Having good photos of your property is absolutely necessary.

People that research hotels online need them to understand where they are going to stay, what are the things they can do, and how they can spend their time. Photos and videos are the best means to show them.

Even though it is easy to understand why photography is necessary,  it is more difficult to understand how important it is in today’s complex online world, and how it can make a difference for the sales of your business.

SO, WHY SHOULD YOU CONSIDER PHOTOGRAPHY A GOOD INVESTMENT?

It is amongst the most important decision factors for travellers

Research from Tripadvisor (TripBarometer | Travel Trends 2016) shows that 79% of travellers consider photos/videos important when booking their accommodation. The better the quality of your photos – the more likely they will choose your property instead of a competitor.

Photography can make a difference in various online channels

OTAs – Meta search and Review sites:

When travellers search for the hotel they like, it is important to have access to all available information. Quality photos that present every detail of your property, helps visitors realize that you have what they need.

Website:

Your website is the place where you have full control of how you present your business. You need photography to tell your story and engage your audience. Photos that show the style of your hotel, highlight your unique selling points, and create emotions.

Social media:

Facebook and Instagram are becoming more and more important. When it comes to photography it is a whole different game than the website. In social media you have followers, likes, and shares. People can get excited by a photo, shared by an online friend and be inspired to visit your place.   You need photos that will delight your followers. Photos that will be shared and spread in a wider audience.
It can express the personality of your business and make your hotel stand out from the competition

Are you a family friendly hotel, or do you care more for couples? Are you trying to attract younger customers or you are targeting older generations? Know your target audience and tell them a story that they like. Show them photos that present their future experience in your property. Make them feel that your property is the ideal for them.

It is an investment with high ROI

Although it is not possible to have an accurate estimation of the return of investment of photography, it is certain that good photography can help you attract more clients and increase your reservations. It is an investment that contributes to the sales of your business for a long term period. When done properly it is an action that can make a difference in your sales and profits.

So, if you feel that you need new photos of the hotel, but you are considering the cost of a professional photo session, think also of the sales you are missing because you don’t show to your online guests the best image of your business.