In an internet driven world, hotel photography can make or break the success of a hotel. These days almost all travel is booked online whether it be through a booking site such as Expedia, or directly through the hotel’s own website. Travelers tend to rely heavily on how a property looks when choosing a place to stay. Recent increases in hotel construction make it imperative that established properties do everything they can to attract guests. Updating a hotel’s photography portfolio can be a quick way to provide a fresh look and new appeal for established hotels.
We recently shot updated hotel photography for the Hampton Inn & Suites Salt Lake City/University-Foothill. This property has some truly gorgeous views and attractive amenities, however the original photography did not showcase this hotel in the best way.
The front of the hotel is the first thing people are going to see and is typically the featured image on the hotel’s website. First impressions are everything. If a potential guest is not engaged immediately there is no guarantee they will even click through to the next image or book a room.
The different angle and lighting in the new image provides a completely different perspective of the front of this property for potential guests. Pulling the camera back and showing the entire exterior presents a realistic representation of the hotel and is much more appealing. Additionally, including vegetation in an exterior image can add color and texture bringing added life to the hotel.
I cannot emphasize enough how much light can make a difference. Shooting the dining area with the light coming through the windows opens up the room and helps it feel much more inviting. The older shot on the right does not have the same warmth and welcoming nature as the newer image on the left.
Another important thing to consider when updating hotel photography is emphasizing outdoor spaces and amenities. It is particularly important for hotels that are in high tourist areas such as Salt Lake City. Any outdoor experience can add marketability to a property and entice a potential guest.
This older image does an adequate job of showing the patio area, but unfortunately you don’t get any sense of the view beyond. The stunning Utah mountains surrounding this hotel give it an extra special view that could really bring guests to the property.
Let’s be honest, if you are traveling for any amount of time, the room is probably the most important part of choosing a hotel. Shooting from the correct angle and providing different perspectives is crucial. As you can see from the two images above, moving the camera back just a bit and showing the window, can really open up the room and better represent the space.
The perfect image can give potential guest the feeling they are right there in the room. Natural light mixed with some accent lighting can really bring out the vibrant colors and warmth of the space.
While it may not be the most exciting amenity, breakfast can be a huge draw for families and business travelers. Softening the light and pulling the camera back made a huge difference in showcasing this breakfast buffet area.
Updating hotel photography can be a quick easy way to revitalize a hotel’s image and provide a fresh new look for potential guests. Whether it is to showcase new upgrades or simply change a look, an updated photography portfolio can do wonders for revamping an established hotel’s image.
It is always a pleasure to work with the fantastic team at In-Group Hospitality and Hilton Hotels. If you are considering upgrading your hotel portfolio, please contact us at Architectural Photography, Inc.: 888-688-5510 or visit ArchitecturalPhotographyInc.com.