In the competitive world of UK holiday rentals, first impressions online can make or break a booking. While high-quality photos have always been essential, a growing trend is changing the game: including people in professional photoshoots. We know … it’s a controversial one!
Traditionally, the advice was to feature people in hotel photo shoots, but not in those of holiday cottages. The thinking was that you expect to share the space in a hotel – so it’s usual to see people in the communal areas. But when guests book a holiday cottage, they get it all to themselves. So that was what we did. We captured images of beautiful, serene spaces that invited people in. And this is still largely what’s needed for websites. However, as trends emerge, so our professional photography services have evolved. We now deliver portrait-oriented images as well as landscape ones; and we can capture drone footage too. This gives owners a good bank of images to use to create posts and reels on your social media pages as well. You receive a library of stand out images to use for years ahead.
Recently, a growing number of holiday accommodation owners are choosing to include people in their photo shoots. And we have been doing just that (you’ll need your own models though). Here are some of the reasons why.
Make Your Holiday Property Feel Lived-In
Empty rooms look stylish and inviting, but they might not truly convey the warmth, comfort and lifestyle that some guests crave. Including people in your property photos – families enjoying the garden, couples sipping coffee in a sunlit kitchen or friends relaxing in the lounge – can create a sense of life and activity. It’s not just a house anymore; it’s a holiday experience. (The images featured in this post were captured by ACT Studios at Polkanugga Farm in Cornwall).
Help Guests Visualise Their Stay
Holiday bookings are emotional decisions. When potential guests see people enjoying your property, they can picture themselves doing the same. This storytelling approach turns ordinary images into powerful marketing tools, showing guests the memories and moments they could create.
Boost Online Engagement and Bookings
Lifestyle photography featuring people has been proven to increase online engagement. Listings with relatable images could encourage higher click-through rates and more enquiries. On platforms like Airbnb, Booking.com and social media, this approach makes your property stand out from the competition.
Showcase Unique Experiences
If your property offers special features – a hot tub, games room, or cosy reading nook – seeing them in use makes these amenities tangible. Guests can imagine themselves relaxing in the hot tub, playing games with friends, or curling up with a book, which could make your holiday accommodation even more appealing.
Tips for Successful Lifestyle Photoshoots
- Keep it natural: Use models or willing family/friends who look relaxed and authentic.
- Target your audience: Highlight family-friendly activities for cottages or romantic setups for couples.
- Plan each scene: Ensure people complement the property without distracting from it.
- Hire a professional photographer: Skilled photographers know how to balance lighting, composition, and activity to create inviting, high-converting images.
Conclusion
Including people in your holiday accommodation photos isn’t just a trend – it can be a smart marketing strategy. Lifestyle photography helps potential guests connect emotionally, visualise their stay and maybe choose your property over others. For UK holiday accommodation owners looking to increase bookings and elevate their online presence, maybe now is the time to give it a go.