Using AI to Enhance Listing Photos — And a Suggestion for Transparency Tools

[Amr267]

Hello everyone,

I wanted to share my recent experience using AI tools in my Airbnb listing, and also suggest an idea that could benefit hosts and the platform.

As hosts, we always try to help guests imagine how they would feel in our space. Good photography shows the design — but it doesn’t always show the experience.

So I experimented with AI tools to:

• Add subtle human presence to my balcony photos (a couple enjoying coffee, someone relaxing at sunset, etc.)

• Visually demonstrate how the space is meant to be enjoyed

• Enhance the emotional storytelling of the listingAiAiAiAiAiAiAiAiAiAiAiAiAiAiAiAiAiAiAiAioriginaloriginaloriginaloriginaloriginaloriginaloriginaloriginal

Important note:

I clearly mention in the description that these human figures are AI-generated and are used only to help visualize the intended experience of the space.

The goal was not to mislead, but to help guests imagine:

• Morning coffee on the terrace

• Sunset views with loved ones

• Relaxation by the pool

Interestingly, Airbnb accepted these images without issue, while some other platforms rejected them, assuming the images showed real guests without consent — even though the listing clearly states they are AI-generated.

This brings me to a suggestion:

It might be helpful if Airbnb introduced a simple toggle or label option that hosts can use to indicate whether:

• The image contains AI-generated elements

• The image is fully original photography

This could:

• Increase transparency

• Protect hosts

• Avoid misunderstandings

• Encourage responsible use of AI tools

We are already using AI to help with:

• Writing better descriptions

• Choosing optimized listing titles

• Improving guest communication

AI is becoming a tool — not to replace authenticity — but to enhance storytelling.

I believe with clear labeling tools, Airbnb could lead the industry in responsible AI integration rather than restricting innovation.

Would love to hear other hosts’ thoughts on this.

[James4502]

@Amr267 I sometimes use AI just to improve the lighting or straighten photos, without changing too much otherwise you're misrepresenting. I've found a really good online tool that actually lets you do all your pictures in bulk. A company called LetGrow.co.uk.

[Nicola4301]

@Amr267 As a guest I do not like this at all. I like to see real pictures not a fake setting. I did not book a recent holiday as the pictures looked surreal and I thought I was getting mis-sold. I went to Booking.com instead. 

[Annabel441]

Hello @Amr267 ,

I have recently noticed an alarming amount of AI usage on Airbnb and it has not been labeled as such. It has now made me question every listing. Even something as small as altering the night sky to look prettier is enough for me to distrust. I am incredibly put off by the use of AI in these listing. If you need to edit a photo, do it yourself or hire a professional. I prefer photos to look real so I know what i'm actually getting. When things look "too perfect" it immediately sets off alarms and then you look a bit closer and you see a chair with a fifth leg. AI usage should not be encouraged in any way as I and many others would avoid booking. I do appreciate you disclosing the usage however you should label each photo as well. I still think it is a red flag and I personally will not book.