Professional Airbnb Photography in Kuala Lumpur – Does It Actually Sell More Bookings?
TL;DR
Yes, you can take your own photos.
But professional Airbnb photography almost always performs better - more clicks, more trust, and more bookings.
In Kuala Lumpur, professional shoots typically range from RM400 - RM1,200 depending on size, style, and add-ons. For hosts who want their listings to stand out, great visuals are your best investment.
Professional Airbnb Photography in Kuala Lumpur - it will help you increase your bookings!
A Real Result That Proves the Point
I once photographed a host’s Airbnb listing in Kuala Lumpur that looked good but didn’t perform well. After updating the visuals, the owner noticed a 10% increase in bookings - without changing price, title, or description.
Airbnb Photography Testimony from MyRehat.com
The only difference?
Photos that felt more real, more spacious, and more welcoming.
It’s not luck. It’s strategy.
Guests don’t read - they scroll.
And the photo that makes them stop scrolling is what makes them book.
Why Great Photos Sell
20% increase in earnings - Hosts with professional photos may earn more than other hosts in their area.
Airbnb’s own data shows that better photos increase engagement and trust. Research on short-term rentals also found that listings with high-quality, professionally shot images get more clicks and higher occupancy rates than those with basic or inconsistent visuals.
AirDNA data shows that the more photos you have, the higher your occupancy rate
AirDNA data shows that the more photos you have, the higher your occupancy rate. Listings with 40 photos or more experience a 55% occupancy rate on average, compared with listings with 11-15 photos that have a lower average occupancy rate of 49%.
When people browse, they’re not looking for walls and furniture - they’re buying a feeling.
Good photos trigger that feeling instantly. They create a mental image of waking up in your room, brewing coffee in your kitchen, or relaxing after a long day of travel. That’s what converts curiosity into a confirmed booking.
More photos help too. Property marketing data suggests that listings with 20+ high-quality images attract significantly more inquiries compared to listings with fewer or poorly lit ones.
You Can DIY, But Pros Deliver Consistent Results
Can you take your own photos? Absolutely. Many hosts do.
Modern smartphones are capable — if you know what to do. But a professional photographer brings an understanding of space, light, and composition that most people overlook.
Professional Airbnb Photographer know how to frame a photo so it feels balanced and welcoming
We plan around natural light, remove distractions, stage the room to highlight space, and edit for realism. We also know how to frame a photo so it feels balanced and welcoming - the kind of image that makes guests imagine themselves there.
It’s not just about equipment. It’s about how you use it with the guest’s eye in mind. That’s the difference between “nice photo” and “booked tonight”.
Quick DIY Tips for Hosts
Can you take your own photos? Absolutely. Many hosts do
If you’re shooting your own Airbnb or homestay photos in Kuala Lumpur, use these simple but effective techniques:
Keep lines straight – shoot level so doors, windows, and walls are square.
Use plenty of light – open curtains, switch on all lights, and avoid mixing warm and cool light.
Shoot wide for space – stand at a corner to capture the full room.
Add lifestyle shots – a cup of coffee on the table, folded towels on the bed, or an open laptop on a desk.
Mix shots – include wide shots, detail shots, and one strong cover photo that tells the story.
Edit lightly – keep colours natural, avoid heavy filters, and maintain consistency.
These small habits already put you ahead of many listings - but a professional will take it much further. I’ve written about this is a blog post.
What’s Normal in Kuala Lumpur?
Wide shots of a dining hall - Airbnb Photography KL
Every shoot is different, but here’s a general guide based on local market trends:
Studio or 1-bedroom unit – RM400 – RM600
2-4 bedroom property – RM700 – RM1,200
Optional add-ons: facilities shots, drone, 360° virtual tour, twilight or video – +RM200 – RM500
These prices usually include editing, file delivery, and travel within Klang Valley. Larger homes or commercial homestays may require a custom quote.
Living Room overlooking a Golf Course - Let’s capture your space in a way that makes people stop scrolling and start booking
Think of it less as a cost and more as an investment because one or two extra bookings can already cover it.
Turn Your Listing Into a Booking Magnet
If you’re managing a homestay or Airbnb in Kuala Lumpur and want to attract more guests with visuals that actually sell - I’m just a click away.
Let’s capture your space in a way that makes people stop scrolling and start booking.
