FAQ: Prep + Shot List
How to prepare your hotel for photography—what to stage, what to simplify, and how we build a shot list that captures the spaces that actually drive bookings.
Prep + Shot List (Hospitality)
The best hospitality photography starts before the first frame. A clean, efficient prep plan keeps the shoot moving, protects brand standards, and ensures we capture the spaces that matter most for marketing.
1) Do we need a shot list?
A shot list is the fastest way to stay aligned. If you already have priorities (room categories, amenities, F&B, exterior, renovation updates), we’ll use them. If not, I’ll propose a practical list based on your website/booking flow and what typically drives conversion.
2) What should be prioritized for hospitality marketing?
Start with the booking path: exterior arrival + lobby, key room types, bathrooms, signature amenities (pool, fitness, spa), and one or two “hero” moments that feel like the brand. From there, we build supporting images for variety, detail, and continuity.
3) How far in advance should prep start?
Ideally 3–7 days out, especially if multiple departments need to coordinate (housekeeping, engineering, F&B, landscaping). The day before should be a final “reset” so we’re not solving preventable issues on shoot day.
4) What’s the most important checklist for guest rooms?
Think “show-ready, but lived-in-free.” Crisp linens, aligned pillows, clean nightstands, cords hidden, remotes/tents minimized, mirrors spotless, no wrinkled curtains, and no visible maintenance. Remove personal items, carts, trash cans, and extra signage unless brand-required.
5) What about lobbies, corridors, and public areas?
Clear clutter and “temporary” items: brochure stacks, wet floor signs, random furniture moves, delivery boxes, and cords. Straighten seating, wipe glass/metal surfaces, and confirm lighting is consistent (all bulbs working, matching color temperature where possible).
6) How do we prep food & beverage spaces?
Plan around service windows. Decide if you want “ready for guests” (clean + set) or “active lifestyle” (bartender hands, plating, pour shots). Fresh garnishes, clean glassware, and a simplified bar top photograph best. If chefs are involved, we’ll coordinate timing so food looks perfect in-camera.
7) Do you recommend people in the images?
It depends on usage. Brand/OTA images often lean “clean and timeless,” while campaigns and social can benefit from subtle lifestyle. If you want talent, we’ll plan it intentionally (wardrobe, positioning, releases) so it looks premium—not staged.
8) What time of day is best for exteriors and pool shots?
Morning and late afternoon usually photograph best. For dramatic curb appeal, twilight can be a strong add-on. We’ll schedule exteriors around sun direction, traffic patterns, and the cleanest time for the property (no carts, minimal vehicles, calm pool deck).
9) Should rooms be “photo blocked” so they’re guaranteed available?
Yes, especially for hero room types. Photo-blocking prevents last-minute swaps and keeps the day moving. If occupancy is tight, we’ll create a priority schedule and rotate through spaces efficiently.
10) Who should be on-site during the shoot?
One decision-maker is ideal—someone who can approve staging, access spaces, and align with brand standards. Having housekeeping/engineering available (even on call) helps us solve small issues quickly and protect the timeline.
11) What if something isn’t camera-ready on shoot day?
We’ll make smart adjustments and keep moving. If a key space isn’t ready, we’ll pivot to another area and return later. The goal is to maximize finished deliverables without forcing shots that don’t represent the property at a premium level.
Explore more: Hospitality • Services • Work • Contact
Want a clean, efficient shoot day?
Send your property details and priorities. I’ll help you build a clear shot list and a simple prep plan so the team knows exactly what “camera-ready” means.