How to Prepare for a Hotel Photoshoot
Hotel photography in Phnom Penh, Siem Reap and across Cambodia
A well-prepared property makes a huge difference to the final images. Good preparation saves time, allows more areas to be photographed and results in cleaner, brighter and more consistent images. Please try to complete as much of the preparation as possible before the photographer arrives.
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Food and Beverage Setup
Staff Readiness
Examples
Final Walkthrough
General Cleaning and Presentation
Make the bed neatly with smooth sheets and as few creases as possible. This has a huge visual impact. See examples here.
Clean all windows, glass panels and mirrors.
Arrange curtains neatly on both sides and remove visible creases.
Ensure floors are clean and free from dust or marks.
Clean behind furniture, as items may be moved during the shoot.
Check the outdoor view from the room. Remove brown leaves, tidy plants, prepare sunbeds and ensure the pool area looks fresh.
Remove any dead or dry leaves from indoor and outdoor plants.
Amenities and Setup
Ensure all rooms are fully stocked with guest amenities.
Make sure the minibar is stocked.
Fruit bowls are optional but can add a lot to the room. I would recommend adding one.
Fresh flowers are optional, but don’t make them too extravagant.
Check that lighting works in every corner of the room.
Room Selection
Choose rooms with the best possible views.
Prioritise rooms that look out onto trees, sky, gardens or the pool rather than buildings or rooftops.
If your hotel has several room types, prepare a selection that represents your property well.
Pool and Outdoor Areas
The pool is one of the most important locations for hotel photography. It can look very different depending on the time of day, so it must be fully prepared before the shoot begins, and ideally be available during the duration of the photoshoot or ready at a pre-agreed time.
Remove brown or fallen leaves from plants and the pool surface.
Arrange sunbeds, towels and umbrellas neatly.
Ensure the pool water is clean and clear.
Keep the area clean and ready during the entire shooting time.
Staff Preparedness
It is ideal to have 1 or 2 staff on standby if possible so that they an assist with getting props such as cocktails or curtain ties if needed.
If you want staff or models included in the photos:
Arrange for them to be available for the entire duration of the shoot.
Inform the photographer if they need to leave at a certain time.
Have staff ready to prepare drinks or other props when needed.
Ensure uniforms are clean and neatly presented.
Examples of Good and Bad Preparation
The first example shows a well-made bed with smooth sheets. This is the standard to aim for.
Well Prepared:
The second example shows a bed with visible creases and uneven pillows. Please smooth out bedding as much as possible to avoid this.
Poorly Prepared:
Final Checklist
Rooms clean and fully prepared
Bedding smooth and neatly arranged
Curtains tidy and even
Lighting checked in all areas
Outdoor view tidy and clean
Pool area prepared early
Amenities stocked
Staff or models ready (if required)
FAQ
What areas of Cambodia do you offer hotel photography in?
I work across Phnom Penh, Siem Reap, and Sihanoukville, with availability for resorts throughout Cambodia. I photograph both luxury hotels and boutique properties of any size.
Do you photograph both rooms and public spaces?
Yes. I cover rooms, suites, lobbies, pools, restaurants, bars, spas, meeting rooms, and all key areas needed for OTA and website listings.
Do you offer food photography for hotel restaurants?
Yes. I provide professional food photography for hotels and standalone restaurants, using the same bright and modern style used in my room and resort images. This is ideal for menus and online presentation.
Can you match our hotel’s brand guidelines?
Yes. I photograph each space with consistent lighting, color accuracy, and composition to match your brand standards and marketing requirements.
Do you work with both luxury hotels and smaller boutique properties?
Yes. I regularly work with luxury hotel brands as well as boutique resorts and privately owned properties across Cambodia.
Can you work within different budget ranges?
Yes. I offer flexible packages for hotel photography depending on the number of room types, public areas, and food coverage required.
Are you a specialist in hotel photography?
Yes. Hotel and resort photography is my primary focus, and I have extensive experience working with properties throughout Cambodia.
Are you available for luxury hotel photography?
Yes. I frequently photograph luxury hotels and upscale resorts, capturing each space with the lighting, detail, and accuracy required for premium marketing.