How to Prepare Your Hotel for a Successful Photoshoot.

A successful hotel photoshoot requires more than just hiring a photographer with a camera. It requires close collaboration between client, creative director, photographer, maintenance and housekeeping crews. In short, having a proper preparation is the key for a successful photoshoot! The more organised you are, the smoother the shoot will be or in layman terms, the better the final images will be. After collaborating with several international major hotel brands, here’s how to set the stage for stunning results:

Plan Your Shot List

Knowing which are the key spaces to be featured is extremely crucial. This is because a carefully curated shot list helps maximize the session, covering only the key areas such as the lobby, guest rooms, dining spaces, spa, and lifestyle moments. Rather than spending time at every single corner and landing with mediocre image, focusing on a tight shot list will allow the photographer and the creative team to go beyond crafting a strong image. Every hotel has its own identity, so focus on what best represents your brand and highlights its details. This way the viewers would be able to understand and differentiate your hotel with others.

The Devil Is in the Details

Before every photoshoot, we will often emphasised the importance of handling the details because they are the easiest to overlook and put the responsibility to photographers. While we can do it during the photoshoot, it would be best to get things prepared before the shoot to ensure that we can focus on what we are good at and we are producing images worth your money.

As these images will be representing your luxury brand for a long term basis, it is only logical to put in the extra effort to ensure all the details are perfectly shot on location to ensure authenticity. Besides, with our high-resolution camera, even the smallest flaws can be noticeable very noticeable. Here are some of the common details that should be perfectly prepared before the photoshoot.

• Beds are neatly made, with smooth linens and fluffed pillows

• Windows are crystal clear, with no smudges or unwanted reflections

• Outdoor areas are well-maintained, with furniture arranged neatly and no stray items in sight

• Lighting is adjusted to create a balanced and inviting atmosphere

If these details are taken care well, it will almost guarantee a polished and professional outcome in the final images. Bonus tips, have at least one or two housekeeping and maintenance staff to standby on site to fix things when needed.

Prepare Your Team for a Successful Hotel Photoshoot.

A successful photoshoot is not just hiring a good photographer. It's a team effort involving preparing everyone from housekeeping, maintenance, and marketing. All the involved party should be informed of the photoshoot schedule. So that the teams are aware of the schedule and make necessary adjustments, minimising disruptions and ensuring the shoot runs efficiently.

Believe it or not, we have personally turn up on a photoshoot and nothing is prepared for us. Which highlights the breakdown in the communication of the internal teams. When this situation occurs, we will have no choice but not to proceed with the shoot as it will be more damaging to shoot it than not.

Style and Stage Thoughtfully

A touch of styling can enhance the overall appeal of your photos. With a proper styling, it can also make your images stand out among the other hospitality images showcasing your brand identity. Do consider using models to add a dynamic element and human touch to your lifestyle shots, setting up well-presented food and beverages, and arranging spaces to feel warm and inviting. Small additions like fresh flowers, elegant table settings, or neatly folded towels can make a significant impact. With the right preparation, your hotel will be captured at its absolute best, making your investment in professional hospitality photography truly worthwhile.

Now, share with us what has been the most challenging part of preparing your hotel for a successful photoshoot?