The importance of professional photography and how to get the best results

When looking to make your space stand out in a crowded market, first impressions are everything. Research shows that 90% of online buyers consider photo quality the most crucial factor in making a purchase decision, and high-quality images can increase conversion rates by 94%.  

Furthermore, guests typically spend over 5 hours consuming travel content in the 45 days before making a booking, often searching for inspiration rather than a specific location. This means your photos need to stand out, tell a story, and evoke a sense of experience that makes potential guests picture themselves there. 

In this article, we’ll share our top tips for making the most of professional photography, helping you create visuals that will stand out and stick in people's minds.

Photography isn’t something to skimp on – if you’ve spent time, money, and energy creating an amazing space, it deserves to be shown in the best possible light. 

• It pays for itself. Great photography translates directly into more bookings. 
• A professional photographer knows how to capture the essence of small, intimate spaces and create images that evoke emotion. 
• It’s not a one-time thing. You should refresh your images every 2-3 years to keep your gallery up to date and engaging.

• Look for someone with experience in interiors and small spaces. 
• Consider a photographer who can provide additional content, like drone shots or video. 
• We can connect you with experienced photographers across the UK at competitive rates. 
• Expect to pay a day rate of £500-800 for high-quality results.

The best galleries tend to include: 

• 15-20 images covering your space from different angles. 
• One hero shot that sells your space at a glance e.g. a drone or wide exterior shot that shows off the setting and what makes it special e.g. a hot tub or amazing outdoor area. 
• 4-5 headline shots that tell the story of who you are. 
• A mix of practical (interiors, shared facilities, kitchen etc.) and inspirational shots (drone shot at golden hour, campfire under the stars, hot tub with a view). 
• A consistent visual style to make your listing feel cohesive.

1. Show the setting. Capture an external shot to place your space in its surroundings. 
2. Highlight what makes you unique. Is it seclusion? An outdoor bath? A one-of-a-kind design feature? 
3. Use drone shots. They work wonders for showcasing remote locations and breathtaking landscapes. 
4. Capture the 24-hour experience. Include both day and night shots – where will guests have their morning coffee? Where will they watch the sunset? 
5. Think seasonally. What experiences do guests have year-round?  
6. People vs. no people? Photos with people can date quickly, but subtle signs of life such as steaming mugs of tea, open windows, a lit fire – make your space feel warm and inviting. 
7. Shoot for social. Around 30% of your photos should be portrait to work well on social media platforms. 
8. Frame the view. Show the connection between inside and outside – guests want to feel immersed in nature.