Thursday, March 15, 2012

A Special Treat - The Art of Kitchen Styling by Karin Lidbeck


My job as a stylist is to show off the fine lines of kitchens architecture. I like the kitchen to feel used, but not sterile. I refer to it as making organized chaos.

Removal of all the homeowners appliances and personal knick-knacks allows me to start with a clean slate. The fun part is creating the story, a sense that something is happening that draws you into the photo.


I love styling a country style kitchen that can take an abundance of propping. Styling is the same as creating a painting, you move the colors, shapes and objects around and around until you get a pleasing to the eye moment!


Creating a scene suggesting a meal in preparation can be tricky.  You want it to feel real without looking like the real mess that really occurs when cooking.



Kitchens with a lot of open shelves and glass cabinets like the two above have many challenges and always require a car load of props for organizing and creating pretty!

Photos by Michael Partenio 
Beautiful Kitchen and Kitchen Makeovers magazine

Sometimes a quiet and simple scene is best.  De-clutter, and add a few simple objects that make a statement without overpowering the space. Collections of white always works in any kitchen.

Photo by Michael Partenio 
Kitchen and Baths Idea magazine winter 2011




The homeowners collection of blue mason jars set the stage for the props I brought in. Creating the harmonious balance of well placed accessories takes time. Open shelves should be  used for a proud display of your favorite objects.  Keeping colors in the same family creates tranquility and balance


 Michael Partenio, the photographer could not resist getting this shot of the homeowner's daughter. It's a winner!.

Sometime the location of the shoot calls the shots when it comes to the props. Who could resist the idea of Cape Cod oysters? Can you feel the summer breeze blowing thru the windows?

Photos by  Michael Partenio
Renovation Style magazine 

Gee, I love my JOB!




6 comments:

  1. This is so fantastic -- I am thrilled to have found your blog because I am very interested in the art of styling and interior photography. I've been doing a series on the subject from a completely novice perspective -- studying professional photographs for commonalities. So looking forward to reading more and finding out what you have to say!
    Camille

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  2. Ah, I see my buddy Camille stopped by. I thought she would love this post. Very informative and beautiful post, Karin. Some of the best kitchen styling I've seen.
    Steve

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  3. Karin, This is such an interesting, beautiful and helpful post. Your styling is impeccable!
    I am soaking up all you have to offer!
    I am inspired!
    Yvonne

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  4. Your styling is possibly the best I have ever seen. Some of your shots brought tears to my eyes because it was something so real and how I would like my "world" to be. I keep trying.

    Janis Covington Stufflebean
    janisstflbn@aol.com

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  5. What a fabulous post. I just found your blog today, Karin, and I'm so glad I did. New follower on GFC and I've added you to my Bloglovin' roll so I can keep up with your new posts. I've spent a little time browsing through your blog. Love the pumpkin basket made from a grapevine wreath. Brilliant! I'm pinning that to make next Fall. Thank you for generously sharing so many wonderful decorating tips. Nancy @ A Joyful Cottage.

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