The impact of photos on the visibility and bookings of your Airbnb listing
Airbnb's own research has shown that listings with professional photos receive on average 40% more bookings and can charge higher rates than similar listings with amateur photos. In a visual marketplace where potential guests judge an apartment in under 3 seconds by looking at the cover photo, photographic quality is not optional — it is an investment with measurable ROI.
What makes an Airbnb photo professional
The technical differences between an amateur and professional photo are often subtle but decisive: a wide-angle lens (16-24mm) that shows the room in its entirety without excessive distortion; exposure correction to balance natural and artificial light; vertical correction of architectural lines; and professional post-processing to increase vibrancy and reduce shadows. But the most important difference is preparing the scene: a professional photographer specialising in properties knows how to arrange cushions, where to place the vase of flowers and how to arrange curtains to capture the best light.
How many photos are needed and which rooms to photograph
The ideal number of photos for an Airbnb listing is between 20 and 40. They should cover: every bedroom (at least 2 different shots), the bathroom, the kitchen (counter and living area), the living room, any outdoor spaces (terrace, garden, balcony), carefully considered details (home-staging touches), the view from the window if attractive, and the neighbourhood context (building, entrance, street). The cover photo is the most important: it should be the room or view that best represents the property's unique strength.
How much a professional photography service costs
A photographer specialising in properties for short-term rentals costs between 150 and 400 euros for a complete service, depending on the city and number of photos. Considering that a one-bedroom apartment in Milan can generate €1.500-2.000 per month, the service cost pays for itself in a few days of additional occupancy. It is one of the highest-ROI investments you can make for your property.
How to prepare your property for a professional photography service
YouBnb includes professional photography in the initial preparation of your property for OTA platforms. No additional cost, professional-standard photography from day one. Request a Free Evaluation.
Content reproduced from the current YouBnB website for this preview. Figures, returns and regulatory information have not been verified or updated in this version.
