Models in Hotel Photography: Crafting Compelling Narratives for Guests

When it comes to architectural photography, I firmly believe in mastering the fundamentals. However, shooting for a hotel business differs from shooting for an architect or a constriction company.

While the underlying principles remain constant, in hotel photography we are asked to spaces with vibrancy, offering guests something relatable.

Certainly, crucial elements like framing, light manipulation, and styling can narrate a story. But to animate this story more vividly, models serve as a powerful tool.

Let's explore several reasons why this strategy can be advantageous for your hotel business:

More accurately showcasing the sense of scale: Models in architectural or hotel photography serve as reference points for viewers to comprehend the size and proportion of spaces, effectively illustrating room dimensions or the scale of architectural elements within a frame.

Showcasing guest experiences: Models depict how guests might enjoy the facilities, ambiance, and activities offered by the hotel. They add a relatable human element, portraying scenarios that resonate with potential visitors, thus making the property more appealing. It’s the best way of selling an experience as most of the times a word to mouth recommendation by the receptionist is not enough to sell a service that cost hundreds of dollars. Effectively showcasing these experiences, will increase the likelihood of guests engaging with these additional services, leading to increased sales and revenue for the hotel.

Defining target audience and visual character: Models help in creating a visual narrative that defines the target audience of the hotel. By selecting models that represent the desired clientele, the photographs reinforce the hotel's visual character and appeal to specific demographics. For instance, if a hotel caters to a younger, adventurous audience, using models reflecting this demographic—perhaps engaging in energetic activities like hiking and sailing, helps reinforce the hotel's appeal to that specific audience.

Adding value to production: Including models in hotel photography elevates the production quality, making it appear more sophisticated and carefully managed. A higher production value often correlates with an impression of a well-operated and higher-end establishment.

Increasing engagement on social media: Studies have shown that images incorporating individuals, such as models in this case, tend to drive higher engagement rates across various social media platforms. People naturally connect with other people, and by showcasing models enjoying the hotel's amenities, ambiance, or services, it creates a relatable scenario for potential guests. This increased engagement not only boosts the visibility of the hotel but also fosters a deeper connection with potential guests, ultimately influencing their decision-making process when choosing accommodations.

Not convinced yet? Check White dunes - Paros photo gallery where we featured models in the majority of the shots.