Photographing architecture is an intricate dance between man-made structures and the art of capturing them through the lens. Architecture is more than just bricks and mortar; it’s a testament to human creativity, ambition, and resilience.

When paired with the art of photography, these structures come alive, narrating tales of history, culture, and innovation. If you’re interested in mastering architecture or simply someone who appreciates design and imagery, we hope these guides enlighten, inspire, and challenge your perceptions of the world built around us.

Artful Architecture

This guide delves deep into the art of capturing buildings, not just as static structures, but as living, breathing entities with stories to tell. It challenges you to ponder the essence of architectural photography: ‘Is it about the building’s design or the way it’s photographed?’ You’ll learn how different vantage points and perspectives from which you capture a building can drastically change the narrative of a photo. Author Teddi Tostanoski also provides practical shooting pointers, from playing with lighting to experimenting with equipment, ensuring that each shot stands out in a portfolio. Dive into this guide, and you’ll soon view buildings not just as mere structures, but as masterpieces waiting to be captured through your lens. Read it here →

How to Successfully Photograph Architecture at Night

If you’re eager to master the art of nighttime architectural photography, this guide covers the unique challenges and opportunities that arise when capturing buildings under the moonlit sky. From understanding the dynamic range of night scenes to planning successful shoots and selecting the right gear, the guide offers a step-by-step approach to ensure every shot is a masterpiece. It details the importance of shooting in RAW, mastering manual settings, and the art of post-processing to bring out the best in every photograph. Including safety tips and insights into monochrome night shots, you’ll learn all the tips for the next time you venture out and capture the enchanting beauty of architecture at night. Read it here →

Utilizing Composition in Architectural Photography

Capturing a building’s essence goes beyond just snapping its entirety – it’s about understanding and leveraging compositional elements like balance, shapes, lines, and details. From techniques like “front and center” that focus on symmetry, to the art of “framing” that uses surroundings to accentuate the subject, the guide offers a treasure trove of methods that can transform ordinary building shots into captivating images. The author, David Veldman also highlights the importance of observing intricate details, understanding the visual weight of elements, and the psychological effects of shapes. This guide will equip you with the tools to not just photograph a building, but to tell its story through composition! Read it here →

Five Tips to Photographing Religious Shrines

In contrast to the other guides here that tackle urban or Western architecture, this guide will teach you how to capture the essence of religious shrines with tips from photographer Kevin Landwer-Johan. Venturing beyond just snapping pictures, you must also remember to understand and respect the sanctity of these holy places. Get practical advice, from observing local rituals to choosing the right time for the best lighting. Landwer-Johan also underscores the significance of being present, feeling the ambiance of these holy sites, and learning how to convey the true nature of the shrine. You’ll go beyond just taking a photo of a shrine while on holiday; you’ll learn how to narrate the profound stories and emotions that these sacred places hold. Read it here →

Essential Tips for Photographing Small Towns

Our final recommendation is again at a different speed to the other guides we’ve listed here – learning how to capture the charm and nuances of quaint towns. From the importance of choosing a focus or theme for your shots to the art of interacting with curious locals, this guide provides a comprehensive roadmap. Learn to explore beyond the main streets, as you may find hidden gems lying in unexpected corners. Even revisiting your favorite spots during different times or seasons can teach you how varying conditions can breathe new life into familiar scenes. We hope this guide helps you to capture the very soul and charm of small towns. Read it here →

Every building, shrine, or quaint town has a story waiting to be told. Through the lens of talented photographers, structures (whether grand and humble) can evoke emotions, tell tales, and capture the essence of a place or time. So, the next time you walk past a building or visit a new town, take a moment to truly see it, and capture its soul in a photograph. Every structure has a story, and every story deserves to be told!

Additional Reading

Discover the world of architecture photography with Photzy’s Architecture Photography Resource Kit: Vol 3. With a curated collection of 27 essential pieces, from engaging videos to hands-on exercises, this kit offers tools tailored for every skill level. With bonus learning materials and more, you can master architectural photography at your own rhythm. Ready to elevate your craft? Get the Kit here.