Why it’s your job to direct the photographer (even when they’re brilliant!)
You’ve booked a professional photographer. You’ve fluffed the pillows. You’re ready.
But here’s the bit many hosts miss…
Even the best photographer in the world can’t know what to capture unless you tell them what matters.
They can frame a beautiful shot. But they don’t know that your garden gate leads to a hidden beach path, or that your EV charger is a deal-maker for your guests.
It’s your job to help them see your space the way your ideal guest does.
Six months ago, I was taking on the management of a new (totally beautiful) holiday let. We needed fresh images to show it at its best—but with a tiny baby Ted in tow, I couldn’t be there for the shoot. When the photos came back, they just didn’t do the property justice.
One month and some really clear communication later, the very same photographers took superb images of the very same house that show it in all its glory. You can see the before and after shots below.
My Photography & Staging guide was the result: I noted everything so that the communication between host and photographer was clear. These weren’t poor photographers - far from it - they are brilliant, but simply not given the information they needed to excel. And that’s what I’ve included in the guide, to ensure you get the absolute most out of your photography days or, if you take them yourself, you take cracking homegrown shots!
Your photographer doesn’t know your guest — you do.
Think about who you're trying to attract.
Parents with young kids? They’ll want to see the cot, the high chair, and how bedrooms link together.
Dog owners? They’ll care about the garden, the dog towels, the bowls.
Couples? They’re looking for cosy corners, not just practical layouts.
Without that direction, your photographer will default to what they think is important. That might mean missing the shots that make someone fall in love with your place.
The secret to photos that sell? Prep and a plan
You don’t need to direct every shot — but a short brief can make a big difference.
Tell them:
Who your ideal guest is
What makes your place special
What to prioritise
Whether you’re building a brand (so they can include your signage or guidebook)
If you’re not sure what your photos should actually show, read my blog: What Great Holiday Let Photos Actually Show (It’s Not Just the Rooms)
Want help planning your shoot, room by room?
My Photography & Staging guide gives you:
A room-by-room checklist
Tips for directing your photographer
The essential shots every listing needs
It will pay for itself the minute you upload one of your shiny new pics!
Kay x