How to Tell a Story Through Hotel Photography: My Recent Project with Finca Sa Bastida
Capturing the essence of a luxury hotel requires more than just showcasing the property’s physical beauty; it’s about crafting a story that resonates with potential guests. Recently, I had the opportunity to photograph Finca Sa Bastida Luxury Retreat & Spa, a stunning resort and spa in Mallorca, and this project exemplified the art of storytelling through images.
The objective: creating a weekend narrative
The goal of this shoot was to immerse viewers in the experience of a perfect weekend at Finca Sa Bastida. Working with a couple as the central characters, I aimed to capture authentic moments that highlighted the resort’s unique offerings:
In-Room Luxury: Intimate shots of the couple ordering room service, lounging in their suite, and enjoying the serene ambiance.
Wellness & Relaxation: Evoking a sense of calm through images of spa treatments, gym sessions, and swimming in the infinity pool overlooking the breathtaking landscape.
Culinary Excellence: Depicting the fine dining experiences at the on-site restaurant, Don Toni, and the exclusive wine bar.
Exploring the Grounds: Capturing the charm of the historic property, from its 13th-century architecture to its modern luxury touches.
These images weren’t just about the amenities; they were about creating an emotional connection, helping viewers envision themselves at the resort.
How to approach hotel photography
If you’re a photographer looking to break into the hotel industry, here are some essential tips I’ve learned:
Understand the Brand’s Vision: Each hotel has a unique identity. For Finca Sa Bastida, it was about blending historic charm with modern luxury. Dive deep into the property’s story and reflect that in your images.
Plan for Storytelling: Don’t just capture the property; capture experiences. Include human elements like guests enjoying the amenities or interacting with the space.
Light Is Everything: Leverage natural light whenever possible. For indoor shots, create a soft, inviting atmosphere using diffused lighting.
Focus on Details: Small touches like perfectly arranged linens, textures of the decor, or the sparkle of a wine glass add richness to your images.
Balance Wide and Close Shots: Combine grand, sweeping views of the property with intimate, detail-oriented shots to give a full sense of the space.
Be Prepared for Dynamic Shoots: Hotel shoots often involve multiple setups—rooms, restaurants, pools, and more. Be ready to adapt to changing environments and maintain a consistent style throughout.
Highlight What Sets the Hotel Apart: For Finca Sa Bastida, this meant showcasing the infinity pool, the wine bar, and the seamless blend of history and modernity.
Why hotel photography matters
In a competitive hospitality market, professional photography can make or break a guest’s first impression. High-quality, story-driven images not only attract potential visitors but also convey the hotel’s values and promise of an unforgettable stay. By focusing on the guest experience, you can create visuals that truly resonate.
Photographing Finca Sa Bastida reinforced my belief that hotel photography is about more than aesthetics—it’s about connection. Each image should invite the viewer to step into the scene, feel the atmosphere, and imagine themselves there.
If you’re a hotelier in Mallorca or beyond, I’d love to help bring your property to life through authentic, story-driven photography. Let’s collaborate to create visuals that inspire and captivate your audience.
