Marriott Portfolio — Studióski

Shaun Smith’s Marriott Hotel Portfolio

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

His first assignment with the group was at the Protea Hotel Balalaika in Sandton — a project that marked the start of an ongoing relationship with Marriott, capturing various properties across South Africa. His portfolio has also expanded internationally, with projects in Malawi and the UAE, including the Sheraton Mall of the Emirates in Dubai.

The gallery below begins with highlights from the Protea Hotel Balalaika.

The next project took Shaun to Limpopo, where he photographed The Ranch Resort in Polokwane.
This collaboration has continued over the years, with Shaun regularly providing updated photography for the property.

Here’s a look at some of the images captured.

Another standout project was at the Fire & Ice! Hotel in Melrose Arch, Johannesburg —
one of the first Marriott properties to feature a specially themed Orlando Pirates room.

This unique concept, created in partnership with Marriott Bonvoy and Orlando Pirates FC, offers fans an immersive stay in a bold, contemporary space.

Below are some of the highlights from the shoot.

In 2023, Shaun was invited to photograph the Protea Hotel Blantyre Ryalls in Malawi.
This heritage hotel blends historic charm with modern comforts.
The shoot focused on showcasing its elegant interiors, warm hospitality, and timeless design.

The gallery below includes selected highlights from the project.

That same year marked another milestone: Shaun was approved to shoot for the
Marriott Autograph Collection.

His first Autograph assignment was the African Pride Melrose Arch, Autograph Collection® in Johannesburg — a hotel known for its energy, edge, and unapologetic boldness.

The images below reflect the vibrant narrative of the space and its dynamic personality.

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When the Protea Hotel O.R. Tambo in Johannesburg completed a renovation, Shaun was brought in to capture the revamped areas. Directly opposite the airport, the hotel is a top choice for travellers, with interiors inspired by aviation elements that bring a sense of place to every corner.

The following images showcase the refreshed design.

In 2024, Shaun was commissioned to update the visual assets for the Johannesburg Marriott Hotel Melrose Arch.
The focus was on the hotel’s public areas, capturing its modern aesthetic and stylish atmosphere.

Here are a few highlights from that shoot.

Another Johannesburg-based property, the Protea Hotel Wanderers in Illovo, also turned to Shaun to refresh some of its room imagery.
Located close to the iconic Wanderers Cricket Stadium and surrounded by trees, this hotel offers a calm and convenient urban stay.

Below are some selected visuals from the project.

Shaun’s work also took him to Mpumalanga, where he photographed the Protea Hotel Nelspruit.
This shoot covered everything from rooms and dining areas to the entrance and various guest spaces, aiming to tell the full story of the hotel’s welcoming environment.

Here’s a look at the result.

At the end of 2024, Shaun had the opportunity to photograph the Lord Charles Hotel in Somerset West (Western Cape), which had just become South Africa’s first Marriott Tribute Portfolio property.

Known for celebrating local character and individuality, Tribute Portfolio hotels offer a fresh take on boutique hospitality. Shaun was tasked with capturing its reimagined spaces, rich textures, and distinctive charm.

The gallery below includes highlights from the full shoot.

Cape Town’s Marriott Hotel Crystal Towers also commissioned Shaun to photograph their recent upgrades — including the addition of a sleek new M-Club lounge.
The brief covered both interior spaces and broader hotel views, with the aim of showcasing the contemporary feel and elevated guest offering.

Here are a few of the updated visuals.

KwaZulu-Natal’s Protea Hotel Karridene Beach, a relaxed coastal hotel near Durban, enlisted Shaun to provide new photography, videography, and drone footage.
Set against a scenic beachfront backdrop, the updated imagery captures the essence of this laid-back destination.

Below are some of the stills from the shoot.

In July 2025, Shaun was commissioned to photograph the
Sheraton Mall of the Emirates Hotel in Dubai,
following the completion of an extensive renovation.

A 5-star business hotel, the shoot focused on the variety of newly refurbished room types, highlighting their sleek design, comfort, and practical elegance.

Below are a few selected images from the project.