How to arrange professional photography and videography

Your first and most important marketing task is to get professional photos and videos of your business. In hospitality, potential guests make decisions based on what they see, so investing in high-quality visual assets for your website, social media, and booking platforms is essential for attracting customers and justifying your prices.

Think of it this way: your photos are your digital shop window. Grainy, poorly lit smartphone pictures can make a beautiful room or a delicious dish look unappealing. Professional images build trust, convey quality, and allow customers to imagine themselves enjoying what you offer. They are a direct investment in your revenue.

How to Find the Right Photographer or Videographer

Don't just hire any photographer; look for someone who specialises in your field, such as food, interior, or hotel photography. Their portfolio should demonstrate an ability to capture the specific atmosphere you want to create.

• Check Instagram: Search for hashtags like #[yourcity]foodphotographer or #[yourcounty]hotelphotography to find local specialists.
• Ask for Recommendations: Ask other local, non-competing hospitality businesses who they use and trust.
• Review Portfolios: Make sure their editing style and composition match your brand's look and feel. A dark, moody style won't work for a bright, family-friendly café.

Steps to a Successful Shoot

Good preparation is the key to getting the results you want and making the most of your investment.

1. Create a Detailed Shot List: This is the most critical step. Before you even contact a photographer, list every single shot you need. Be specific! For example:
   • Wide shot of the hotel exterior in morning light.
   • Detail shot of the welcome basket in the deluxe double room.
   • Video of a cocktail being prepared at the bar.
   • Photo of a family enjoying breakfast, smiling.
2. Prepare and Style Your Space: Your location must be immaculate. Clean, declutter, and style every area that will be photographed. Steam bed linen, polish cutlery, and arrange fresh flowers or props to bring scenes to life.
3. Agree on the Details: Discuss and confirm the date, time, and expected duration of the shoot. Crucially, agree in writing exactly what you will receive: the number of edited photos, the format (high-resolution for print, web-optimised for your site), and when you will get them.
4. Confirm Usage Rights: Ensure your contract gives you the right to use the images across all your marketing channels (website, social media, print, third-party booking sites) without having to pay extra fees down the line.

Top Tips for Great Visuals

Think Vertically and Horizontally: Your website will likely need landscape (horizontal) images, while social media platforms like Instagram Stories and Reels need portrait (vertical) photos and videos. Ask your photographer to capture both orientations for maximum flexibility.

Show, Don't Just Tell: Include people in some of your shots. Photos of smiling staff or guests enjoying themselves make your business feel vibrant and welcoming. Just be sure to get their permission to be photographed!

A Video is Worth a Thousand Pictures: A short, 30-60 second video tour of your premises or showing your service in action can have a huge impact. It's perfect for your website's homepage and for sharing on social media.