Top 5 Cameras to Use for Airbnb Property Photography

‘Wow, look at that dress, it’s gorgeous. Let’s check it out.’

Oops! You just bought a dress, and your dopamine level is through the roof. But wait…weren’t you just passing by?

‘It was so attractive…I couldn’t take my eyes off it.’

That’s exactly how your property photos on Airbnb should work; like eye candy, irresistible to prospective guests. 

To make your listing look picture-perfect, you’ll need to invest in a quality camera. So in this article, we’ll reveal the top 5 cameras we use at Homevy for our Airbnb property photography. 

Must-Have Camera Features for Airbnb Listings

We’ve listed many properties on Airbnb, so we know they weren’t exaggerating when they said professional images can increase bookings by 28%

We’ve tested it, and we can confidently tell you that high-quality photos do boost bookings and even justify higher prices.

But before you run off and buy any camera, here are the top four features we always look out for:

1. High Resolution (Minimum 4K UHD)

In our experience, cameras with 4K UHD or higher snap clearer pictures. They capture four times more pixels than the standard Full HD. It can highlight your sofa’s texture, the way the sun shines in a bedroom, and even details on your kitchen counter. Any photo you’ve seen on Airbnb that made you go “wow” was likely shot in 4K UHD or higher. If you want to sell your property without doing too much, you need a high-resolution camera. It’s what we use at Homevy. 

2. Wide-angle Lens

A camera with a wide-angle lens is non-negotiable for 2 reasons. It captures more of the room in a single shot, making spaces appear larger and more open. And it provides a wider view, so guests can better understand the layout and flow of your property. We kid you not—wide-angle lenses can make guests imagine themselves in the apartment even before they book. It’s one of our secrets to getting more bookings. (shhh, don’t tell anyone).

3. Low Light or Night Vision Capability

Cameras with low-light or night vision features have helped our Airbnb photos look great, even in dim spaces. Every time we use this feature to take property photos, the apartments always come out looking soft and cozy. Good low-light cameras ensure that even evening shots or naturally darker rooms, like basements or windowless spaces, still look warm and appealing.

4. Wireless Connectivity

With wireless connectivity, you can easily transfer photos to your phone or computer to speed up your workflow. You can also control the camera remotely with Wi-Fi or Bluetooth. Don’t skimp on this feature if you want hassle-free transfers.

The Top 5 Cameras for Airbnb Property Photography

Nowwww…let’s get into some of our favourite cameras: 

1. Canon EOS R6 Mark II

Photo by Bibal Izaddin

First on our list of cameras for Airbnb property photography is the Canon EOS R6 Mark II. 

This camera will capture fine details like fabric texture, wood grain, and even leather patterns. Its low-light feature, wide-angle lens, and built-in stabilization can help you take sharp shots without needing a tripod. It has all our recommended features and more, so it’s worth considering. 

Amazon Ratings: 4.8/5

Key Features 

• 24.2 megapixel full-frame CMOS sensor
• Suitable for indoor photos
• Highly responsive dual-pixel
• Wireless connectivity
• 4K 60fps video quality

Price: $2,299.00

Cons

• Limited lens options
• Fragile HDMI port
• The mode dial lacks a lock

Why Canon EOS R6 Mark II is great for vacation rental photography

• The camera takes sharp, vibrant photos that make your property look its best.
• It also takes smooth, blur-free pictures even in low light so there’s no need to worry when it’s dark.
• The video quality is excellent; 4k at 24, 30, and 60fps. With this, you can create smooth, high-definition video tours of your property. 

2. Sony Alpha A7 IV

Photo by Masood Aslami

Another favourite of ours is the Sony Alpha A7 IV.

This camera comes with an AI-based autofocus system that ensures quick and accurate shots of your holiday home. Take it from us when we say that the Sony Alpha A7 IV is a good value for its price. If you want to draw guests in with your property pictures, then you shouldn’t think twice before getting this camera. 

Amazon Ratings: 4.7/5

Key Features

• 33-megapixel full-frame CMOS sensor
• 4K 60p video quality
• Flexible shooting angle 
• Wireless connectivity
• AI-based autofocus system
• Wide sensitivity range 

Price: $2,198.00

Cons

• Requires a fast memory card
• Complicated settings
• Visible rolling shutter effect
• Difficulty with third-party lenses
• Lacks GPS functionality

Why Sony Alpha A7 IV is great for taking photos of your vacation rental

• With its 33MP full-frame sensor, this camera captures sharp, detailed images of your property, making every room look stunning in your listing.
• Due to its flexible shooting angle, you will always get the perfect shot, whether it’s a high-up view of a spacious living room or a close-up of your bedroom decor.
• The camera performs well in all lighting conditions.

3. Fujifilm X-T5

Photo by Arian Fernandez

Third on our list of cameras for Airbnb property photography is the Fujifilm X-T5.

Its 40.2-megapixel X-Trans 5 HR CMOS sensor always delivers exceptional quality images. This camera offers 19 film simulation modes, so you can adjust colors and tones to make your property photos look vibrant, natural, or vintage. And because it is lightweight, it is convenient for moving around.

Amazon Ratings: 4.7/5 

Key Features

• High resolution 40.2 MP 
• 4K HQ mode video recording
• Film simulation mode
• 3-way tilting LCD
• In-Body Image Stabilization (IBIS)

Price: $1,699.00

Cons

• High-Res mode needs computer processing
• Unclear live view magnification
• There is no support for battery grip

Why Fujifilm X-T5 is great for vacation home photography

• The three-way tilting LCD screen makes it easy to shoot from different angles. You can get a wide shot of a room or a more focused view of your hardwood floor. 
• The Film Simulation feature creates rich, vibrant photos that grab guests’ attention and make them imagine themselves in your property.
• Even in low light or with handheld shots, the in-body image stabilization (IBIS) keeps your photos sharp and blur-free.

4. Nikon Z 6II

Photo by Neron Photos

The Nikon Z 6II is everything a camera is meant to be. It is a 24.5 MP full-frame mirrorless hybrid that performs well in image quality, video performance, and speed. So believe us when we say it is an all-around camera that will take perfect shots for your Airbnb listing.

Amazon Ratings: 4.7/5

Key Features

• 24.5MP CMOS Sensor
• 4K UHD Video quality
• Dual Processor for fast actor 
• Fast Autofocus
• Low light performance

Price: $1,496.95

Cons

• Challenges with eye autofocus on smaller subjects
• Overly bright autofocus assist lightening
• Lack of swipe function for adjusting autofocus
• Average battery life
• Single memory card slot

Why Nikon Z 6II is great for Airbnb property photography

• The 24.5MP sensor captures exceptional details of your property.
• For virtual tours, the Nikon Z 6II’s 4K UHD video captures your property in sharp, professional quality.
• Even in rooms with low lighting or during evening shoots, the camera’s Backside Illuminated (BSI) sensor still gives your photos a bright and clear look. 

5. Panasonic LUMIX S9

Photo by Freepik

Last, but definitely not the least, is the Panasonic LUMIX S9.

With its 24.2-megapixel sensor, you can shoot good, high-quality images of your property. It’s also compact, so you can easily use it in tight spaces and still get the perfect shot from any angle.

Now, here’s the coolest feature: the real-time LUT color grading lets you apply pro-level color tones in-camera, making your photos pop—no Lightroom or Canva needed. It’s honestly one of the best cameras we’ve used for our Airbnb property photography. 

Amazon Ratings: 4.7/5

Key Features

• 24.2 MP full-frame sensor
• 6k video recording 
• Real-time LUT
• Wireless connectivity
• Compact and easy to use

Price: $1,397.99

Cons

• Slow startup
• Autofocus tracking is okay, but it can be better
• Single card slot
• The camera can overheat
• Difficult to view the screen in bright light

Why Panasonic LUMIX S9 is great for holiday home photography

• The camera’s 24.2-megapixel full-frame sensor means your photos will be so clear and sharp that guests want to click ‘book now’ fast.
• The real-time LUT color grading is pretty much an in-built Photoshop. It lets you apply professional color corrections right in the camera.
• If you’re looking to add some videos to your listing, the 6K recording captures every detail in ultra-high definition, from the open-plan living room to the garden view.

Airbnb Property Photography Tips: How to Take Professional Photos with Your New Camera

In the words of Ansel Adams, ‘You don’t take a photograph, you make it.’

And how do you make it? With a good camera. If you’ve already chosen a camera from our top recommendations in this post, you’re on the right track to making your rental property stand out. However, buying a camera is one thing. Knowing how to use it, is another.

So here are some Homevy photography tips that will boost your bookings:

1. Use Natural Lighting

Natural light is your best friend when it comes to photography. Aim to take photos during the day, preferably when the sun shines brightly but not too harshly, like early in the morning or late in the afternoon. The soft, warm glow of natural light will make your space feel inviting and bright. However, if the natural light is insufficient, it’s okay to use lighting equipment.

2. Clean Your Space
 

A tidy space is a MUST for great property photos. Make sure everything is clean and clutter-free. Add small touches like a coffee cup on a table, a throw on the couch, or a fresh set of towels on the bed to make the space feel more lived-in and inviting. These little details can make the property feel more like a home and less like a hotel room.

3. Shoot from the Corners


The best way to make rooms look bigger in photos is to shoot from the corners of the room. It allows you to capture more of the room in one photo, helping guests imagine themselves in the space. Be sure to include as much of the room as possible while keeping the shot balanced.

4. Wide-Angle Shots for Bigger Impact


If your camera has a wide-angle lens or mode, use it. Wide-angle shots are perfect for showcasing the entire room in one image. This is mostly important for smaller spaces, as it helps them appear larger and more open. 

5. Pay Attention to Details

What is unique about your property? Is it your dining table? The workspace? Or the statement pieces on the wall? These details matter. If you have marble or granite countertops, take pictures of them. It shows guests the beautiful areas that make your property stand out from the rest. 

PS: We wrote an article on 7 items to put in your vacation rental for 5-star reviews.  You might want to SHOULD read it.

With these tips, you’ll be able to make the most of your new camera and take photos that will help your Airbnb listing get noticed and, most importantly, booked.

The Truth About Airbnb Property Photography

People are moved by what they see. And that’s why you need high-quality photos, especially with how Airbnbs are evolving. 

But let’s be honest—spending over $2,000 on a new camera is an EXPENSIVE investment.

So here’s our offer: If your property is in Dubai, we’ll take care of your property photography and even list it on Airbnb for you.

Our property management services include professional photography at no extra cost. That means you’ll get stunning photos and videos to showcase your property—along with full management services, like guest screening, advertising, and more.

So if this sounds good to you, contact us, let’s talk. The consultation is completely free, and we’ll be happy to answer any questions.

Remember, a picture may be worth a thousand words, but a great Airbnb photo is worth thousands of AED bookings.