Architecture Photography
As a photographer, architecture offers many different challenges, especially for the new photographer. Technically, buildings can be very demanding to photograph, but the key to solving this and achieving good images is understanding image distortion and finding the best moment to capture the building at its most glamorous.
Image Distortion: When we look at a standard building, we see horizontal and vertical lines. These lines often appear distorted and will make your image look warped. Image distortion occurs when we choose the wrong point to take our picture or use the wrong equipment.
With most SLR cameras some image distortion will occur. Shooting directly in front of the building will limit your options but will limit the amount of distortion in your image.
View cameras are ideal cameras for architectural photography. They minimize distortion and allow you to shoot from any angle. If you are serious about architectural photography, an investment in a viewing camera is something to consider.
Your lens can also make your image look distorted. A wide angle lens will make the front of the building look massive compared to the rear.
If you are photographing a tall building, do not shoot too close to the base. This will make the base of the building appear too large compared to the top. Find a high vantage point, if possible, to take your picture.
Different lights bring out different moods in a building. As with all other types of photography, studio photography being the exception, the time of day can make a big difference to an image. A building that looks simple and uninteresting during the day can be transformed by lighting at night. Also look for photos that tell a story, such as an office building with only one light on.
Side lighting will create long shadows across the front of the building, adding a touch of atmosphere to your image.
Backlit buildings are extremely difficult to photograph and are only effective as a photograph when captured as a silhouette.
Most buildings are best captured at night and, if possible, are shot when details remain in the sky. You don’t need the most expensive camera equipment on the market to get great photos of buildings at night – bring plenty of film and a good sturdy tripod.
Architectural photography doesn’t end when the exterior of the building is finished. Images of the interior of buildings are also requested by many agencies. Great care must be taken when photographing the interior, as the elements of the interior can distract the final result of the image. Remove any objects that may interfere with your image.
Industrial photography is also as demanding and rewarding as any other type of photography. Be very careful when approaching large structures, use standard photography techniques, and use light creatively to add humor and mood.
Architecture photography is very demanding, but the rewards are great for anyone who has mastered the technique. But like all types of photography, practice makes perfect.
