Architectural Photography 101

Welcome to Architectural Photography 101. Whether you’re an aspiring architectural photographer, a professional looking to refine your skills or an architecture enthusiast, this guide will help you understand the art and techniques behind capturing buildings and structures in their best light. Here at The Location Guys, we specialise in connecting the world of photography with stunning locations, and we know just how essential great architectural imagery is.

We’ll explore:

What architectural photography is
The main categories within this sub-genre
Why architectural photography is important
The techniques and equipment needed
Tips for improving your shots
Famous architectural photographers for inspiration
How to break into the field

What Is Architectural Photography?

Architectural photography captures images that accurately represent buildings, interiors, and other structures. But it’s more than just documentation; it’s about telling a story through perspective, light, and composition. The best architectural photography showcases a space’s design and aesthetics while evoking emotion and atmosphere.

Unlike other genres of photography, where the subject may be dynamic, architectural photography focuses on static, immovable objects. Every detail, from angles to lighting and post-processing, is crucial to achieving the perfect shot.

Categories of Architectural Photography

Architectural photography can be broadly divided into two primary categories:

1. Exterior Architectural Photography

Exterior photography focuses on capturing the outside of buildings, often in relation to their surroundings. These shots may include skyline views, natural landscapes, urban settings, or even reflections in bodies of water.

Daytime Shots: Capturing a building under natural light can enhance textures, materials, and colours. The golden hour (shortly after sunrise or before sunset) is particularly popular for its warm tones and long shadows.

Night Photography: Illuminated buildings at night create dramatic compositions, using artificial light sources to highlight architectural details.

Aerial Photography: Drone photography has opened up new possibilities, offering perspectives that were once only possible with helicopters.

2. Interior Architectural Photography

Interior architectural photography highlights the inside of a structure, from grand atriums to intimate living spaces. The challenge here is balancing natural and artificial lighting while maintaining accurate colour representation.

Ambient Light Photography: Uses available light sources like windows and skylights to maintain an authentic look.

Supplementary Lighting: Photographers often bring in softboxes, reflectors, and flashes to even out exposure and highlight key features.

Detail Shots: Close-ups of textures, furniture, and architectural elements can add depth to a portfolio.

Why Architectural Photography

Architectural photography is used for various purposes, including:

Marketing & Real Estate: High-quality images attract potential buyers and tenants.
Architectural Firms & Designers: Professionals use these images to showcase their work and attract clients.
Editorial & Magazines: Architectural photography appears in lifestyle and design publications, inspiring audiences worldwide.
Tourism & Cultural Heritage: Many historical buildings and landmarks are documented for promotional and preservation purposes.

Equipment for Architectural Photography

Having the right tools is crucial for achieving stunning results. Here’s what every architectural photographer should have:

Cameras

Full-frame DSLR or Mirrorless Camera: These offer high resolution and dynamic range, essential for capturing fine details.
Medium or Large Format Cameras: For professionals seeking ultra-high-quality imagery.

Lenses

Tilt-Shift Lenses: Correct perspective distortion, making them ideal for straightening vertical lines.
Wide-Angle Lenses: Capture expansive spaces crucial for interior photography.
Prime Lenses: Offer sharper image quality and are great for detail shots.

Other Equipment

Tripod: Ensures stability and sharpness, especially for long exposures.
Remote Shutter Release: Reduces camera shake when using slow shutter speeds.
Lighting Equipment: Softboxes and strobes help balance exposure in interiors.
Drone: Aerial photography can provide striking new perspectives of buildings.

Capturing Stunning Architectural Photos

1. Understand Your Subject

Before photographing a building, research its history, design intent, and architect. Knowing the story behind a structure will help you capture its essence.

2. Master Composition Techniques

Leading Lines: Use paths, corridors, or roads to draw attention to the structure.
Framing: Incorporate elements like archways or windows to frame the subject naturally.
Symmetry & Patterns: Emphasise balance and repeating architectural elements.

3. Use the Right Light

Lighting makes or breaks an architectural photo. Aim for:

Golden Hour: Soft, directional light enhances textures.
Overcast Days: Even lighting without harsh shadows.
Night Shots: Use artificial lighting for dramatic effects.

4. Correct Distortion in Post-Processing

Software like Adobe Lightroom and Photoshop helps correct lens distortions, ensuring that vertical lines remain straight and accurate to the original design.

5. Experiment with Different Angles

While shooting straight-on captures symmetry, don’t be afraid to get low, high, or off to the side to reveal a building’s unique character.

Famous Architectural Photographers

Studying the works of master photographers can provide valuable insights:

Julius Shulman: Known for capturing mid-century modern architecture, his images often featured dramatic compositions.

Iwan Baan: Brings a human-centric approach to architectural photography, focusing on how people interact with spaces.

Hélène Binet: Renowned for black-and-white photography that highlights form and shadow.

Richard Bryant: A British legend known for his contemporary architectural imagery.

Eric de Maré: Helped redefine how British architecture was perceived through photography.

Get Started in Architectural Photography

Practice Locally: Start with familiar buildings in your city and experiment with different lighting conditions.
Build a Portfolio: Create images showcasing your skills across various styles.
Network with Industry Professionals: Connect with architects, real estate agents, and interior designers who might need your services.
Study & Experiment: Learn from professional photographers and test new techniques.
Market Your Work: Share your work on social media and photography platforms like Instagram.

Your Architectural Story Starts Here

Architectural photography is both an art and a technical skill, blending creativity with precision. Whether you capture an iconic landmark or a modern masterpiece, understanding composition, lighting, and perspective is essential. You can develop your unique style in this exciting field by refining your techniques, using the right equipment, and continually seeking inspiration.

We’re passionate about bringing photographers and incredible locations together at The Location Guys. Whether you’re an experienced professional or just starting out, there’s always something new to learn in architectural photography.

Ready to capture stunning architecture? Grab your camera, explore your city, and start shooting!