By Michelle Chaplow
I have a dream job. As a hotel photographer, I travel on assignments all around the globe with my crew to photograph some of the world’s most beautiful hotels.
I have been fortunate enough to photograph everything from brand new multi-million-dollar projects to heritage hotels, full of character, founded in a bygone age and yet still highly valued in today’s world.
Hotel photography without a doubt is an investment and good hotel photographer will not only want to capture a hotel in it´s best possible light, he or she will be mindful of the clients needs and aim to create images that `sell’ room nights.
Hotel Photography Planning Meeting
Quality hotel photography also tells a story, and stories create a need, a call to action, and hopefully a reservation. Many studies highlight the importance of photography, when selecting a hotel online, including a study by Cornell University in New York
Gourmet Marketing, tell us that after price, photography is the most important factor for travellers and prospects scanning Online travel agents) OTA sites. Photography plays a role of 60% in the decision to book with a particular hotel.
Photography plays a role of 60% in the decision to book with a particular hotel
Hotel Photography used in social media can also influence destination and hotel reservations.
Jimmy Rohampton of Forbes Magazine tells us that “Not only does social media make millennials want to travel more, it influences where they go and what they do…….”
Sunset from room 401 at the Park Hotel Vitznau, Switzerland © Michelle Chaplow
Not only does social media make millennials want to travel more, it influences where they go and what they do…
It´s worth thinking about a hotel´s Instagrammability and selecting the finest photography you have for that little “take me there” message.
Stefano Lodi General Manager at the Wellesely told me told me “we have used this image so much in or marketing, guests just love it”
Lovers of beautiful bathtubs will enjoy this image, taken at The Wellesley Hotel, London © Michelle Chaplow
When you finish a hotel assignment, you never quite know which image will become a “signature shot”.
Oberoi Rajvillas is avery unique property and this image taken in 2014 has over the years this photography has become their signature shot.
The Oberoi Rajvillas, Jaipur, India © Michelle Chaplow
And its so much appreciated when the proprietor take the time to send a thank you note. “Dear Michelle, I am speechless – this picture of Rajvillas is amazing, magical and even this does not fully describe how incredible it is. Thank you so, so….much.”
July 2014
Mr. Vikram Oberoi Chief Operating Officer and Joint Managing Director, The Oberoi Group
Sometimes a certain photograph really captures the ambience of a particular corner of the hotel such as this image from Finca Cortesin, in Southern Spain. I have seen this image published so many times, it must appeal to guests and picture editors alike.
Al fresco dinning at El Jardin de Lutz, Finca Cortesin, Spain © Michelle Chaplow
As a hotel Photographer, I feel that its not only important that the images are technically good, I am also mindful to capture the essence of the property and try to create that especially appealing “Take me there” visual image.
I do believe that hotels that invest in quality professional photography are sure to reap rewards in reservations.
I would love to hear your thoughts.