As a Seattle-based interiors and lifestyle photographer, my work revolves around creating spaces that feel as though they’re alive—authentic, inviting, and true to the personalities they’re designed for. Recently, I had the privilege of working on a project that truly allowed me to do just that: photographing The Cabin at Mt. Baker. Nestled in the stunning landscape near Mt. Baker, this new Airbnb cabin offered the perfect opportunity to combine natural beauty with intentional design.
Working alongside my clients on this project was such a rewarding experience. Together, we worked to craft images that captured not just the look of the space, but the feeling of it—something I always strive for in my work. The goal was to create a set of images that would resonate with the adventurous couples who are sure to visit this mountain retreat, giving them a glimpse into what their stay could feel like: cozy, peaceful, and filled with the promise of exploration. We definitely ate the props. :)
A core part of my approach to interiors photography is harnessing natural light to tell a story. For this project, I was especially excited to work in a cabin setting, where the natural surroundings and light sources played such a big role in the mood of each room. The windows in each living space framed cozy views of the forest, and I used that to my advantage to create photos that were both serene and dynamic. Instead of achieving the brightest possible look to each room, I like to lean into the natural patterns of light so that you can see highlight and shadow in equal measure.
Throughout the shoot, we took time to adjust the light and play with shadows to evoke a sense of warmth and tranquility. I focused on how the daylight shifted throughout the day, casting different tones and reflections across the wood finishes, textiles, and unique design elements. It was important for me to ensure that the photos not only showcased the space but also reflected the feeling of being there.
One of the things I love most about lifestyle photography is how it allows for a collaboration between photographer and client. This project was no exception. We spent time carefully selecting props and details that would bring the space to life—items that felt authentic and in line with the spirit of the cabin. It gets to be such a deep dive of partnership and we honestly had so much fun.
We placed cozy throw blankets, pastries, coffee, and other curated pieces that would make guests feel like they were stepping into a space designed for comfort and relaxation. Each vignette told a story, whether it was the firepit vignettes or the board game compositions. These small touches made a big difference, helping to transform the space from just a cabin into a true retreat.
Along with the still images, I also created a mood video to capture the essence of the cabin. In today’s digital world, motion can add a layer of immersion that static images can’t always achieve. For this video, I focused on the little details: the crackle of a fire, the rustling of leaves outside the window, the ritualistic movement of feeding the fire. It’s amazing to see how moving images contribute to the overall visuals.
