Capture & Conquer: Boost Your Rental Success with Stunning Photos
At Furnished Finder (opens in new tab), we connect travelers and landlords with furnished properties available as mid-term rentals. Property owners list their properties on our marketplace for a flat, annual fee, enabling travelers to easily discover their ideal home-away-from-home. Our site allows travelers and property owners to connect directly, negotiate, and sign leases without booking fees.
Great photos are key to making your rental stand out. In this blog, we’ll show you how to use stunning photography to increase your occupancy and rental income.
Should You Hire a Photographer?
The very first question we always get regarding property photography is “Should I hire a professional photographer to take photos of my property?” Our answer couldn't be simpler. YES Professional real estate photographers are highly skilled at making your property look its best. They know the right angles, effective lighting/editing techniques, and how to showcase your hard work. Are they expensive? No, typical home photos range from $100-$350 depending on size and location. You can find photographers through realtors, on sites such as Thumbtack.com (opens in new tab), and by simply asking around. Hiring a photographer can be one of the best investments you make.
Feast Your Eyes on This
Like it or not, we live in a visual society. Of all our five senses, vision and sight are by far the most relied upon in today's world. We naturally gravitate toward things that are visually appealing. Think about walking through the grocery store: bright packages, clear words, and appealing graphics. They’re no accident. They’re designed to catch our eye. Just like a book cover images and visually appealing with excellent photos can significantly impact your business bottom line by attracting more interest and converting views into bookings.
The Tools
Let's talk about camera gear. You already have the camera you need! It’s likely in your pocket, next to your keyboard, or on the charger right now. Your smartphone! Whether it's an iPhone or Android, your phone is more capable of taking amazing listing photos that will attract attention to your property. “But what if my phone is older?” No worries, even smartphones that are a few years old can take the high-quality images you need, especially after we review ways to edit them. The key is knowing how to use your camera effectively.
Exposure Control
Exposure is simply how much light we allow in a photo. Smartphones make this MUCH easier than manual cameras. Your phone will “auto-expose” your image, and you can simply adjust the exposure to your liking.
The AF Lock Method Works on iPhone and Android
Open your camera app
Tap somewhere on your image that is a mid-tone (not the bright white curtains, and not the dark brown carpet)
Simply swipe up or down to adjust your exposure
When exposure looks good, tap the shutter button to take the photo
The Slider Method Works on iPhone and Android
Open your camera app
Tap the arrow at the top of the screen, just below your image window
Hit the arrow to expose the hidden features
Slide to adjust exposure
For Android users, enter Pro mode on your camera instead of steps 2 and 3. By mastering these simple techniques you'll ensure your photos are well-lit and visually appealing. Setting & Techniques Go wide! One common mistake in listing photos is poor composition, often talking close-ups of objects rather than showing the space. To help potential travelers envision themselves in your property, use the wide-angle setting on your camera or step back when snapping photos. They don't need a photo of your remote control; they want to see the entire living space. Is It Level? Ensure your photos are level to avoid making viewers feel dizzy or disoriented. Turn on your camera's grid setting and align your shots with natural horizons like floorboards and ceilings. Keeping these elements level will make your photos look more professional and appealing. Photo Checklist Are your photos bright and inviting? Ensure they showcase your property well on Furnished Finder by:
Brightness: No areas too dark or too bright
Framing: Horizontal or vertical, fill the space well
Level: Keep things straight for a professional look
High-resolution: Upload high-quality photos for the best presentation
Space: Focus on showing off the entire property rather than tiny details
Don't forget to highlight any special features of your property, whether it's a stunning view, bonus room, or a great backyard! Photo Composition
Take lots of photos: Capture various angles and perspectives to showcase your property effectively.
Go big or go home: Center your subject in one of the thirds of your photo to create balance and appeal.
Rule of thirds: Highlight one focal point in each photo rather than trying to capture everything at once.
One focus: Don’t hesitate to climb a step stool or ladder to capture certain angles and views.
Elevate it: Show both the inside and outside of your property to give potential travelers a complete picture.
And don't forget: Clean, declutter, and then declutter some more to create an inviting space that shines in your photos. Shot list Make sure you capture these key shots to showcase your property effectively:
Entry: Keydrop/mudroom area, front hall, view from inside the front door.
Bedrooms: Bed setup, closet/storage view, view from bed, view of entire room.
Bathroom: Bath/shower set up, details of cleanliness, view of entire room.
Living Quarters: View from seating/multiple angles, wide angle to show proximity to kitchen, view of entire space.
Kitchen: Extra amenities/appliances offered, view of eating space.
Remember, it's better to have more photos than you may need and narrow them down later. Happy snapping! Should I Stage?
Staging doesn't have to be expensive or complicated for your mid-term rental on Furnished Finder. Keep it simple and clean-remember less is more! The goal is to help potential tenants envision themselves in the space and show that you care about the property. Stick to one aesthetic and opt for neutral basics. Items like throw pillows, kitchen towels, and linens should feel cohesive and neutral to appeal to a wide range of tenants. Think about what makes a home feel cozy and comfortable and aim for that vibe. Things to Remember Editing your photos doesn't have to be complicated. With the right app, you can make your listing photos look top-notch quickly and easily. Keep it simple and focus on accuracy, brightness and consistency.
Keep it simple
Rotate and crop for alignment
Use exposure and brightness to enhance photos
Final Thoughts Remember, travelers aren't searching for walls and a ceiling-they're searching for a home. Quality, inviting, and realistic photos are crucial for attracting tenants and elevating your property's marketing. Now that you have all the tools and knowledge, it's time to prep, stage, photograph, and edit your property photos. Once they're ready, post your listing on Furnished Finder here (opens in new tab) to connect with thousands of travelers looking for mid-term rentals.