How Quality Photos Can Transform Your Listing on Airbnb, Booking.com, and Other Platforms

Who I Am and Why I'm Writing to You

My name is Michal Lausch, and I'm a professional photographer specializing in interior and architectural photography. For over 8 years, I've been helping property owners, small guesthouses, boutique hotels, and apartments attract more bookings through visually compelling images. I wrote this article to show you how to make your offering stand out on platforms like Airbnb, Booking.com, or TripAdvisor – and attract more guests.

Did you know that 94% of customers consider photos the most important factor when choosing accommodation online? Or that listings with professional photos have a 40% higher booking chance? If you want your property to stand out, keep reading.

Luxurious boutique hotel room with large bay windows, copper freestanding bathtub, blue patterned wallpaper, and elegant furniture, creating a cozy and stylish atmosphere for relaxation.

Why Quality Photos Are Crucial for Your Success

  1. First Impressions Matter
    Photos are the first thing potential guests see. If you don't capture their attention immediately, they'll move to another listing.

    • On Airbnb, users spend up to 60% of their time browsing photos.

    • On Booking.com, listings with quality images appear more frequently in searches.

  2. Higher Rental Prices
    Properties with professional-looking images can charge higher rates – guests are willing to pay more for perceived quality.

  3. Trust and Emotions
    Quality photos build trust and create an emotional connection with potential guests. People imagine themselves in your space.

  4. Platform Visibility
    Platforms like Booking.com or Airbnb prioritize listings with attractive photos – better images mean better search ranking.

Modern spa area with glass-front herbal and Himalayan saunas offering scenic lake views, sleek tiled flooring, and natural lighting for a relaxing wellness experience.

Tell a Story Through Your Photos

Your property is more than four walls – it's a place where memories are made. Try to capture:

  • Everyday life moments: Breakfast on a sunny terrace, romantic dinners by the fireplace, or cozy evening reading.

  • Surrounding area: Interesting nearby locations like parks, cafes, or cultural landmarks.

  • Seasonal atmosphere: Christmas decorations or fresh spring flowers.

These details create an emotional bond and attract guests seeking a unique experience.

Cozy hotel room with a neatly made bed, plaid cushions, rolled towels, and a chilled champagne bottle in an ice bucket with glasses, creating a romantic and luxurious atmosphere.

How to Take Great Photos with Your Phone

No professional camera? No problem! Modern smartphones can work wonders. Just follow a few simple rules:

Close-up of a person taking a photo of an architectural corridor on a smartphone, capturing the symmetry and depth of the scene in perfect focus.

Lighting

  • Use natural daylight.

  • Avoid harsh shadows – best times are morning or afternoon.

  • For evening atmosphere, try soft lamps or candles.

Composition

  • Follow the rule of thirds: divide the image into thirds and place main objects along these lines.

  • Shoot from waist height – rooms will look more spacious.

  • Focus on details like decorations, window views, or stylish furniture.

Modern hotel suite with a freestanding bathtub by large angled windows offering scenic lake views, featuring wooden flooring, cozy seating, and elegant lighting for a luxurious retreat.

Cleaning and Preparation

  • Ensure the space is clean and organized.

  • Add subtle decorations: flowers, fruit, or elegantly folded towels.

Photo Editing

Even the best shots need some touch-up. I recommend these apps:

  • Snapseed (free): Great for basic edits.

  • Lightroom (mobile and desktop): Professional tools for color and light balancing.

  • Canva: Simple editing with text or graphic addition options.

When editing, pay attention to:

  • Brightness and color vibrancy (don't overdo saturation).

  • Straightening lines (distorted walls can be corrected in Lightroom).

Why Consider Professional Photography

While phone cameras can do a lot, professional photos can elevate your property to another level. They will help you:

  • Increase rental prices.

  • Attract more guests.

  • Create a unique visual style for your offering.

I offer various photography packages suitable for small guesthouses, hotels, and apartments. I'm happy to help not just with photography, but also with free consultation and advice.

Cozy cabin living room with a wood-burning stove, large windows offering scenic countryside views, a comfortable sofa, and a dining area set for two, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere.

Conclusion: Contact Me for a Free Consultation

If you want to enhance your listing on Airbnb, Booking.com, or other platforms, don't hesitate to contact me. I'll be glad to advise you or create professional photos tailored to your needs.