Why Professional Hotel Photography Increases Bookings in 2025
First impressions matter. For hotels, professional photography is often the deciding factor between a booking and a bounce. In 2025, travellers make split-second decisions online — and your imagery is your strongest sales tool. High-quality hotel photography not only showcases rooms, interiors, food, and atmosphere, but also builds trust and positions your property as worth the price. In fact, multiple studies confirm that professional photography can significantly increase bookings, customer engagement, and brand loyalty. Here’s why professional hotel photography is one of the smartest investments you can make.
Why Hotel Photography Matters
Travellers shop with their eyes. 75% of travellers say photos are the most influential factor when booking a hotel (Expedia).
Better photos = more bookings. Properties with professional photography can see booking rates rise by up to 15%–67%, depending on OTA (online travel agency) studies.
Trust is built visually. Crisp, cinematic photography signals professionalism, design, and care. Grainy or generic images create doubt.
The Psychology of Booking Decisions
When potential guests browse hotels on Booking.com, Airbnb, or your own website, they:
Look at the gallery before reading text.
Form impressions in under 3 seconds.
Compare design, atmosphere, and lifestyle cues against competitors.
Photography doesn’t just sell a bed. It sells ambience, lifestyle, and memory-making potential.
How Professional Photography Boosts Revenue
Increases conversion rate: More bookings at the same traffic level = direct ROI.
Supports premium pricing: Strong visuals justify higher rates and reduce discounting pressure.
Feeds multiple channels: Website, OTAs, PR, social media, press kits.
Drives long-term marketing value: Quality images can be used across campaigns for years.
What Professional Hotel Photography Includes
Room photography (wide + detail shots).
Lifestyle photography (guests using spaces).
Food and beverage (restaurants, bars, breakfast).
Exterior and location context.
Wellness and events (spas, gyms, cultural spaces).
Social-First Hotel Photography
In 2025, it’s not just about OTAs and websites. Hotels also need social-first content — photography optimised for Instagram, TikTok, Pinterest, and YouTube Shorts. Guests expect to see vertical, lifestyle-led imagery that feels authentic, aspirational, and shareable.
FAQ: Hotel Photography
How much does professional hotel photography cost?
Rates vary depending on property size and scope. At Co-Studio, our packages start from £750/day with tailored options for hotels, restaurants, and hospitality brands.
How often should hotels update photography?
Ideally every 1–2 years, or when you renovate, launch new F&B offerings, or rebrand.
Do you also create hotel videos?
Yes — we often combine photography and brand films so hotels get both still and moving assets from a single shoot.
Do you work with small boutique hotels or only large brands?
Both. Some of our best work has been with independent design-led hotels, where storytelling is essential.
Final Thoughts
Professional hotel photography is more than an expense — it’s a direct driver of revenue. With the right visuals, hotels can attract more guests, justify higher rates, and stand apart from competitors in an oversaturated market.
At Co-Studio, we specialise in photography for hotels, restaurants, and lifestyle brands — creating imagery that is cinematic, social-first, and responsible.