You Need a Good Team:

When we photographed this hotel bar just days before its grand opening, the space was far from ready—dust coated every surface, boxes were scattered throughout, and the furniture was still crated. Our assignment was to capture the entire hotel, from top to bottom, including the exterior. This situation underscored the importance of having a reliable team when traveling out of state for a shoot.

Our crew quickly uncrated, cleaned, vacuumed, swept, and expertly staged the bar area within a couple of hours. By the time I returned from photographing the pool, two perfectly composed, spotless shots were ready to go. We weren’t able to shoot from the opposite angle because that’s where the team had neatly stacked all unopened boxes and supplies, but the images we captured were strong and compelling.

This experience highlighted how essential teamwork is for the success of a commercial shoot. With everyone working efficiently together, we achieved excellent results despite challenging conditions, and we were all very pleased with the final images.

The Fast Food Interior:

An architectural photographer must possess the versatility to handle a wide range of assignments, from high-end estates and commercial properties to hotels, resorts, warehouses, and fast food restaurants. Regardless of the project’s scale or prestige, maintaining a consistent standard of quality is essential. The goal is to deliver exceptional, professional images that meet or exceed client expectations every time. Whether capturing grand, luxurious interiors or straightforward, utilitarian spaces, the photographer’s commitment to excellence ensures that every assignment reflects the same level of care, precision, and artistry. This consistency builds trust and reinforces the photographer’s reputation across diverse markets and property types.

Design as Art:

Every now and then you come across an interior designer who is in essence an artist.  Terri Weinstein is one such designer.  Terri’s use of color, texture and bespoke furniture, most of which she designs and has handmade is unmatched.  Flashing back here to a photoshoot from 2016, this high-end Chicago condo stands out as not only testament to artistic design, it is in itself a work of art.  

Remodeling a 1970's Hotel:

This Hampton Inn, originally constructed in the early 1970s as a Comfort Inn, once stood as the premier destination for business travelers and families seeking comfortable accommodations during their vacations. Back then, amenities such as a breakfast bar, an in-house gym, and a swimming pool made it a convenient and welcoming retreat between sightseeing and social visits.

Over the decades, like many hotels from that era, its appeal diminished, and it faced the choice between demolition or a comprehensive renovation. Fortunately, the new owners chose a full remodel rather than tearing it down. Today, both the interior and exterior have been completely transformed, reflecting a modern and updated aesthetic that rivals any contemporary lodging option.

We had the opportunity to capture the refreshed exterior alongside the newly designed interior spaces. Below are a few select images from the shoot, showcasing the hotel’s renewed elegance and functionality.

Grand Rapids Art Deco Makeover:

This Art Deco home in Grand Rapids underwent an extensive makeover by interior designer Jennifer Butler, and the results are truly captivating. What stands out most is the preservation of the original interior architecture. The charming small closets, pantry, and wine cellar—each framed by their signature arched doorways—transport you back to a simpler time, evoking a strong sense of nostalgia.

Jennifer’s thoughtful use of vibrant color adds renewed life and warmth to the space, making the home both energetic and inviting without overshadowing its historic character. As you explore the photos, the curved walls, ceiling arches, and flowing plaster accents come to life—distinctive features that define the Art Deco period so beautifully.

It’s refreshing to see these unique architectural details maintained rather than replaced by the stark, angular lines so prevalent in today’s interior trends. This careful balance between preservation and modernization makes this home a standout and a pleasure to photograph.

Michaelin & Kohlberg Showroom - Chicago:

Michaelin & Kohlberg Chicago Showroom – Since 1921, the finest in hand-knotted rugs. Showcasing exquisite craftsmanship from Turkey, India, Nepal, China, and Afghanistan, this showroom remains the premier destination for interior designers worldwide. These images capture a glimpse of the timeless luxury and intricate detail that define their collection. The consistent quality and artistry make Michaelin & Kohlberg a trusted resource for creating exceptional interior spaces.

Schmidke Construction - Design Studio:

This is the foyer entrance of the finest construction/design center I have ever seen.  More to come….

 

Commercial Wall Finishes:

The commercial interior designer faces a multifaceted challenge: creating spaces that are not only functional but also engaging and memorable for visitors. In commercial environments, every detail contributes to the overall experience, making thoughtful design essential. 

Take, for example, a recent hotel shoot. The attention to wall finishes throughout key areas such as the gym, hallways, and bathrooms highlights the designer’s skill in transforming these spaces. In the hotel gym, textured wall panels and vibrant color add a dynamic energy that complements the active atmosphere. Along the hallways, sophisticated materials and subtle patterns create a sense of flow and elegance, guiding guests seamlessly from one area to another. In the bathrooms, carefully selected finishes combine durability with refined aesthetics, elevating what is often a utilitarian space into one that feels both luxurious and welcoming.

These nuanced touches demonstrate how commercial interior design goes beyond surface decoration—each choice enhances the environment, leaving a lasting impression on clients and guests alike.

Chalkboard Signage:

Typically, the breakfast bar isn’t the centerpiece in hotel photography, but this one stood out for its unique character. The signage, crafted with chalkboard paint, offers a versatile canvas that can be updated effortlessly by anyone skilled in sign writing or chalkboard art. The hotel staff embraced this feature wholeheartedly, showcasing impressive chalk artistry that adds a personal and dynamic touch to the space. This element not only enhances the visual appeal but also brings a sense of warmth and engagement to the hospitality experience.

A.W.E. Showroom - 2016:

Came across this shot of the A.W.E. showroom.  To good not to share.  

 

Shooting Egg Harbor Chicago:

We met the superintendent of the project on-site. This build-out had just recently been completed, and we were fortunate to capture our shots moments before the restaurant opened. The space itself was impressive, but what stood out even more was the superintendent’s dedication and hard work to ensure everything was shoot-ready. In less than an hour, we wrapped up and were on our way to another commercial shoot. Some favorites from this session are shown below.