How to Get Your Short-Term Rental Ready for Photography (and Attract More Bookings!)

Want to Get More Bookings? It All Starts with Better Photos.

If you’re a short-term rental owner in Vermont, you already know how important first impressions are. In the world of Airbnb, Vrbo, and boutique getaways, your listing photos are your storefront. The right images don’t just showcase your space — they sell the experience.

At Spacial Harmony Photography, I specialize in helping STR owners like you stand out in a saturated market. And trust me, even the most beautiful spaces need a little prep work before the camera clicks. This post will walk you through everything you need to know to get your rental photo-ready.

Why Professional STR Photography Matters

Before we jump into the prep, let’s talk about why quality photos matter so much.

• Listings with professional photos earn up to 40% more.

• Guests are more likely to book if the space looks clean, welcoming, and cohesive.

• Great photos build trust — guests feel confident they know what they’re getting.

Bottom line? Your listing photos are often the only thing a guest sees before clicking “book.”

7 Ways to Get Your Short-Term Rental Ready for Photography

Here’s how to prepare your space so it looks its absolute best on camera:

1. Declutter Like a Minimalist

Less is more when it comes to photography. Remove personal items, excess décor, cords, and countertop clutter. Think: sleek surfaces, intentional accents, and clean lines.

✅ Remove: remote controls, phone chargers, pet toys, mail piles✅ Keep: one or two styled objects (like a tray with mugs or a vase of wildflowers)

2. Make the Beds Hotel-Worthy

Crisp, clean bedding is non-negotiable. Fluff the pillows, smooth the duvets, and consider layering throws or extra blankets for texture and warmth.

Pro tip: Iron the duvet and sheets if they’re wrinkled — the camera will catch it!

3. Set the Mood with Lighting

Natural light is a photographer’s best friend. Open all the blinds and curtains and make sure windows are clean. For darker corners, turn on lamps and check for working bulbs with warm (not harsh) tones.

4. Style Your Space with a Guest in Mind

Stage the space like a dream getaway. A bottle of wine on the counter, books on the nightstand, fresh flowers, or cozy throws on the couch all help guests imagine themselves there.

This is not about creating a Pinterest-perfect room — it’s about making it feel inviting.

5. Don’t Forget the Outside

I always recommend capturing exterior shots, too! Sweep porches, clear driveways, fluff outdoor cushions, and hide garbage bins or stray items. Vermont’s charm shines when the outside is as inviting as the inside.

6. Tidy the Bathrooms Like a Spa

No one wants to see half-used shampoo bottles or wrinkled towels. Use clean, neatly folded linens, clear the vanity, and add small touches like a candle or a rolled hand towel to elevate the feel.

7. Create a Shot List (or Let Me Help You!)

Think about what you want to highlight: is it the mountain view? A cozy wood stove? The chef’s kitchen? I’ll walk through the property with your goals in mind and make sure we capture every detail that sets your rental apart.

Bonus Tip: Book Photography Between Guests

The best time for a session is when the space is freshly cleaned, staged, and there’s no rush to turn it over. If you’re in Vermont and you’re planning ahead for peak seasons like foliage or ski weekends, let’s chat early to secure your spot on my calendar.

Ready to Book Your STR Photography Session?

I offer photography packages that include interior, exterior, and detailed vignette shots that show off your space’s personality. Drone photography and short video clips are also available to take your listing to the next level.

📍 Serving Vermont short-term rental owners📸 Specializing in cozy cabins, modern farmhouses, and everything in between

Let’s make your listing shine. Contact me here to schedule your session or ask about availability.