How to Capture the Most Aesthetic Content for Hotels as a Travel Creator

Creating visually stunning content for hotels is essential as a travel creator. Not only does it help you stand out, but it also builds your portfolio and strengthens your chances of securing future collaborations. Here’s a guide to help you capture the most aesthetic hotel content that wows both your audience and potential partners.

1. Scout the Location in Advance

Before you start shooting, take a walk around the hotel to identify the most photogenic spots. Look for places that showcase the hotel’s unique features, like a beautifully designed lobby, a scenic view, or an inviting pool area.

• Tip: Arrive early to scout the best locations before they get crowded. The more you plan, the smoother your shoot will go.

2. Focus on Natural Light

Natural light can make or break your photos. Aim to shoot during the golden hours—just after sunrise or before sunset—when the light is soft and flattering. If you’re shooting indoors, position your subject near large windows to take advantage of the available light.

• Tip: Turn off artificial lights when shooting interiors, as they can create harsh shadows and color casts that are difficult to correct.

3. Capture the Details

While wide shots of grand spaces are essential, don’t forget to focus on the little things that make the hotel unique. Think of beautifully plated food, elegant décor, plush bedding, or the textures of furniture.

• Tip: Use a macro lens to capture intricate details up close, and experiment with angles to find the most flattering perspective.

4. Incorporate Movement

Adding movement to your shots can make them more dynamic and engaging. Whether it’s capturing a flowing curtain, ripples in the pool, or someone walking through the space, movement can breathe life into your content.

• Tip: Experiment with slow-motion video to highlight movement in a more cinematic way, especially if you’re focusing on water or fabric.

5. Leverage Symmetry and Leading Lines

Symmetry and leading lines naturally draw the viewer’s eye and create a sense of balance in your photos. Look for opportunities to use architectural features like staircases, hallways, or perfectly aligned furniture to create visually pleasing compositions.

• Tip: When shooting symmetrical compositions, ensure your camera is level to maintain balance in the shot.

6. Showcase the Experience

Rather than just capturing the space, focus on how people interact with it. This could be lounging by the pool, enjoying breakfast in bed, or soaking in the bathtub. Showcasing these experiences makes your content more relatable and aspirational.

• Tip: Use a tripod and timer or work with a friend to help you get in the shot. Authentic moments that include people often perform better.

7. Create Consistency in Editing

Consistency in editing helps create a cohesive look across your content. Choose a color palette that suits the hotel’s vibe—warm tones for cozy, intimate spaces or cool tones for modern, sleek designs—and stick to it.

• Tip: Consider using Lightroom presets to maintain consistency across your images. Small tweaks in color grading can elevate your content.

8. Capture Different Perspectives

Don’t limit yourself to eye-level shots. Experiment with different perspectives—shoot from above, below, or even through objects. This can add depth and interest to your photos, making them stand out from the typical travel shots.

• Tip: For a fresh angle, try capturing reflections in mirrors or windows. This can create an interesting, artistic effect.

9. Use Props to Add Life

Incorporating props, like a stylish hat, a cup of coffee, or a travel guide, can add life and context to your photos. They help tell a story and make the scene feel more lived-in and relatable.

• Tip: Keep the props minimal and aligned with the overall aesthetic. You want them to enhance, not overwhelm, the scene.

10. Stay Mindful of Composition Rules

While creativity is key, classic composition rules like the rule of thirds, framing, and negative space can help you create balanced and visually appealing images.

• Tip: Use the grid feature on your camera or smartphone to help align your shots with the rule of thirds. This simple tool can instantly improve your composition.

11. Tell a Story

Finally, the most effective content tells a story. Think about how your photos or videos can guide the viewer through the hotel experience, from check-in to relaxation. Every shot should serve a purpose in conveying that narrative.

• Tip: Plan your shots with a beginning, middle, and end in mind. For example, start with an exterior shot, move to the room details, and finish with a breathtaking view or a cozy night in.

By following these tips, you can create content that not only captures the essence of the hotels you’re staying in but also resonates with your audience and potential collaborators. Whether you’re just starting out or looking to elevate your game, these practices will help you produce aesthetic, standout content that turns heads. Happy shooting!