How Long Does It Take to Plan and Complete a Resort Photography Project?

 For resort marketing directors and hospitality teams, timing is everything. You need to plan campaigns around seasonal demand, property renovations, or new restaurant openings. A common question we hear is: “How long does a resort photography project actually take from start to finish?” The answer depends on scope, but here’s a detailed look at the process so you know what to expect.

Planning and Consultation (2–4 Weeks)

The process begins with discovery. We’ll meet to understand your goals, marketing timeline, and brand voice. This is where creative direction takes shape—whether you need hero images for a new campaign, lifestyle shots of guests enjoying your amenities, or updated interior photography. Larger properties with multiple outlets may require additional planning time.

Pre-Production and Logistics (2–3 Weeks)

Once we’ve aligned on the creative brief, we move into logistics. This includes scouting the property, reviewing shot lists, scheduling talent (models, staff, or guests), and coordinating with your marketing team. At this stage, we also map out lighting requirements and technical details. Proper preparation ensures we maximize every moment on shoot day.

On-Site Photography (3–7 Days)

Depending on the size of your resort and the variety of spaces, photography sessions may take several days. We often work around guest occupancy, capturing spaces during off-peak times or staging areas for shoots. Our team brings professional strobes and equipment to ensure polished, editorial-quality imagery—whether we’re shooting sunrise exteriors or candlelit dining rooms.

Post-Production and Editing (3–4 Weeks)

After the shoot, we carefully select and retouch images to ensure they align with your brand’s look and feel. This stage is where raw captures transform into marketing-ready assets. From color grading to detail retouching, our post-production process maintains consistency and elevates every image to luxury standards.

Final Delivery (On Time, Every Time)

Our clients value punctuality, and we pride ourselves on delivering on schedule. Depending on the project scope, final images are typically ready within four to six weeks of the shoot. You’ll receive high-resolution files optimized for print, web, and social—ready to deploy across your marketing channels.

Factors That May Extend the Timeline

While we’re committed to staying on schedule, some factors can extend the process: unexpected weather, last-minute changes in property availability, or expanded shot lists. The key is communication—by keeping all stakeholders aligned, we ensure projects move forward smoothly without surprises.

Why Working With a Professional Matters

Managing a resort photography project is complex. It requires balancing creative vision with logistical realities. At Chad Chisholm Creative, our candor and professionalism keep projects on track, our creative solutions elevate the final product, and our experience ensures you’ll receive imagery that exceeds expectations—without the stress.

From consultation to final delivery, resort photography projects typically span six to ten weeks. With careful planning and a trusted professional at the helm, the process is seamless—and the results speak for themselves. When done right, photography doesn’t just capture your property, it captures the guest experience that sets your resort apart.

 If you’re planning an upcoming campaign or renovation, now is the perfect time to map out your photography needs. Contact Chad Chisholm Creative to get a customized timeline and ensure your project runs seamlessly from start to finish.