január 12, 2026

The 5 Most Common Mistakes Hotels Make Before a Photo Shoot

Hotel Photography

Professional hotel photography starts with proper preparation. Discover the five most common mistakes hotels make before a photoshoot and how to avoid them for better results.

Professional photography can completely transform how a hotel is perceived. But even the most skilled photographer can’t fix poor preparation. A successful shoot depends on more than just lighting and lenses — it begins with how well the property is staged, styled, and organised beforehand.

Here are five common mistakes hotels make before a photo shoot, along with tips on how to avoid them.

1. Rushing the Preparation

One of the most significant errors is scheduling a shoot before the property is fully ready. Fresh paint, missing décor, or last-minute maintenance can cause delays and affect results. I had occasions when furniture and decor were missing due to unfinished renovations. A rushed setup always shows in the final images. Give your team enough time to prepare each space so it truly reflects your brand at its best.

2. Ignoring the Light

Natural light changes everything. Yet many hotels book shoots based solely on calendar availability rather than light conditions. The result? Harsh shadows or dull tones that no amount of editing can fix. Work with your photographer to plan around the building’s orientation and the best time of day for each space.

3. Forgetting the Small Details

Cables, fingerprints, uneven curtains, or misplaced furniture can ruin an otherwise perfect shot. It might seem minor, but visual clutter can distract from the room’s atmosphere. Assign someone on-site to check every detail before each scene is photographed.

4. Overstyling (or Understyling) the Space

Some hotels overfill rooms with flowers, trays, and props that make the space feel artificial. Others do the opposite — leaving everything too bare, which looks cold and impersonal. The key is balance. Props should feel natural, not staged, and reflect the tone of your brand: elegant, inviting, and genuine.

5. Not Communicating the Purpose

Every shoot should have a clear aim. Are the images for the website, OTAs, social media, or print adverts? Different platforms require different compositions and orientations. When hotels fail to brief their photographers on usage, they often miss key shots or have to arrange follow-up sessions later.

Final Thoughts

A photo shoot is more than a checklist — it’s an opportunity to shape how your hotel is perceived globally. Preparation makes the difference between a decent gallery and a collection of images that truly sell the experience.

By avoiding these common mistakes and working closely with your photographer, you can ensure your property looks its absolute best — not just stunning, but believable.

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