Making Photos vs Taking Photos
Major factors that separate average architectural photography from really good architecture photography is the process involved in building a photo into a finished image.
This project was photographed for a real estate development company that is also involved in construction, equity ownership, and architectural design.
Before we even scheduled a date and arrived for the photographs, we consulted weather predictions as well as the angle of sun and the exact time of sunset at this Minneapolis location. We also communicated with the client's project manager to insure the building environment was clean. We also asked that all vehicles that could potentially obstruct or distract from the image be moved away.
The approximate location for this image was suggested by the company's project architect. Prior to taking pictures we collaborate with architects, interior designers, and other stakeholders to get their input on key features of a project that help create the visual narrative.
Because of the harsh shadows and broad range of luminosity in the highlights and shadows, we used HDR photography techniques to capture details in the shadows and highlights.
Even though the HDR software did a good job balancing the color and luminosity of the image, we discovered that a flare of light on the edge of the building's canopy had created an odd and distracting effect. It appeared to blur and soften the edge of the canopy.
Using Adobe Photoshop techniques we masked in a sharper edge along the canopy, removed a dark spot above the canopy, and toned down the brightness at the edge of the canopy.
Taking the time to edit the image takes it from average to great.
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Silverman Be Remarkable
Steve Silverman
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