How to Prepare Your Restaurant or Venue for a Professional Photoshoot

A professional photoshoot can elevate your brand overnight. But the difference between “good” content and genuinely standout visuals often comes down to preparation.

As hospitality photographers working across London, we’ve seen it all. Beautiful venues undermined by rushed prep, and modest spaces transformed through thoughtful planning. If you want your photography and video content to work harder for your business, here’s how to get your venue shoot-ready.

1. Decide what you’re actually shooting for

Before the cameras come out, be clear on the purpose of the shoot.

Ask yourself:

• Is this for social media, website, press, or all three?

• Are you promoting a new menu, a rebrand, or an event?

• Do you need food, interiors, people, atmosphere, or everything?

Clear goals allow your photographer to prioritise the right shots and storytelling. Vague briefs lead to generic results.

2. Declutter aggressively, then declutter again

Cameras are brutally honest. Things you barely notice in real life suddenly become distractions on screen.

Before the shoot:

• Remove unnecessary signage

• Clear unused tables and clutter

• Hide cables, bins, cleaning products and delivery boxes

• Tidy shelves, back bars and service stations

If it doesn’t add to the story, it probably shouldn’t be in the frame.

3. Lighting matters more than décor

Great lighting will make an average space look incredible. Poor lighting will ruin even the most beautiful venue.

A few key tips:

• Replace blown or mismatched bulbs

• Ensure all lighting is working consistently

• Avoid mixing harsh white and warm lighting in the same area

• Let your photographer know about any dim corners or problem areas

Professional photographers bring lighting, but your existing ambience still sets the foundation.

4. Prep your dishes and drinks like they’re going on stage

Food and drink photography is unforgiving. What looks great to a guest may not photograph well without preparation.

Before the shoot:

• Finalise plating in advance

• Clean plates and glassware thoroughly

• Have backup dishes and garnishes ready

• Assign a staff member to work closely with the photographer

Rushed plating equals rushed photos. Preparation equals polish.

5. Brief your staff, but don’t over-direct them

People bring hospitality photography to life. But forced smiles and stiff poses never look natural.

Let staff know:

• When they’ll be on camera

• What areas will be filmed or photographed

• That natural movement works best

The best shots come from real interactions, not posed performances.

6. Think about movement and atmosphere

Still images are important, but modern hospitality marketing thrives on motion.

Consider:

• Pouring drinks

• Finishing dishes

• Guests arriving or interacting

• Chefs plating or working the pass

These moments translate perfectly into short-form video for social media and help potential customers feel the energy of your space.

7. Plan timing carefully

Timing can make or break a shoot.

Early mornings work well for:

• Clean interiors

• Controlled lighting

• Empty spaces

Service times work best for:

• Atmosphere

• Energy

• People and interaction

A well-planned shoot often includes both.

Final Thoughts: Preparation is the secret weapon

Professional photography and videography isn’t just about cameras and lenses. It’s about preparation, collaboration and clarity.

When venues prepare properly, the results don’t just look better, they perform better across websites, social media, booking platforms and press features.

Planning a shoot for your venue?

We specialise in hospitality photography and videography across London, working with restaurants, bars, hotels and lifestyle brands to create visuals that genuinely reflect the experience you offer.

Get in touch with Thirsty Media to plan your next shoot.