Hotel Photography Preparation Checklist
Hotel Photography Preparation Checklist - By Department
High-quality hotel photography is crucial to draw visitors and highlight your establishment's unique character. If appropriately prepared, every shot will showcase your hotel's atmosphere, features, and overall visitor experience. Our hotel photography preparation checklist includes essential actions to prepare your property for filming, such as setting up staging areas and maximizing lighting. These tips can help you produce visually striking images that leave an impression, whether working with a professional photographer or taking your own pictures.
Here are the following checklist preparation tips for hotel photography (by department).
Housekeeping Department
Guest Rooms
Deep clean all rooms to be photographed
Iron and pin bedspreads to mattresses
Fluff and arrange pillows symmetrically
Remove all amenities (coffee makers, ice buckets, tissue boxes)
Hide all cables and electronics
Store ironing boards and hair dryers
Remove trash bins and laundry bags
Ensure curtains are pressed and positioned uniformly
Remove all door hangers and paper materials
Close all closet doors
Bathrooms
Deep clean all surfaces
Remove all toiletries unless new, and part of the styling
Position toilet lids down
Arrange towels uniformly on racks
Clean and style shower curtain as per property specifications
Remove all personal care amenities from the vanity
Ensure mirrors are spotless
Public Areas
Remove all housekeeping carts
Clean all windows and glass surfaces
Dust and clean all artwork
Remove ice bucket stations
Clean and organize bell cart storage area
Ensure all furniture is dust-free and properly positioned
Maintenance Department
Lighting
Check and replace any burnt bulbs
Clean all light fixtures and lamps
Ensure consistent light temperature throughout the property
Test all exterior lighting
Clean all windows and glass doors
Technical
Hide all visible cables and charging stations
Be on standby for immediate fixes during the shoot
General
Store all maintenance equipment and tools
Clean and organize supply closets
Remove any visible extension cords
Check all mechanical equipment is hidden
Food & Beverage Department
Restaurant
Clean and set up the dining room for service
Remove condiments and marketing materials
Hide service stations and bus tubs
Store high chairs and booster seats
Arrange tables and chairs uniformly
No disposable utensils or tableware visible
Bar
Clear counter areas of operational equipment
Remove bar mats and speed rails
Hide POS terminals
Arrange bar seating uniformly
Remove table numbers and reservation stands
Breakfast Area
Set up a complete breakfast display (after regular service hours)
Ensure all china and silverware are spotless
Close and secure all cupboards
Arrange to sit uniformly
Front Office Department
Lobby
Remove all temporary signage
Clear front desk of operational items
Remove promotional materials and brochure racks
Organize seating areas
Remove staff personal items
Hide all operational equipment
Business Center
Clean and organize workspace
Arrange chairs uniformly
Remove any operational supplies
Ensure computers and printers are tidy
Recreation Department
Pool Area
Store all cleaning equipment
Arrange loungers and umbrellas symmetrically
Remove towel bins and service stations
Clean and position all cushions
Clear tables of any materials
Turn on water features if applicable
Fitness Center
Position equipment attractively
Remove any maintenance tools
Clean all machines thoroughly
Turn off TVs
Organize any free weights or accessories
Security/Valet Department
Exterior
Block off parking spots near the entrance
Clean and organize parking area
Remove any security equipment from view
Ensure the valet area is clear and organized
Monitor guest access to shooting areas
Management Responsibilities
Pre-Shoot
Brief all departments on the schedule
Assign area monitors
Schedule deep cleaning
Plan guest traffic flow
Review the shot list with the photographer
Brief staff on wardrobe if appearing in photos
During Shoot
Coordinate between departments
Monitor guest flow
Keep communication channels open
Document moved items for replacement
Ensure staff coverage in all areas
FINAL THOUGHTS
Hotel Photography Checklist
A beautifully equipped hotel creates the ideal backdrop for breathtaking photographs reflecting its charm and personality. Using this hotel photography preparation checklist can ensure that every area is presented in the best possible light, emphasizing the elements that draw visitors and encourage reservations. Careful planning produces stunning photos that capture the essence of your hotel and create a memorable impression. If you take the time to do it correctly, your brand will benefit significantly from your photos.
