Seattle Airbnb Photographer | The Cabin at Mt. Baker

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.

Collaborating with my clients on this project was a true highlight of the experience. From discussing the vision behind the cabin to choosing the final props, there was a shared sense of excitement and purpose. We all wanted the same outcome: images that felt as genuine as the space itself, reflecting the adventurous spirit of the couples who would come to stay. It was a partnership that allowed us to bring the cabin’s unique atmosphere to life in a way that feels natural and effortless.

The Cabin at Mt. Baker isn’t just a place to stay; it’s a place to experience the PNW cabin lifestyle in all its glory. My goal was to ensure that the photos—and the mood video—gave a true sense of what it would be like to spend a weekend there. Through careful attention to light, details, and collaboration, we were able to create something that feels as welcoming and inspiring as the cabin itself.

If you’re looking for a space that blends the comfort of home with the thrill of the outdoors, I can’t recommend The Cabin at Mt. Baker enough. And if you’re in need of photography and video that captures not just a space, but the feeling behind it, I’d love to help bring your vision to life, too.

Interested in seeing more of my work? Follow me on Instagram @emilyannekeeney for updates, behind-the-scenes glimpses, and more.

Seattle Interior Photographer | Whidbey Airbnb

If you’ve ever been to Whidbey Island, you’ll know how magical it is to experience a summer week just across the water from busy Seattle in a whole world of its own. With pastoral views, quaint little towns like Langley and Coupeville, and views of the Puget Sound all around, it’s an idyllic place to get some rest and relaxation.

This Airbnb, sweetly named The Kingfisher, is about 20 minutes from the ferry terminal and down a long private road where you end up in this serene setting right on the waterfront. The tide comes in and out dramatically offering a walkable beach at times, and a refreshing plunge from the seawall at others. It’s a great place to launch a kayak or paddleboard for a quiet moment out on the water.

The interiors of this home were so wonderful to capture! Between the open beamwork and the nearly floor-to-ceiling panoramic windows offering insane water views, there was quite literally no bad angle. The homeowners prepared for this shoot so well by supplying fresh cut (but not too precious!) flowers and plenty of charcuterie supplies and pastries. Orange juice is kind of a magical secret for vibrant photos — the color! Leaning into the styling of these shoots really helps to set the images apart from more traditional looking real estate photos. The goals couldn’t be more different. A lifestyle shoot like this takes time — like a full day! And it’s so worth it to capture the changing light and many beautiful styled scenes in addition to listing photos that show full spaces in full natural light.

I approach most every single shoot with all natural light. We were lucky to have a sunny day for this shoot, but I do the majority of my shoots in the midst of some kind of weather (we are in Seattle after all!). Whether its a hazy marine layer morning or full-on January gloom, bright light is not necessary for stunning interior images because of the technical approach that I use. It’s been tested over many years of photographing throughout the Pacific Northwest (and as far over as the East Coast!) in less than ideal weather conditions. Anything goes!

You can book the Kingfisher right here!

A Desert Oasis in Vantage | Seattle Interior Photographer

Sometimes a little change of scenery is the key to refreshing your whole outlook. It’s easy to feel far away when you head east over the pass to Vantage, WA. Home to The Gorge, many wineries (including Cave B), and stunning desert scenery, you can take in desert sun and colors without traveling southwest.

This new vacation rental, The Wild Horse, is perched on the shore of the Columbia River with sweeping views in all directions from the rooftop deck. The sky is so open. It’s easy to forget you’re so close to Seattle with these vast landscapes.

The desert color palette is brought indoors throughout this bright short term rental home. With tall ceilings and abundant natural light, each room brings its own vibe of desert oasis (and its own attached bathroom!). The black accent walls in two of the rooms make for striking backdrops to the bright accent pillows and cow skull decor. Most unexpected is the family rec room with wall-to-wall window views of the surroundings. From this room, head upstairs to the rooftop sunset deck to take in the changing sky as the sun sinks over the mountain behind the house.

Traveling kids and adults alike will enjoy the party garage with ping pong and other games and a projector for movie nights next to the custom mural. There are musical posters all over the house with special nods to Tom Petty, Neil Young, and other musical pillars of rock.

Perhaps the coolest feature of the entire house is the custom crochet hat wall in the dining area. Made to be interacted with, you can pop out a chic hat for all your desert vibing, or just enjoy for a quick group selfie.

You can book this spot on Airbnb now!

A Perfect Coastal Retreat 2 Hours from Seattle

Other than being famous for the Olympic Rainshadow, making it unusually sunny for a place in Western Washington, Sequim also might be the most idyllic landing spot for a soul looking for a quaint town and a little peace and quiet near the water.

Haus of Hygge has launched another magical property in the Lighthouse Keeper’s Cottage, a veritable dream of a beach house situated on five acres of estuary that heads out into into the Strait of Juan de Fuca. A distant lighthouse glimmers over the peaceful water while an occasional ship sails by, amongst a constant flurry of birds dipping and soaring. While the house is a fully-stocked modern retreat, the true magic is in the view and the surroundings.

My friend Sydney and I headed out on a beautiful July weekend to photograph the property and take it in for ourselves, documenting our stay all the while. We traipsed through lavender fields, scored the jackpot of antiques and thrifts, dined al fresco, and cozied up to You’ve Got Mail to the distant tune of lapping waves. To say it was the restorative bliss a busy mother needs isn’t saying enough. You just have to experience it for yourself.

In the mornings we enjoyed fresh brewed coffee as the birds performed their dance. Mid-day we took in the quaint towns of Sequim and nearby Port Townsend. As the evening breeze took hold, we lit up the gas fireplace and enjoyed the combination of fresh sea air and warmth from the fire, fresh from the oversize shower after a hot tub dip.

Two hours from Seattle (either by driving or by ferry), Sequim is situated on the northern tip of the Olympic Peninsula. It’s a great stopping point if you’re road tripping around to the coast, but is worth a stay all of its own. Surrounded by literal dozens of lavender fields, a stroll through the mesmerizing rows is necessary during full bloom. (We visited B&B Family Lavender Farm.) Port Townsend is a 45-minute drive along winding country roads, and offers a historical dip into a quaint seaside town. (If you’re looking for an excellent burger high up on a waterfront patio, hit Sirens pub!)

As an interiors and travel photographer, I’ve slowly built a lifestyle of traveling and capturing the unique beauty of spaces all over. For me, the best way to capture a travel destination is by immersing myself in the environment. I love observing how the light changes and brings rooms to life. As we cooked dinner the first night, the most perfect ray of sunlight fell across the countertop as my friend was cutting a red bell pepper. You just can’t plan that stuff! And it truly tells the story of the space beyond your typical interior photographs. It’s the combination of those clean editorial images plus the handheld lifestyle snaps that bring the whole story together, creating an immersive peek into such beautifully curated spaces.

The Lighthouse Keeper’s Cottage is available now to book! More information and booking details here.