A few weeks ago, I got the chance to take branding photos of one of my favorite hangouts, Backwater Books in Ellicott City. Located in a charming town with lots of character, this place fits right in. It’s the kind of place that feels like it’s always been there. Upstairs, their bar, Bibliopub, adds another layer to the experience with cozy seating, craft drinks, and live music that spills into the space in the best way.
When Backwater Books opened just a few doors down from my apartment a few years ago, I had a feeling it would become part of my regular rhythm. And it did. The owners, Matt and Alli, have created something really special. It’s more than a bookstore. It’s a true third space. A place where locals and visitors can gather, slow down, and stay awhile. Whether you’re flipping through books, meeting a friend for a drink, or catching live music, it always feels warm and welcoming.
Sessions like this are exactly why I love branding photography. It’s not just about documenting a space, it’s about telling the story of what it feels like to be there and what makes a business truly unique.
Going into this session, I wanted the photos to reflect exactly how the space feels to me. Warm, inviting, and lived-in, like a living room you never want to leave. I leaned into that feeling while also playing with contrast. Something a little contemporary, but with a timeless feel. Almost like the space exists outside of time. Like it’s always been here.
We focused on a mix of cool team portraits and headshots, capturing the people who bring the space to life. And of course, Sami the bartender in action, crafting drinks behind the bar and adding to the energy that makes this place feel so special.The goal wasn’t just to document what it looks like, but to capture what it feels like to be there.
If you haven’t been yet, I highly recommend stopping by, grabbing a drink upstairs, and letting yourself settle in for a bit.
This is their website: https://backwaterbooks.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/backwaterbooks/
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