You’ve finally got your Airbnb listing live… but the bookings aren’t quite rolling in. You’ve spent hours writing the perfect description, pricing competitively, and maybe even added a few little extras to impress your guests — but still, it’s quiet.

The reality is, in the UK’s most popular cities like London, Manchester, Birmingham, and Nottingham, competition is fierce. There are literally hundreds, sometimes thousands of listings just like yours, all begging for attention. Guests are spoilt for choice, and with so many places on offer, first impressions matter more than ever.

Here’s the real kicker though, around 90% of guests choose which property to book based primarily on the photos. Before they’ve read a single word of your carefully crafted description, they’re scrolling through your images, deciding if your space feels welcoming, clean, and worth their money.This leaves many hosts wondering ‘is it really worth investing in a professional Airbnb photographer, or will snapping a few shots on your smartphone do the trick?’

After all, phone cameras are decent these days… right? The truth is, great photography can be the difference between a listing that gets booked solid and one that gets overlooked.

But as with any investment, it’s important to understand what you’re paying for, and what you stand to gain.In this guide. I’ll break down the real costs and potential value of hiring a professional airbnb photographer. We’ll explore what impact good images can have on your booking rate, what you should expect to pay in the UK, and whether the return is truly worth it. Plus, I’ll throw in some handy links to help you get your listing performing at its best.

Use professional airbnb photographers when looking for a stunning lead shot of your rental — A powerful exterior image as your main photo can make a huge difference in attracting potential guests. It’s the first impression they’ll have of your property and can instantly convey a sense of welcome, appeal, and quality. A well-lit, eye-catching exterior shot helps guests imagine themselves arriving at your property, creating an emotional connection that could prompt them to click through and book. With so many listings to choose from, a striking exterior photo can make your property stand out and draw attention right from the start.

**What Do Airbnb Photographers Do (That You Can’t)?**

It’s easy to assume professional airbnb photography is just about having a better camera. But the real value of hiring an Airbnb photographer lies in their experience, attention to detail, and understanding of what makes a space truly stand out in a crowded market.

For starters, a professional knows how to stage and style your property for maximum impact. This isn’t about redecorating, it’s about creating a warm, inviting atmosphere that feels like home. They’ll straighten cushions, adjust curtains, arrange flowers, and remove distractions — all those little tweaks that make a huge difference in photographs. If you’re new to staging, Airbnb offers a handy photo tips guide for hosts.

Then there’s the technical skill. Working with light, choosing the best angles, and capturing the flow of your space isn’t easy, especially in tight rooms or tricky lighting. A professional knows how to highlight your property’s best features while minimising flaws. After the shoot, they’ll carefully edit every image, balancing colours, softening shadows, and ensuring your photos are bright, crisp, and designed to stop people scrolling past.

Many also offer added extras like drone photography to capture nearby scenery, twilight shots for that cosy, evening glow, and lifestyle images — think fresh coffee on the kitchen counter or a book by the window, that help guests imagine staying there. Want examples? Check out my blog post about how The Power of Storytelling in Property Photography can lead your potential guests to making that valuable booking.

Importantly, professional airbnb photographers understand Airbnb’s image guidelines, ensuring your listing meets technical requirements, from photo size to image order — to perform well in search. These can sometimes be mega confusing if you don’t know what your doing or unable to re-size your images.

Airbnb photographers are important to capture key parts of your airbnb rental. — Photography is not just about showcasing rooms - it’s about selling a vision. Use lighting, angles, and styling to create warmth and aspiration. Think beyond documentation and aim to capture how it feels to spend time in your space.

The Cost of Hiring an Airbnb Photographer in the UK

When it comes to hiring a professional Airbnb photographer, prices in the UK can vary depending on your location, the size of your property, and what’s included in the package. That said, it’s useful to know what you’re likely to pay — and what you’re getting for your money.

Typical Price Ranges by Region:

London & the South East: Expect to pay £200–£350 for a standard shoot covering 25–40 professionally edited images. London rates tend to sit at the higher end due to demand and travel costs.
Midlands & the North: Prices are often slightly lower, with packages starting from £135–£250 for the same number of images.
Scotland & Wales: Rates are similar to the Midlands, but more rural areas may add travel fees or minimum booking costs.

What’s Included?

For a basic photography package, you’ll typically receive 25–40 fully edited images, covering the main rooms, details, and wide shots. Most photographers deliver high-resolution images optimised for Airbnb and other booking platforms.

If you’re looking to go the extra mile, many UK photographers offer add-ons like:

Drone photography to showcase views, gardens, or rural locations
2D floorplans to help guests understand the layout
Twilight or lifestyle shots for that extra emotional pull

Expect to pay £250–£400 for packages including these extras.

Is It Worth the Investment?

It’s worth remembering this is usually a one-time investment per property — unless you make significant upgrades later. Professional images can increase your bookings and allow you to raise your nightly rate, easily covering the cost in just a few stays.

Tip: Choose Specialists

Be cautious of general photographers offering cut-price deals. Airbnb photography is a niche skill — you’re not just buying photos, you’re buying experience, staging know-how, and an understanding of what sells on platforms like Airbnb. You get what you pay for.

Need help finding the right photographer? Airbnb’s professional photography guide is a good place to start.

Airbnb photographers carefully craft images to attract attention and gain more clicks to airbnb rentals in the uk — Professional photography can help demonstrate how your Airbnb space may be used by visitors, showcasing the versatility of your property in a way that resonates with different types of guests. For example, a holiday booking may highlight cozy areas for relaxation, family spaces for group activities, or outdoor settings perfect for leisure time. A professional photographer can capture these details, making the space look inviting and ideal for relaxation or entertainment.
On the other hand, a working booking might require showcasing quiet, well-lit spaces for productivity, such as a comfortable desk area or a peaceful spot for video calls. With the right photography, you can clearly communicate how your property caters to the specific needs of both leisure and business travellers, increasing its appeal to a wider range of potential guests. High-quality images allow you to highlight these functional spaces, making it clear that your property meets the expectations for either type of stay.

The Real Value - What Do You Get for Your Money?

Hiring a professional Airbnb photographer isn’t just about getting better photos — it’s about what those photos do for your listing. The return on investment often surprises hosts once they see the difference in both bookings and guest experience.

Higher Booking Rates

Professional images make your listing stand out in a crowded search, encouraging more people to click — and ultimately, book. Clean, bright, well-composed shots help guests imagine themselves staying there, building trust and excitement before they even arrive.

Higher Nightly Rate (with Example)

Quality photos don’t just boost bookings — they allow you to confidently charge more per night because your property looks worth it.

For example, the average UK stay with DIY smartphone photos might earn you £90 per night. But with professional photography, you could raise your rate to £120 per night — and guests will feel they’re getting value for money.

That’s a difference of £30 per night. Over the course of a year, at an oocupancy rate of just 75%, that’s a whopping £8,190 extra! — easily covering your photography costs in a matter of weeks.

More Off-Season Bookings

When competition is tougher in the quieter months, professional photos give your listing the edge. A warm, inviting image of your cosy lounge or stunning twilight shot of the garden can sway a guest towards booking your place instead of the cheaper, less polished option.

Fewer Complaints, Better Reviews

Clear, honest photos also help manage guest expectations — they know exactly what they’re booking. This means fewer surprises, fewer complaints, and more 5-star reviews, which further boosts your listing’s visibility.

Longevity

High-quality photos don’t need replacing every few months. In most cases, your images will last 2–3 years, sometimes longer if your décor stays the same - making it a smart, one-off investment.

airbnb photographers work alongside you to pintpoint key items of interest for potential guests — Including photos of utensils in the kitchen can be incredibly helpful for potential visitors, as it gives them a clear idea of what is available during their stay. Guests often want to know if they can easily prepare meals or entertain while on holiday or during a work trip. By showing high-quality images of the utensils, cookware, and kitchen gadgets, you can reassure guests that the property is fully equipped and ready for their needs.
This level of detail helps set expectations, reducing the likelihood of disappointment upon arrival and improving guest satisfaction. It also strengthens your advert by showcasing the thoughtful touches and convenience of your property, making it stand out from listings that only show generic kitchen shots. When guests feel confident that they have all the tools they need for cooking, it can lead to higher bookings and better reviews, as they appreciate the transparency and attention to detail in your listing.

The Psychology of UK Guests — Why They Book Based on Photos

When UK guests browse Airbnb, they’re not just looking for somewhere to sleep. They’re searching for a feeling — a sense of comfort, style, and relaxation. They want to picture themselves in your space, unwinding after a day of sightseeing or enjoying a cozy evening indoors. That’s why the photos of your property are so important. Guests are drawn to spaces that look cozy, aesthetic, and clean, where everything feels in place. If your photos don’t convey these qualities, even the most carefully crafted description might not be enough to convince them.

In today’s Instagram-driven world, many guests are also looking for properties that are Instagrammable - spaces they can’t wait to snap and share on social media. Whether it’s a chic kitchen, a stunning view, or a sunlit living room, the more visually appealing and shareable your property looks, the more likely guests will want to book it. High-quality photos capture the personality of your space in a way that smartphone snaps simply can’t, making it easier for guests to imagine their own photoshoots during their stay.

Trust is another huge factor in the decision-making process. High-quality photos signal that you’re a professional host who takes their listing seriously. Guests are more likely to book with someone who invests in their property’s presentation. In a competitive market, this trust factor is crucial. They want to feel safe and confident that the property will meet their expectations — and well-lit, well-staged photos make that much easier.

Additionally, UK guests tend to avoid surprises. If your listing’s photos set clear expectations, they’ll know exactly what they’re walking into. This leads to fewer misunderstandings and negative reviews, making the entire experience smoother for both you and your guests.

Want to dive deeper into creating an exceptional listing? Check out Airbnb’s tips for making your listing stand out and explore examples of high-quality listings.

airbnb photographers concentrate on small details, including bedrooms and pillows. Presented well to attract potential guests — A well-made bed in your Airbnb listing can be a powerful tool to make your space look more inviting to potential guests. A neatly made bed with fresh, crisp linens immediately conveys cleanliness, comfort, and attention to detail — all qualities that guests are looking for when choosing a place to stay. It creates an atmosphere of relaxation and tranquility, which is key to making your listing feel like a welcoming home away from home.
In addition, a beautifully styled bed can help your photos stand out, making the space feel cozy and ready for a restful night’s sleep. The bed is often the focal point of a bedroom, so ensuring it looks inviting can set the tone for the entire room. A well-styled bed can also help guests visualize themselves settling in and enjoying their stay, which can significantly influence their decision to book. A simple yet effective way to elevate your Airbnb advert, a perfectly made bed can be the small but impactful detail that drives more bookings.

Calculating Your Return on Investment (ROI)

When you invest in a professional Airbnb photographer, understanding your potential return on investment (ROI) is essential. ROI measures how much profit you make compared to the cost of the photography. Here’s a simple way to calculate it:

Formula:
ROI = (Additional Income - Cost of Photography) ÷ Cost of Photography x 100

Example Scenario:

Let’s say you spend £285 on professional photography. After updating your listing, your bookings increase by 5 weekends in the peak season, which brings in £600 in additional income. The calculation for your ROI looks like this:

ROI = (£600 - £285) ÷ £285 x 100 = 110.5% ROI

That means you’re making back over 110% of your initial investment, and for every £1 spent, you’re getting £1.10 back - a solid return!

Break-even Point:

Let’s take a look at the numbers year-round. If your property is rented for 75% of the year at £110 per night, that’s about 273 nights per year. After professional photography, you can charge an additional 30% more per night, raising your rate to £143.

If you increase bookings by ONLY 5 weekends (10 nights) during peak season, that brings in £1,430 at the higher rate. Subtracting the £285 for the photography, you’re left with £1,145 in extra profit.

So, even with the higher cost, the investment in professional photography easily pays for itself and continues to generate additional revenue well beyond the initial expense.

airbnb photographers include drone photography to boost property rental pages and bookings. — Asking your photographer to capture images of local hotspots can make your Airbnb advert more attractive and give potential guests a better sense of the area surrounding your property. Guests often want to know what’s nearby — from popular tourist attractions and local restaurants to parks and cultural sites. By including these in your photos, you not only highlight the convenience of your location but also help guests envision the experiences they can enjoy during their stay.
Showcasing local hotspots adds value to your listing by presenting it as part of the larger destination. It creates a sense of excitement and anticipation, making your property seem like the perfect base for exploring the area. Whether it’s a scenic view, a historic landmark, or a trendy café, these images can make your advert stand out, ultimately attracting more guests who are drawn to both your space and the exciting things they can do nearby.

When Should You Hire an Airbnb Photographer?

Knowing when to hire a professional airbnb photographer can be tricky, but understanding your property’s needs can help make the decision easier. While professional photos aren’t essential for every listing, there are certain situations where they can have a major impact. Take a look at my later post Why Hiring an Airbnb Photographer is the Best Investment for Your Listing.

Ideal for:

Premium Listings: If your property is in the higher price range or offers luxury amenities (such as a hot tub, a designer kitchen, or a spacious garden), professional photos will help elevate its appeal. High-quality images convey that your listing is worth the price, helping guests feel confident about their booking.
Coastal or Countryside Escapes: If you’re offering a getaway in a picturesque location, like a seaside cottage, a countryside retreat, or a rural cabin, showcasing the natural beauty of your surroundings is essential. Professional photographers know how to capture stunning landscapes, turning them into irresistible images that guests will want to book.
New Listings Needing a Strong Start: When you first list your property, you need to make a strong first impression. High-quality photos can help you stand out in a crowded market, attracting more attention and boosting initial bookings. With professional images, your listing will appear polished and trustworthy, leading to better visibility on Airbnb’s search results.

Maybe Delay If:

Budget Private Rooms: If you’re renting out a small, budget-friendly room or shared space, professional photography may not be necessary. A DIY approach could work just as well, especially if the goal is to attract a certain type of guest who’s looking for a simpler, more affordable stay.
Short-Term Test Listings: If you’re only testing out Airbnb for a short period or experimenting with a space, you may not need to invest in professional photography right away. Once you’re sure you’ll continue hosting, upgrading to professional photos is a smart next step.

A One-Time Cost, Long-Term Returns

Remember, professional photos are a one-time cost that can generate long-term returns. Over the course of 2-3 years, your photos can continue to attract bookings and justify higher nightly rates. This means that, in many cases, the investment pays for itself quickly and continues to deliver value over time.

airbnb photographers provide twilight photography packages to make listings stand out and attract potential visitors to your uk rental — Twilight photos can really help your Airbnb listing stand out by showcasing your property in a unique and visually striking way. Capturing your home just as the sun sets creates a warm, inviting atmosphere, highlighting both the exterior of the property and its surrounding environment in soft, flattering light. The golden-hour glow can make your space look more luxurious, romantic, and peaceful, which is especially appealing for guests looking for a relaxing getaway.
Twilight images also have an emotional appeal — they evoke a sense of calm and serenity, making your property seem like the perfect place to unwind after a busy day of travel or sightseeing. These photos stand out in a crowded market by offering something different from the typical daylight shots, helping your listing grab the attention of potential guests as they scroll through options. Including twilight photos can elevate your advert, giving it a touch of sophistication and showing your property at its most enchanting.

Final Verdict - Is It Worth It?

The answer is a resounding yes in most cases, especially in competitive markets. By hiring a professional Airbnb photographer, it offers clear advantages that can significantly boost your bookings and increase your income. If you’re in a popular area or offering a premium property, high-quality images are essential for standing out from the crowd. Think of it like staging a home — photos aren’t just pictures; they sell a lifestyle. Guests aren’t booking just a place to stay, they’re booking an experience. Stunning visuals allow them to imagine themselves enjoying that experience in your space.

Whether you're looking to increase your nightly rate, attract more off-season guests, or simply create a trustworthy, professional listing, professional photos make a huge difference. Plus, with images that last for several years, the return on investment is high, especially when you factor in the long-term returns.

Ready to elevate your listing?

Get in touch with me today and start turning those clicks into bookings. The right photos could be the game-changer you need to take your listing to the next level and ensure you get the bookings you deserve.