Great photos are the cornerstone of a successful Airbnb listing. They're often the first thing potential guests see, and they play a massive role in whether someone clicks to learn more or keeps on scrolling. However, it's not just the quality of your photos that matters – the order in which you upload them can also influence your booking rate.
Check out our latest podcast on the Best Order for Success and get great Insights on Optimizing your Airbnb Listing.
Airbnb Living room
Why Photo Order Matters
Grabbing attention: Your first few photos are the most crucial. They need to hook viewers and make them want to see the rest of your space.
Storytelling: Think of your photos as a visual story of your Airbnb. A logical order helps guests understand your property's flow and features.
Search algorithm: While not officially confirmed, many hosts believe Airbnb's algorithm may slightly favor listings with an optimized photo order.
What it is: Your absolute best photo – the one that immediately sells the appeal of your space. This could be a stunning living room, a luxurious bedroom, a breathtaking view, or a unique amenity (like a pool or hot tub).
Why it's first: This image sets the tone. It needs to be eye-catching and give people a reason to click on your listing.
2. Essential Interior Spaces
What to include: After the hero shot, cover the main living spaces guests care about:
Living room/common area
Bedrooms (show each one)
Kitchen
Bathrooms (at least the nicest one)
Why this order: Guests want to know where they'll sleep, relax, cook, and bathe. Prioritizing these spaces answers their most pressing questions quickly.
3. Standout Features and Amenities
What to include: Highlight anything that makes your Airbnb special:
Pool or hot tub
Home office/workspace
Fireplace
Balcony or outdoor space
Game room or entertainment area
Unique décor or architectural details
Why this order: Show guests the added bonuses that might make them choose your place over a similar one.
4. Outdoor Areas and Surroundings
What to include: This is particularly important if your location has selling points:
Yard or patio space
Proximity to the beach, a lake, or mountain views
Nearby attractions or landmarks
Charming neighborhood features
Why this order: Location can be a powerful booking motivator. Help guests envision themselves enjoying the wider surroundings.
5. Practical Details (Optional)
What to include: While not essential for every listing, these can be helpful:
Parking situation
Entryway or self-check-in system
Laundry facilities
Why this order: At the end of the photo set, address practicalities guests might want to know, but that aren't the main attraction.
Use high-quality images: Well-lit, high-resolution photos are a non-negotiable. Blurry or poorly lit shots will deter potential guests.
Stage your space: Tidy up, add some thoughtful décor touches, and ensure your space is inviting and photo-ready.
Vary your angles: Include wide shots, close-ups of details, and different perspectives to give a full sense of the space.
Be honest: Don't mislead guests with overly edited photos or images that don't match the reality of your Airbnb.
Kitchen Table at Airbnb home
FAQs
How important is the cover photo in an Airbnb listing?
The cover photo is crucial as it's the first image potential guests see. It sets the expectation and interest level, making it vital to choose a compelling and representative image of your space.
Can the order of photos really affect my Airbnb listing's success?
Absolutely. A logically ordered photo gallery that mimics the flow of your space can significantly enhance the guest's virtual experience, making your listing more attractive and inviting.
What is the ideal number of photos for an Airbnb listing?
While there's no one-size-fits-all answer, aiming for 20-25 high-quality photos is a good practice. This number allows for comprehensive coverage without overwhelming viewers.
Should I hire a professional photographer for my Airbnb listing?
While not mandatory, professional photographers can capture your space in the best light, highlighting its strengths. If budget allows, it's a worthwhile investment.
How often should I update my Airbnb photos?
Regularly updating photos, especially after making significant changes or improvements to your space, ensures your listing remains accurate and appealing.
By following these simple photo ordering guidelines along with general Airbnb photography best practices, you'll create a listing that shines and wins over more guests!
