Why Your Rental Property Photos Matter More Than You Think

Most landlords underestimate the impact of photos. They assume that if the property is good, it will let. In reality, the first thing a tenant sees is the listing. Blurry phone photos, dark rooms, and cluttered spaces put people off before they have set foot in the property. Good photos do the opposite: they create interest and bring in more viewings.

The difference between phone photos and professional shots is often huge. It is not just about the camera. It is about lighting, angles, and knowing what to show. A good photographer will make a room look bigger, brighter, and more inviting. They will avoid the shots that make a space look cramped or dated. That does not mean misleading anyone — it means presenting the property at its best.

Staging helps. You do not need to hire a staging company for every let, but a bit of thought goes a long way. Clear surfaces, made beds, tidy gardens. Remove personal clutter so tenants can imagine their own things in the space. It sounds simple, but it is often the difference between a property that feels like a home and one that feels like someone else's leftover stuff.

The right photos can shorten void periods. More enquiries mean more viewings. More viewings mean a better chance of finding the right tenant quickly. And the cost of professional photography is usually a fraction of the cost of an extra empty month.

If you are marketing a property, invest in the photos. It is one of the highest-impact things you can do. I am always happy to connect with fellow property professionals. If you would like to get in touch, you can reach me at jess@jhwood.homes or via LinkedIn.