PHOTOGRAPHER
FOCUS
Reinier Harmse
A little personal background Born and raised in Johannesburg , I ’ ve always had an affinity with both the creative and analytical fields . This culminated in studying Architecture , the profession where art and science break even . Since graduating , I ’ ve accumulated 10 years of work experience in residential & industrial architecture . Currently , I am employed as a professional Senior Architectural Technologist at a leading South African commercial and industrial firm , where I am responsible for heading up the graphics and visualisation divisions . Parallel to this , I ’ ve also been involved in various forms of photography . I have been honing my skills , utilising my professional career in architecture to create a symbiotic relationship between architecture & photography . I ’ m continually pushing my creative boundaries using my personal motto : “ Creativity is only limited by imagination ” for everything I do .
How you got into photography Whilst studying architecture at Tshwane University of Technology , I discovered photography as a means of creative expression . This led me to establish a freelance venture in 2009 as a way of exploring my own creativity ( and of course a means of income during student years ). After graduating , I joined a residential architecture firm . Here , I started refining my skills in the design and documentation of architecture , all whilst still pursuing photography in my free time . It was during this period that I fully merged my two passions , architecture and photography . I began shooting for architects , designers and construction companies alike . Now several years later , I find myself in the fortunate position of being a full-time architectural professional with an ever-growing architecture & photography portfolio and client base .
Do you specialise in any particular types of photography ? Over the years I ’ ve been involved in a wide range of photography . This has varied from wedding photography to product photography . However , I ’ ve since focussed my skills exclusively on the architectural field . Today my speciality lies in photographing residential , commercial , industrial and interior projects as well as product focussed architecture photos ( photography intended to showcase a building material / product in a final built project ). Being a full time architectural professional , I believe , gives me insights into understanding , interpreting and seeking ways to capture a project in ways that will meet the vision of the designer .
When it comes to architectural photography , how do you work and what do you feel makes for a great image ? Working almost exclusively with natural light , I place high emphasis on straight lines ( both vertically & horizontally ) as well as atmosphere and movement . I find that this leads to some of the most satisfying views as it turns the initial 2-dimensional sketches , elevations and artist impressions of designers and architects into images containing depth , texture and intrigue . This , combined with dynamic two-point perspective views , leads to a more comprehensive overview of projects .
As for how I work , it ’ s all about using time efficiently . In most cases you ’ ll only have one opportunity to photograph a project in a specific light or state , so preparation is key . A walk around on site prior to the shoot , looking at sunrise / sunset times along with the weather , going through information from the architect , all of this contributes towards ensuring a successful shoot . Finally , comfortable shoes ! There will be a lot of walking and even running around the project to ensure you get the right shot from the right angle at the right time .
What is your favourite building to have shot and why ? Can I say that each project I ’ ve taken on is unique and memorable in its own way ? No ?
Well then , The Cummins South Africa Regional Offices located in Waterfall holds a special place for me . Not only is it the largest physical project that I ’ ve photographed to date , but it also offered some great architectural elements and views . The juxtaposition of the sleek contemporary office component with the industrial nature of the facility creates a dynamic overall aesthetic . Combine this with the detailed interior design elements and you have some amazing visuals . Second to this is House Vista located in the East Rand . This was one of my very first projects photographed , and has been featured on popular Architectural platforms such as Archdaily .
What should architects consider when working with a photographer to ensure the best quality shoot ? You can never give too much info about the project or what you are looking to achieve with the photoshoot . Artist impressions , presentations and even marked up floor plans of important areas can all help guide the photographer during the shoot . The photographer will then be able to take this information and impart their own unique creative ability into photos that lead to a successful outcome .
Apart from this , it is important to consider the state of both the site and the building . It can be difficult to produce the best possible shots if work on the building isn ’ t 100 % complete . Projects need to be clutter free and clean so liaising with building management or a homeowner can go a long way with producing great results . Post production is a tool in every photographer ’ s arsenal , but large open unfurnished commercial spaces , scaffolding outside buildings , dirty glass and landscaping that hasn ’ t been properly established , will add hours to the total delivery time .
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8 Reinier Harmse