THE STR GLOW UP GUIDE YOU DIDN’T KNOW YOU NEEDED
Have You Wondered
“What’s driving my bookings?”
If you’re wondering what drives your Airbnb bookings, it’s not just your standout design. That’s a basic requirement in one of the fastest changing industries with a rapidly evolving customer—THE vacation rental traveler.
Let me be clear, I’m not here to just help you drive more bookings. I’m here to help you build traveler loyalty.
If you haven’t heard the term “STR Experiential Marketing”…real quick, here’s the cliff notes:
STR Experiential marketing encompasses inviting design, unforgettable amenities and engaging media.
I’M TALKING ABOUT the comprehensive STR marketing approach that actually fosters belonging in your brand through an interactive experience of your property—and traveler loyalty starts there.
So, how does your STR photography play
its own part in your guest journey?
BEFORE WE DIVE IN, TAKE NOTE: As you read this article, broaden your concept of “STR photography”—think media content creation that includes photo, video and title work as they collectively present your property over multiple platforms:
booking site
socials
blog (heyo!)
guest portal
newsletters
Welcome Guide
the list could go on
In this article, I’m sharing my Glow Up Guide to STR media that connects with your target traveler (guest avatar) and builds a loyal following. Let’s break it down.
AIRBNB PHOTOGRAPHY “DO’s & DON’Ts”
5 Essential Tips for Shooting
Photos That Feel
(and Why it Matters for Airbnb Hosts)
If you don’t give travelers an experiential picture of your space, your viewers will lack the framework to imagine themselves in your space.
Because your guest’s identity is shaped by how a place makes them feel, ask yourself: “How will they see themselves in the spaces that represent my brand?” Think outside the box of your four walls too—imagine the memories they might make in your surrounding environment, around town, and with their favorite people.
Your media should bring them close enough to feel it.
But how? Follow my 5 essential tips below for shooting media through an experiential lens—I promise your travelers will feel the difference.
(#1) DON’T HIRE THE WRONG PHOTOGRAPHER
If you haven’t yet, scrap your real estate photography. Why? You’re not selling real estate to a buyer. You’re selling an experience to a sophisticated tourist. They don’t want glossy, extreme wide images because it doesn’t feel true to life.
DO hire a photographer who’s not just technically skilled, but emotionally intuitive.
Make sure they have portfolio proof of experiential travel, architecture, interiors/ home styling, and even products.
Quick screening test: Your photographer should (1) Be a pro at composition—how the eye moves through the frame using vertical, horizontal, and diagonal lines without visual clutter; (2) Know how to shift depth of field & focus to add dimension, draw attention to key details, and set the mood; and (3) Spend time in post-production taking care of adjustments like color correction, gentle flash layering, and some retouching like leaf flowing, removing cords and outlets.
One great shot can 2 hours to finish, but that’s a part of the job.
(#2) DON’T WASTE YOUR ASSETS ON FULL BODY MODELS
Ever notice those listing photos with overly staged friend groups or bikini-clad toasts? They can feel a bit like an infomercial—trying too hard, a “how-to” enjoy your space that lacks real feeling.
Before you raise an eyebrow, I’ve got a couple caveats…
NO.1 - DO use glimpses of “model” guests, but in subtle forms:
A delicate hand
Reclining feet
An “over the shoulder” POV
Shadows of a figure
Figures in the distance
Props—stylized objects, activities and lifestyle accessories that say “my ideal guest was here.”
QUICK NOTE OF CAUTION(!): Even these moments can feel too “on the nose” if they’re over-staged.
The key? Let your props live in the background. These guest traces work best when they’re not the focal point of your shot—but rather, when they quietly support the mood, character, or story of your space.
BOTTOM LINE: Leave room for the imagination. Trust your guests to bring their own genuine moments to life.
NO.2 - DO leave actual modeling to the influencers.
Viewers want live action “testimonials” from a real POV with real personality. Influencers can deliver that with more impact for your investment. Just make sure they align with your guest avatar and know how to highlight your STR’s best features and storytelling points.
Easy example: Have a chef’s kitchen? Partner with an influencer who can really cook and food style in a way that brings your kitchen to life naturally. More on that next…
(#3) DON’T MISS THE MARK ON FOOD STYLING
This isn’t Chef’s Table, so don’t go overboard capturing elaborate dishes.
But, food styling is about illustrating your brand story with high-sensory, experiential moments every viewer will be lured into. Here’s how to do it…
DO strike a balance between every day home cooking and elevated bites…
…because if your food isn’t enticing, then your featured space isn’t getting the moment in the spotlight it deserves. Remember we are selling an experience here.
DO make sure you’re selling the hospitality you provide.
Food captured in an artful way is a strategic way to showcase your newest kitchen appliances, unique dinnerware, and chef’s kitchen tools.
DO feature food as the focal point when it’s actually part of your offering.
That could mean your charcuterie board add-on, complimentary local farm fresh eggs, or, in one Olive Jar client’s case, popsicles. This host doesn’t actually offer popsicles, but she did take our cue adding popsicle molds to her kitchen. Playing into her brand story theming around “what sparks joy,” we made and photographed those strawberry sunrise pops you see above!
Get the picture?
(#4) DON’T BE AFRAID OF NEGATIVE SPACE
Great photographers know how to use negative space to evoke emotion and guide the eye.
DO incorporate negative space intentionally in select shots, for a few key reasons:
Messaging (literally): It creates clean areas for title work—perfect for social posts, newsletter headers, Welcome Guide covers, and more.
Composition: Negative space adds balance, drawing attention to the details that matter most.
Flow: It gives your viewer a sense of spaciousness (not emptiness) and ease, thoughtfully leaving room for the eye to rest.
(#5) DON’T UNDERESTIMATE THE WORK OF “CAMERA READY"
While a great photo may look effortless, creating one that truly evokes feeling takes serious strategy—and time. Don’t expect your photographer to also style your space, stage each moment, and bring your brand story to life on their own.
DO hire a Creative Director to guide your shoot—because it isn’t just a perk, it’s essential.
With two decades in film, TV, and commercial production, I’ve worn many hats behind the camera—writer, director, producer, set decorator and food stylist. The common thread? Knowing how to tell a full story in a single frame.
Here’s how The Olive Jar makes your space camera ready:
Shot List Planning: We map out wide shots (for info), vignettes (for character), and close-ups (for emotion).
Staging & Props: We prep intentional styling ahead of time to add life and movement to your space.
Creative Alignment: We meet with you and your photographer before the shoot so everyone’s on the same page.
On-Site Direction: We're hands-on throughout the day—styling, tweaking, collaborating—so every frame supports your story.
Post-Production Support: We review final assets and request edits as needed to make sure your investment shines.
Ready? Set? Shoot.
Now that you’re ready to glow up your STR photography, here’s what you can expect in return:
👉🏻 A Clear Brand Story: Photos that reflect your values, vibe, and voice—making your space unforgettable.
👉🏻 The Right Guests, Faster: Media that spotlights your best features attracts travelers who align with your space and treat it with care.
👉🏻 Organic Buzz: Thoughtful visuals that connect with today’s experienced traveler—and their circle—bringing more of your ideal guests right to you.
***
Image credits: The Olive Jar, Black Level Studios, Anchor Pictures
HEY, I’M DAWn.
And I’m the Founder & Creative Director of The Olive Jar. If this is your first time visiting our blog, welcome! You’ve met me in long form, and I’m thrilled you’re here. Can you tell I geek out over storytelling? I also love hearing from my readers. Do tell me if this article was helpful, or simply say “hello!”
Got a photo that feels?
Share your favorite STR media moment in the comments—let’s celebrate the magic behind the lens and raise the bar, together. CHEERS!