We've found that Hosts who provide accurate and good quality photos of their sites receive more bookings and get higher ratings. Make sure to follow our suggestions below for which photos to upload and our recommended optimal photo order.
1. The Hero Shot
The Hero shot should be in the first photo position. It's the first image Hipcampers see when scrolling through the search results, so make sure it's your best shot!
For structures: This should be a horizontal photo of the exterior of your structure (cabin, yurt, glamping tent, etc). Center the structure in the frame and make sure it's a bright sunny day.
For tent or RV sites: A photo of the camp site itself, where Hipcampers will set up their tent or park their RV. Pro tip: We highly recommend staging this photo with either a tent or RV depending on your site type as this helps Hipcampers envision themselves there.
2. Site overview
A simple, warm, bright overview shot of the site itself, showing the site in relation to surroundings. Typically this is a wider angle shot that gives an overview of the campground from a distance, rather than close up. Is there a pond just off to the side? Is it in a forest? Is it in the wide open desert? Is the neighbor’s house a few yards away? Hipcampers will want to know what they’re booking!
3. Amenities
For structures, we recommend sharing a well-lit photo of the interior here, ideally including the bed area. Have a special amenity like a sauna or hot tub? Make sure to share that too!
For tent/RV sites, we recommend sharing a closer up photo of any amenities Hipcampers can expect to use, such as a fire pit (ideally with a fire going), a picnic table, kayaks available for use, or anything extra special like an outdoor shower.
We also suggest including any photos of practical camping amenities such as water spigots, firewood, or hookups, but just not in the first 5 photos.
4. Nature features on the property
Camping is all about getting in touch with nature, so be sure to include photos of special views, lakes, ponds, forest trails, pastures, or any areas of your property that are special. We don't recommend closeups of plants or photos of the sky.
5. Activities on the property
What kind of activities can Hipcampers do on your property? Can they interact with farm animals, go fishing, hiking, kayaking, swimming, roast marshmallows, or soak in a tub?. If you can include people in this photo, even better!
Other important photos
We recommend adding the following photos to help set expectations and make campers feel welcome, but would suggest making sure they are not in your top 5 photos.
Required: The bathroom facilities
If you offer a loo of any sort, be sure to include a photo of it. Campers like knowing what to expect.
The approach to your property
Entrance gate, parking space, relevant road conditions
Optional: self portrait at your site
Reminds people that they’re supporting a local landowner and provides a friendly face that feels welcoming.
Tips for taking quality photos
Your first photo is the most important photo.
This is the photo that appears in Hipcamp searches, so it’s important that it accurately portrays the property. Make sure this is a clear, bright, zoomed-out shot of your property so the camper is more likely to click on it.
Clean up the site
Clear clutter, garbage, or anything that might deter a Hipcamper.
Take horizontal photos
Take zoomed-out landscape (horizontal) photos instead of portrait (vertical) photos
Use the best lighting
For outdoor shots, take photos in the late afternoon to get a warm, flattering light. For indoor shots, take photos during the day when there's lots of bright, natural light and turn on any additional lighting.
Bonus: What makes your land unique?
Have any cute farm animals? A swimming hole? A great view? Take photos! Hipcampers love seeing what makes your land unique.
What not to include:
- Photos of Google maps or land surveys
- Photos with text overlays
- Screenshots of photos
- Photos of your exact address
- Outdated or inaccurate photos
- Photos that are not your land or property
- Blurry or dark photos
For more tips on taking great photos, check out 4 Easy Tips on Taking Beautiful Photos of Your Land!
Can I use AI generated images on Hipcamp?
It's highly important to show off your property as clearly and accurately as possible to set the right expectations for visiting Hipcampers. Clear expectations lead to smooth trips.
- AI augmented images are only allowed if you are adding AI generated images of tents or vehicles to a real photo of your property to show where someone would be camping if they were to book a stay
- Adding AI generated images of amenities or features that are not on your property is not allowed
- Fully AI generated images are not allowed