Since I started the topic of strange choices for cover pictures and a HO rushed to check theirs, I thought it would be nice and helpful to share what type of cover pictures we prefer. It could be something generic or specifically seen on a listing.
My favourite ones are pets, that’s what attracts me to a sit in the first place.
I also like a nice room with gorgeous views.
The best: everything together in just one picture: gorgeous, cuddly pets in a nice room with great views.
Today’s favourites:
a closeup of a lovely cat lying lazily on his hammock.
a closeup of a Yorkie and a cat sitting together.
a nice, tidy, clean kitchen with a cat in a corner.
A characterful pet pic is always good, or the homes best feature. Whether that’s the landscape, a pool, a lake, a conservatory, a nearby tourist attraction etc.
I want a clean kitchen, bathroom, and bedroom, but I never click into those pics if an HO has that as their best feature, I just expect those things automatically.
I only like those if the area is totally unknown to me. I find it particularly annoying when there are lots of pictures of attractions and descriptions of points of interest and then it turns out that you can’t really get to visit them because of pet care requirements.
A few shots grabbed my attention this miserable Monday morning. Admittedly day-dreaming rather than seriously searching, but they look like great sits, so you never know…
An interesting looking house. The listing reveals that the owners were inspired by watching too many episodes of Grand Designs, and took on their own house-building project four years ago. Location looks great, and pets adorable too!
Percy the spaniel! How could anyone resist this handsome little fella, especially when he’s posing against such a scenic backdrop?
I’m a sucker for a converted barn, and this one comes complete with two Alpine kitties and stunning mountain vistas. Check out that woodburner! Own vehicle required – 4WD or snow chains essential.
EDIT: Screengrabs of listings now removed, so apologies if post seems a bit random!
I remember there being a topic about what sort of cover picture attracted sitters at some point in the past. I think the outcome was that we are all different and drawn to different types of photo.
At the time, I realised that there is no one type of photo I like best as a cover photo. I think @HappyDeb has nailed it by suggesting choosing the best feature.
I am most drawn to cute pet photos, interesting or unusual houses, attractive gardens and beautiful views. Occasionally a really attractive room might catch my attention - either somewhere I can see us relaxing or a great kitchen.
I remember an HO asking for advice. I haven’t been able to find with the search option but I think the votes were divided mostly between a very cute picture of the pets (the one I chose) and the picture of a pool. I believe the pool won.
Sometimes it’s the quality of the picture that makes it attractive: the light, a particularly good frame and angle, etc. But, obviously, not everyone is a good photographer or masters the tools to edit and upload the photos correctly. I have seen quite a few upside down or sideways.