1. Dark, underexposed images that feel cold ❄️

Why it hurts bookings

Holiday travellers want warmth, comfort and atmosphere. Unintentionally dark photos, even if the space is beautiful,  can feel uninviting and can subconsciously suggest:

• Poor lighting
• A cold or uncomfortable stay
• A lack of care or professionalism

During winter and cooler periods, guests are especially sensitive to this.

Why it happens

• Photographing on phones without proper lighting control
• Relying on overcast daylight
• Avoiding photographing windows because the light is too bright

What works better

Professional accommodation photography balances:

• Natural light
• Interior lighting
• Correct exposure and colour temperature

This creates images that feel bright and welcoming, even in winter conditions.

Warm light sells warmth — and warmth helps bookings.

2. No hero image (or the wrong one)

Why it hurts bookings

Your first image is your make-or-break moment. It appears in:

• Search results
• Booking platform grids
• Review thumbnails

If that image doesn’t immediately communicate “this is the place we want to stay,” guests scroll past.

Common mistakes

• Exterior shots taken in harsh light
• Wide shots that feel empty
• Images without a clear focal point
• Using a smaller room or bathroom as the lead image

What works better

A strong hero image usually shows:

• The main living space
• Nice lighting
• Comfortable seating 
• A sense of togetherness or relaxation

Professional photographers intentionally shoot and select images specifically for this purpose.