B&B photos could make, or break your next booking.
Want more guests? It starts with how you photograph your B&B . Here’s how to do it right.

First impressions matter. In fact, did you know guests make a snap judgement on your listing in just 3 seconds? That’s the time it takes to scroll past you—or click and book. And what do they base that decision on?

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Photos. Always the photos.

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So here’s the big question: Should you hire a professional photographer—or just grab your smartphone and do it yourself? Let’s break it down.

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Why Your Photos Could Be Costing You Bookings

Let’s start with a fact: Great photos sell rooms. Blurry, dark, or outdated images? They whisper, “meh.” And nothing says “skip this one” louder than a dim breakfast room with a crooked tablecloth.

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In the “Build Your B&B: From Dream to Doors Open” course, we talk about your online presence being your first lobby. If your photos don’t pop, it doesn’t matter how charming your place is in person. People won’t get that far.

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Question for you: If a stranger saw your listing today, would they want to stay tonight?

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Usable Tip: Go look at your main photo right now. Would you book it?

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The Case for DIY Photography (Yes, It Can Work)

You can take decent photos yourself—especially if you’re just getting started or on a tight budget. Smartphones have come a long way. But you need to follow a few golden rules.

What Works:

• Use natural light. Morning light is your best friend. Harsh midday sun? Not so much.

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• Clean like the Queen’s on her way. A speck of dust becomes a monster in HD.

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• Take photos from chest height—not from above like you’re peering into a teacup.

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• Show entire spaces. Guests want context, not just a close-up of a curtain tieback.

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📸 Fact Check: Listings with 10+ high-quality images get 50% more bookings. Yes, really.

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Usable Tip: Shoot in landscape, not portrait. Booking sites crop oddly and you’ll lose half the bed!

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When It’s Time to Bring in a Pro

DIY is great for social media or small updates. But if you’re launching, rebranding, or your listing still features your Aunt Mabel’s floral bedspread—it’s time to go pro.

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Professional photographers understand angles, composition, and lighting. They’ll make your B&B shine—even that odd-shaped room under the stairs.

What You Get:

• Edited, polished photos ready for every platform

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• Consistent visual branding

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• Time back in your day (you’re not spending 6 hours fiddling with filters)

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B&Bs with professional photos can charge up to 30% more per night than those with amateur snaps.

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👉 Quick Question: Would a single extra booking cover the photographer’s fee? For most owners, the answer’s yes.

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Usable Tip: Ask photographers if they offer half-day shoots. You might not need a full package.

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A Hybrid Approach That Saves Money

Here’s the tip I promised you earlier…

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If a full professional shoot feels too pricey, do a hybrid shoot:

1. Hire a pro for hero shots (your main images: exterior, bedrooms, breakfast area).

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     2. Shoot the rest yourself—think behind-the-scenes, seasonal changes, or updates.

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It keeps costs down and keeps your listing fresh.

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Want more savvy marketing tips? Listen to the Bed, Breakfast & Business podcast.

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Usable Tip: Use Canva or Snapseed to edit your DIY shots. Brighten, straighten, and sharpen. Boom—photo glow-up.

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Don’t Forget the Story Behind the Snap

Guests love a story. A freshly baked scone in the morning light? Snap it. The dog sleeping in the sunroom? Capture it. Your B&B is more than bricks and bedding—it’s personality.

Include:

• Seasonal shots (Christmas lights, autumn leaves)

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• Action shots (you flipping pancakes, not looking stressed)

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• Guest experience moments (with permission!)

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Thinking of buying a B&B? Or building from scratch?

Before you blow the budget or your back—download this.

“Your B&B Starter Blueprint” keeps your dream on track.

Get your copy now! You can find a link in the show notes.

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What’s the one photo of your B&B that guests always comment on?

Share it in our comments.

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Your Key Takeaways

• 📸 Photos make or break your listing
• 💡 DIY works with the right tips
• 💰 Pro shots boost bookings and pricing
• 🤝 Hybrid shoots offer the best of both
• 🧁 Stories sell—snap your personality

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In Conclusion

Whether you go DIY, hire a pro, or mix both—you now know how to present your B&B at its best. Remember, guests book with their eyes first. Make them fall in love before they even pack a bag.

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And if you want more practical help like this, our “Build Your B&B: From Dream to Doors Open” course dives deep into branding, guest psychology, and marketing that works.

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 If you did like this episode, make sure to check out the Boost Your B&B Visibility with These Cost-Effective Marketing Strategies. Episode 41. You can find it on the Beds, breakfast and business website.

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Hit that subscribe button and ring the bell for more episodes that help your B&B shine. And if you like what we’re sharing, feel free to buy us a coffee.