Pre-opening hotel photography is one of the fundamental pillars of hospitality marketing. These are the first images that the customer will see of the property and will be a key part of their decision-making. Even if half the hotel is still under construction, I have to capture its highlights and entice the viewer to discover it for themselves.
There’s always a buzz around pre—opening shoots. Everyone is working hard towards a common goal – to prepare a new luxury property for its grand opening. I get a thrill of being behind the scenes and getting a sneak peek of some of the world’s most beautiful resorts before any customer sets foot on the premises. I also have an important role – to showcase the hotel through the camera and provide the team with images for use on their website, brochure, pre-opening, and ongoing campaigns. My hotel photography will likely be most people’s first viewing of a property.
Photographing a unique Anantara property in the UAE
I’ve worked on location for Anantara Hotels, Resorts & Spas before and I can honestly say this is top-tier luxury. When I got the call from Hana Fuchs about a top secret new hotel in Abu Dhabi, I was delighted I was available to photograph it before it opened.
Anantara Santorini Abu Dhabi Retreat is quite unlike of the brand’s other hotels and resorts in the UAE. Indeed, there is nothing else similar that I’ve seen across the whole country. It’s a beautiful 22-room intimate hideaway situated halfway between Abu Dhabi and Dubai. Although it’s around an hour from where I live in the UAE, it feels like I’ve been transported to the Aegean with its whitewashed domes and Greek-inspired architecture.
Hospitality photography in Abu Dhabi
Enjoy a behind the scenes video from my time photographing the retreat last month. From sunrise til sunset, I was there with my camera, capturing every angle. Covered terraces, the clear turquoise infinity pool and of course, those striking sunsets across the Arabian Gulf with totally unspoilt views.
I can’t wait to return for some leisure time.
I offer professional hospitality photography in the United Arab Emirates, Middle East and India. If you’d like to learn more about my professional photography to elevate your brand, please get in touch.
