If you’re wondering how to take professional photos for your vacation rental, you’re in the right place. At Cascadia Getaways, we understand how powerful great visuals can be for attracting guests—especially in stunning Pacific Northwest destinations like Mt. Hood, Seaside, and along the Oregon Coast. Whether you’re listing a cozy cabin, a beachside bungalow, or managing multiple short-term rentals, high-quality photos are one of the most effective ways to boost visibility, build trust, and drive more bookings.
Why Vacation Rental Photography Matters
In today’s digital-first travel market, your photos are your storefront. Vacation rental guests browse dozens of listings, and stunning, well-composed photos are what make yours stand out. According to industry data, listings with professional-quality images receive more views, higher booking rates, and even allow you to increase nightly pricing.
How to Prepare for a Vacation Rental Photoshoot
Clean and Declutter Every Room
Before shooting, deep clean your entire rental. Remove personal items, minimize clutter on tables and counters, and ensure all linens and surfaces are spotless. A clean space translates into trust and professionalism.
Stage for Lifestyle Appeal
Add welcoming details like:
- A coffee mug and open book on the nightstand
- A neatly folded throw on the couch
- Fresh flowers on the dining table
These touches help potential guests picture themselves in your home.
Best Photography Tips for Vacation Rentals
Use Natural Light
The best vacation rental photos are bright and natural. Shoot during the day with curtains open. Turn on all interior lights and avoid harsh flash or dark shadows.
Use a Tripod
Stabilize your camera or smartphone with a tripod. This helps keep photos sharp and straight, especially for wider shots that capture the whole room.
Shoot from the Corners
Stand in a corner and shoot diagonally to show more of the room. This is one of the most common professional vacation rental photography tips—because it makes your space look bigger and more inviting.
Highlight Key Features
Show off what makes your property unique. Think:
- A hot tub under the stars
- A cozy fireplace in the living room
- Stunning views from the deck
- Modern kitchens or spa-like bathrooms
Don’t forget to include exterior shots and nearby views to give guests a sense of place.
How to Edit Vacation Rental Photos
Basic photo editing is essential. Use apps like Lightroom, Snapseed, or your phone’s built-in tools to:
- Brighten up dark areas
- Correct color balance
- Slightly increase contrast and clarity
Be careful not to mislead. Keep your photos natural and authentic.
Bonus Tip: Keep Your Photos Seasonal
Update your vacation rental photos throughout the year. Feature:
- Pumpkins and blankets for fall
- Holiday lights in winter
- Patio setups in spring and summer
- Snow if your in a ski market etc
These seasonal touches evoke emotion and help guests imagine themselves visiting at different times.
Should You Hire a Professional Photographer?
If you have a luxury property or simply want the best results, investing in a pro photographer can be worth every penny. This has been worth it every time for us. They know how to:
- Light your rooms correctly
- Use wide-angle lenses without distortion
- Capture emotional “hero shots”
But don’t worry—many hosts have great success with DIY vacation rental photos using smartphones and good technique. We find that professional for your core photos and DIY for seasonal, small updates etc to be a good balanced ROI.
Where to Use Your Rental Photos
Maximize the value of your photos by using them everywhere:
- Airbnb or Vrbo listings
- Your direct booking website
- Google Business Profile
- Instagram and Facebook
- Email marketing
Great photos are not just for listings—they help build your brand.
FAQ: What Are the Best Practices for Vacation Rental Photography?
How many photos should I include in my listing?
Aim for 15 to 25 images or more, covering all rooms, exterior views, amenities, and local scenery. Make sure they are ordered to show the amenities that will sell your property first. Most guests wont make it through all of your photos.
Can I use my phone for vacation rental photography?
Yes! Modern smartphones with high-resolution cameras and proper lighting can produce great results. Use a tripod for extra stability. If you have a luxury property, a professional camera and photographer is recommended.
What type of shots work best for vacation rentals?
Wide-angle room shots, detail shots of amenities (like coffee setups or welcome baskets), and seasonal or lifestyle photos are most effective. Help the guest understand the flow of a home.
Should I include photos of nearby attractions?
Yes. Highlighting nearby parks, hiking trails, restaurants, or beach access helps guests connect your listing to their ideal vacation. Make sure you are clear in your listing description as to the distance your home is from these attractions to avoid misleading.
How often should I update my rental photos?
Update seasonally or whenever you renovate, redecorate, or add new features.
Final Thoughts from Cascadia Getaways
Whether you’re managing a cozy forest cabin or a stylish coastal retreat, high-quality vacation rental photography is your most powerful marketing tool. Follow these best practices, and you’ll build trust, boost visibility, and increase your bookings—especially here in the beautiful PNW.
At Cascadia Getaways, we use professional photos to showcase our properties and inspire confidence in every guest. Want help listing or marketing your Oregon vacation rental? Reach out to our team today.