Marriott Portfolio — Studióski

Shaun Smith has been a professional photographer since 2000 and was officially approved as a
Marriott architectural hotel photographer in 2021 for the EMEA region.

His first project with the group was the Protea Hotel Balalaika in Sandton, which led to a continued relationship photographing
several Marriott properties across South Africa. His work also extends beyond the country’s borders, having captured the
Protea Hotel Blantyre Ryalls in Malawi and the Sheraton Mall of the Emirates Hotel in Dubai.

The gallery below showcases highlights from each property, beginning with the Protea Hotel Balalaika in Sandton.

The second hotel Shaun photographed for was The Ranch Resort in Polokwane (Limpopo),
a property he has continued to work with over the past few years, providing ongoing photographic updates.
Below are some visual highlights of the hotel.

Next up is a selection of highlights from the Fire & Ice! Hotel in Melrose Arch, Johannesburg —
one of the first properties to introduce an Orlando Pirates-themed room.
Created through a collaboration between Marriott Bonvoy and Orlando Pirates Football Club,
the room offers fans a unique and immersive way to connect with the team within a stylish, contemporary setting.

In 2023, Shaun was commissioned to capture updated imagery of the Protea Hotel Blantyre Ryalls in Malawi.
This historic hotel blends classic charm with modern comfort, and the shoot focused on highlighting its elegant interiors,
welcoming spaces and timeless atmosphere. Here are a few highlights from the property.

In 2023, Shaun was also approved to photograph for the prestigious
Marriott Autograph Collection. He began by capturing updated imagery for the
African Pride Melrose Arch, Autograph Collection® in Johannesburg — a
hotel known for its bold design and vibrant energy.
The following images showcase some highlights from the shoots.
This hotel has a narrative website format.

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When the Protea Hotel O.R. Tambo Airport in Johannesburg underwent a makeover, Shaun was brought in to photograph the newly updated areas. Situated directly opposite the airport, with only a highway separating the two, the hotel offers ultimate convenience for travellers. Its distinctive, aviation-inspired interior creates a unique and immersive experience. Below are a few highlights from the refreshed look.

In 2024, Shaun was commissioned to update the photography for the Johannesburg Marriott Hotel Melrose Arch, with a focus on the hotel’s public spaces. Below is a selection of images from the shoot, capturing the stylish and contemporary feel of the property.

Shaun also photographed the Protea Hotel Wanderers in Johannesburg, a property nestled in the leafy suburb of Illovo and adjacent to the iconic Wanderers Cricket Stadium. The shoot was centred around updating some room images. Below are some highlights from the project.

Shaun also travelled to Nelspruit to photograph the Protea Hotel Nelspruit (Mpumalanga). The shoot covered a comprehensive range of both interior and exterior spaces, including guest rooms, the restaurant, entrance, lobby, and various seating areas. The aim was to capture the full essence of the property and its welcoming atmosphere. Below are a few highlights from the shoot.

In 2025, the historic Lord Charles Hotel in Somerset West, Western Cape, became the first Marriott Tribute Portfolio hotel in South Africa. As part of Marriott International's collection of independent boutique hotels, Tribute Portfolio properties are celebrated for their distinctive design, vibrant social spaces, and deep connection to the local community — offering guests a more personalised and character-rich experience. Shaun was commissioned to photograph the entire hotel, capturing its unique character and newly reimagined spaces. Below are just a few highlights from the shoot.

The Cape Town Marriott Hotel Crystal Towers underwent a series of upgrades, including the addition of a brand-new M-Club lounge. To showcase these enhancements, the hotel required updated imagery of both its refreshed interiors and surrounding views. Shaun was commissioned to capture the new look, with a focus on the M-Club, public spaces, and hotel views. Here are some highlights from the shoot.

Protea Hotel Karridene Beach is a 3-star coastal property located near Durban in KwaZulu-Natal. The hotel commissioned Shaun to produce updated photography, videography, and drone imagery to showcase the refreshed look and beautiful surroundings. Below is a selection of stills from the shoot, capturing the essence of this laid-back beachfront hotel.

In July 2025, Shaun was commissioned to photograph updated imagery for the Sheraton Mall of the Emirates Hotel in Dubai, a 5-star business hotel that had recently undergone a full renovation. The shoot focused primarily on capturing the variety of newly refurbished room types, highlighting their modern design, comfort, and functionality. Below are just a few highlights from the project.