Tips for the perfect Architectural Photography

Architectural Photography is a very specialized niche of photography that tries to capture the essence of a building or structure. Every architectural object tells its own unique story and photographers try to capture that. Historically, taking photos of buildings was first done from a purely technical and documentation perspective, but over the years it has blossomed into a distinctive art form.

​While it may not seem like it at first, there is a lot of depth to architectural photography.

1. Look for unique angles and perspective

Every building, and every structure is designed with a specific vision. You as a photographer need to figure that out and capture it. You can do that by spending some time around the building and exploring it from different angles and perspectives. 

The Borujerdi House , Iran by mostafa meraji via Unsplash

​After spending some time with the building, you are photographing you will unlock layers within layers of beauty, symmetry, and abstractions that weren’t previously visible.

2. Revisit the site in different weather conditions and times
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It is really hard to capture a huge 3-dimensional object and then project it in a 2-dimensional photograph. You can lose a lot of information like the feeling you get when standing next to an object. 

La Défense, France by Corentin LE LEANNEC via Unsplash

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Some buildings shine in rain, while others look good when captured during nighttime. Capturing the atmosphere is just as important as capturing the building itself.

So, visit the site a few times during different times and weather conditions to choose the perfect atmosphere for your shot.

3. Include People

One of the most common mistakes people make in architectural photography is not including people in their captures. This is because there is a misconception that architectural photography should not include people.

Mucem St Jean, Marseille, France by Baptiste Buisson via Unsplash

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​When in fact adding people into the mix can add soul to a bland picture. So be sure to adjust people in your next architectural shot to add a contrasting object.

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