One of the things we love most about commercial photography is that no two assignments are ever quite the same. One evening, we might be photographing products or corporate events. The next, we’re working with a beautiful hotel, colorful cocktails, great food, live music – and a group of models ready to have some fun.
That was our recent experience at Hotel Carmichael, Autograph Collection in Carmel, Indiana.
We spent the evening with Karly McGowan, the hotel’s Marketing Manager, helping build a versatile library of images for future marketing and social media. Karly assembled models and staff members, and together we worked our way through a pretty impressive shot-list.
We began at the bar, photographing a variety of cocktails that will serve a dual purpose. The images can be used in marketing, but they can also help bartenders and servers see exactly what a finished drink should look like.
And yes, we were photographing right on the bar – and even on the piano – while curious hotel guests watched the action. It actually added to the fun. Jodi and I put our recently purchased Nanlite tube lights to work, experimenting with different colors and intensities to make those drinks really pop.
From there, we moved into the beauiful Adagio Lounge, capturing the relaxed, social atmosphere of the hotel. Guests gather there for a daily toast, stories from staff, complimentary champagne, and music. It was the perfect setting for casual lifestyle images that showed people simply enjoying the experience.
Then came one of our favorite locations: Feinstein’s at Hotel Carmichael.
With its intimate cabaret atmosphere, elevated stage, grand piano, and speakeasy-inspired feel, the room was made for photography. Our models got into the spirit, and we had a great time capturing a wide variety of images that showed just how much energy and personality the venue has.
Next up was Vivante, the hotel’s restaurant. Our goal was simple: show that great dining doesn’t have to mean a stuffy experience. The food looked amazing, of course, but we wanted to photographs to communicate something else too – you can have a wonderful dinner, gather friends after work, enjoy cocktails, or make it a special night out. Fine dining can still be FUN!
We wrapped up outside on Vivante’s patio with desserts and after-dinner beverages. The evening light and Carmel City Center surroundings created a beautiful finish to a very busy – and very enjoyable – shoot.
Hotel Carmichael is a stunning property, but what made the assignment especially enjoyable was the people. From Karly and our models to the hotel staff, everyone was welcoming, enthusiastic, and ready to help us create something special.
By the end of the evening, we had captured a tremendous variety of marketing images – and had a lot fun doing it!
That’s one of the rewards of working with the hospitality industry. You’re not just photographing a building, a drink, or a plate of food. You’re helping tell the story of an experience.
And we can’t wait to see where the images take us next.
-Rick Bella, for Bella Photography
