If there’s one thing I’ve learned from photographing tourism operators, hospitality venues, wineries, councils, markets and destinations… it’s this:

The best shoots are never “winged.”
They’re prepared. Thoughtfully. Simply. Intentionally.

Planning upfront makes a massive difference to the quality of your photos and videos, and ultimately, how well they inspire people to make a booking or decision.

Whether you’re refreshing your visuals, telling a new story about your experience, or capturing content ahead of a busy season, here’s how to prepare so your brand shines.

1. Get Clear on Your Story (and the vibe you want to share)

Great imagery doesn’t just show what you offer — it communicates how it feels to be there.

Before the shoot, take a moment to define:

What emotions do you want people to feel?
Relaxed, excited, connected, adventurous, inspired…?
What story are you trying to tell right now?
Seasonal experiences, fresh menus, new rooms, nature moments…?
Who are you talking to?
Families, couples, foodies, hikers, corporates, locals…?

When you know the “vibe,” it shapes everything — the lighting, the talent, the props, even the pace of the shoot.

This is exactly the type of direction I help clients refine before I ever pull out the camera.

2. Decide which spaces, experiences, and people to highlight

Think of a photo shoot as curating a visual itinerary of your brand.

Ask yourself:

Which areas look their absolute best?
What are your hero experiences - the things people book you for?
Do you need talent? (staff, guests, models, friends, couples)
What practical details matter?
Steaming bedding, polishing glassware, removing clutter, lighting candles, grooming gardens, washing windows…

When you know what we’re shooting, I can guide you on how to make it look its best.

The small details elevate the entire shoot.

3. Choose the best time for light

Light changes everything.
It affects colour, texture, mood, and how your property or experience is perceived.

A few things to consider:

Morning light is crisp, clean and flattering.
Afternoon light is warm, rich and inviting.
Harsh midday sun is your least helpful friend — unless we’re shooting indoors.
Season matters too, especially for outdoor tourism and hospitality venues.

When we plan your shoot, I help map the best light for each location so we’re not fighting shadows or missing golden moments.

4. Create a simple, clear shot list

This doesn’t need to be complicated — just a guide that ensures nothing gets forgotten.

A good shot list includes:

Your must-have shots
Nice-to-have extras
Orientation requirements (portrait for reels, landscape for website banners, etc.)
Any specific uses (ads, print, socials, website hero images, editorial, signage)
Any ideas you want to convey through photos, but not sure how

I create a refined version of this with you, so you’re not guessing what’s achievable or realistic within the time.

5. First impressions count

Photos and videos are often the first interaction someone has with your destination or venue, and first impressions matter.

So treat your shoot like:

✨ A chance to showcase who you really are
✨ An opportunity to elevate the guest experience before they arrive
✨ A moment to position your brand exactly where you want it

When you prepare intentionally, your visuals don’t just look good…

They work harder for you. They convert. They attract the right guests. They increase bookings.

And that’s what I want for you.

Ready to plan your next shoot?

If you’re in tourism, hospitality, local government, or the experiences sector, I can help you plan, prepare, and capture visuals that genuinely move people.

Just reach out, and we can discuss timing, ideas, or a content refresh before the busy season begins.

How to Prepare for a Photo Shoot (So You Get the Best Possible Results)