The importance of impact photography for alpine refuges in the Dolomites.
- Gianvito Coco
- Jun 28, 2024
- 4 min read
How to plan a shooting to enhance a refuge: from the restaurant to the accommodation, and then dishes, details and experiences in the exclusive locations of the Dolomites.
In the world of accommodation facilities, especially in the Alpine refuges of the Dolomites, quality images are fundamental. Not only do they attract potential customers, but they also convey the essence of the unique experience that can be had in these exclusive locations. For managers and marketers, having professional photos can make the difference between a missed reservation and a satisfied clientele. In this article, we'll explore the importance of impactful imagery and the planning needed to achieve optimal results.
Planning the shooting
1: The structure and location: The choice of location is crucial. The Dolomites offer a variety of breathtaking landscapes, each with its own particularities. From the refuge nestled in a quiet valley to the one located at the top of a panoramic peak, each structure has its own uniqueness. During the planning phase, it is important to visit the location to identify the best angles and understand how natural light interacts with the environment. This allows you to prepare an accurate quote and better organize the shooting.
2: The accommodations: The photos of the rooms must convey comfort and hospitality. Each image must tell a story and make those who look at it dream. For this reason, it is essential to rely on a professional photographer. An expert will be able to capture not only the aesthetics of the room, but also the atmosphere inside the refuge. Showing realistic rooms with attention to the smallest details increases the trust of potential customers.
3: The dishes
Cuisine is one of the elements that most attracts visitors. Whether it is a buffet or à la carte breakfast, each dish must be represented in its maximum expression. The photos of the dishes must make your mouth water and tell the story of the chef's passion. During the shoot, it is important to work closely with the kitchen staff to ensure that every dish is perfect.
4: The common areas and services offered:
In addition to the accommodation, common spaces such as the restaurant, ski storage, bike charging areas and equipment rental areas must be photographed in order to highlight functionality and aesthetics. Every service offered by the property, from guided tours to sunset aperitifs, must be represented so that the potential customer can imagine themselves there, living these experiences.
5: The activities
The activities offered by the refuges, such as excursions at dawn or aperitifs at high altitude, are an added value that can make the structure unique. Photographing these experiences allows you to tell a complete and engaging story, inviting visitors to experience unforgettable moments.
Optimization of times and costs
Accurate planning of the shooting allows you to optimize times and costs. A well-organized photo shoot can be carried out in just one day, thus reducing the costs associated with the photographer's stay. The collaboration of the facility staff is essential: when the whole team actively participates, the work is more fluid and the images are more authentic and natural.
Service output
The final images will be in high resolution and ready to be used on social media, on the website or in offline advertising material. During the estimate phase, the terms of use of the images and the possible presence of models or extras will be defined, with the necessary written release for publications. Careful preparation and a short initial brainstorming allow you to define all the details before the day set for the shooting, always taking into account the weather conditions.
The importance of extras and models
To obtain images that not only capture the beauty of the structure, but also allow those who observe them to identify with and imagine themselves in that context, it is essential to include extras and models. The presence of people in photos adds a human element that makes the images more vivid and real. Templates can represent different situations, such as families relaxing in common areas, guests enjoying a delicious breakfast, or adventurers preparing for a sunrise hike.
When planning the shoot, it is important to consider the budget for the models. This can vary based on several factors, such as the number of people needed, the length of their commitment, and the type of images requested. During the quote phase, it is crucial to discuss these details to ensure that all participants have the necessary releases for the use of images and to clearly establish the terms of use of the photos and videos taken.
The presence of models not only improves the visual quality of the images, but also helps tell an authentic and engaging story, facilitating the emotional connection between the property and potential customers.
Conclusion
The final images will be in high resolution and ready to be used on social media, on the website or in offline advertising material. During the estimate phase, the terms of use of the images and the possible presence of models or extras will be defined. Careful preparation and a brief initial brainstorming allow you to define all the details before the day set for the shooting, always taking into account the weather conditions which play a fundamental role.
