Leaning into the ‘Why Not’ Moments | Architectural + Interior Photography

Architectural photography involves interpreting the architecture, finding unique angles, and telling a story through images. As photographers, we are often faced with moments that challenge our conventional approach, but it is in these "Why Not" moments that we can truly unleash our creativity and capture extraordinary shots.

Embrace Unconventional Perspectives:

When on an architectural photoshoot, it's easy to stick to the traditional, safe angles that showcase the building in its entirety. However, "why not" take a more daring approach? Step back, squat down, or find a high vantage point to capture the structure from unusual angles. Embracing unconventional perspectives can lead to breathtaking compositions that elevate your portfolio and leave a lasting impact on your audience.

One example that comes to mind is the Auburn University Mell Hall shoot. After a full day of capturing an active space, with commotion coming from all angles, we found an interesting moment that required getting off the tripod and shooting straight down at some students studying quietly. The layered effect of multiple floors showcased the various workspaces and design elements, creating an incredible visual impact. We also appreciate how this picture can be separated into two individual shots due to its unique perspective.

Another great example was the Memphis Convention Center. Throughout the course of our planning, we thought it would be a great idea to showcase large-scale objects within the space. Drawing from Nick’s previous experience as a project manager, he recalls having multiple conversations about moving elephants through arenas or convention centers – a surprisingly common topic! Taking advantage of this, we thought, what better way to illustrate scale than by bringing in life-sized dinosaurs. These images were not only highly beneficial to the client but also serve as an excellent reference in our portfolio.

Utilize Natural Elements:

Sometimes, unexpected weather conditions or lighting can present challenges during a photoshoot. Instead of letting these factors hinder your creativity, ask yourself "why not" incorporate them into your shots? A stormy sky, for instance, can add drama and intensity to the image, while playing with shadows during the golden hour can create a mesmerizing interplay of light and architecture.

Our Banner Elk shoot encountered similar challenges. Fog had rolled in that day, so it was going to be hard to take any conventional architectural shot. Instead of playing the “sit and wait game” that we do so much in architectural photography, we used the fog to our advantage, accentuating the facility’s moody atmosphere. Once the lighting and fog aligned perfectly, we introduced a subject into the environment to evoke the clients’ desired feeling.

Emphasize Details:

In the pursuit of capturing amazing architectural images, photographers often overlook the finer details that make a building unique. "Why not" focus on intricate patterns, textures, and elements that tell a story about the structure's history and design? Close-up shots of ornate carvings, artistic windows, or innovative materials can provide a fresh perspective and reveal hidden beauty.

Our clients never fail to present us with exciting challenges during our shoots. We utilized the intricate pattern formed by the light installation to enhance the natural light streaming in to emphasize the size and grandeur of the space. To force perspective, we introduced a single subject, transforming the scene into a 360 moment. This shot, at any other time of the day, wouldn't have held the same impact. The composition not only highlighted the awe-inspiring nature of the space but also underscored the detail that went into crafting this convergence of light.

Every architectural photoshoot presents opportunities for creativity beyond the conventional. By leaning into the "Why Not" moments and stepping out of our comfort zones, we can elevate our craft and create images that resonate deeply with viewers. Embrace the unexpected, experiment with new techniques, and explore the unexplored during shoots.