3 Easy Ways to Capture Stunning Social Media Footage While Preparing Your Short Term Rental for the Busy Season

As the busy season approaches, making sure your holiday rental is in tip-top shape is essential for attracting guests. But did you know you can use this preparation process to boost your social media presence? Whether you’re cleaning, organising, or adding the finishing touches to your space, capturing these moments can really engage potential guests. Here are 3 easy ways to get amazing social media footage while preparing your property, even when you’re in the thick of cleaning!

1. Create a Time-lapse Video of Your Cleaning Process

• Why it’s great: Time-lapse videos are an engaging and visually captivating way to showcase the transformation of your space. They’re simple to make and can be a fun way to show how much work goes into preparing your holiday rental.
• How to do it: Set your phone or camera on a stable surface (like a tripod or shelf) and position it to capture the whole cleaning process. Use the time-lapse setting on your phone or camera (many smartphones have this feature built-in). Then, speed up the video in post-production for a fast-paced transformation.
• Pro Tip: Try shooting the same space from different angles or even capturing the final "reveal" once everything’s in place. This gives your audience a behind-the-scenes look at what goes into making your property perfect!

2. Share ‘Before and After’ Videos or Photos

• Why it’s great: Before and after photos and videos are always a hit on social media. They’re simple yet effective in showing how much effort you put into preparing the property.
• How to do it: Start by filming or photographing the room or space before you begin cleaning or setting up. Once you’re finished tidying up, take the same shot from the same angle (you could even use a time-lapse for this!). Compare the two and share the transformation.
• Pro Tip: Make sure you capture key details like fluffing the pillows, fresh towels, and new flowers, as these little touches really highlight your attention to detail. Add a fun caption like, "Watch how we prep our #Airbnb for the season! 🌿✨ #BeforeAndAfter" to encourage engagement.

3. Capture Details That Make Your Space Stand Out

• Why it’s great: Social media is all about highlighting what makes your space unique. If you’re adding new touches to your holiday rental, such as special décor, fresh flowers, or unique amenities, let your followers see the process.
• How to do it: Focus on the finer details of the preparation—filming or photographing close-ups of décor arrangements, folding towels in neat piles, placing a new plant by the window, or setting out a welcome basket. You can even film small moments, like placing a candle on a side table or a piece of art on the wall.
• Pro Tip: Slow-motion footage works really well for showing off your unique touches. You could also create a series of Instagram Stories that show different aspects of the preparation process. Consider using popular local hashtags like #StayInVictoria or #Bellarineholidaystay to reach potential guests.