US influencer slapped with $10,000 fine for taking selfie at California’s ‘invisible house’
The influencer also criticised the high-priced rental, saying the serene appearance didn’t match the experience.
What was meant to be a luxury getaway in California’s Joshua Tree turned into a nightmare for a US influencer after he was fined $10,000 ( ₹8.7 lakh) for taking a selfie.
TikToker Sean Davis said he was billed the amount by the owners of the “Invisible House,” a $2,400-per-night glass-walled property that has gone viral online and even featured on Netflix’s World’s Most Amazing Vacation Rentals. The futuristic retreat has also hosted celebrities like Demi Lovato and Lizzo.
The selfie that sparked the fine
According to the New York Post, the issue began when a friend’s girlfriend clicked a selfie in the bathroom and posted it on Instagram. The property owners said this violated their strict “no commercial photography” policy, which prohibits posting promotional-style content without prior approval.
Mr Davis said he was stunned by the charge. “We didn’t actually shoot any brand content in the house. We shot outside, but they had an issue with a selfie,” he told the outlet.
Complaints about the stay
The influencer further criticised the high-priced rental, claiming the house was uncomfortable despite its serene appearance. He noted that the glass walls turned see-through at night and that the property creaked loudly “like a skyscraper.”
Owners defend their policy
The owners argued that sharing the selfie publicly amounted to promotional use of the property. Davis, however, maintained that it was just a spontaneous personal photo.
The dispute has since gone viral online, sparking debate about strict rules at luxury rentals and whether social media posts should be considered “commercial use.”