How to Become an Airbnb Photographer

Co-authored by Hannah Madden

Last Updated: February 14, 2023 Tested

If you’re a photographer and you’re looking to make a little extra money on the side, becoming an Airbnb photographer might be the gig for you. With this freelance job, you can go to people’s Airbnb sites and take professional photos to use for listings and posts. It’s flexible, independent work that you can do on your own time—all you have to do is apply online.

1

Get experience in interior photography.

Interior photography is a little bit different than other photography. Make sure you have knowledge about staging sets, light coming in from windows, and how to edit interior shots. With those skills, you can build your portfolio and be a great Airbnb photographer!^{[1]
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- Airbnb will ask the hosts to stage their set, but you may have to do some rearranging depending on your lighting needs.

2

Create an online portfolio.

Compile your best shots on your personal website or portfolio page. Make sure you highlight your interior, architectural, and editorial work so Airbnb can tell that you’re right for the job. It’s up to you how many photos to include, but try to give a wide range of your skillset.
- Airbnb specifies that Instagram and Facebook portfolios will not be accepted, so make sure you’re using a professional website.

3

Buy a camera, lens, and tripod.

All your equipment has to be professional-grade. Airbnb’s photography listing asks you to have a professional-grade DSLR/Mirrorless camera with Full-frame or APS-C sensor and resolution of 16+mp, an ultra-wide zoom lens with a focal length range that includes 16-20mm (Full-frame) 10-12mm (APS-C), and a professional-grade tripod.
- As long as your equipment meets that criteria, the brand, model, and make of your camera and lens is up to you.

4

Get access to high speed internet.

You’ll be uploading photos to Airbnb’s website to get paid. Make sure you have reliable internet access that can upload high resolution files on a consistent basis. The photos will go through a vetting process before they’re accepted, which is why it’s important to keep the resolution high.
- You might also have to send and receive emails, get feedback, and chat with other Airbnb employees online.

5

Have reliable transportation around your area.

Most listings will be within a few miles of your home. Make sure you can get to job locations in a timely manner and take your camera equipment with you. Airbnb may cover some of your transportation fees if you need them to.
- Keep in mind that you’ll be lugging around a camera, lens, and tripod to every job (which can be tough without a car or public transportation).

6

Submit an application online.

Airbnb will review your portfolio and your online information. The application asks you questions about your experience, your skillset, what kind of equipment you own, and where you live. You can submit your application online to start the process of freelancing for Airbnb.
- Airbnb doesn’t specify how long their application process takes, so it could be a few weeks before you hear back.
- To submit your application online, visit the website.

Expert Q&A

Question

How do you clean a blurry camera lens?

Cory Ryan
Professional Wedding Photographer
Cory Ryan is a Professional Wedding Photographer who runs Cory Ryan Photography based in Austin, Texas. She has over 15 years of photography experience and specializes in weddings and events. Her work has been featured in publications such as The Knot, Style Me Pretty, and Junebug Weddings. She received a BA in Media Production and Broadcast Journalism from the University of North Carolina - Chapel Hill.

Cory Ryan

Professional Wedding Photographer

Expert Answer

Just like glasses, you don't want to use a paper towel or something abrasive to clean a professional camera lens. You can either use a spray — like a lens or glasses cleaning spray — with a micro cloth or use an individual lens cleaning wipes.