Architectural photography is a special genre of photography that focuses on the depiction of buildings and other architectural structures. The aim is to capture both the aesthetics and the functionality of the architecture and often also to emphasize the relationship between the building and its surroundings. The aim is not only to "pixelate" the architecture, but also to convey the character and atmosphere of the location.
Examples: Sports facility Wetzikon Meierwiesen, Bahnhof Restaurant Dübendorf, ZKB Zurich Neue Hard, Restaurant Sternen im Sternenberg, Zurich Rothstrasse, Raiffeisen Bank Uster, Seegräben Pfäffikersee renovation and new construction, renovation and extension Effretikon
Here are some key aspects of architectural photography:
1. light and shadow
The play of light and shadow is crucial to the mood and volume of a building. Times of day such as early morning or late afternoon can cast dramatic shadows and create interesting contrasts.
Artificial lighting can also play a role, especially in night shots of urban buildings.
2. composition and perspective
Architectural photographers often work with lines, symmetries and geometric shapes to visually guide the viewer.
Perspective and angle are crucial - from the classic frontal view to more dramatic angles that emphasize the depth and size of a building.
3. technical precision
Architectural photographers often pay attention to details such as distortions that can be caused by wide-angle lenses. Distortions, such as the "tilting" of walls, are corrected either by special lenses (such as tilt-shift lenses) or by digital post-processing.
4 The importance of context
A good architectural photo should not only show the building itself, but also its surroundings and its relationship to the city or landscape. This can include both the surroundings and the location of the building.
5. style and atmospheric effect
The photographic style can vary greatly, from documentary and factual shots to artistic representations. The photographer decides whether he wants to show the building in its pure form or whether he wants to immerse it in an emotional or dramatic atmosphere.
6. technical equipment
Architectural photography often requires high image quality, so cameras with high resolutions and high-quality lenses are required.
Wide-angle lenses are often used to capture larger buildings or wide city views without creating too much distortion.
The use of a tripod and remote shutter release is common to ensure sharpness with long exposure times or in difficult lighting conditions.
7. post-production
In post-production, the contrast is often adjusted, the exposure optimized and colors highlighted. It is also often necessary to correct geometric distortions.
HDR (High Dynamic Range) is a popular technique for preserving details in both the bright and dark areas of an image.