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Top 10 tips on how to Stage and Style Your Vacation Rental for Optimal Photography for Airbnb, VRBO, and Booking.com


Hello there, I'm David Pezzat, a San Antonio professional photographer who has spent the last decade capturing stunning photography of vacation rentals for platforms such as Airbnb - A vacation rental company, VRBO - A travel website company, and Booking.com - Lodging. Over the years, I've learned that one of the most critical aspects of vacation rental photography isn't always the camera you're using, but how the property is staged and styled. Today, I'd like to share my top ten tips on how to stage and style your vacation rental for optimal photography.


San Antonio vacation rental photographyVacation Rental Photography

Clean and Declutter: It seems basic, but it's vital. A tidy, clean space makes a big difference in photos. Remove any personal items, stray cables, or unnecessary clutter. Your aim should be to make the property look inviting and livable, yet neutral enough for guests to imagine themselves in.


Let There Be Light: Natural light is a photographer's best friend. Open the curtains, pull up the blinds and let as much natural light in as possible. It creates a welcoming and airy feel, and it’s key for taking bright and attractive photos.


Create a Consistent Style: Stick to a color scheme or design aesthetic throughout your property. Whether it's rustic charm or modern minimalism, consistency helps create a sense of harmony and unity in photos.

  1. Highlight the Best Features: Every property has a unique selling point. Perhaps it's a cozy fireplace, a stunning view, or a gourmet kitchen. Highlight these features in your staging and make sure they're the star of your photos.

  2. Add a Splash of Color: While neutrals might be a safe choice, a pop of color can make your photos stand out. Think a throw pillow, a piece of art, or a unique rug. Just don’t go overboard - less is often more.


  3. Professional Airbnb Photography San AntonioVacation Rental Photography


  4. Don’t Forget the Outdoors: If you have outdoor space, make sure it's as inviting as the inside. Arrange patio furniture, tidy up the garden, and make sure any views are unobstructed.

  5. Set the Table: A dining table set for a meal is much more inviting than an empty one. It helps potential guests visualize having their meals there. The same goes for outdoor dining areas.

  6. Make It Cozy: Especially in bedrooms, coziness sells. Fluffy pillows, a throw at the foot of the bed, and ambient lighting can make a bedroom feel like a retreat.



  7. Airbnb Photography located in San Antonio, TexasVacation Rental Photography

    Think Guest Experience: Stage the property in a way that conveys the guest experience. For instance, have a book and a cup of coffee by the armchair or set up the barbecue grill outside.


  8. Stay True to Your Property: Finally, remember that every property is unique. Embrace this in your staging. If your property is a rustic cabin, then style it with cozy, rustic elements. If it's a beach house, incorporate some seaside decor.

Remember, the goal of staging and styling for Airbnb Rentals or VRBO photography is to help potential guests imagine themselves enjoying your property. By following these tips, you're well on your way to market your photos the right way.

Here's to creating beautiful spaces and capturing them perfectly,

David Pezzat


Check out our portfolio of Rental Vacation photographs that we have captured in the past.


Inquire about our rental photography services here:


  1. Here are other services we offer:

  2. Vacation home photography
  3. Airbnb listing photos
  4. Property photography
  5. Rental property images
  6. Short-term rental photography
  7. Interior photography
  8. Exterior property shots
  9. Feature-focused photography (e.g., swimming pool, patio)
  10. Real estate photography
  11. Hospitality photography
  12. VRBO property photos
  13. Guest room photography
  14. Panoramic property views
  15. Lifestyle images (to show the experience of staying in the property)
  16. Ambient lighting in homes
  17. Professional home staging photos
  18. Detail shots (e.g., decor, amenities)
  19. Wide-angle property shots
  20. Twilight exterior shots
  21. Drone aerial shots of properties
  22. Holiday rental photography
  23. Luxury vacation home photos
  24. Cabin photography
  25. Beach house photography
  26. Mountain retreat images