A few weeks ago, on the Instagram profile of the Elysée Hotel in New York City, a photo I took 10 years ago for the Library Hotel Collection was used.
Reviewing these old shots, several thoughts came to mind and I would like to recommend these 3 best practices to hoteliers:
1) IMAGES OF THE LOCATION
When preparing the shoot list to be submitted to your photographer, always consider the possibility of inserting shots of the main attractions near the structure, to tell the mood of the place and capture the attention of those who visit your site.
In selecting your photographer, consider that he is also good at creating landscapes, both urban and natural.
2) DO NOT PURCHASE STOCK IMAGES
Having your photos that have not been purchased, if not “borrowed”, on sites such as Shutterstock, Istockphoto, or Adobe stock will give you the advantage of certainly distinguishing yourself from your competitors. Seeing the same images over and over again is not the best.
3) TAKE CARE OF THE BREAKFAST SETUP
Do not underestimate the preparation of the breakfast buffet for the photoshoot.
Due to logistical needs, breakfast photos are often planned after the room is closed to guests. Photographing the remains of a buffet is unlikely to get you images that will impress potential guests.
4) CREATE LIFESTYLE IMAGES
The photo book of your hotel should not only describe the facility or present the services you offer, but it should also generate emotions in your potential guests.
Lifestyle images are meant to represent ideal real-life situations in which travelers can identify and imagine their stay with you.
Seek the cooperation of your staff or the help of a few friends and set aside time during the photo shoot for a few candid shots.
5) DO NOT CALL YOUR COUSIN!
To have a photo shoot that is overall a good investment for several years, unfortunately, it is not enough to call a friend or a cousin (who has a brand new camera that is super cool or an Iphone11), you need a professional photographer!
