What to Expect from a Hotel or Resort Brand Photo Shoot
Beautiful rooms aren’t enough—your photos need to sell the experience
In today’s hospitality market, guests aren’t just booking a bed—they’re booking an experience. And your visuals? They’re your first impression.
Whether you manage a boutique hotel, a luxury resort, or a charming vacation rental, professional hotel brand photography can elevate your online presence, build trust, and drive more bookings.
Here’s exactly what to expect when you invest in a hotel or resort branding shoot.
It Starts With Strategy—Not Just Pretty Pictures
Before we ever touch a camera, we dive into what makes your property unique:
- What do you want guests to feel when they arrive?
- Who is your ideal traveler—families, couples, solo adventurers, business guests?
- What spaces, services, or details do you want to highlight?
This discovery phase helps shape a photography plan that reflects your brand story, values, and guest experience—not just your square footage.
🎯 Read: What Makes Brand Photography Strategic—Not Just Stylish →
What We Capture in a Hospitality Brand Shoot
Unlike standard architectural photography, a hospitality brand session focuses on people, atmosphere, and storytelling.
Here’s what we typically cover:
1. Guest Experience Moments
Photos that show what it’s like to stay at your hotel:
- Check-in interactions
- Morning coffee on the patio
- Guests lounging poolside
- Cozy beds, robes, and in-room details
2. Amenities in Action
Rather than empty rooms, we capture:
- The spa or fitness center with real people using them
- Dining areas set for service
- Bartenders shaking cocktails
- Staff preparing food or welcoming guests
3. Signature Spaces & Design
Of course, we also include:
- Hero shots of guest rooms, suites, and common areas
- Detail photos of design features and curated decor
- Outdoor spaces, views, gardens, or pools
💬 Need to showcase multiple seasons? I offer recurring seasonal sessions to keep your content fresh.
Hospitality Photo Shoots That Convert
High-quality imagery does more than fill your gallery—it:
- Improves trust and click-through rates on booking platforms
- Elevates your social media and ad campaigns
- Supports email marketing and press features
- Tells a cohesive brand story that builds loyalty
📸 Want examples of visuals that build trust? Browse the Portfolio →
FAQs About Hotel Brand Photography
How long does a hotel photo shoot take?
→ Typically 1–2 full days, depending on property size and variety of shots needed.
Can you work with models or staged guests?
→ Yes! We can bring in talent or use your real staff/guests for authentic lifestyle imagery.
Do you offer styled food or restaurant photography too?
→ Absolutely. We include food and beverage imagery as part of hospitality packages.
Ready to Elevate Your Hotel’s Visual Presence?
Whether you’re a boutique getaway or a high-end destination, your photography should reflect the care and experience you deliver.
Let’s create a visual story your guests can’t wait to be part of.
About the Author | Kelly Warkentin
Kelly is the founder of Kindred Brand Imagery, a Vancouver-based Branding Photography studio who specializes in creating strategic brand imagery for small business, personal brands and hospitality brands. With 8 years of experience with building her own brand, Kelly helps entrepreneurs who want to stand out, stay true to their values, and actually connect with the people they’re here to serve. When she’s not photographing clients, you’ll find her playing with her three little ones, coffee in hand, or doing some cool things on an aerial silk.
Explore the branding photography process at kindredbrandimagery.com
