It seems we find ourselves in a time less simple – but with more transparency and greater potential to reach more people. Here we are in the age of documentary. You may have noticed your bnb guests aren’t just staying at your property—they’re documenting various moments of their experience. Recent studies show that over 78% of holiday accommodation guests share photos during their stay, and these images may directly influence future bookings. What your guests are really photographing isn’t always what you’d expect, and understanding this behaviour could change your supply purchasing decisions.
It’s been found that guests consistently photograph the same elements across properties worldwide, and these aren’t necessarily the big-ticket items you might think. Instead, it’s often the thoughtfully chosen smaller supplies that create those share-worthy moments. So what’s really catching their camera’s attention—and how you can capitalise on it? Let’s find out!
The Morning Coffee Theatre
It’s the coffee that tops the list – guests love to photograph the morning coffee setup. Coffee lends itself to great story-telling and we all now know it…just ask Peter McKinnon.
What guests photograph:
- Beautifully designed coffee mugs (especially mismatched vintage or artisanal pieces)
- Coffee beans in glass containers or attractive packaging
- Milk frothers and pour-over equipment
- Fresh pastries or breakfast items arranged on photogenic serving ware
Supply recommendations: Choose ceramic mugs with interesting textures or unique handles. Invest in a few statement pieces—a gorgeous wooden serving tray, glass storage jars for coffee beans, or a vintage-style milk frother. These items cost relatively little but photograph beautifully and suggest a premium experience.
The Cosy Corner Chronicles
What Your Guests Are Really Photographing often centres around comfort and atmosphere. The “cosy corner shot” has become a social media staple, and it’s entirely dependent on your textile and décor supply choices.
What guests photograph:
- Throw blankets artfully draped over chairs or beds
- Textured cushions and pillows in interesting fabrics
- Soft lighting from table lamps or fairy lights
- Books or magazines arranged on side tables
- Candles or reed diffusers creating ambiance
Supply recommendations: Layer different textures in your soft furnishings. A chunky knit throw combined with linen cushions and a faux fur accent creates visual interest that photographs beautifully. Choose warm lighting over harsh overhead lights, and always include a few coffee table books about local attractions or photography—guests love including these in their shots.
The Bathroom Luxury Reveal
Surprisingly, bathroom photos are among the most shared BnB images, particularly when guests feel they’ve discovered an unexpected luxury. The key is in the details that suggest premium hotel experiences.
What guests photograph:
- Fluffy towels arranged in perfect stacks or rolls
- Luxury toiletries with attractive packaging
- Beautiful soap dispensers or earthy soap packaging
- Spa-like accessories
- Fresh flowers or greenery
Supply recommendations: Invest in towels with a high gsm weight—they photograph as luxurious and feel substantial. Choose toiletries with clean, minimalist packaging. A simple bamboo bath caddy or some eucalyptus hung from the shower head costs very little but creates that “spa retreat” aesthetic guests love to share.
The Welcome Story
First impressions matter enormously, and what your guests Aare really photographing in those crucial first moments sets the tone for their entire stay and review.
What guests photograph:
- Welcome arrangements on beds or tables
- Fresh fruit or local treats beautifully presented
- Handwritten notes on quality stationery
- Fresh flowers in simple vases
- Local guidebooks or maps arranged thoughtfully
Supply recommendations: Create a simple welcome setup using quality basics: a wooden serving board, some locally-sourced treats, and fresh flowers from your garden or local market. The key is thoughtful arrangement rather than expensive items. A handwritten welcome note on quality paper costs pennies but photographs as personal and caring.
The Hidden Psychology of Shareable Supplies
Understanding what your guests are really photographing reveals something deeper about holiday psychology. Guests want to share evidence of their good taste and their discovery of something special. They’re curating their own story, and your supplies are the props.
This means your purchasing decisions should consider not just functionality, but “shareability.” Ask yourself: would this item look good in a social media post? Does it tell a story of quality, thoughtfulness, or local character?
The Business Case for Photogenic Supplies
When guests share attractive photos of your property, they’re providing free marketing that’s more trusted than any advertisement. Properties with high social media engagement consistently achieve better booking rates and can charge premium prices.
The beautiful irony is that the most photographed items are often the least expensive to upgrade. A tasteful room spray bottle or a vintage serving tray engages free marketing as guests share photos featuring these items.
Making Every Supply Decision Count
Considerations when buying feature items:
- Would this look attractive in a guest’s Instagram story?
- Does this item suggest quality and thoughtfulness?
- Could this create a “wow” moment worth sharing?
- Does this align with the story I want guests to tell about their stay?
Remember, in today’s visual-first world, supply choices are also marketing choices. By understanding what guests naturally want to photograph and share, you can enhance both their experience and your property’s online presence.
Your guests are already photographing your space—make sure you’re giving them something worth sharing.
