Creating a Hotel Photography Shot List: The Key to a Successful Photoshoot
A thorough preparation is the foundation of high-quality visuals and a smooth production process. One of the most important tools in this preparation is a detailed shot list. It ensures your photographer fully understands your wishes, helps structure the shoot, and aligns everyone involved on what needs to be captured.
Here’s how to create a hotel photography shot list that brings your vision to life.
Why a Shot List Matters
A shot list is more than a checklist — it’s a roadmap. With it, you:
Save valuable time during the shoot.
Avoid missing important spaces or details.
Communicate your expectations clearly to the photographer.
Ensure images support your marketing objectives.
What to Include in Your Shot List
1. Define Objectives and Image Use
Specify the purpose of the shoot: is it to refresh your OTA listing, update your website, or create visuals for a campaign? The intended use will guide the type of images needed.
2. List of Spaces and Shots
Include all essential areas of your property:
Guest rooms and suites
Lobby and reception
Spa, gym, and wellness areas
Food & beverage outlets
Outdoor areas like pool and garden
Window views or surrounding area if they add value
Add context details like angles, lighting (day/night), and shot type (wide, detail, lifestyle).
3. Capture the Full Guest Experience
Think beyond just spaces — showcase the feeling of staying at your hotel. Lifestyle images with models enjoying cocktails, lounging by the pool, or dining can create emotional connections.
4. Staff and Service Shots
Feature staff to highlight service, but never use them as “fake guests.” Use professional models for lifestyle imagery.
5. Prioritize Must-Haves vs. Nice-to-Haves
Not everything carries the same weight. Mark the most essential images as “musts” and the extras as “nice-to-haves” so the photographer can allocate time effectively.
Pro Tips for a Smooth Shoot
Share the shot list with all relevant departments in advance.
Walk through the spaces before the shoot to check styling and cleanliness.
Stay flexible — unexpected opportunities often appear during the day.
Conclusion:
A well-prepared shot list turns a complex hotel photoshoot into a smooth, efficient process. It keeps everyone aligned, ensures your marketing needs are met, and guarantees a final set of images that showcase both the functionality and emotion of your hotel.
