wide shots: For layout and scale.
Medium shots: Highlight seating areas, cozy corners, or dining setups.
Close-ups: Capture little luxuries like fluffy towels, fresh flowers, or a vintage record player.
This layered approach helps guests visualize the full experience.
3. Use Natural Light
Lighting can make or break a photo. Natural light creates a warm, inviting feel that artificial lighting can’t always replicate. Schedule your shoot during the brightest part of the day and open curtains to let the sunshine in.
Pro move: Avoid using flash unless absolutely necessary — it can flatten details and make historic homes look less authentic.
4. Highlight Guest Experiences
Think about what your guests will do in your space and photograph it. For example:
A rocking chair on the porch, perfect for morning coffee.
A clawfoot tub ready for a relaxing soak.
A reading nook with a cozy blanket and stack of books.
By showing how guests can enjoy these details, you’re inviting them to imagine themselves in the space.
5. Style with Intention
A little staging goes a long way. Add fresh flowers, a tray with coffee mugs, or a folded blanket over the sofa. These small touches make your photos feel lived-in and relatable — not sterile.
For historic homes, consider accenting with period-inspired décor. This can amplify the sense of place and enhance the story your Airbnb is telling.
6. Don’t Forget the Outdoors
Curb appeal matters online too. Photograph your entryway, porch, garden, or any outdoor seating areas. Capture seasonal details — spring blooms, summer greenery, autumn colors — to give potential guests a sense of when they might want to visit.
7. Invest in Professional Photography
If possible, hire a photographer who specializes in interiors or real estate. They’ll know how to balance composition, lighting, and angles to showcase your property at its best. Consider it an investment: great photos can pay for themselves with just a few extra bookings.
Final Thoughts
Airbnb photography is about more than just showing rooms — it’s about capturing the feeling of staying at your property. For The John Brown House, that means highlighting historic details like original wood floors, wide porches, and vintage charm. For your Airbnb, it might be sleek modern design or cozy rustic touches.
When you capture these details thoughtfully and share them across your listing and social media, you’re not just marketing a space — you’re marketing an experience guests will remember.