There’s far more to architectural photography than shooting a smart building. It involves a trained eye, impressive technical skills and photographic finesse gained through years of experience in the sector.
Top photographers in the field take great pride in capturing the essence of the buildings they are hired to shoot – bringing to life the vision of the architect, the creativity of the designer and the technical expertise of the builder.
Yet choosing the right architectural photographer for your project is critical. What should you consider for the perfect fit?
Be sure the photographer has the right kind of expertise. A good all-round architectural photographer is happy covering residential and commercial properties of any size or type.
Discuss the specifics of your project to get a feel for the photographic firm. Does the photographer understand your specific requirements concerning the type of images needed, the environment of the shoot and the background history of the project? Be clear about the kind of images you want and communicate this to the photographer.
Be sure that your chosen photographer fits well within your project budget. Don’t be afraid to discuss the specifics, ensuring you get the expected amount of photographs at the right price.
Do your homework
Study the website and portfolio of your selected photographic firm. Look for vibrant images which inspire you, conveying the spirit, beauty and complexity of the properties displayed. Tell the photographer the style of images you prefer and discuss whether you can achieve the same look for your project.
Experienced architectural photographers know that the audience helps determine the style of images required. Are you seeking sleek, high-end shots for a corporate audience? Or more comfortable, enticing images appealing to home buyers? Talking about specifics will ensure your photographer hits the right level.
Having strong technical skills is essential for any architectural photographer. But does yours have the creativity ‘X factor’? The best architectural photography is art as well as science. It relies on the photographer having a keen eye for detail, a flair for highlighting points of difference and the ability to choose the most interesting perspective and lighting. A flexible, nuanced approach can secure the job.
Hard work takes place on site, as your photographer shoots a winning portfolio of interiors and exteriors. Yet the real magic happens post-production, as they compensate for any natural deficiencies by tweaking lighting, exposure, colours, perspective and highlights. Ask if you can see ‘before’ and ‘after’ examples as a guide to the firm’s skill in this area.
Finally, choose a photographic firm with a welcoming feel and a professional approach. Think beyond this job to future projects. Find the right firm now and you can build a successful relationship to carry you forward, ensuring you don’t have to shop around for photographers in the future.
Top architectural photographers value a strong work ethic, mutual respect and integrity in addition to quality content. So, check out testimonials on their website and social media pages to assess their professional standing.
If you're searching for an architectural photographer for your newest project, talk to us about how we can make your building shine