Time to face the truth.
If you’re still relying on generic stock photos for your hotel or restaurant’s marketing, you’re doing more harm than good. Using the same overused stock images as every other blogger or marketer screams to your potential guests “I don’t care.”
Your brand photography is more than just pretty pictures — it’s a visual representation of your business’s values, personality, and mission. When your photography perfectly aligns with what your brand stands for, it creates a cohesive and authentic image that resonates with your ideal guest and audience.
Consider the emotions and associations you want your brand to evoke. Are you aiming for a sleek, modern feel? Or maybe a warm, approachable vibe? Your photography should reflect these qualities through elements like lighting, color palette, and subject matter. For instance, a downtown modern hotel could feature images of young professionals visiting the hotel bar, while a budget-friendly restaurant in the suburbs could showcase families of all ages enjoying various dishes.
The style of your photography also plays a crucial role. Candid lifestyle shots can tell a story of what your guest can expect while on your property or when experiencing your product, while polished studio-based images can create a sense of high-end or exclusive luxury. Whatever style you go for, ensure that the aesthetic aligns with your brand’s voice and values.
Remember that consistency is key. Develop a clear set of guidelines for your brand photography that can be applied across all platforms, from your website and social media to print materials and advertisements. This cohesive visual identity will help strengthen your brand’s impact and make it instantly recognizable to your audience.
And while stock photos have their time and place, exclusively displaying photography of your actual restaurant, hotel, or brand communicates just how professional and serious you are about showing your guests and customers exactly who your brand is. Build a relationship with your photographer so you can schedule quarterly photoshoots to keep your audience visually updated with the changing seasons, trends, and on-site features. This will give you more content for your website, social media, email marketing, and print marketing collateral, ensuring you’re consistently putting your most polished visual foot forward.
Ready to revamp or elevate your hotel, restaurant, or luxury good’s photography? Our team at Fortissima specializes in art directing authentic and impactful brand photography to beautifully showcase your values and features to your guests and customers. Contact us today to get started on building a cohesive brand that will appeal to your ideal guests and customers.