For many hoteliers, the idea of a refurbishment conjures up images of fresh paint, chic furniture, and revamped amenities—all vital aspects to ensuring the property remains fresh and appealing. But there's another kind of 'refurbishment' often overlooked, one that doesn’t require knocking down walls or investing in new upholstery. We're talking about photography renewal—a process that can elevate your hotel's image, quite literally, and catalyse sales.
1. First Impressions in the Digital Age
Before they even step foot in your lobby, the majority of your guests will have 'visited' your hotel online. Websites, social media platforms, and third-party booking sites are now the primary shop windows for hotels. In this digital age, photography plays a pivotal role in shaping first impressions. A picture speaks a thousand words, and if those words are outdated or lacklustre, potential guests may never hit the 'book now' button.
2. Evolution of Style and Trends
Just as interior design evolves, so do photography styles and techniques. What looked fresh and modern five years ago may now seem dated or out of touch. By renewing hotel photography regularly, hotels can ensure that they remain in step with current visual trends and resonate with today's discerning traveler.
3. Showcasing New Features
Hotels are dynamic entities. From the introduction of new amenities to subtle shifts in branding, things change. A photography renewal ensures that these changes are adequately captured and showcased. It's about making sure the online representation of the hotel is as accurate, enticing, and current as the real-life experience.
4. Cost-Effective Transformation
While physical refurbishments can run into the millions, updating photography is a fraction of the cost. And yet, the ROI on professional, contemporary photography can be staggering. A shift in imagery can result in increased bookings, higher engagement rates on social media, and a boosted brand image. In essence, it's a cost-effective makeover with a potentially high return.
5. Flexibility in Marketing Campaigns
Fresh photos provide marketing teams with a richer palette to work from. They enable more diverse, vibrant, and contemporary campaigns. Whether it's a seasonal promotion, a special package, or a brand-wide campaign, new imagery can be the linchpin that sets a campaign apart.
6. Aligning Perception with Reality
Hotels evolve, and regular guests would notice even subtle changes in their favorite properties. Renewing photographs ensures that the online perception of the hotel aligns seamlessly with the reality. This congruence builds trust and ensures guests aren’t met with unexpected surprises upon arrival.
Conclusion
While the allure of a physical refurbishment is undeniable, it's crucial for hoteliers to recognize the power of imagery in today's digital-driven landscape. Renewing hotel photography isn't just an aesthetic decision; it's a strategic move—one that can dramatically influence guest perception and, ultimately, the bottom line. So, before you think about changing that lobby chandelier or updating the poolside loungers, consider giving your hotel the easiest and most effective makeover it might desperately need—a photography renewal.
