Clocking in at 3,036 pieces, and 19 bags (not including the two sets of leaves bags), the LEGO Ideas Tree House a beast. But how does the LEGO Ideas Tree House work for us toy photographers?
Let’s get the non-toy photography stuff out of the way first…
The set includes 4 minifigures: mum, dad and 2 children. The tree has interchangeable sets of green (summer) leaves and yellow and brown (autumn) leaves. The Tree House comprises if 3 cabins, a main bedroom, bathroom and a kids’ room. The tree foliage features over 180 botanical elements made from plant-based polyethylene plastic using sustainably sourced sugarcane. It measures in at over 14” (37cm) high, 10” (27cm) wide and 9” (24cm) deep. The treetop and cabin roofs are removable for easy access and play.
OK, it’s big, it’s impressive, and it’s a heck of a build. But how does the LEGO Ideas Tree House stack up (pun intended) for toy photography?
Ominous
It cuts an ominous figure when against the skyline. Sure, it’s a bugger lugging a huge set around, like Apocalypseburg and Voltron, but this set somehow feels less like it’s gonna crumble in transport.
Plus, the top of the tree comes out as one piece, so that helps. I lugged this beast from my front door to three different locations for the shoot I did for LEGO, and not once did I panic that it was gonna fall to pieces!
Let there be light
The treetop and cabin roofs might be removable for the intention of pay, but this is also a handy feature for us toy photographers.
Taking off a rooftop allows light to fill the rooms.
Angles
The way the three cabins sit around the tree trunk creates endless angles to take toy photos from.
Compared to other “big” LEGO sets, this one feels like it’s created to take photos of.
Every turn of the base reveals a new aspect to explore as a toy photographer!
Built in bokeh
The foliage creates its own wonderful bokeh!
This is one toy photography feature I didn’t expect, but it was welcomed!
So, would I have looked at this LEGO set and thought it would be great for toy photography? Probably not. Was I surprised by this set’s toy photography potential? Yes. Will I use this set to photograph toys again. Yes!
– Brett
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You created such beautiful pics from this set Brett. Impressive! I’m not personally drawn to the set, but you have made it compelling and even enchanting. Thanks for sharing your pics and your take!
Thanks Doug! It is a wonderful set to build, AND photograph. Hopefully my post hasn’t put a dent in your wallet!
I love the photos that you took with this set Brett – especially the last one! We went to the LEGO Store on Saturday and fell in love with this set. We tried to resist but we ended up going back on Sunday to get it. Now I’m building the rooms and hubby is building the tree trunk. I’m looking forward to taking photos of it 🙂
Lynn
I look forward to seeing the photographs you take of this great set! 😀
Wow, I didn’t realize how photogenic this set was! That’s super cool!
It surprised me too, in a good way!
Wow! Now I really want this set! Your photos convinced me that it’s great for the photographers as well as the builders.
It really is a great set for toy photography! I wouldn’t have initially thought so either, but it really is.
Love the pics, Brett! I really like the tree with the autumn foliage, i’m in love with it!
I was so excited to see the summer and autumn options for the foliage too. And the autumnal colours really jumped out at me!
These pictures are great! I wanted to get the tree from the beginning and now I have another reason to add it to my collection. 🙂
It will be a wonderful addition to your collection, and your toy photography scenes!
Great photos, Brett! I was impressed with this set from a builder’s perspective, but wasn’t sure how it would be to photograph. You’ve shown that it can be done, and done well! Perhaps someday I’ll have to pick this up (though I’ll have to find out where to put it first! ?)
Cheers mate. It’s a great build, and despite the three rooms having the “same bones” there’s enough difference to keep the interesting without feeling repetitive. It doesn’t take up too much shelf space, so you should definitely add it to your collection! 😉
Wonderful pictures Brett and a wonderful set!!! Thanks for this review … now I really want this set ??
Thank you Astrid! 🙂
You really captured the mood of this set Brett! Wonderful pictures!
Thanks mate. It’s really is a treat to photograph.