Photography Tips to Showcase the Best of Your Vermont Rental

Creating a strong first impression is key to attracting guests to your Vermont short-term rental, and it often begins with your listing photos. High-quality images can make your property stand out, entice clicks, and ultimately lead to more bookings. Follow these expert photography tips to showcase the unique charm of your Vermont rental.

1. Embrace Natural Lighting for a Warm, Inviting Look

Lighting is everything in photography, and natural light is your best friend.

• Shoot during “golden hours”: The soft light during early morning or late afternoon adds a warm glow to your photos.
• Open curtains and blinds: Let in as much natural light as possible to create a bright and airy feel.
• Avoid harsh midday sunlight: Bright sun can cause harsh shadows, so wait for softer light or use overcast skies to your advantage.

Pro Tip: For winter rentals, capture the warm glow of interior lighting against snowy exteriors to create a cozy, welcoming vibe.

2. Focus on Angles That Highlight Space and Depth

Angles can make or break the perception of your rental’s size and layout.

• Shoot from chest height: This angle captures rooms at their most natural perspective.
• Use wide-angle lenses: They provide a sense of spaciousness, but avoid overdoing it to maintain realistic proportions.
• Frame your shots with intent: Position furniture or decor to guide the eye through the space. For example, show how a seating area flows into a kitchen or patio.

3. Stage Each Area to Show Its Full Potential

Guests want to picture themselves relaxing in your rental, so set the stage.

• Living room: Fluff the pillows, fold blankets neatly, and add a vase of fresh flowers.
• Kitchen: Remove clutter but leave inviting details like a bowl of fruit or a coffee setup.
• Bedrooms: Make the bed with crisp, neutral linens and add soft touches like a throw blanket.
• Outdoor spaces: Highlight Vermont’s natural beauty by showcasing a fire pit, Adirondack chairs, or a dining area with mountain views.

Pro Tip: Add seasonal touches to align with Vermont’s appeal, such as pumpkins for fall or fresh greenery for summer.

4. Capture Vermont’s Unique Features

One of the best ways to stand out is by highlighting what makes your rental uniquely Vermont.

• Showcase natural surroundings: Include photos of nearby mountains, lakes, or forests to highlight the outdoor experience.
• Highlight local elements: Photograph features like a wood-burning stove, maple syrup gift baskets, or Vermont artisan decor.
• Think seasonally: Feature the foliage in autumn, snowy landscapes in winter, and lush greenery in summer.

5. Edit to Enhance, Not Overwhelm

Post-editing can elevate your photos but should be used sparingly.

• Adjust brightness and contrast: Ensure the images look vibrant but realistic.
• Correct distortion: Straighten lines and fix any unnatural perspectives caused by wide-angle lenses.
• Avoid heavy filters: Guests want an accurate representation of what they’ll experience in person.

6. Strategic Photo Placement in Your Listing

The order of your photos matters just as much as the images themselves. Here’s how to structure your gallery:

• Thumbnail/cover photo: Choose a showstopper image like an exterior view with seasonal appeal or a beautifully staged living room.
• First five photos: Showcase the rental’s main features—living area, kitchen, bedroom, and outdoor space.
• Secondary photos: Highlight unique amenities like a hot tub, game room, or nearby attractions.
• Contextual photos: Add lifestyle shots of experiences your guests can enjoy, such as hiking trails or local events.

By following these photography tips, you’ll create a listing that not only grabs attention but also converts views into bookings. Remember, the goal is to help potential guests imagine themselves enjoying every corner of your Vermont rental, whether it’s a cozy nook by the fire or a breathtaking view from the deck.

For more hosting tips and resources, check out Stayclass, Vermont own vacation rental site!