STR Investing, The Podcast The Best Airbnb Photographer In America
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Aug 1, 2025 Sam Smith, an in-demand short-term rental photographer, shares his journey from real estate novice to sought-after expert. He reveals the crucial differences between capturing spaces and experiences, emphasizing the emotional impact of lifestyle shots. Sam discusses the importance of staging and preparation for top-notch photos, while also recounting his adventurous road trip with multiple pets. He touches on the unique challenges of photographing diverse properties, from cozy mountain cabins to bustling beach rentals, all aimed at boosting guest engagement.
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Sam's First Real Estate Shoot
- Sam's first real estate gig lasted two hours for what now takes 15 minutes.
- His early photos were rejected because of lack of editing skills, leading him to outsource to professional editors.
Real Estate vs STR Photography
- Real estate photography sells the property layout, STR photography sells the guest experience.
- STR photography includes lifestyle shots and highlighting amenities to evoke emotion and drive bookings.
Effective Lifestyle Photography Tips
- Use lifestyle photos to evoke emotion by showing interactions with the property, not focusing on people themselves.
- Show details like hands holding popcorn rather than people’s faces to better sell the experience.