At its best, photography captures the essence of a moment or place in a way that words simply cannot. Through her interior and architectural photography, Sarah Bell has captured hundreds of homes and offices, always striving to reveal the essential beauty of her compositions. When asked what the key ingredient is for taking high-quality interior photos, Sarah responds (in her beautiful, unmistakable accent), “It is not really about the specific style of the home or interior designer, but much more about how I can make the room or vignette come alive. I look for something interesting, out of the ordinary. It can be a small detail, a color palette or a combination of things that provide an unusual contrast.”
Sarah loves working with creative people who are passionate about what they do, and she is adept at striking a balance between differing styles. “When photographing interiors or architecture, you must find a way to shoot in your style and accurately interpret what the interior designer or architect wants to capture. I might want to focus on the effect of light in the room, while a designer may prefer to highlight the artistic details in the furnishings. I may want to accentuate what I see as creative imperfections, while the architect will likely want to showcase clean lines and structural details. It is all about finding a balance.”
Sarah balances what she chooses to photograph based on her inherent love of variety. “Some days, I love maximalist interiors, while others, I am drawn to a more minimalist vibe. Sometimes I prefer moody, and other times I love bright and airy.” What is consistent across all of Sarah’s photography, however, is a love of light. “What is most important to me in photographing an image is capturing how the light enters the room.”
Sarah prefers to photograph rooms or vignettes where natural sunlight can enter through a side window, creating shadows. “When you see light and shadow play, you are able to bring the outside into the image.”
Here, Sarah illustrates the distinct elements she looks for when capturing the essence of a space through a collection of her work spanning many years.
(bedroom) The soft light coming into the bedroom from the side window creates shadows, which gives the image more depth and makes the room come alive. Light dictates the mood of any space. If it is soft, the room will have a tranquil feeling.
(simple) An image doesn’t have to be complicated. This photo achieves balance by keeping props to a minimum, which contrasts with the busy wallpaper, bold art and color saturation of the fabric on the sofa and chairs.
(pool) The light and shadow provide depth in this photo shot from the home’s balcony. Having no people in the image allows the space to come alive without distractions.
(staks) I was given free rein to shoot this Staks! Kitchen booth in Mississippi, allowing me to focus on the balance between light and shadow. My approach to photography is largely the same for residential and commercial spaces.
(drapery movement) I was able to capture the movement in the drapery by shooting several frames with my assistant moving the curtain. I just “erased” her out of the image using Photoshop.
(serene) I love how serene this living room looks in the photograph. I enjoy photographing various styles, including this sophisticated, more traditional design.
(Mirror) The shape of the scalloped mirror is the interesting detail that makes this photograph work. I am fascinated by wallpaper and, again, l love a variety of styles, including this more countryside aesthetic.
(fave house) This is my favorite shoot, favorite house, favorite everything. The warm cabinets in this midcentury home contrast wonderfully with the green outside the window. The corner window is actually two panes of glass with no connecting bracket.
(Classic) This classic interior achieves the balance I have been describing. It is moody, with brightness coming from the side window.
Sarah exudes gratitude for the work that she does. “There is not another job I would rather do. Photographing interiors is not just pushing a button; it is about discovering spaces for the first time. I am inspired to continue improving and learning about lighting, new editing processes or the work of a new photographer I have had the pleasure of meeting. I think the main secret to success and happiness is to stay humble, be grateful and try to view things as if you were seeing them for the time.”
In the coming months Sarah is relocating to New York City. We wish her and her family the very best during this exciting transition. While her home base will look a bit different, we are very fortunate that she will continue to visit and work here each month. The River City is certainly more light, more beautiful and more vibrant with Sarah in it. This is not goodbye!
