Ok to shoot photos in hotel lobby?

seems like rain this weekend and the couple in shooting is getting nervous about shooting out doors for their e session.

Called a few hotels around the city and they sounded clueless when I asked if it was ok to take photos in the lobby. Some thought i was setting up a huge production and some were puzzled by the fact I had to ask.

What does everyone do here for photos ?
I've only done a few weddings where the wedding party had reservations. Never had to actually plan or ask to shoot.

Good question. I have a friend who asked me to do a shoot of her inside a local hotel lobby - I'll await for responses.

Talk to hotel manager, explain your purpose: hired shoot for couple who will be guests at hotel, not a paid shoot to be used for promotion of anyone's business. Also state that you will attempt to NOT capture the visage of anyone else in the hotel lobby who is not hotel staff (so as to not put any other hotel guests into a compromising position when they walk in with someone who is not their spouse!)

Hotel manager should be content.

I would think it would depend on your equipment and crew (if you have one). I tried to shoot some long exposures in a mall lobby and was told I could not use a tripod in the mall. Otherwise they didn't care what I was shooting. I think if it's just you and the couple with no tripods or light stands, they'd be ok with it.

Why ask here. I would think it is up to each individual hotel so ask them. If they seem clueless, then you just have not explained what you intend on doing well enough.

I paid $75 for an afternoon of shooting inside an ancient hotel...got full access to the lobby and sitting areas as well as to about 6 different rooms. I think if you are willing to pay, most hotels will allow it...but if not, what's in it for the hotel?

Here are a few from the shoot:

Thanks for the feedback guys!