Astoria Bohol, photo by Jon Lazaro Photography
When it comes to hospitality marketing, timing plays a big role in getting the most out of your visuals. While you can book a photoshoot anytime your property needs updated images, choosing the right season can dramatically enhance your photos and improve your overall content strategy.
Here’s a guide to understanding the ideal seasons to schedule a hotel or resort photoshoot — and why timing matters more than most people realize.
1. Pre-Peak Season (Best Overall Choice)
The most recommended season for hotel and resort photography is pre-peak season — the weeks leading up to your busiest months.
During this period, your property is usually:
• Freshly prepared for high occupancy
• Well-maintained and spotless
• Free from heavy guest traffic that can interrupt shoots
For tropical destinations like the Philippines, this often falls around late October to early December or late February to early April.
This season gives photographers the perfect combination of ideal lighting, good weather, and manageable crowds.
Astoria Palawan, photo by Jon Lazaro Photography
2. Dry Season (For Weather-Dependent Shots)
For resorts with outdoor amenities such as pools, beaches, gardens, or water activities, the dry season is a strong choice. Clear skies and consistent sunlight help ensure:
• Vibrant, blue-water scenes
• Crisp architectural and landscape shots
• Minimal chances of rescheduling due to rain
In the Philippines, the dry season typically runs from November to May, making it a great window for sunny, lifestyle-driven photography.
Astoria Palawan, photo by Jon Lazaro Photography
3. Holiday Season (For Decor & Festive Campaigns)
If your property goes all out with Christmas, New Year, or holiday décor, the holiday season is the perfect time to capture the festive atmosphere.
Photography during this time is ideal for:
• Holiday campaigns
• Social media content
• Themed room or lobby setups
• Seasonal dining experiences
These images are valuable not only for the current year but also for future holiday promotions.
Astoria Bohol Lantawan, photo by Jon Lazaro Photography
4. Off-Peak Season (For Flexible, Disruption-Free Shoots)
If your priority is convenience, the off-peak season is a smart choice. With lower occupancy, you can:
• Block rooms and locations easily
• Conduct longer shoots without pressure
• Avoid crowds and guest interruptions
• Capture more lifestyle photos using available staff or models
This season gives you the most flexibility in planning and executing a full-scale shoot.
5. After Renovation or Refresh Season
Not exactly a traditional season, but a strategic one—the period right after renovations, upgrades, or refurbishments. This is the best time to showcase:
• Newly renovated rooms
• Refreshed lobbies
• Updated amenities
• New dining concepts or facilities
Your property looks brand-new during this time, making it ideal for updating online listings and marketing collateral.
The Nest at Astoria Palawan, photo by Jon Lazaro Photography
Final Thoughts
Choosing the best season for hotel and resort photography depends on your goals — whether you want the perfect sunny weather, minimal guest interference, or festive visuals for seasonal marketing campaigns.
But no matter the season, what truly makes the difference is partnering with a photographer who understands hospitality, lighting, guest experience, and property storytelling.
If you’re looking for clean, elegant, and travel-inspiring visuals that highlight your property's best angles all year round, Jon Lazaro Photography is a trusted choice among hotels and resorts in the Philippines.
