"In the short-term rental world, first impressions happen online—and photos are the most powerful tool you have to convert interest into bookings. Your images don’t just show a space; they sell an experience. When done right, photography communicates the mood, atmosphere, and personality of a property before a guest ever sets foot inside.

If your photos aren’t inviting, emotionally engaging, and visually compelling, you’re not just missing a booking—you’re potentially leaving thousands of dollars on the table. Great STR photography is about more than sharp images. It’s about intentional visual storytelling that captures the essence of a stay and inspires someone to say, “I want to be there.”"

That’s where Cody Lind comes in.

A Michigan-based photographer, Cody specializes in capturing short-term rentals in their best light—literally. He recently photographed our project, Peaks and Pines on Elni, and we were absolutely blown away by the results. His work didn’t just showcase the space—it elevated it. After seeing Cody's work, we knew we had to highlight his thoughtful approach and share how he brings properties to life behind the lens with our community. 

Read on for Cody’s take on what makes STR photography stand out—and how his on-site process helped capture the magic of Peaks and Pines.

 

My Approach to Short-Term Rental Photography, Featuring Peaks and Pines as a Case Study.

Written by Cody Lind (IG: @codylindphoto).

 

1. Experience the Property Like a Guest Would  

To capture the true essence of a property, I spend the full day on site—something that sets my process apart from traditional real estate photography. Being present through the changing light allows me to capture the property at its most inviting moments, from sunrise on the deck to golden hour over the fire pit. 

2. Blend Natural and Artificial Light for a True-to-Life Feel  

I use a thoughtful mix of natural light and subtle strobe to create images that feel both polished  and natural. This lighting technique helps guide the viewer’s eye through the space, offering a  more immersive and realistic experience. It’s about striking the right balance—bright, clean  images that still feel like home. 

 

3. Tell a Story, Not Just a Floor Plan  

Great STR photography goes beyond documenting the layout—it tells a story. I aim to capture  lifestyle moments that resonate with guests, like cozying up in a reading nook, sharing a meal  at the dining table, or relaxing on the porch with a view. 

4. Focus on the Details That Create a Memorable Stay  

The magic is often in the details—thoughtful design, custom amenities, and those personal  touches that make a stay feel special. I highlight these elements to help potential guests  connect emotionally with the space before they even arrive. 

 

5. Showcase the Outdoors with Intention  

Whether it’s aerial views from a drone or ground-level shots of a well-designed backyard,  outdoor spaces deserve as much attention as the interiors. I time these shots carefully to  capture the atmosphere guests will enjoy—like late afternoon light by the lake or twinkling  string lights at dusk. 

 

6. Quality Takes Time  

My approach is immersive and intentional. Spending time on site gives me the ability to refine  compositions, revisit spaces as the light changes, and ensure every image contributes to the  overall story of the property. This is what turns a good gallery into a powerful marketing tool. 

 

7. Prep the Space Like You’re Expecting Guests  

One of the most important steps before a shoot happens before the camera comes out:  preparation. I send every host a prep guide ahead of time to help stage the property in a way  that feels welcoming, elevated, and photo-ready. This includes simple, impactful touches like making the beds neatly with fluffed pillows, clearing clutter, setting the dining table as if guests  are about to sit down, and ensuring everything is clean and styled with intention. 

 

8. Edit with Intention, Not Filters  

Post-production is where the photos come to life—but it’s not about applying trendy filters or  overly saturated skies. Great STR photography should reflect the space accurately, while still feeling elevated and aspirational. I take an editorial approach to editing—similar to what you’d  see in architectural or interior design publications. The goal is clean, color-true, and inviting imagery that highlights the textures, tones, and atmosphere of the property without misleading  the viewer. A guest should be able to walk into the home and feel like the photos didn’t just  meet expectations—they matched reality. 

 

Bringing It All Together  

At the end of the day, short-term rental photography isn’t just about capturing a space—it’s  about capturing a feeling. When done right, it bridges the gap between a digital listing and a  real-life experience. Whether it’s the way the light hits the kitchen in the morning or how the fire  pit glows at dusk, every image should invite potential guests to imagine themselves there. 

You’ve already invested in the right team to help you find the perfect property. You worked with  talented designers and put care into every detail to make the space stand out. Now, it’s just as  important to invest in the right photographer—someone who understands how to translate all  of that hard work into images that drive bookings and elevate your brand. That’s the goal  behind every shoot I take on: to tell a visual story that not only reflects the property’s design,  but also helps it perform. 

See More of Cody's Work, And Book Him For Your Next STR Shoot Here!

 

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