Top 10 Must-Have Photos for Your Short-Term Rental Listing

(That Actually Help You Get Booked)

If you’ve ever wondered, “What photos do I really need for my Airbnb?”—this post is for you.

In a sea of beautiful listings, it’s the ones with clean, well-lit, thoughtfully styled images that get the most clicks (and the best guests). Your photos are your first impression—and often your only chance to convince someone to book.

As a Vermont-based STR photographer, I’ve helped dozens of hosts create photo galleries that actually convert. Whether you’re just getting started or looking to upgrade your current listing, these are the 10 essential images you need for a listing that stands out and gets booked.

1. The Hero Shot

This is your cover photo—the one that shows up in search results and makes people click.

• Choose a wide, well-lit image that shows the overall vibe of the space

• Often the living room, a cozy seating area, or a killer view from the deck

• Bonus points if it has natural light, visual depth, and a pop of warmth

2. The Living Room

Guests want to imagine relaxing here. Make sure your photo includes:

• The full layout (not just a corner)

• Inviting details like throw pillows, books, or a tray with drinks

• Good lighting and minimal clutter

Pro Tip: Think about human lifestyle elements to this. Maybe that's a family playing a came, someone curled up on the couch with a good book, or hanging around the fireplace

3. The Bedroom(s)

(That Actually Help You Get Booked)

If you’ve ever wondered, “What photos do I really need for my Airbnb?”—this post is for you.

In a sea of beautiful listings, it’s the ones with clean, well-lit, thoughtfully styled images that get the most clicks (and the best guests). Your photos are your first impression—and often your only chance to convince someone to book.

As a Vermont-based STR photographer, I’ve helped dozens of hosts create photo galleries that actually convert. Whether you’re just getting started or looking to upgrade your current listing, these are the 10 essential images you need for a listing that stands out and gets booked.

1. The Hero Shot

This is your cover photo—the one that shows up in search results and makes people click.

• Choose a wide, well-lit image that shows the overall vibe of the space

• Often the living room, a cozy seating area, or a killer view from the deck

• Bonus points if it has natural light, visual depth, and a pop of warmth

2. The Living Room

Guests want to imagine relaxing here. Make sure your photo includes:

• The full layout (not just a corner)

• Inviting details like throw pillows, books, or a tray with drinks

• Good lighting and minimal clutter

Pro Tip: Think about human lifestyle elements to this. Maybe that's a family playing a came, someone curled up on the couch with a good book, or hanging around the fireplace

3. The Bedroom(s)

This is where people sleep—and comfort sells.

• Make the bed look fluffy and intentional

• Include bedside tables, lighting, and art if possible

• Style for calm and cozy, not sterile

Pro Tip: Adding flowers or greenery for shoot day can really give these rooms the added "zuzshing" that makes them really stand out!

4. The Bathroom(s)

Often overlooked, but so important for building trust.

• Highlight cleanliness, natural light, and spa-like details (towels, soap, plants)

• A styled scene with folded towels or a candle can make a huge impact

5.The Kitchen and Dining Area (DUH!)

Whether it’s a kitchenette, a full chef’s kitchen, or an outdoor grill, guests want to know where and what they can cook. 

• Showcase appliances, counter space, and where people can eat

• Include a lifestyle touch like a coffee setup or bowl of fruit

Pro Tip: I've found that the kitchen is one of THE MOST IMPORTANT areas to highlight in your short term rental! Think about styling with table settings, charcuterie board, or full on styled brunch-scene!

6. Outdoor Spaces

I don't know about you, but I'm ALL ABOUT the outdoor spaces when I stay at a rental. Where and me and the gang hang out outside after a long hike or concert?

Got a porch? Fire pit? Adirondack chairs with a mountain view? A swimming hole?

• Outdoor spaces are often the dealmaker for Vermont and nature-based listings

• Capture them at golden hour, with styled details like a book, drink, or blanket

7. Twilight Shots

Nothing says "a dreamy stay" quite like the warm glow of lights under a purple-blue sky.

• Perfect for homes with good lighting, firepits, or window glow

• Helps listings pop in search feeds full of daylight-only photos

Twilight photos are one of the easiest ways to stand out—and offer them as an add-on with every package!

8. Drone or Aerial View

Great for showing off:

• Property layout

• Proximity to trails, lakes, or mountains

• Privacy and scenery

Especially important for Vermont cabins, ski chalets, and off-grid rentals!

9. Lifestyle Details

These make the space feel real and lived-in- they help people picture themselves there. 

• A coffee mug on the porch

• Slippers by the door

• A styled tray, a hand pouring maple syrup, a book cracked open

These photos create emotional connection—and that’s what books stays.

**In increasing amounts, I'm notcing how important these "lifestyle" images are.  They are the next element to add to your listing in order to elevate it and make it stand out. Trust me. 

10. Your Amenities in Action

Highlight what makes your space unique:

• Hot tub bubbling

• Hammock swaying

• Games on the table, s’mores by the fire, skis by the door

Think: what do people love most about staying here? Show that.

Bonus Tip: Organize Your Gallery Intentionally

Don’t just upload everything in random order.

Start with your strongest photo (your Hero), then take viewers on a visual tour that flows logically—exterior → living → kitchen → bedrooms → bath → outdoor → lifestyle → amenities.

You want to create the client experience before they ever step foot in through your door. 

Want Photos That Check All These Boxes?

I offer short-term rental photography that’s more than just snapshots—it’s strategy, styling, and storytelling designed to help your listing:

✔️ Stand out in crowded markets✔️ Attract guests you actually want✔️ Increase your booking rate✔️ Raise your nightly rate

Packages include:

• Full home coverage

• Styling support + lifestyle detail shots

• Optional drone and twilight add-ons

• Quick turnaround and guidance on how to use your images best

Let’s turn your space into someone’s dream stay.[Click here to learn more about my STR photography services.]

Let's turn your space into a story worth booking.

Visit our contact page to get in touch.