The sun has come out and the seasons have finally changed. Summer is here. Memorial Day weekend always amazes me. My 6-mile "commute" over to the studio increases a good 40% in time (not distance) from this holiday until Labor Day. People start showing up--everywhere. It all becomes a bit more touristy but it's summer and I love it. I, Jake Schnake, was born and raised around the lake and have spent every summer of my life enjoying its beauty. It amazes me it never gets old. There are certainly days I would love to move out west to some majestic backdrop for life and photography but there is always the raw beauty found along the shores of Geneva Lake.
This year we have started shooting much more real estate for many of the local realtors. Having the privilege of photographing some of the homes around and near the lake establishes a deeper sense of appreciation for the history and culture that has been created and why it is such a great place to call home. I didn't know how therapeutic capturing real estate would be for me. Some photographers probably find it boring and monotonous and others probably shudder at the thought of their home ever being photographed or displayed for others to see. But I see the potential for hospitality, committment to family, celebration of life, cultivation of relationships, and the creativity of the family.
The Lake Geneva area is a wonderful place to call home, to raise a family, to grow as one, build a business, have fun and visit. Below are some of of our recent photos capturing some of the amazing architecture of our lake community.