Content Shoots at Your Airbnb: What to Ask, What to Charge, What to Avoid

That DM in your inbox says:
“Hi! I’m a local photographer and your space is gorgeous. Can I use it for a quick shoot?”

Before you say yes, hit pause. Hosting content shoots at your Airbnb can be an amazing way to earn extra revenue, build relationships, and get your property noticed—but only if you protect yourself, your space, and your time.

In this episode of, we’re sharing everything we’ve learned from years of hosting photography and production shoots in our properties. From small influencer swaps to full-blown commercial shoots, we’ve seen the good, the bad, and the awkward—and we’re laying it all out for you.

Types of Content You Might Be Asked to Host

Not all content shoots are created equal. It’s important to ask exactly what is being filmed and how your space will be used. Some examples:

• Influencer swaps
• Brand photography
• Commercial shoots
• Documentaries or film projects
• Boudoir sessions
• Adult content

You have a right to know what’s happening inside your space—and to decide what aligns with your brand and comfort level.

The Must-Have: A Certificate of Insurance (COI)

This is non-negotiable. If the person or company using your space doesn’t have proper insurance coverage, don’t move forward. A COI protects you and your property in case of damage or injury—and any reputable production team should be able to provide one quickly.

Ask These Questions Before Saying Yes

We recommend creating your own checklist to screen any production requests. Some questions to include:

• What is the content being created, and where will it be shared?
• How many people will be onsite? (And be prepared for more than they say.)
• Will they be using both indoor and outdoor areas?
• Will they be moving furniture or artwork?
• Do they plan to lay down floor protection like Ram Board?
• What’s the timing, and how much setup/cleanup is required?
• Will they clean, or will you? (Hint: you should control this!)

What to Charge for a Shoot

Photography and video production should not be priced like a standard nightly stay. Shoots create wear and tear, involve more people, and often use your space in ways overnight guests don’t.

We recommend researching your local listings on Peerspace—a platform that allows you to price by the hour and set clear usage guidelines. This is also a great way to list your space if you want to open it up to content creators more intentionally.

Red Flags to Watch Out For

Here are a few things that should give you pause:

• They say it’ll be “quick and simple” but avoid giving details
• They resist providing insurance or answering basic questions
• They push back on pricing or ask to skip the cleaning fee
• They want to bring lots of people into a residential neighborhood without a plan

It’s okay to be excited about the opportunity—but it’s even better to be prepared.

Final Thoughts

Hosting content shoots can be a great way to diversify your income, showcase your space, and connect with new networks. But like anything in hosting, it works best when you have clear expectations, written agreements, and strong boundaries.

If you’ve hosted a content shoot for a major brand, commercial, or film project, we’d love to hear about it! Email us at hi@thanksforvisiting.com and brag a little—we want to celebrate your success.he difference, and your business will benefit.

Download a transcript of this episode.

Resources:

• Hostfully | Use Code TFV500 for $500 off!
• Stayfi: Use code THANKS for 50% your first 3 months of service
• Subscribe to our YouTube channel | 6 Ways to Use ChatGPT in Your Airbnb Business
• Check out Peerspace – a platform for listing your space for hourly rentals, perfect for photoshoots and production: peerspace.com
• #STRShareSunday: @sugarpinecabindahlonega
• Submit your property for our next #STRShareSunday at strshare.com

#STRShareSunday

@sugarpinecabindahlonega

Sugar Pine Cabin is a colorful, cozy retreat nestled in the woods just outside downtown Dahlonega, Georgia. With two bedrooms, a stocked coffee bar (syrups included!), a reading nook, and a firepit with twinkling lights, it’s the perfect escape for couples, small families, or a friends’ weekend. We especially love the thoughtful touches like the s’mores kit and the cheerful, eclectic decor that makes the whole place feel like a hug. Follow @sugarpinecabindahlonega to see more of this vibrant mountain hideaway!

We would love to feature YOU! Submit your property for our next #STRShareSunday at strshare.com.