Behind the Scenes of a Hotel Photoshoot
Behind the Scenes of a Hotel Photoshoot
Capturing the perfect hotel images requires much more than just a good camera. Every space needs to be staged, lit, and carefully framed to create inviting, high-quality visuals that attract potential guests. Unlike the human eye, which perceives depth in 3D, a camera captures everything in 2D. This means that for every shot, we adjust furniture, décor, and lighting to add depth and dimension, ensuring the space looks as good in photos as it does in person.
Here’s a window into how a typical hotel photoshoot is planned and executed.
Timing and Lighting
Since natural light changes throughout the day, we plan the shoot around the sun’s position to get the best results. This ensures that every space is photographed in the most beautiful light possible.
Exterior shots and pool areas are typically taken early in the morning or late in the evening when the sunlight is soft, and the space is free of guests. This is when we take advantage of the golden hour and blue hour, terms you'll hear me mention often.
Breakfast areas and restaurants are usually photographed before opening or after service to capture the perfect setup. Often, we rearrange the food for the photo—bread and pastries are moved closer to the camera, as are fruits, to add color in the foreground.
Indoor spaces that don’t receive direct sunlight are prioritized throughout the day, while sunlit areas are shot when the light is at its best.
Exteriors are captured in the evening or morning, including ground-level and drone shots to showcase the ambiance and lighting. Again, this is where we chase the golden hour and blue hour, and these shots are typically the last ones of the day.
Staging for a 3D Effect
Guest rooms play a crucial role in marketing a hotel. Since the camera flattens depth, we adjust elements within the room to create a natural and inviting 3D effect.
Furniture and décor are repositioned to balance composition and perspective.
Bed linens are smoothed, pillows are fluffed, and small details are perfected to create an inviting atmosphere. For this, we will need a dedicated housekeeping staff on standby to help set up rooms according to brand guidelines.
Lighting is adjusted to maintain a warm, natural feel that enhances the space without making it look artificial.
Props like fresh flowers, books, or neatly placed trays are added to give the room a welcoming effect. However, some brands prefer not to have books or flowers, so we coordinate these details prior to the shoot.
Multiple angles are captured to provide a variety of images for websites, booking platforms, and marketing materials. In general, I aim for four images per room, including detail shots—some of which can be reused across similar room categories. For example, if all bathrooms are identical, we only need to shoot one.
Lobby, Lounge, and Common Areas
Hotel common areas set the tone for the guest experience, so it’s essential to capture them in their best light.
Lobbies and reception areas are photographed when guest traffic is low to keep the space looking clean and uncluttered. I prefer to shoot these spaces after checkout and before new check-ins begin.
Seating areas and lounges are carefully arranged to highlight comfort and design.
Meeting rooms and event spaces are set up in different layouts to showcase versatility, whether for business meetings or social gatherings. These rooms generally take the longest to photograph since symmetry plays a vital role.
Spa and wellness areas are shot with soft lighting to create a sense of relaxation. Often, these spaces are photographed before opening hours.
Fitness centers are captured when empty to showcase equipment and layout without distractions.
Every object in these spaces is carefully adjusted to enhance the overall composition and visual appeal.
Food & Beverage Photography
Hotel restaurants, bars, and cafés are an important part of the guest experience, so food photography is often included in the shoot.
Breakfast areas are shot before guests arrive to capture a clean and organized setup.
Plates, drinks, and table settings are arranged strategically to enhance visual appeal.
Lighting and background elements are adjusted to complement the restaurant’s design and branding.
Each shot is carefully composed to make the food look fresh, delicious, and professionally plated.
Outdoor & Drone Photography
Exterior images provide an overview of the hotel’s location, architecture, and outdoor amenities. Depending on the hotel’s setting, we take a mix of ground-level and aerial shots to highlight key features.
Exteriors are captured in the best light, either early morning or evening.
Pool and outdoor lounge areas are photographed before guests arrive to maintain a clean, tranquil look.
Drone shots (if permitted) provide a stunning aerial perspective of the property and surrounding landscape.
These images are especially important for marketing across booking platforms and social media.
Bringing It All Together
A successful hotel photoshoot isn’t just about capturing the space—it’s about telling a visual story. By carefully staging each shot, adjusting lighting, and working around the sun’s natural patterns, we create images that make potential guests feel like they’re already there.
If you’re looking for professional hotel photography that enhances your brand and drives bookings, let’s connect! I’ll work with you to create a customized shoot that highlights the best features of your hotel.
📩 Contact me today to start planning your perfect photoshoot.