What to look out for when choosing a photographer as an architect?
Architects, designers are one with architectural photographers. As an architect and designer, why is it worth investing in a professional architecture photographer?
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Architecture and design go hand in hand with professional photography. It's a closed circle where the designer or architect creates the project, the implementation takes place and the photographer seals the final photograph.
Is it possible to distinguish a good photograph from a less hilarious one?
Yes, and many times it may not be about the technique used, but the approach. Nowadays, more and more architects are trying to save money after implementation and decide to photograph the project themselves. Unfortunately, when they do take the photos themselves, they often don't realize that quality realisation photography is the means to an amazing presentation. And how many times that can be behind a decisive "yes" from a prospective client. And it's all the more rewarding when, after months or years of work, you have a perfectly captured final project in your hands that has become the darling of the media.
What to expect from working with a photographer?
Aside from getting quality photographs, someone who will listen to how the project was conceived and what is special about the project. Whether it's the technology used in the construction, the innovative materials incorporated or the structure of the materials themselves. For us it is also important what feeling the architect wants to capture. After presenting the project, the photographer should suggest angles and places where to shoot and complement this with detailed photographs.
When to give the photographer a free hand?
In the beginning of a collaboration it is important to get to know each other and present your work. It's all about building a relationship and participating in joint projects. If you have someone you look up to in photo processing, show them to your photographer as a reference. But count on the fact that if the photographer shoots in black and white, chances are they won't do as good a job in color.
Explain the purpose of the project to the photographer first and point out the important elements, then have them choose an angle. A professional photographer should be able to help you find the best angle as well as help with staging in the room. But sometimes you may run into the limits of technique, which usually limits the angle that can be taken and what can be shown in the photo.
But the important thing is that you shouldn't be afraid to ask and suggest what you like.
It doesn't end with shooting the project. Next comes the post-production part, where you and the photographer fine-tune the contrasts and colors.
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So, as an architect and designer, why hire an architectural photographer?
Professional photographers are better at photographing architecture than you are, no offense.
If you don't hire one, for better presentation, your competitors will.
Quality photographs help your presentation and sell your work. Besides, you can use them for articles and PR.
They can be a great accessory as a print for your client and they will fine tune the interior.
You can use them for competitions.
They are proof of a completed project and your memory.
Good quality photographs should earn you far more money than they cost.
How to choose a photographer and what to look out for?
By recommendation, I'm sure your colleagues will recommend a quality photographer.
By portfolio. Even if someone recommends a photographer to you, look at their portfolio. If you don't like the photos or prefer a different style, the photographer may not be able to deliver your idea. Like the aforementioned black and white vs. color photos. Definitely ask questions.
Even in the portfolio, notice if there are straight verticals in his photos. And the space doesn't give the impression of falling.
Don't be afraid to ask for a test shoot to try out the collaboration and see how the photographer works. But with established photographers, this doesn't always work out.
Keep an eye on the rights to use the photos. Before the shoot, agree what rights you want to the photos so you can use them where you plan to.
It is impossible to cover all the information in such a short article. But we hope that we have at least given you an idea of what to look out for.
In the next articles we will look at how to photograph architecture properly. If you are interested in the topic of photographing architecture, we are preparing several lectures and workshops on the subject. If you don't want to miss a course sign up for our newsletter or follow us on social media.
If you have any questions or want to help please do not hesitate to contact us.
