How to Prepare Your Airbnb for a Professional Photoshoot

Why Professional Photography Matters for Your Airbnb

In the competitive Edinburgh rental market, professional photography can be the difference between a fully booked property and one that struggles to attract guests. Studies show that listings with professional photos receive 40% more bookings and can command 20% higher nightly rates.

As an Edinburgh property photographer, I've photographed hundreds of Airbnb properties across the city. The preparation work you do before the photoshoot directly impacts the final results. Here's my comprehensive guide to preparing your property for professional photography.

1. Deep Clean Everything (Yes, Everything!)

This might seem obvious, but it's the most important step. The camera sees everything, and even small details that you might overlook in person will show up in photos.

Focus Areas:

• Windows: Clean inside and out for maximum natural light
• Floors: Vacuum, mop, and remove any scuff marks
• Bathrooms: Scrub tiles, polish fixtures, remove water stains
• Kitchen: Clean appliances, countertops, and remove all clutter
• Mirrors and glass: Polish until streak-free
• Baseboards and corners: Dust and wipe down

Pro tip: Consider hiring professional cleaners the day before your photoshoot. It's a worthwhile investment that ensures everything is spotless.

2. Declutter Ruthlessly

Less is more in property photography. Remove personal items, excess furniture, and anything that doesn't contribute to showcasing the space.

What to Remove:

• Personal photos and memorabilia
• Excessive decorative items
• Visible cables and chargers
• Kitchen appliances from countertops (except maybe a kettle)
• Bathroom toiletries and products
• Visible trash bins
• Pet items (bowls, toys, beds)
• Laundry baskets and cleaning supplies

What to Keep:

• A few tasteful decorative items
• Fresh flowers or plants
• Neatly arranged throw pillows
• One or two coffee table books
• Artwork that complements the space

3. Maximize Natural Light

Natural light makes spaces feel larger, brighter, and more inviting. Here's how to optimize it:

• Open all curtains and blinds fully
• Clean windows thoroughly (inside and out if possible)
• Remove window screens if they're dirty or damaged
• Turn on all lights - we'll use a mix of natural and artificial lighting
• Replace any burnt-out bulbs and ensure all bulbs match in color temperature

Best time for photoshoots: Mid-morning to early afternoon provides the best natural light in Edinburgh properties, though I can work with any lighting conditions.

4. Style Your Beds and Bedrooms

Bedrooms are crucial for Airbnb listings. Guests want to see comfortable, inviting sleeping spaces.

Bedroom Checklist:

• Fresh, crisp linens: White or neutral colors photograph best
• Make beds perfectly: Smooth sheets, fluffed pillows, neat duvet
• Add layers: Throw blankets at the foot of the bed add texture
• Symmetry: Arrange pillows symmetrically for a polished look
• Nightstands: Keep minimal - perhaps a lamp and small plant
• Closets: Organize or close doors if cluttered

5. Kitchen and Dining Preparation

The kitchen is often a key selling point for Airbnb guests, especially those planning longer stays.

Kitchen Staging:

• Clear countertops: Remove all appliances except essentials
• Hide dish soap and sponges
• Empty dish rack or remove it entirely
• Clean sink: Polish until it shines
• Organize cabinets: We might open them for shots
• Fresh fruit bowl: Adds color and life (optional)
• Dining table: Clear or set with simple, elegant place settings

6. Bathroom Perfection

Bathrooms need to look spotless and spa-like. This is where attention to detail really matters.

Bathroom Preparation:

• Remove all personal items: Toothbrushes, razors, medications
• Fresh towels: Fold neatly or roll and display
• Clean grout: This shows up prominently in photos
• Polish fixtures: Taps, shower heads, mirrors
• Toilet: Close the lid for photos
• Add touches: Small plant, rolled towels, perhaps a candle
• Shower curtain: Ensure it's clean and hangs properly

7. Living Areas and Common Spaces

Living rooms should feel comfortable and inviting while showcasing the space effectively.

Living Room Staging:

• Arrange furniture: Create conversation areas, ensure good flow
• Fluff cushions and pillows: Make seating look inviting
• Coffee table: Keep minimal - perhaps a book and small plant
• TV area: Hide cables, remove remote controls
• Bookshelves: Organize neatly, remove clutter
• Rugs: Vacuum thoroughly, ensure they lie flat

8. Outdoor Spaces

If your property has outdoor space, this is a major selling point for Edinburgh properties.

Outdoor Preparation:

• Sweep or pressure wash patios and decking
• Tidy garden areas: Mow lawn, trim hedges, remove weeds
• Clean outdoor furniture
• Remove bins and garden tools
• Add potted plants for color and life
• Check fencing and gates are in good condition

9. Final Touches and Styling

Small details can elevate your photos from good to exceptional.

Styling Tips:

• Fresh flowers: Add life and color to key rooms
• Plants: Green plants make spaces feel fresh and inviting
• Throw blankets: Draped casually on sofas add texture
• Artwork: Ensure it's straight and well-positioned
• Books: Stack a few coffee table books for interest
• Candles: Unlit, but add a cozy touch

10. Technical Preparations

Don't forget these practical considerations:

• Turn off ceiling fans (they blur in photos)
• Adjust thermostat displays if visible
• Hide security cameras or remove them temporarily
• Check smoke detectors aren't flashing
• Close toilet lids
• Straighten all artwork and mirrors

The Day Before Your Photoshoot

Create a checklist and work through each room systematically:

1. Deep clean the entire property
2. Declutter and remove personal items
3. Make beds with fresh linens
4. Clean all windows
5. Add fresh flowers or plants
6. Check all light bulbs work
7. Do a final walk-through with fresh eyes

On Photoshoot Day

Timing: I'll arrive at the scheduled time and typically need 1-2 hours depending on property size.

Access: Ensure I have easy access to all areas to be photographed.

Pets: Please arrange for pets to be elsewhere during the shoot.

Your presence: You're welcome to be present, but it's not necessary. Many hosts prefer to leave me to work.

What to Expect from Your Photos

After the photoshoot, I'll:

• Edit all images professionally with HDR processing
• Correct colors and lighting
• Straighten verticals and horizontals
• Deliver high-resolution images within 24-48 hours
• Provide images optimized for Airbnb and other listing platforms

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Over-decorating: Less is more - don't clutter spaces
• Leaving personal items visible: Remove all personal touches
• Dirty windows: This significantly impacts photo quality
• Unmade beds: Always make beds perfectly
• Cluttered countertops: Clear all surfaces
• Poor lighting: Open curtains and turn on lights
• Visible bins and cleaning supplies: Hide these away

Investment in Your Success

Preparing your property properly for professional photography is an investment in your Airbnb's success. Great photos lead to:

• Higher booking rates
• Ability to charge premium prices
• Better quality guests
• Fewer inquiries about property details
• Improved Airbnb search ranking

Ready to Book Your Property Photoshoot?

As an Edinburgh property photographer, I specialize in making Airbnb and rental properties look their absolute best. With fast 24-48 hour turnaround and professional HDR editing, I'll help you create listing photos that drive bookings.

Contact me today to schedule your property photoshoot. I serve Edinburgh and the Central Belt, and I'm ready to help your listing stand out from the competition.