I’ve been thinking about taking photos of hotels and vacation properties for a long time. How long, you ask? Well, I won’t say because, you know, vanity and all that. Let’s just say I’m old enough to remember when the internet was just a baby, LOL. Yes, I’m from the last century, and proud of it!
There’s something so soothing and inspiring about hotel photography. Hotels are like little worlds of their own. People go there to unwind, take a break, or maybe even have a bit of an adventure. And what’s great about that is it makes my job fun, too! The atmosphere is always positive, and that vibe gets captured in the photos. That’s why I love working in this field so much.
How I Got Started with Hotel Photography
Over the years, I’ve had my fair share of taking photos of hotels, cute little B&Bs, and even fancy vacation houses. I’ve been everywhere, from tiny inns to massive vacation villages, snapping away with my camera. And now, since I’ve moved to Bruges (hello, new chapter!), I’m all set to continue doing what I love most – hotel photography.
Last week, I took a trip back to Brussels to shoot a vacation house in Anderlecht. It’s this grand old city house that’s being transformed into a vacation rental. The owner has been working on it for a while, constantly upgrading the rooms and making it better with every visit. This was my fourth time photographing the place! Yep, we’ve built up a nice little business relationship over time.
What Makes Hotel Photography Special?
You might be wondering, “What’s so special about taking pictures of hotels?” Well, let me tell you – it’s all about capturing the feeling. Think about it. When people book a hotel, they want to know they’re getting something special. They want to feel excited, relaxed, and confident that they’re making the right choice. A great photo can show them that!
Hotel photography isn’t just snapping pictures of a bed and some pillows. It’s about setting the mood and telling a story. The photos need to show the comfort, the style, and the little details that make each place unique. Does the hotel have a cozy breakfast nook? Or a dreamy view of the city? Maybe it’s got a luxurious pool where people can relax and forget their worries. My job is to highlight those things and make them irresistible!
My Latest Hotel Photo Shoot: A Work in Progress
The vacation house I photographed last week in Anderlecht is a work in progress. Each time I visit, it’s like something new is happening. It’s old, it’s grand, and it’s constantly changing. The owner and I have worked together on several shoots, and it’s always fun to see how much has improved since the last time.
I love working with repeat clients like this because we get to know each other better, and I can help them showcase their property’s best features as they grow and evolve. It’s all about building trust and creating a long-lasting relationship. Plus, it’s exciting to be a part of their journey.
Here are a few photos from a previous shoot, just to give you an idea of what the place looks like.
Why Hotels Need Great Photos
Let me tell you a little secret: great photos can make or break a hotel’s business. Think about it. When you’re browsing online, looking for a place to stay, what do you check out first? The pictures, right? If the photos are dark, blurry, or just plain boring, you’ll probably keep scrolling. But if they’re bright, clear, and show off the best parts of the hotel, suddenly you’re interested. That’s where I come in!
Good hotel photography is like giving potential guests a virtual tour. You want them to imagine themselves lounging by the pool, enjoying breakfast in the sunlit dining room, or snuggling into a comfy bed after a long day of sightseeing. The photos need to create an experience before the guest even steps through the door.
My Hotel Photography Journey in Bruges
Now that I’ve moved to Bruges, I’m all set to take on new hotel photography projects. Bruges is such a beautiful city, with its medieval buildings, cobblestone streets, and charming canals. I mean, who wouldn’t want to stay in a hotel here, right?
Just last week, I sent out five emails to hotels around the city, offering my photography services. I’ve done my homework, and I know these hotels could really benefit from some fresh, professional photos. Hopefully, the owners or managers will see the value in what I offer and get back to me soon. Fingers crossed, I’ll have some good news to share by the end of the week!
Why I Love Hotel Photography
There are so many reasons why I love hotel photography. First of all, it’s a creative job, and that’s what I thrive on. Every hotel is different, and each one presents a new challenge. Some places have a sleek, modern look, while others are all about rustic charm. I get to play with lighting, angles, and details to make each hotel look its best.
But more than that, I love being a part of the hospitality world. Hotels are places where people come to relax, celebrate, and create memories. Knowing that my photos might be part of someone’s vacation decision is such a cool feeling!
What’s Next for Me in Hotel Photography
So, what’s next? Well, I’m going to keep doing what I love – taking photos of amazing hotels and vacation properties! As I settle into life in Bruges, I hope to connect with more local hotels and continue expanding my portfolio. And of course, I’ll keep you all updated on my adventures.
Until then, feel free to check out some of my other work! I’ve got some cool prints available on my CatPrints by Bsilvia Shop here. You can also visit my Graphics Illustrations website here or swing by my FiveCatsGraphics shop on Etsy here.
Wish me luck on my hotel photography journey – and stay tuned for updates!
P.S.If you’re a hotel owner or manager and you’re looking for fresh, captivating photos to showcase your property, I’m your photographer! Let’s work together to create images that will make your guests fall in love with your hotel before they even arrive.