Behind the scenes of a social media production for a tourist facility or restaurant
- Gianvito Coco

- Aug 7
- 3 min read

In recent years, visual communication has become increasingly central to tourism facilities, lodges, and restaurants. Creating authentic, realistic, and engaging photo and video content has become essential to being chosen and remembered. That's why today I want to take you behind the scenes of a typical content production day for a facility, explaining how everything is organized: from planning to post-production, including scenes, outfits, extras, and logistics.
It all starts from a clear and shared idea
Every production begins with a briefing and brainstorming session. Together with the property, we define what we want to communicate and to whom. Is it a family retreat? A romantic resort for couples? A destination for hikers? This first step allows us to identify the key elements to highlight—the atmosphere, the services, the setting, the moments to share—and structure a narrative that will guide the entire day.
Setlist and extras: the story takes shape
Once the content to be produced is clear, the day is organized around the scenes to be filmed. Extras are chosen based on the target audience (families, couples, young people, athletes, etc.) and a list of outfits is proposed for each situation. This detail is more important than it seems: the choice of colors and clothing has a significant visual impact.
A little professional tip: avoid green clothing (it risks blending in with the natural background), and avoid overly bright colors or intrusive patterns like checks and florals. The goal is to maintain a coherent, uncluttered image that enhances the structure and isn't distracting.
Timeline of the day and accessory equipment
In the case of a hospitality facility, the event often begins with breakfast: scenes in the dining room, on the terrace, or in a room with a view. Then, the group moves on to the excursion—if planned—in appropriate attire (technical clothing, backpack, map, poles, bike, guide, possibly a branded van, etc.). After returning, the group moves on to aperitifs and dinner in more casual attire, concluding with scenes in the pool or spa.
An important tip is to shoot all the scenes in swimsuits at the end , so as not to interrupt the rhythm of the day with showers or downtime.
The structure must take care to provide accessories in line with the experience it wants to communicate:
Branded bathrobes and slippers
Hiking maps
Magazines and information materials
Bike or trekking poles
Local guide or companion
Clean and visually well-maintained van

Photos and videos: same moments, two languages
To optimize time, the same moment is first photographed (with more static poses) and then filmed (with natural movements and spontaneous actions). The photos are used for websites and social media posts, while the video clips (vertical and horizontal) are edited into reels, stories, commercials, or landing pages. The result? A coherent, fluid, and professional story.
A smiling team makes the difference
Although extras aren't actors, it's essential that they maintain a natural, cheerful, and relaxed attitude throughout the day. This is one of the most difficult things to achieve, especially with children or teenagers. Part of my job is also knowing how to manage these moments, creating a playful and lighthearted atmosphere, without ever losing sight of professionalism.
Important note: Extras and model costs are not included in my fee and are generally handled by the venue.
Editing and delivery
Once the shoot is complete, the silent but crucial work of editing begins, entirely handled by me. Post-production is never standardized: each piece of content is colored, refined, and cut based on the property's visual identity. The tones, contrasts, lighting... everything must speak the language of the location, to give the message consistency and recognizability.
Deliveries are always met within the established deadlines, because today content must be ready quickly, often for specific campaigns, events, or seasonality.
Why all this work?
Because today, those who view content on social media must imagine themselves already there . They must live the experience before even booking it. They must feel the atmosphere, the quiet, the aroma of the food, the warmth of the sun on the balcony, the freshness of the forest, or the relaxation of the spa.
Beautiful images aren't enough: we need authentic visual experiences , told with care, respect, taste, and technique. This is my job, and every new production is a challenge I embrace with enthusiasm and care.

Make the experience come alive before it even begins: this is the power of a well-done shoot.
Every detail, from planning to final editing, contributes to creating content that truly captures the soul of a property. It's not just about photos and videos, but experiences that inspire and entice you to leave.
If you want to maximize the value of your tourism or restaurant business, I'm here to help you do so with authenticity and vision.



















