As with any subject, it is necessary to work regularly in photographing architectural subjects. Unless material and planning is done in the architectural photograph, photos cannot be taken on demand. Preparations for architectural photography begin with the study of the plastic elements and functions of the building. However, the right perspective, the right lighting, the right camera, and the selection of lenses with appropriate focal length and auxiliary materials are required.
The purpose of architectural photography is to transfer the structures to the photo frame according to certain aesthetic values in line with different aims and approaches. Architectural photography can have many purposes. This aim varies depending on why the building is photographed. A structure can be photographed for many reasons, because the attraction to describe a structure and the shootings to describe its functions are different. For this reason, before photographing the building, it must determine how to approach the subject because there are various approaches to architectural photography. A meaningful architectural photograph should not only show the architecture in an interesting way, but also reflect the perspective of the architecture. Each structure requires a certain analysis in terms of location and order. Every architect solves this problem differently. Therefore, the main purpose of architectural photography is to express certain reasons behind this architectural expression in a photographic sense.
In some special cases, architectural photography plays an active role in defining the building with its topography or environment. In such cases, our task is to study not only the building but also the surroundings of the building and transfer it to the photo.
We usually do it in order to perceive the structure by the target audience in the shots made for tourism and promotion purposes. In architectural shots, we aim to introduce the building in all aspects of the building by photographing it from the outside and inside according to the customer's request. If the architectural structure is a holiday village, we would definitely like to photograph the areas where the activities in the holiday village, sports facilities, SPA, swimming pools, shops, bars, etc. are targeted for the target audience.
When the producer firms or the architect of the building want to be photographed for the promotion of the structures they make, we take the most comprehensive shots because the shooting will be done for the architect or producer firm that has done the most competent and detailed work. The work of the architect, which he has created with very long efforts, is very valuable for him in terms of energy and time. To show their future customers, they ask us for photos describing all the functions and functions of that building. For this reason, we collect as much information about the structure as possible. Communicating with the architect or site chief, talking on the plan of the building helps us a lot when photographing the building.
We would like to read the appropriate architectural photographs required for books, magazines, encyclopedia for architectural purposes, and the article to be published with the photograph before shooting. If there is an illustration to be added to the article, we would also like to see it. The completed text acts as a shooting plan for us, and this article can reveal the photographic attitude of the magazine or that publication.
The architectural photographer is tasked with capturing aesthetically and technically appealing images of buildings, interiors, landscapes and other structural elements. An architectural photographer's duties may include:
Capturing Salient Features of a Place: An architectural photographer takes photographs to highlight important design features and details of a building or space. This means revealing the building's unique architectural features and design elements.
Reflecting the Atmosphere of the Place: The photographer should create images that reflect the spirit, purpose and atmosphere of the place. This is important to describe the aesthetic and functional qualities of the space.
Light Management: The architectural photographer improves the quality of images by effectively using natural light and artificial lighting. Lighting, shadow and highlight management are important.
Perspective and Composition: Choosing the right perspective and composition skills are important to capture the best angle of the space and make the visuals attractive.
Equipment Use: The ability to use professional photographic equipment effectively is important. It is necessary to achieve the best results by using different camera equipment, lenses and accessories.
Post-Production: The photographer performs editing and post-production operations after shooting. This includes color corrections, sharpness adjustments and other edits.
Working in accordance with customer needs: The architectural photographer must work in accordance with the needs and wishes of the customer. The images presented to the client must meet the requirements of the project.
Time Management: Time management is important for shooting multiple locations or projects. It is necessary to ensure that projects are completed within the specified time.
Architectural photographers often serve clients such as architects, construction firms, designers, real estate agencies and publishers. Their task is to display and promote a building or space in an attractive way by emphasizing its aesthetic and functional features.
What to expect from an architectural photographer may vary depending on the client's expectations and project requirements. However, in general, they may have the following expectations from an architectural photograph:
1. Technical Skills: The architectural photographer must have high technical skills in using a camera, exposure, composition and light management. Must also be able to use different camera equipment and lenses effectively.
2. Aesthetic Understanding: Architectural photographer must have the ability to look with an aesthetic eye. It should highlight the beauty of the building, interior or landscape and create visually appealing photographs by paying attention to environmental details.
3. Sensitivity to Details: The architectural photographer must pay attention to details and fine textures. It should highlight the original features and design details of the building.
4. Capturing the Atmosphere of the Place: Photos should reflect the atmosphere and spirit of the place. The architectural photographer must understand the character of the space and its intended use.
5. Light Management: Light is an important element of architectural photography. The photographer must use natural light or artificial lighting effectively and balance shadows and highlights.
6. Perspective and Composition: It should capture the best angle of the space by using correct perspective and composition. Good framing and positioning skills are important.
7. Equipment and Software Knowledge: The architectural photographer must have knowledge of using professional camera equipment and be able to use photo editing software effectively.
8. Collaboration Ability: Must be able to communicate well with customers and architects and understand the requirements of the project. The ability to collaborate is important.
9. Following Technological Updates: The architectural photographer should closely follow photography technologies and trends.
10. Time Management and Organization: The ability to manage multiple locations or projects simultaneously is important. Photographers must ensure that shoots are completed on time and within budget.
Expectations from architectural photographers may vary depending on the type of project, its size and the client's wishes. Therefore, specific requirements and expectations should be clarified for each project.
You may consider the following advice for aspiring or existing architectural photographers:
1. Training and Skills Development:
- Get photography training or start learning on your own. Developing basic photography skills is a good starting point.
- Learn the special techniques and requirements of architectural photography. This will help you improve your perspective, light management and composition skills.
2. Practice:
- Practice constantly to master photography. Shoot a variety of locations and different lighting conditions. You can gain experience by practicing.
3. Know the Equipment Well:
- Know well the photography equipment you will use. The ability to effectively use the camera, lenses, tripod and other accessories is important.
4. Light Management:
- Develop talent in light management. By understanding how light affects buildings and interiors, you can capture the best view of the space.
5. Perspective and Composition:
- Learn to choose the right perspective and composition. It is important to capture the best angle of the space and an attractive composition.
6. Create a Portfolio:
- Create a good portfolio. A portfolio is important to show to potential clients and employers. Keep your portfolio constantly updated by selecting and organizing your best work.
7. List Current Projects:
- List current projects for architectural photography. Take notes on your projects, document shooting locations and conditions. This can help you improve your references and experience in the future.
8. Follow Technological Developments:
- Follow technological developments to have information about photography equipment and software. You can gain a competitive advantage by using new techniques and tools.
9. Collaboration Ability:
- Architectural photographers often collaborate with architects, construction companies and designers. Good communication skills and the ability to collaborate are important.
10. Marketing and Business Management:
- If you run your own business, have knowledge of marketing and business management. Have the skills to present yourself, manage client relationships and organize projects.
11. Get Inspired:
- Check out the work of other accomplished architectural photographers and be inspired by them. Keep up with industry trends by browsing exhibitions, books, magazines and online platforms.
Architectural photography is a field that requires practical experience and continuous learning. Focus on constantly improving yourself to create high-quality and impressive visuals.
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