Seattle & Chicago Interior Lifestyle Photographer | Airbnb & Vrbo

Tuning in with a super fresh, fun and modern Airbnb & VRBO in the heart of Seattle!

This multi-level townhouse in Eastlake offers big city views and the most incredible rooftop deck for sweeping sunsets looking over the mountains and water of Seattle. Planning your next trip to the Emerald City and on the lookout for the perfect Airbnb? We've got you covered with some friendly advice on what to keep in mind when choosing your cozy nest in this vibrant city.

1. Location, Location, Location: Seattle is a city of neighborhoods, each with its unique charm. Consider what's on your must-see list and find an Airbnb that puts you in the heart of the action. Whether you're into the artsy vibes of Capitol Hill or the scenic beauty of Queen Anne, choose a location that suits your style.

2. Modern Organic Touches: Seattle is known for its contemporary aesthetic and love for nature. Look for Airbnbs that seamlessly blend modern design with organic touches. Think big windows that let in plenty of natural light, indoor plants, and perhaps a cozy nook where you can enjoy a cup of locally brewed coffee.

3. Amenities That Wow: Make your stay extra special by checking out the amenities. A fully equipped kitchen for those who love to cook, a comfy workspace for remote work, or a rooftop deck with city views can elevate your Seattle experience. Don't forget to see if they provide essentials like Wi-Fi, toiletries, and, of course, a cozy bed!

4. Local Hosts with the Most: One of the best parts of Airbnb is connecting with local hosts who know all the hidden gems. Opt for a place where the hosts are not just property managers but also enthusiasts eager to share their love for Seattle. Their insider tips can turn your trip into an unforgettable adventure.

5. Reviews Tell the Tale: Dive into the reviews! Past guests spill the beans on what made their stay exceptional or what could be improved. It's like getting advice from friends who've been there before. Pay attention to comments on cleanliness, communication, and any unique features that made their stay memorable.

6. Flexibility Matters: Plans can change, and flexibility is key. Check the cancellation policy and house rules to ensure they align with your travel style. Some hosts offer self-check-in, giving you the freedom to arrive on your schedule.

7. Budget-Friendly Options: Seattle offers a range of Airbnb options to suit every budget. Set a realistic budget for your stay, keeping in mind any additional fees, and explore the diverse array of accommodations available.

Remember, your Airbnb is not just a place to crash; it's part of your Seattle adventure. So, go ahead, find that perfect spot that feels like a home away from home, and get ready to soak in the best of what this incredible city has to offer! Happy travels!

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Travel Airbnb Photography | Best Practices + A New Poconos Listing

In my fifteen years wielding a camera, the thing that has called to me the most has been traveling to new places and capturing the essence through thoughtful photography.

Telling the story of the interiors, noticing the elements that make a space beautiful and that catch the light, and the compositions of the lines of the architecture and furniture, keeping note of balance and rhythm, all these things are swirling around in my head while I’m working. And then, of course, when I take it outdoors and capture the scenery and nature, that just adds so much to the story of a place.

Because I’ve basically been nerding out on this for a good chunk of my photography career, it’s all become such an internal process, and I’m going to try to explain some best practices for setting up your Airbnb or VRBO for success when it comes to photography (and beyond!).

1. Let the light in. When you photograph a space in natural light, you’re relying on ambient light that comes from the windows. In order to maximize this airiness and brightness in your listing photos, you’ll want to ensure that the light can find its way in. Avoid heavy blinds that break with frequent use or curtains that are burdensome to open. You want guests to easily be able to navigate the window coverings, and to experience as much natural light as possible.

2. Turn the lights off. This might feel counterintuitive (and contrary to real estate photography which has a TOTALLY different approach and purpose!) but keeping the lights off will ensure that the orange and yellow tones that artificial light casts does not make its way into your photos. That’s one of the simplest ways to ensure you have bright whites that feel clean and fresh. OK, and while we’re talking about lighting for your Airbnb, be sure to not use the cool “daylight” bulbs that have a sterile look! Warm light is the most welcoming for short term rentals (and just everyday life).

3. Layer your space. To avoid an Airbnb that feels clinical and quickly thrown together, take the time to collect accent pieces like throw pillows, cozy and beautiful blankets, shelf decor, and plenty of plants (living or artificial). A really basic room can be turned into an experience with 5-6 additional pieces and a little thought on placement. Guests don’t need a lot of practical storage or surface areas, so fill the shelves and surfaces thoughtfully and fully. I love it when I’m traveling and my Airbnb or VRBO has a lived-in feeling. I’ve often started novels I found on shelves to pick up on at home, leafed through inspiring interiors coffee table books found on the coffee table, and browsed a record collection. Not to mention, all these things add so much visual interest in your listing photography. These “lifestyle” elements tell the story of your short term rental and create warmth and relatability in your listing.

4. Give it a signature experience based on location. If your rental property is in the woods, having amenities like a hot tub, sauna and fire pit lead not only to great lifestyle imagery but to great guest experiences. If your location experiences different weather, be sure to stock it with things that guests can enjoy year round. Bags are great for summertime, but sleds and snowshoes are so cool in the winter! If you have a city oasis, consider an epic record collection, a great library of board games, and a walking guide that takes a guest through your favorite coffee shops, bookstores, and local burger joints. If you have a gift basket, include items from local businesses to encourage community and help your guest feel immersed in the micro-culture of your short term rental location.

There is so much more I want to say, so stay tuned for more Airbnb/VRBO/hospitality tips down the line. Till then, enjoy these images from the White Oak Chalet, a brand new Airbnb listing in the Poconos Mountains of Pennsylvania, which completely mastered all of the items I listed above.

Extremely spacious, settled in a quiet neighborhood a stone’s throw from a beautiful lake, and stocked to the brim with amenities and activities, this spot is begging for group travel. The theater room alone is super impressive (the first I’ve seen in a short term rental!), and it’s just the tip of the iceberg.

I stayed for a few days to capture the magic and kept thinking about how I wish I had all my friends with me (there would be room for all of them and more!). It’s the perfect spot for families traveling together or a group of friends wanting to get away from the bustle of New York City, Pittsburgh, or Philadelphia and into the quiet of the rolling forests. I especially loved paying a visit to Hickory Run State Park nearby, going for jogs in the winding streets of the neighborhood, and taking in the sounds of crickets at night. I even made a couple deer friends.

You can book the White Oak Chalet 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.

Airy Bellingham Airbnb | Vacation Rental Photography

Nestled in the picturesque city of Bellingham, where nature's beauty takes you away from the bustle of Seattle, lies a hidden gem—a short-term rental home exuding bright and airy vibes and adorned with whimsical decor. With lush greenery as its backdrop (it’s surrounded by nature preserve), this charming home invites guests to check out of the grind and into the imaginative state of being that an inspiring and restorative getaway is so good for. This was such a fun home to photograph and brings me to a few key points of a successful short term rental listing photos shoot:

• Embracing Natural Light:

Photographing a bright and airy home starts with harnessing the power of natural light. In Bellingham, sunlight filters through the dense foliage, lending a soft, ethereal glow to the surroundings. Maximize this vibe by opening curtains and blinds to allow ample light to flood the space. Notice the way that light naturally interacts with the space. Turn off the overhead lights and allow for nature’s light source to take the lead.

• Composing the Perfect Shot:

To showcase the whimsical decor and the seamless integration with the surrounding greenery, pay attention to composition. Frame the shot to capture the home's unique elements both in tight composition and in a pulled back shot that gives an idea of the full space. Preserve window views by bracketing exposures, especially when they help tell the story of the space.

• Colors and Textures:

The color palette and textures play a crucial role in the ambiance of this vacation home. Pay attention to the details that the designer painstakingly selected. This house has an amazing juxtaposition of glam and nature, and it’s done really well. I loved the combination of the mirror backsplash with the black marble countertops. In the dining area, an antler chandelier perfectly plays off of floral dining chairs next to yet another pattern in the subtle wallpaper. Incorporating a few of these relationships into a shot brings together the design vision.

• Accessorizing the Scene:

In order to fully immerse the viewer in the home, a few key accessories help to bring the vision together. Adding in a few small lifestyle elements really makes the difference between photos that feel real estate vs. luxury travel and hospitality. A glass next to a book signifies a relaxing place to read. A blanket over an adirondack near the firepit suggests a cozy bonfire.

• Outdoor Oasis:

The beauty of this rental home lies not only indoors but also in the enchanting outdoor spaces. Bellingham's greenery provides an idyllic backdrop, so venture outside to capture the magic of the surrounding nature. Photograph a hammock nestled among the trees, the large lawn perfect for active kids and great privacy from neighbors. Incorporating these outdoor shots into your collection will complete the story of this serene retreat.

This is really just the tip of the iceberg of what goes through my head during a shoot, but it gives a solid starting point to plan a successful shoot! Get in touch if you’d like to bring your property to life through engaging, vivid, bright photography.

This house is offered by Gather Vacations.

Contractor: Bellingham Bay Builders

Design: Andrea Zakharoff

You can book this beauty on Airbnb here.