When it comes to marketing your hotel, the phrase “a picture is worth a thousand words” couldn’t be more accurate. The right photos have the power to sell a guest on your property before they even set foot inside. But here’s the catch—how do you make even the smallest hotel rooms look luxurious, inviting, and spacious? As a professional photographer, I’ve spent years working with hotels, from boutique gems to high-end luxury suites. Today, I’m sharing my secrets for capturing stunning hotel room photos that will leave your guests eager to book a stay.

Best Hotel Room Photography Ideas

Let’s start with the fun part—creative ideas to make your rooms stand out. Even the smallest details can make a big impact when photographed well.

One trick I’ve used repeatedly is to personalize the space. Does your hotel have a distinct personality? Showcase it! For example, if you’re running a quirky boutique hotel in Central London, don’t shy away from photographing playful artwork or colorful cushions. Small pops of color and unique design elements help potential guests imagine themselves there.

For smaller rooms, capture both wide shots and close-ups of personal touches, like a cup of tea on a beautifully set tray. This humanizes the space and makes it feel inviting, despite its size.

Pro Tip: Focus on Lighting

Nothing transforms a space quite like lighting. Natural light streaming through windows softens harsh edges and highlights the best features of a room. If your rooms are on the smaller side, ample daylight can make them feel airy and bright.

How to Photograph Hotel Rooms Professionally

I’ve been on many shoots where small hotel rooms felt challenging. But trust me—professional techniques can make even the coziest rooms shine. One of my go-to tools is a wide-angle lens. This is essential because it allows you to capture more of the room in a single frame, which makes even tight spaces appear more expansive.

Declutter and Simplify

Before you start shooting, it’s crucial to declutter the space. While this sounds obvious, I can’t tell you how many hotel rooms I’ve photographed that were crammed with brochures, magazines, and leftover room service trays. Simplify the space and focus on key features—like a well-made bed with fresh linens or a sleek seating area.

Another tip? Get low. Shooting from a lower angle can make a room appear more spacious than it actually is. It adds depth to the photograph and often helps you capture the ceiling, which also adds a sense of height.

Tips for Shooting Hotel Interiors

When photographing hotel interiors, it’s all about balance. A great shot highlights not just the room’s luxury but also its practicality. For example, while it’s tempting to only photograph the lush king-sized bed, don’t forget about other amenities. Is there a cozy reading nook, a workspace, or a well-stocked minibar? Show those off too! These are selling points for potential guests.

Symmetry is Your Friend

Symmetry in photography naturally draws the eye. If you’re shooting a bedroom, center the bed in your frame and align bedside tables or lamps symmetrically. This creates a sense of harmony and balance that guests find pleasing.

Hotel Room Photography Lighting Tips

Lighting can make or break a photograph, especially in hotel rooms. As I mentioned earlier, natural light is your best friend. I always advise scheduling your shoots during the day to take advantage of sunlight. Draw back the curtains, let in the natural light, and watch how it transforms the room.

Supplementing with Artificial Light

Not all hotel rooms are blessed with floor-to-ceiling windows. In smaller or dimly lit spaces, you’ll need to rely on artificial lighting. I’ve often used softboxes to diffuse light and avoid harsh shadows. Place the lights at strategic angles to soften the overall look and bring warmth to the space.

Golden Hour Magic

If your hotel rooms have outdoor views, consider shooting during the golden hour (the period shortly after sunrise or before sunset). This time of day offers the softest, warmest light, which can make your room look incredibly inviting.

What Makes Great Hotel Room Photos?

Attention to detail makes a world of difference in hotel room photography. A well-made bed with crisp sheets, plush towels neatly folded in the bathroom, and clean, reflective surfaces are essential. One of my golden rules is to “style it like a guest is about to walk in.”

Storytelling Through Photography

Great hotel photography tells a story. Are you selling relaxation, adventure, or productivity? Capture that in your images. If your hotel attracts business travelers, for instance, make sure to photograph the desk space with a laptop, ready for someone to sit down and get to work.

Affordable Hotel Room Photography Tips

Not every hotel has a luxury budget for photography, and that’s okay! You don’t need to break the bank to get great photos.

DIY Hotel Room Photography

If you’re working on a budget, invest in a mid-range DSLR camera or even use a smartphone with a quality camera. I’ve seen some remarkable hotel photos taken with iPhones! Combine this with a tripod and a few affordable lighting accessories, and you’ll be well on your way.

If hiring a professional photographer is out of reach, focus on small but impactful investments, like renting a wide-angle lens or downloading photo editing software like Adobe Lightroom for post-production.

Professional Hotel Room Photography Services

While DIY is an option, nothing beats the polish of professional hotel room photography. A professional photographer brings years of experience, high-end equipment, and an eye for detail. Not only can they capture your rooms beautifully, but they also know how to use lighting and angles to enhance the space.

If you’re serious about showcasing your property, consider reaching out to a photographer who specializes in interiors. They’ll have the skills to transform even the smallest spaces into must-stay rooms.

Best Angles for Hotel Room Photos

One trick I always use is shooting from the corners of the room. This is particularly helpful for smaller spaces because it gives the viewer a full sense of the room’s layout. Corner shots are also great for highlighting both the room’s functionality and its aesthetic appeal.

Get Creative with Your Angles

If your room has unique features—such as a freestanding bathtub or a gorgeous view—don’t be afraid to play with perspective. Stand on a chair (safely!) or shoot from a higher angle to emphasize these standout features.

High-End Hotel Room Photography in Central London

In a market as competitive as Central London, high-end hotel room photography can be a game-changer. Whether you’re showcasing a luxury suite or a cozy single room, quality photos help your property stand out. I’ve worked with hotels in Central London where showcasing the marble bathrooms or bespoke furniture turned an ordinary room into something extraordinary in the eyes of potential guests.

Hiring a professional with experience in luxury hotel photography ensures that you’re capturing not just the room but the experience of staying in your hotel.

Conclusion: Invest in Your Hotel’s Visual Story

The secret to making even the smallest hotel rooms look stunning lies in great photography. With the right angles, lighting, and attention to detail, you can create photos that make guests want to book a stay immediately. Whether you’re DIYing it or hiring a professional, remember that quality visuals are one of your most powerful marketing tools. Invest in your hotel’s visual story, and watch the bookings roll in!

If you’d like to chat with us… Call us at 0207 139 5178

If you prefer email send us a message here: Send mail!

#londonphotographer #london #londonphotography #photography #londonlife #uk #portrait #all #visitlondon #londoncity #portraitphotography #photographer #thisislondon #photooftheday #photo #londonist #city #streetphotography #photoshoot #portraits #londonmodel #londoncityworld #ukphotographer #model #londonphoto #hotelphotographer #shooters