When it comes to showcasing hotel rooms on websites, social media, or printed materials, a well-prepared bed in photographs can play a crucial role. A tastefully and professionally arranged bed, especially one that is clean and adorned with plump pillows, can captivate potential guests and arouse the desire to visit your hotel and lay in such a bed. Here are several important tips on how to properly prepare a bed for photography and achieve perfect shots.
Plump Pillows and Comforters One of the key elements for achieving a plush and cozy bed appearance is using plump pillows and comforters. Ensure that the pillows are full and the comforters are nicely fluffed. This approach will make the bed look even, soft, and comfortable. Try to avoid wrinkled or creased pillows, which might appear unattractive in photographs. If you notice that the pillows have flattened, you have a few options. You can either get new pillows specifically for photography that are transferred from room to room, or you can stuff them with towels or additional pillows.
You can find a visual demonstration of how we prepare a bed for photography in the reels on my Instagram.
Properly Sized Comforter Another important aspect is using a properly sized comforter. When arranging the bed for photography, make sure that the comforter extends sufficiently over the mattress. This trick visually elongates the bed and creates an elegant impression. Opt for bedding in neutral colors, ideally white or white with a subtle pattern, and avoid bold patterns that could distract attention. The biggest mistake is using a comforter that is smaller than the bed itself.
Decorative Pillows and Throws To add an aesthetic element in photographs, use decorative pillows and throws. These details can enhance the bed's appeal and lend it an air of elegance. Combine various pillow sizes and throws while adhering to the room's harmonious color scheme. Using simple and tasteful decorations adds coziness to the bed and helps create perfectly alluring compositions. Don't go overboard with pillows. Typically, 2 large white ones and 1-6 small decorative ones are used.
Adding a Blanket To achieve a warmer and cozier look, you can place an additional blanket at the foot of the bed. Simply drape it elegantly over the bed or leave it partially rolled, creating an informal and inviting impression. This simple addition can entice guests to envision comfortable relaxation in the hotel room. However, consider whether the blanket is part of the room's design or not, and if it aligns with brand guidelines. Utilizing a lifestyle approach to room photography can be a way to stand out from the competition.
For more insights into hotel photography, you can read our article titled "How to Photograph a Hotel," where we delve deeper into this topic.
Don't Forget the Ironing In addition to all of the above, it's necessary to meticulously iron everything. Unfortunately, merely making the bed and checking all the aspects we've mentioned isn't enough. Everything needs to be manually ironed. Handheld steam irons, or steamers, are ideal tools for this purpose. More expensive models offer the option to iron a variety of fabrics. It's important to stretch the fabric and then iron it. Always iron an already prepared bed.
Properly preparing a bed for photography can influence the overall impression of a hotel room and attract new customers. Use plump pillows, appropriately sized comforters, decorative pillows and throws, and add an extra blanket at the foot of the bed for a flawless appearance. By meticulously attending to details and tastefully furnishing the room, you can create photographs that captivate and inspire potential guests to book with you.