The Rear View:

While the rear view might not make it into a marketing brochure, it plays a vital role for builders and architects involved in the project. On this hotel assignment, we were instructed to focus solely on the front area and pool. However, we made the decision to capture the rear exterior as well, which the builder appreciated. The rear view not only completed the portfolio but also provided valuable insights for the builder’s future projects. The image turned out exceptionally well, showcasing the comprehensive nature of our work and the importance of every angle in architectural photography.

Chicago Hotel Exterior:

It's wonderful when you receive an assignment and you have the luxury of time to get the shots you need. Case in point, we photographed this Chicago hotel remodel for a commercial builder, and we didn’t need to worry about shooting on opening day. The hotel never closed. Since our home base is in the Chicagoland area, finding the right time to photograph a dusk exterior was much easier.  

Here we were shooting with a drone from the mid-town loop and a medium format camera from the Congress Parkway bridge.The final shots turned out as expected and we were able to get both the same evening.  It helps to have a good team!

Cobalt Blue - Morning Dawn:

Often when you receive an assignment, your time is limited. Sometimes, because of scheduling or a venue opening, you simply can’t go back.

Such was the case here. We were assigned to photograph a hotel on opening day. The assignment was interior and exterior. As luck would have it, it stormed all night and was raining when we arrived at 4:30am. We had a team with us to clean and stage the interior which we started on immediately.  

My goal was to get an exterior shot as soon as the rain let up.  

About 40min later, the rain stopped and I went out to setup a quick composition. I could see the sky clearing and I fired a shot just as cobalt blue was covering the sky before dawn.

 

A Childerns Retreat:

We loved shooting this bespoke children’s bedroom, complete with everything a young toddler would need. Exciting safari-like accents, a huge toy box, properly sized furniture, and calming teal tones make this the perfect place to play or sleep. Yes, that is a blackboard wall; who doesn’t love to play with chalk?  

Some favorites below:  

• Safari Accents: Playful motifs enhance the adventurous spirit of the room, creating an engaging environment for exploration and imagination.
• Toy Box: The spacious toy box not only keeps the room organized but also adds a charming touch to the decor.
• Properly Sized Furniture: Each piece is thoughtfully selected to ensure comfort and safety for little ones, encouraging independent play and learning.
• Calming Teal Tones: The soothing colors provide a serene backdrop, ideal for both vibrant play and restful sleep.
• Blackboard Wall: A fun interactive feature that invites creativity, allowing children to express themselves freely with chalk.

This thoughtfully designed space is a perfect blend of functionality and whimsy, catering to the needs of a growing child while also serving as a delightful retreat.

The Ones We Haven't Seen:

Whenever I am photographing, I will often shoot a composition or two of a scene and select the one I like best to show my client. So what about the ones I  don’t use?  Delete them you say?  Ha! Never!   I always thought I would find a use for them.  Now I have.  Welcome to “the ones that got away”, or “the ones we didn’t use!”  Okay, maybe not be best idea for a blog series, but still.  

Below are some from a 2015 kitchen shoot, and yes, I promise to “up” my caffeine intake soon.  

Timeless Contemporary Elegance:

I love the beauty and simplicity of this dining room.  Lauren is so tasteful with her designs, and this one has such understated elegance to it.  The glass table, leather chairs, custom light fixture have such a timeless nature and could anyone have selected a more perfect canvas for the space?  Thank you Lauren for calling me to shoot this home.  Such a highlight for us last year!

 

Custom Kitchen by Michael Buss Architects:

A few years back, we spent several days photographing a series of homes for Michael Bus Architects. Michael, along with his wife Sue, has crafted some of the most captivating and pleasant residences. In addition to his expertise in exterior and interior layout, Michael also offers interior design services, showcasing his versatility and talent.

Here are a few shots of a custom home designed by Michael, with a focus on the beautiful custom kitchen. The meticulous attention to detail and thoughtful design elements create an inviting and functional space, perfect for the growing family.   

Stay tuned as we will feature more from Michael Buss Architects next week.