In the highly competitive world of holiday lets, first impressions are crucial. As more travellers turn to online listings to find their perfect getaway, stunning holiday cottage photography can make all the difference in attracting guests to your property. A professional cottage photoshoot not only highlights your property’s unique charm but also creates a compelling visual story that connects with potential guests.
In this blog, we’ll guide you through the essential steps to ensure your holiday cottage is photoshoot-ready. From decluttering and styling each room to maximizing natural light and finding the best angles, we’ll share expert tips on how to showcase your property’s most appealing features. We’ll also cover how to create inviting outdoor settings that reflect the natural beauty of your surroundings, making your cottage irresistible to guests throughout the year. Whether you’re preparing for your first cottage photoshoot or updating your existing images, our tips will help you create a visual narrative that increases bookings.
Read on as we explore the art of holiday cottage photography, providing you with the tools to elevate your online presence and make your holiday let stand out…
Preparing Your Holiday Cottage for the Photoshoot
On the Day of the Photoshoot
A few weeks before your holiday cottage photography session, one of our friendly team members will confirm the date and time with you. Our photographer arrives prepared with a range of decorations and furnishings to make your space look inviting. You’re welcome to add your own personal touches, such as fresh flowers or a homemade cake. While our photographer will arrange and style your tables, you can opt to do this yourself to add your own special flair. Head to our Your Holiday Home Questions Answered blog to fid out some tips on decorating your holiday let.
For the best results, we recommend that the property is empty on the day of the photoshoot. This allows the photographer to move freely and capture the space without distractions. Please ensure that your spare keys are in a key safe, and provide the code in advance to ensure smooth access.
Pre-Photoshoot Checklist: Ensuring Your Cottage is Spotless
Spick and Span!
- Clean up and vacuum all areas of your property.
- Check that all appliances are functioning properly.
- Put away personal belongings to maintain a neat, clutter-free space.
- Inspect the property for any broken furniture or items in need of repair.
For some top tips on cleaning your holiday let and making it picture perfect for your cottage photoshoot, head to our Spring Cleaning your Holiday Let blog!
Garden and Exteriors
The exterior of your holiday home is the first thing guests will notice, so make sure the garden and front of the property are clean and tidy. Cutting the grass and doing light weeding will significantly improve the look of your space in photos. Keep in mind that we can’t digitally remove weeds, plants, or trees, so a tidy exterior is essential for showcasing the true charm of your cottage.
Some top tips for the garden:
- A clean, well-maintained patio adds a lot to the overall appeal of your property in holiday cottage photography. Make sure it’s clear of weeds and any unwanted debris.
- Ensure that all outdoor amenities are in good working order, including fixing any leaks or broken fixtures.
- Remove any clutter, such as cardboard, bicycles, and kids’ toys, from the front or garden area.
Living areas
Walk around the property and double check the following:
- Ensure all bedding and pillowcases fit properly and match in style and pattern.
- Clean and iron linens to remove any stains or wrinkles.
- Store personal items out of sight in cupboards or drawers.
- Check that all lights are working; our photographer may want to use them to create the perfect mood for each shot.
- If you’d like to place towels at the foot of the bed, please fold or roll them neatly.
Maintenance and Final Touches
To ensure your cottage photoshoot presents your property in the best light, go around and check for any scuff marks, scratches, or chipped paint on the walls. This will help create the impression that your holiday cottage is well-kept. Also, remember that patio furniture is a vital part of the outdoor experience—clean or varnish it to make it look its best and ensure it lasts through the season.
The Benefits of Professional Cottage Photography
By ensuring that your holiday cottage is spick and span and photoshoot-ready, you’ll guarantee that your holiday cottage photography stands out and helps you attract potential guests. A well-executed cottage photoshoot not only highlights your property’s strengths but also creates a lasting impression that leads to higher bookings. With the right images, you’ll be able to showcase your property in its best light and differentiate it from the competition, ensuring that your holiday cottage remains in high demand.
