Light and the role it plays in architectural photography
As an experienced architectural photographer, I can't begin to stress enough how much light plays a critical role in my day to day work. It's not just about having enough light to capture the building, but about how I’m using the light to bring out the character and personality of the building and material that has been used in its construction.
I love to experiment with different lighting conditions to see how it changes the mood and tone of the photograph, with the direction and quality of the light making all the difference in how the final image turns out.
For instance, during the golden hour, when the sun is just about to set, the light is soft and warm. It's my favourite time to shoot because it brings out the textures and details of the building. The way the light falls on the building's surface creates a sense of depth and dimensionality that is hard to replicate at any other time of the day.
On the other hand, the blue hour is a special time just before sunrise as during this time, the light is cool and blue, and it can create a sense of mystery and intrigue in the image. This is the time to create drama and a moody atmosphere in your photos.
I'm always looking for ways to use shadows creatively in my images. Shadows can add visual interest and depth to the shot, and they can help highlight certain features of the building. Sometimes, the shadows cast by the buildings themselves can create a sense of drama and visual tension in the shot although in most cases I am trying to avoid any shadows that will be distracting and take the focus away from the medium it is falling upon.
When I'm shooting, I'm always paying attention to the composition of the shot, the use of colour, and the overall aesthetic of the image. I'm looking for ways to make the building stand out and to showcase its unique character and style.
As an architectural photographer, I have a deep appreciation for the beauty and majesty of the built environment. It's my passion to capture stunning images that do justice to the amazing structures we've built over time. And it all starts with understanding how light can be used to bring out the best in a building.