with photography united and this led me to specialise in two types of photography : architecture and building construction . I document all aspects of the building construction process , providing the project ’ s architects with bold and imaginative images . My aim is to capture their designs and also to show the work of the engineering consultants as the building construction progresses .
Clearly , the approach to photographing construction in progress is very different to preparing for an architectural photoshoot of a completed building . Fortunately I am intrigued by the possibilities and challenges in both situations .
When it comes to architectural photography , how do you work and what do you feel makes for a great image ? My first priority is to meet with the architects at their office to discuss their ideas . This is a critical starting point for me . The first meeting will align our understanding of the brief . The second meeting is an on-site walkabout with the architects , identifying the special areas to be photographed , possible compositions and lighting aspects .
Once I understand the architects ’ expectations , I spend a lot of time on site walking through the building , identifying possible composition opportunities , lighting conditions , interesting structures and textures . This preparation allows me to plan the sequence of images before the actual photo-shoot day .
For me a great architectural image reveals a prominent aspect of the design of the building . This image will be my signature shot with good composition and interesting natural light . I will also do a night photograph of the building . My reasoning here is to create an iconic timeless image .
What is your favourite building to have shot and why ? I have a number of favourite buildings that I have photographed . Cape Town Stadium rates as my most memorable project and is the building I most enjoyed photographing .
The design of the stadium with its raking pylons , the compression ring and the structure of the roof were of particular interest to me and presented many creative challenges . In the end , these elements formed bold and imaginative images that showed the stadium to its best advantage . To the architects on the project , the stadium was known as ‘ A Skottel with Atmosphere ’, and I hope my photographs contributed to this idea .
What should architects consider when working with a photographer to ensure the best quality shoot ? Time is a photographer ’ s best resource on an architectural photo-shoot . Architects need to bear in mind that good images come from a slow creative process . Photographers approach architectural photography with meticulous preparation , critical attention to detail and huge effort . Skill ( and the good luck of being in the right light at the right moment ) are needed to produce the best possible images . Skill is one thing , luck depends on how much time the photographer spends on site .
terryf @ terryfebruaryphotography . co . za www . terryfebruaryphotography . co . za
Terry February 9