What to Expect When You Hire a Short-Term Rental Photographer
If you're a short-term rental owner, you've probably heard it before: photos are everything. They’re your first impression on Airbnb, your silent sales team, and the #1 factor that helps guests decide if your place is worth the click—and the nightly rate.
But what actually happens when you hire a professional photographer for your STR?
If you’re wondering how to prep, what’s included, or whether it’s even worth it—this post is for you. I’ll walk you through the full process of working with a short-term rental photographer (like me!) and answer the most common questions I hear from clients.
The Inquiry & Booking Process
You don’t need to have it all figured out to reach out. Whether you’re about to launch your listing or you’ve been live for years and need a glow-up, the first step is a conversation.
Here’s what typically happens:
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You send an inquiry with a bit of info about your space (location, size, listing link if available, and what you’re hoping to achieve).
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I’ll respond with STR package options, potential shoot dates, and any initial thoughts or upgrades (like drone or twilight shots).
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You book your session by choosing a package and securing the date with a signed agreement + deposit.
I recommend reaching out at least 4-6 weeks in advance—especially during peak seasons in Vermont like foliage and ski season.
Step 2: Pre-Shoot Prep + Styling Guidance
Once you're booked, I’ll send over a prep checklist that includes:
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What to clean and declutter
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How to style your space (or what not to overthink)
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Optional props or lifestyle elements to gather
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Seasonal add-ons you may want to include (like cider and pumpkins for fall, or cozy blankets and candles in winter)
Don’t worry if styling isn’t your thing—I offer on-site styling support with every session. I can bring along fresh items like plants, local snacks, or props to help your space feel warm, lived-in, and photo-ready.
Think of me as your mini staging stylist and visual brand consultant, all in one.
Step 3: Shoot Day!
On the day of your session, here’s what to expect:
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I’ll arrive with my gear, lighting, styling tools, and a clear shot list
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I’ll do a quick walkthrough of the space together
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I’ll fluff pillows, adjust lamps, open blinds, and style details as I move through the rooms
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Depending on the package, I typically start by shooting the full interior, exterior, lifestyle scenes, drone shots, and possibly twilight imagery
Most shoots take between 2-4 hours, but may take longer depending on the size of the space and the number of lifestyle or add-on elements.
Pro Tip: This happens mostly organically, but most hosts are not present for the session. While this just seems to be a trend (as many owners of STRs in VT are not local), it can actually be easier to move through the space when you're not there. But don't worry, we talk ahead of time so I know what you're looking for, if there are any specific details to include, and how to turn off/on lights/fireplaces/hot tubs etc.
Step 4: Editing & Delivery
After the shoot, I carefully edit your images for:
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Light, color, and sharpness
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Clean, natural tones that match your brand
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Consistent visual storytelling across your gallery
You’ll receive your final images in a private online gallery, organized and ready for upload to Airbnb, VRBO, your website, or social platforms.
✅ Expect delivery in7-14 business days
✅ Includes both web and high-res files
✅ Licensing is always clear and straightforward
Step 5: Aftercare, Support & Seasonal Refreshes
I don’t disappear after delivery. I’m here if:
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You need help choosing which photo to make your hero shot
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You’re curious how to improve your listing’s visual flow
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You want a seasonal refresh (think foliage, snow, or summertime glow)
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You need extra images for a new platform or marketing campaign
I build long-term relationships with my STR clients because I know your space evolves—and your visuals should too.
Repeat clients often get special seasonal bundles or refresh discounts, too—just ask!
Why It’s Worth It
Professional photography might feel like an upfront investment—but it’s one of the fastest, easiest ways to:
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Increase bookings
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Raise your nightly rate
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Attract more respectful guests
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Build long-term brand trust
And best of all? You don’t have to do it alone. I bring strategy, styling, and years of experience helping short-term rentals across Vermont get noticed—for all the right reasons.
Ready to Elevate Your Listing?
Whether you're launching your first short-term rental or giving your listing a much-needed refresh, I'm here to help you create a visual story that books.
Serving Vermont’s short-term rental community, including Burlington, Stowe, the Mad River Valley, and beyond.
Offering styling, drone, twilight, lifestyle add-ons—and images that actually work.
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.