Hello, this is Ben! I am a Bali-based photographer.

I started photographing in 2013, which has helped me better understand each brand’s specific photo needs. At first, I thought that hotel photos were the same across different properties, but I’ve realized that each hotel brand has its own unique requirements, depending on how they view photos as a tool.

Hotels That View Photos for Awareness

From my observation, hotels that use photos for awareness tend to highlight the design and mood of the space. The timing and lighting are key factors in these images, with a focus on creating the right atmosphere.

Hotels That View Photos for Sales Purposes

On the other hand, hotels that consider photos as part of the sales process view them as the final step in the customer journey. These photos are designed to show what people expect, such as the room’s size, cleanliness, or how neat the pillows are. The main focus here is typically on showcasing the hotel room itself.

In conclusion, I believe that each brand has its own character and specific goals for their photos, which can vary depending on the current position or phase of the brand.

The key is always to understand your hotel brand’s photo needs—don’t just go for cheap options!

Best regards,
Ben

Hello, this is Ben! It’s time for me to share on my website.

I’ve noticed that some hotels hire photographers who specialize purely in architecture, using the same treatment as architectural photography. There’s nothing wrong with this approach, but I feel that it may not be entirely suitable.

If we pay attention to the purpose of a hotel hiring a photographer, it’s essentially for sales. The photos are meant to serve as key visuals when displayed on websites or OTAs (Online Travel Agencies), so there are specific treatments applied to make the rooms look appealing for potential customers. This is different from architectural photography.

From what I’ve observed, architectural photography is more about documenting an architect’s project, focusing on the building’s form, layout, spatial relationships, and scale with humans. These elements may not always align with the needs of a hotel. While architects also aim to showcase their designs, the context and intent are different in my view.

If there are any architects or hotel photographers reading this, feel free to share your thoughts!

Best regards,
Ben