What I Can (and Can’t) Bring Into Your Airbnb Shoot

Why authenticity matters and how I work with what you’ve got

As an Airbnb photographer, I’ve seen firsthand how powerful beautiful imagery can be when it comes to helping guests fall in love with your space before they even step inside.

My job is to bring your listing to life, to show off its charm, character, and potential for creating memories.

But here’s something important to know: I can only do so much with what’s already there.

Sure, I have a trained eye and my camera gear is top-notch. I know how to find the light, lean into the mood, and tell a story.

But I’m not a magician and I’m definitely not in the business of misrepresentation.

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This is What It Looks Like When Hosts Get It Right

Take a look at this dreamy bathroom setup from Island Breeze Haven. The plush robes, the spa tray, the fizzy citrus water—all of it is available to guests. These details weren’t just styled for the shoot; they’re part of the actual guest experience.

That’s what makes photos like these feel real. When hosts take the time to stock thoughtful touches, it gives me the creative freedom to capture something special and authentic.

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I Don’t Stage Things You Don’t Actually Offer

If you don’t have a solo stove, I won’t bring one in just for the shoot. If your bathroom doesn’t have a soaking tub or spa-like details, I won’t stage a luxury bath scene with props that aren’t part of the experience your guests will actually get.

Why?

Because authenticity matters.

This host made it easy to capture a cozy, welcoming vibe—because everything you see is actually available to guests. From the wine to the tub shelf, these little details are part of the stay at Island Breeze Haven. When a space is already thoughtfully stocked, it allows me to create inviting, story-driven images that truly reflect the guest experience.

Your future guests are booking based on these images. They’re imagining morning coffee on that patio, s’mores by that fire pit, or wine nights soaking in that tub.

It’s my job to make sure what they’re seeing reflects what they’ll get—so there are no surprises, only delighted expectations met (or exceeded!).

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Real Story, Real Disappointment

A friend of mine recently booked an Airbnb for a girls’ weekend with her daughter. The listing showed a big, beautiful fireplace with a glowing fire and even a tray of s’mores styled in front of it. She planned the whole weekend around that cozy detail—skiing during the day and coming back to warm up by the fire at night. It was going to be the heart of their stay.

But when they arrived, the guidebook said the fireplace wasn’t usable.

No explanation. No workaround.

Just… off limits.

The fireplace had been styled and photographed as if it were usable, and that created a false expectation.

What could’ve been a magical, memory-filled moment became a major letdown.

And that’s exactly why I take this so seriously.

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What I Can Bring

That said, when it makes sense, I do bring a few small things to help tell the story of your space.

Think:

– s’mores setup if you’ve got a fire pit

– cozy blanket and some wine if you’ve got a perfect porch for unwinding

– bowl of fresh fruit or pastries if your kitchen is giving weekend brunch energy( see below 👇🏻)

– a quick cocktail setup with ingredients you already have on hand (check out our spicy margaritas👇🏻👇🏻 )

This breakfast scene was styled using the dishes, glassware, and cutlery already available in the home. I simply brought the food. It’s the kind of easy, realistic setup my family would actually enjoy at an Airbnb: bagels, croissants, fresh fruit, yogurt, juice, and coffee. It’s a simple way to capture the feeling of a relaxed morning using what’s already in the home and layering in a few thoughtful touches that make sense.

These are simple touches that enhance what’s already available not things that imply features you don’t offer.

It’s About Trust

My goal is to highlight your space in its best light, literally and creatively.

But I won’t trick the viewer.

Guests trust the visuals. They’re booking based on how your listing makes them feel.

So everything I do is grounded in truth. My artistic lens will elevate your space, but never fabricate it.

These little setups don’t require a lot, but they make a big impact. They show guests exactly how your space can be used, while staying true to what they’ll actually find when they arrive.

That’s the sweet spot where visual storytelling and honesty meet.

If you’re preparing for a shoot and wondering what you need to do, here’s my best advice:

– Make sure the space is clean and decluttered

– Think about how your guests actually use your home

– If you want something featured, make sure it’s there and usable

And if you’re ever unsure? I’m always happy to help you plan.

At the end of the day, it’s all about helping guests picture themselves there and making sure that picture feels real.

Ready to Cozy Up Your Listing?

I'm now booking cozy fall Airbnb sessions—perfect for showcasing your fire pit, warm interiors, and seasonal charm. Let’s highlight everything your guests will love (and actually get to enjoy).

📸 Click here to book your session or email me , to grab your spot for the fall, I have limited availability.