How to Capture Stunning Seasonal Photos of Your Vacation Rental

If you want guests to book your vacation rental, high-quality, eye-catching photos of your property are a must. But capturing the essence of each season can be a game-changer if you really want to make your listing stand out.

Consider this: When guests book a stay, they're searching for a unique experience. A chilly winter getaway with snow-covered trees, a lively spring escape with flowers in bloom, a sunny summer paradise, or a stunning fall getaway filled with golden foliage. Seasonal photos tell a story and help guests envision the kind of stay they can expect.

So, how do you capture stunning seasonal photos for your vacation rental? Let's dive in!

1. Book Your Seasonal Photoshoots Early

Seasonal photography is all about timing. Each season has its peak moments, when nature is at its most vibrant and the light is just right. To capture the best shots, you'll need to plan your photo sessions accordingly:

• Spring: Aim for "peak bloom" when flowers and trees are bursting with color. This is generally in mid to late spring, depending on where you are in the country.
• Summer: Late afternoon or early morning is best (avoid harsh midday sun). Capture lush greenery, outdoor seating areas, and any water features.
• Autumn: Peak foliage varies, but mid-October is usually prime time in many areas. Seek out golden leaves, pumpkin displays, and warm, cozy details.
• Winter: If snow is common in your area, you may want to photograph your rental shortly after a fresh snowfall. For added charm, capture warm interiors with holiday décor.

2. Use Natural Light to Your Advantage

When it comes to vacation rental photography, lighting is everything. Golden hour—shortly after sunrise or before sunset—offers the best light for most seasonal photos, as the sunlight is soft and warm.

• Avoid harsh midday sun in the summer, as it creates unflattering shadows.
• Winter light is naturally cooler, so try a late morning or early afternoon for a gentler effect.
• Overcast days can be ideal for fall and spring, as diffused light brings out rich colors.

For interiors, open all curtains and drapes to let in as much natural light as possible. If needed, turn on lamps for a cozy ambiance, but avoid harsh overhead lighting that can create shadows.

Vacation rental photography, vacation home pictures

3. Showcase Seasonal Touches

Guests appreciate seasonal details. Simple, thoughtful touches will elevate your vacation rental photos and make your home feel more inviting.

• Spring: Fresh flowers in vases, light-colored linens, open windows letting in fresh air.
• Summer: Al fresco dining arrangements, beach blankets, string lights on a patio or a fire pit ready for s'mores.
• Fall: Pumpkins on the doorstep, warm-toned throws on the couch, a fireplace ready to be lit.
• Winter: Holiday decorations, cozy blankets, a steaming cup of hot cocoa on a side table.

4. Capture the Outdoor Experience

Many travelers book vacation rentals for their surroundings as much as for the home itself. Highlighting the seasonal landscape can be a huge selling point.

• If you have a beach house, show guests enjoying the sand and waves in the summer.
• For a mountain cabin, capture snowy peaks or autumn hiking trails.
• If your rental is located in a city, take photos of tree-lined streets, seasonal festivals, or local attractions.

How to capture seasonal photos for your vacation rental

5. Use People to Add Warmth (But Keep It Subtle)

While most vacation rental photos focus on the space itself, adding a few lifestyle shots that include people can help make a listing feel more welcoming. This doesn't mean you need full-on portraits—just small, natural glimpses of life.

• A guest holding a steaming mug of coffee on a crisp fall morning.
• A couple toasting with wine on a summer evening.
• Children roasting marshmallows near the fire pit.

These kinds of visuals allow potential guests to envision themselves in your space and build an emotional connection. You just need to ensure that whoever is in the photos is either a model (and has given consent) or you only show partial views (like hands or feet) to maintain privacy.

6. Only Use High-Quality Photos

Good photography makes a huge difference in how professional and attractive your listing appears. Here are some tips to ensure crisp, high-quality images:

• Use a DSLR camera if you have one, but smartphones also take fantastic photos.
• Always shoot in high resolution to guarantee clear, sharp images.
• Use a tripod for steady shots, especially in lower-light settings like winter evenings.
• Lightly edit your photos to touch up colors and brightness, but stay away from filters that make them look unnatural.

If photography isn't your strength, consider hiring a professional photographer for a seasonal shoot—it's a worthy investment that can pay off in bookings!

Vacation rental photographer, vacation rental property

7. Rotate Your Photos with the Seasons

It's vital to keep your listing fresh and up-to-date. Guests appreciate seeing photos that reflect the current season, so make it a habit to update your images regularly.

• Swap out your cover photo to match the time of year.
• Remove outdated decorations from past holidays.
• Include fresh images showcasing seasonal updates in landscaping or local attractions.

8. Don't Forget Drone Shots for a Wow Factor

If your rental boasts gorgeous surroundings (think lakefront views, rolling vineyards, or a picturesque town square), drone photography can elevate your listing. Aerial shots are especially stunning for:

• Fall foliage from above.
• An image of a snow-covered field in winter.
• A summer sunset above a lake or mountains.

Many photographers offer drone photography as part of their packages, or if you have a drone, capture breathtaking seasonal shots yourself.

Vacation rental photography tips, real estate photography

Make Your Listing Irresistible Year-Round

Seasonal photos are one of the best ways to attract guests and keep your vacation rental home looking fresh year-round. So grab your camera (or hire a pro), embrace the beauty of each season, and showcase your rental in its best light.

Naturally, great photos alone won't maximize your bookings. You also need a platform that puts you in control. That's where Houfy comes in with a direct booking solution. Houfy allows you to showcase your seasonal photos, connect with travelers without hefty commission fees, and manage your rental on your own terms. Not on Houfy yet? List your property today!