Sunnyside Lodge Lake Tahoe - Hotel Photography

As a San Diego photographer, it’s not often I get to test my skills in a different environment. When approached with the project for Sunnyside Lodge, how could I pass up the opportunity to go up North and try something new!

This shoot focused on showcasing a complete view of the guest experience at Sunnyside Lodge, by putting myself in their shoes! The warm environment, crisp outdoors, and beautiful Lake Tahoe scenery were some of the most fun subjects I’ve worked with in years. 

How I Planned This Hotel Photography Shoot

Like many hotel photography shoots I’ve worked on, time management was key. There was a lot of ground to cover and I had to rely on all natural lighting. To get indoor, outdoor, and staged shots, I created a plan for the entire weekend. It involved a lot of patience with other guests, and especially in the outdoor action shots, but with my skilled eye they turned out fantastic!

My other personal goal was to encompass the friendly and warm environment in Sunnyside Lodge. Of all the projects I’ve worked on, this place had a little extra magic inside it. The fun, laughter, and good times were so infectious, I just had to capture it. 

Who Said Friends Can’t Also Be Models?

What made this hotel photography shoot extra special was the ability to use my friends as models! Their support of my photography aspirations has been incredible, so having them be in front of the lens was a dream.

Better than a friendly face in the lens? Being able to direct them accordingly. They truly were the most patient models I’ve ever worked with as I found the best angles, plus they kept me laughing all weekend long.

Capturing The Cozy Cabin Feel

The classic snowy cabin you’ve seen in the movies is exactly what Sunnyside Lodge looked like. The warm brown tones, wood accents, and classic stone detailing were the perfect background to all the photos.

My favorite spot on the entire property was the grand fireplace in the center of the lodge. I posed my wonderful friends in front of it and let them do their thing! The smiles and laughter were the perfect replica of what it feels like to stay here.

What kept the good times going throughout the entire trip were the incredible food and drinks that I captured (and then got to enjoy) every night!!

Highlighting The Impressive Hotel Rooms

So often I associate the cabin feel with a woodsy (slightly older) room included. Not here! Sunnyside Lodge made each room hotel photography ready with their luxurious bedding and fun accent colors.

I shot mostly using corner angles to highlight the large size of the space inside. The lighting in each room was quite bright, so working during the day was a breeze. 

Showing The Beauty Of Lake Tahoe

As a sunny California girl, I loved using this hotel photography project to see a different side of the state I love so much. That being said, shooting in the snow is no small feat for a photographer.

Thanks to the GoPro, I was able to capture some fun action shots while shredding on the mountain!

It truly was such a pleasure to work with Sunnyside Lodge in Lake Tahoe on their hotel photography shoot. If you’re interested in photographing your next hotel project, click the link below!