Hotel photoshoots offer a wonderful opportunity to capture special memories and professional images in a luxurious setting. Whether you’re shooting for a corporate event, a dreamy wedding, or a personal milestone, a hotel backdrop can elevate the overall feel of your photos. From elegant lobbies to grand ballrooms, hotels provide a variety of visually striking environments to suit different occasions. Corporate teams might opt for sleek, modern shots that convey professionalism, while couples preparing for their big day may want romantic, fairytale-like images against ornate backdrops. Families, too, are choosing hotel photoshoots to commemorate birthdays or reunions, taking advantage of the sophisticated atmosphere.
For photographers, the versatility of hotel venues means that every session can be unique, but it also requires careful planning to get the best results. A little attention to detail can make a big difference when capturing those perfect shots. To help you plan your next hotel photoshoot, we’ve put together a list of dos and don’ts that will guide you through the process and ensure your photos turn out just as you imagined.
Do: Choose the right time of day
Lighting is everything when it comes to photography, and hotel photoshoots are no exception. Many hotels have large windows and glass walls that allow natural light to flood in, giving your photos a soft, flattering glow. For indoor shots, the best time is usually mid-morning to early afternoon when the natural light is at its brightest without being harsh. Outdoor photoshoots, especially if you’re aiming to include the hotel’s exterior, can be best planned for early morning or golden hour (late afternoon just before sunset). In Singapore, with its tropical climate, this can help you avoid both the harsh midday sun and unpredictable rain. If your shoot runs late into the evening, make sure the venue’s artificial lighting complements your vision, whether it’s warm tones for a cosy feel or cool lighting for a sleek, modern look.
Don’t: Forget to scout the location
Before you head to the hotel with your camera in hand, take the time to scout the location. Even if the hotel is a familiar spot, layouts and lighting can change depending on the time of day or even seasonal decor updates. Walk through the key areas you’ll be shooting in and visualise how your shots will come together. This will also give you the chance to pinpoint the best angles for wider scenes or close-up details, like ornate furniture or architectural features. Knowing the hotel layout ahead of time also saves valuable minutes during the shoot, especially if you’re working with clients like families or wedding parties, where timing is crucial.
Do: Get creative with your poses
Hotels offer an abundance of creative opportunities when it comes to posing. Whether you’re doing a corporate photoshoot or a family photoshoot, make sure you use the space to your advantage. For example, a family standing in front of grand windows can be elevated by adding playful interactions or striking poses. For couples, try using the hotel’s unique furniture or architecture as part of the pose – think a bride seated on an opulent chaise lounge or a couple framed by a spiral staircase. Incorporating creative family poses can make your photos stand out and tell a more personalised story.
Don’t: Overlook the importance of wardrobe
Choosing the right wardrobe for your hotel photoshoot is crucial, as your clothing should complement the surroundings without clashing. For more formal photos, like corporate or wedding sessions, opt for attire that matches the hotel’s ambience – elegant, neutral tones often work well in high-end venues. For families or more casual shoots, consider pops of colour that can contrast nicely against the hotel’s polished background without being too loud. If you’re doing an outdoor photoshoot in Singapore, especially near the hotel’s pool area or garden, ensure your wardrobe is comfortable yet stylish, as humidity and heat can impact your comfort during the shoot.
Do: Incorporate the hotel’s signature features
One of the perks of a hotel photoshoot is the chance to incorporate the venue’s unique architecture and design elements into your photos. Whether it’s the sweeping staircase, the intricate chandeliers, or the lush greenery of the hotel’s garden, make the most of what the venue offers. This can be especially fun for family photoshoots, where including striking hotel features can add an extra layer of depth and beauty to the pictures. Some hotels in Singapore, for instance, are known for their stunning rooftop views, which can make for breathtaking outdoor photoshoot locations. Don’t hesitate to ask the hotel if there are any particular areas they recommend for photos, as they often have hidden gems you might not discover on your own.
Don’t: Ignore the importance of comfort
While it’s easy to get swept up in the excitement of a photoshoot, comfort should never be overlooked, especially when working with families or large groups. Hotels, though luxurious, can sometimes have hard flooring or limited seating options. Make sure to provide breaks for any long shoots and bring along small comforts like bottled water or portable fans, particularly for outdoor settings in Singapore’s tropical heat. If you’re photographing children during a family photoshoot, keeping them happy and comfortable can be the difference between capturing candid smiles or dealing with grumpy faces.
Do: Opt for professional editing
After the photoshoot is done, don’t underestimate the power of good editing. Professional photo editing can enhance the natural beauty of the hotel, remove any distracting elements in the background, and ensure that everyone looks their best. Whether you want to highlight the opulent feel of the venue or create a clean, minimalist aesthetic, the post-production stage is crucial in bringing your vision to life. If you’re shooting in a photo studio but incorporating hotel backdrops or features, editing can help you seamlessly blend indoor and outdoor elements, giving the photos a polished, cohesive look.
Don’t: Try t do it all yourself
If you’re planning a hotel photoshoot for a big event like a wedding or a corporate launch, it might be tempting to try and coordinate everything yourself, but it’s always a good idea to hire professionals. From makeup artists to stylists and photography assistants, having a team by your side ensures that everything runs smoothly. This is particularly helpful if you’re juggling multiple setups, such as both indoor and outdoor shoots, or if the shoot involves different locations within the hotel.
Conclusion
When you’re ready to plan your next hotel photoshoot, consider reaching out to professionals who can take your vision to the next level. Firefly Photography offers photography and videography services, helping businesses, individuals, and families immortalise and materialise media assets that communicate stories, love, bonds, and glowing moments. Whether you’re after a corporate shoot or a family photoshoot in Singapore, we have the expertise to make your photoshoot truly unforgettable.
