Hotel Photography Full Guide for Marketers and Hoteliers
Whether you’re preparing a multi-property shoot or refreshing your website gallery, this guide walks you through three essential phases: planning your project, capturing standout imagery, and turning photos into bookings. Each section pairs real‐world questions with concise, actionable answers—and points you to in-depth articles for more detail.
The Basics of Hotel Photo Visuals
What exterior shots should hotels include?
Capture the grand entrance, key architectural details and surrounding landscape. Shoot both daytime hero images and nighttime illuminations to showcase your property in its best light.
What interior shots should hotels prioritize?
Highlight inviting public spaces—lobbies, lounges and reception areas—using balanced composition and warm lighting to convey comfort and style.
Which amenities and facilities need photographing?
Document fitness centers, spas, pools, conference rooms and other unique features. Showing these spaces in use helps guests envision their stay.
Tips for a Successful Shoot
Collaborate with staff on room prep, furniture layout and access. • Build flexibility into your schedule to handle weather or lighting changes. • Provide a detailed brief—shot list, timings and style guidelines—to keep everyone aligned.
See our Short Guide to Hotel Photography
Shoot Checklist for Hotel Photography
This checklist guides marketing managers through every phase of a hotel photoshoot—from defining scope and planning logistics to scouting on-site and nailing your shot counts.
How should I define the project scope?
Start with a 10–15 minute kickoff call (phone or Zoom) to agree on goals: number of photos, priority spaces, timing and any access constraints. Summarize these details in a shared brief so everyone’s on the same page.
What’s the best way to plan shoot logistics?
Choose dates and time slots that avoid peak check-in/out periods, then confirm vendor roles, on-site contacts and guest-flow protocols. Distribute a detailed schedule and shot list to your operations and housekeeping teams at least 24 hours before.
Should I conduct a site scout before shoot day?
Absolutely. Walk through every location to verify access, lighting conditions and styling needs. Use this opportunity to flag any prep—furniture layout, décor tweaks or room readiness—to prevent last-minute delays.
How many exterior shots do I need?
Plan for: • 1–2 daytime hero frames (main façade) • 1 nighttime showcase (lit-up architecture) • 1–2 parking/valet views • 1–3 pool and cabana scenes • 3–5 lifestyle vignettes (bars, daybeds) • 2–3 environmental context images (city, beach, gardens)
How many interior shots per room type?
Aim for: • 3 images for standard king/queen rooms • 3–5 shots for suites and doubles • 6–10 photos for villas or penthouses This range ensures guests get a rich “virtual tour” of each accommodation.
Which amenities and facility photos are must-haves?
Include: • 1–2 reception and lobby shots • 1–2 elevator or lounge areas • 2–3 F&B outlets (restaurant, bar) • 2–3 fitness/spa images • 3–5 conference and event spaces • 2–4 special venues (chapel, retail, concierge)
See our Hotel Photography Shoot Checklist
Best Hotel Photographers
How to qualify your photographer?
Look for proven hospitality experience and a portfolio of similar luxury or boutique properties. Ensure they understand project management, logistics and your brand’s unique needs.
How much should I budget for hotel photography?
Set a budget that reflects your quality goals, prioritizing long-term value over lowest cost. Include usage rights, licensing and post-production fees to accurately gauge ROI.
Read more about How to Choose a Photographer for Your Hotel – Guide
Hotel photography photo list
Hotel exterior Basic photo list?
• Daytime exterior hero shots: 1–3
• Nighttime hero shots at sunset/dusk: 1–2
• Pool area (indoor/outdoor): 2–5
• Environmental “postcard” views (beach, landscape, city): 1–10
Hotel interior Basic photo list?
• King rooms (main room, bath, work & sitting areas): 2–3
• Queen rooms (main room, bath, work & sitting areas): 2–3
• Double-bed rooms (main room, bath, work & sitting areas): 2–3
• Accessible rooms (focus on usability features): 2–3
• Suites I (main room, bath, living & work areas): 3–5
• Suites II (main room, bath, living & work areas): 3–5
• Penthouses/villas (full layout, premium details): 4–8
See our full photo list for hotel photography for more categories and best-practice shot counts.