Not every wall needs a motivational poster.

Sometimes, it just needs a story.

This end-of-day prairie shot—with its weathered schoolhouse and quiet sense of time passing—was captured during commissioned photo series project aimed to bring a sense of place and reflection into a workspace.

That’s the kind of thing we enjoy to do at Big Idea. Whether it’s a wall of vintage trucks that nod to the grit that built the business, native botanicals that reflect local roots, abstract architecture to spark creativity, or calming landscapes that help clinical spaces feel more welcoming. We help businesses liven up their spaces with creative, eye-catching images that feel fresh and original—often making people pause, look twice, and actually feel something. A welcome change from the usual generic photos and often tired framed inspirational quotes.

And the process? Surprisingly simple.

We sit down and talk about what you’re hoping to convey. We help shape that into a visual direction, then photograph and produce custom artwork—designed specifically for your space, your brand, and your message. We’ll even take care of the install, whether it’s large-scale wall coverings or a clean series of framed, canvas, or metal prints.

It’s a collaborative process that brings meaning to the spaces where your team and your clients spend time—and it all starts with a conversation.

You’ve got a fish in your hand, but which fish?

We partnered with Minnesota Sea Grant to design a practical and visually engaging identification decal aimed at helping Lake Superior anglers distinguish between Steelhead and Salmon species—an important distinction given the state’s catch-and-release regulations for wild Steelhead. The organization, Minnesota Steelheader also was involved in this project. The decal, titled Know the fish. Know the regs., features side-by-side illustrations and key identifiers like mouth color, spot patterns, and fin characteristics. It’s a small but impactful piece of visual communication that supports fisheries education, conservation, and responsible angling—all in a format anglers can keep close at hand. Digital downloads and limited hard copies are available through Minnesota Sea Grant’s website.

On-site professional portraits

We recently had a great on-site shoot at a client’s location, capturing a business lifestyle portrait with storytelling elements in the background. No matter your profession or work environment, a well-captured portrait can enhance your professional presence. This cover photo is just one example of the diverse industries and workplaces we have the opportunity to explore and capture. Who knew there was an International Concrete Repair Institute (ICRI)? Our client, American Engineering Testing, is doing fascinating work, and we enjoyed showcasing one of their own as the 2025 ICRI President.

Website building with quality images

Concert photography demands quick thinking and technical precision. Good photographers will adapt to unpredictable lighting, fast-moving performers, limited angles and obstructions. Capturing sharp, well-exposed shots requires fast lenses, high ISO capability, and the ability to anticipate key moments, like an intense solo or emotional expression, to create impactful images.

Good quality photos are essential for building a strong online presence. For musicians, high-quality live performance shots capture the energy and emotion of a show, giving fans and industry professionals a glimpse of their stage presence. Well-curated images make a website visually engaging, reinforcing the artist’s brand and helping them shine. We have help several musician over the years. Pictured here is our friend, Martin Zellar. You can see some more of our work on his renewed website – www,martinzellar.com. You can also here his latest album, Head West on spotify. Enjoy

The fun BEAR’ly Open Event

Captured the fun of the 2025 BEAR’ly Open, from the lively Pre-Party with live music to the unique golf event on White Bear Lake benefiting the White Bear Area Food Shelf.  The BEAR’ly Open is an official event of the 2025 Saint Paul Winter Carnival.

A Fun Headshot Session

We bring a fun, playful approach to photography, bringing out genuine smiles and personality. The shoot was lighthearted and relaxed, with some laughs along the way. We make things easier for clients by offering location shoots, so you can get a terrific headshot without a need to leave the comfort of your preferred space. Keeping the experience as enjoyable and convenient as possible makes for great smiles.