How to Prepare Your Airbnb for Stunning Listing Photos & Video

Jun 3

When potential guests browse Airbnb or VRBO, your photos are often what determine whether they click - or keep scrolling. Professional media helps your property stand out, feel more upscale, and create an emotional connection before guests ever arrive. A well-prepared home paired with high-quality photo and video content can increase interest, improve perceived value, and help drive more bookings.

How to Prep Your Home

The goal is to make the space feel clean, bright, spacious, and guest-ready. Cameras pick up every little detail, so simplifying and styling the home beforehand makes a huge difference in the final images.

General Home Prep

Remove clutter from counters, tables, and floors
Hide cords, remotes, trash cans, toiletries, and cleaning supplies
Make beds neatly with wrinkle-free bedding
Use matching towels in bathrooms and kitchens
Remove magnets, papers, and personal items from refrigerators
Put away pet bowls, litter boxes, and excess decor
Clean mirrors, windows, appliances, and floors
Sweep patios, porches, and entryways
Tidy landscaping and outdoor seating areas
Replace burnt-out bulbs and mismatched light colors

What To Do Right Before I Arrive

These final touches help the property photograph at its absolute best and save valuable shooting time.

Final Photo-Day Checklist

Open all curtains and blinds evenly
Turn on every interior and exterior light
Turn off ceiling fans and TVs
Hide vehicles from driveways when possible
Fluff pillows and straighten blankets
Empty sinks and dish racks
Close toilet lids
Put away trash cans and soap bottles if possible
Remove pool covers, hoses, or cleaning tools
Wipe down stainless steel and glass surfaces one last time
Set outdoor furniture cushions neatly
Light the fireplace or outdoor fire pit if applicable
Make sure all rooms are fully accessible and photo-ready

Personal Touches & Props

The best Airbnb listings feel warm and inviting - not empty. A few intentional props can help guests imagine themselves relaxing and enjoying the space.

Simple Styling Ideas

Fresh flowers or greenery
Folded throw blankets
Decorative pillows
Coffee mugs or breakfast trays
Charcuterie board or wine glasses
Rolled spa-style towels
Bowl of fresh fruit
Candles or soft accent lighting
Open books or a cozy reading setup
Seasonal touches for warmth and personality

These small details help create a welcoming “vacation feeling” that guests emotionally connect with.

Why Drone Photos Matter

Drone photography instantly gives your listing a more premium and professional look while showing guests the full experience of the property and surrounding area.

Drone photos can showcase:

Waterfront access or scenic views
Property size and privacy
Fire pits, pools, docks, or outdoor amenities
Nearby mountains, trails, beaches, or downtown areas
Surrounding landscape and neighborhood context

Drone images can also include GPS pins highlighting nearby attractions, restaurants, ski resorts, lakes, wedding venues, or local hotspots - helping guests better understand the location and what makes it special.

Don’t Miss Out on Video

Photos are essential, but video helps bring the property to life.

A professionally filmed highlight video showcases the atmosphere, flow, and experience of the home in a way photos simply cannot. It instantly makes a property feel more luxurious, modern, and memorable.

Why Video Is Worth It

Makes your listing stand out from competitors
Creates a stronger emotional connection
Shows the flow and layout naturally
Helps the property feel more upscale and high-end
Perfect for Airbnb, VRBO, and direct booking websites
Can be used as a hero video on your homepage
Short vertical reels are perfect for Instagram and Facebook
Drone footage adds cinematic movement and energy

Video content gives you valuable marketing material that can be used far beyond your listing itself.

Other Important Tips

Think About Your Ideal Guest

Style the space for the type of traveler you want to attract. A cozy cabin, luxury lake house, and modern downtown apartment should all feel different in the final imagery.

Timing Matters

Outdoor spaces photograph best when landscaping is maintained and seasonal furniture is set up. Fresh mulch, trimmed grass, and clean patios make a huge visual impact.