Visual content is essential to the design and construction industry. Images are used in brochures, presentations, qualifications statements, proposals, advertisements, website, social media, blogs, and the list goes on. Let's face it; the need for great photography is not going away anytime soon. A picture tells a thousand words, it shows clients the kind of work your do. Over time, great images show your firm's history.
If you are wondering about when to start capturing great architecture, the time is now. Simply put, good weather leads to great photography. The summer and fall seasons provide longer hours of light and allow the photographer [me] to plan for a range of images throughout the day.
In the summertime, the northern side of a building has good light. It is also a time when a range of building activities is taking place. Physical construction or demolition work is in progress. Shots of staged construction equipment or materials may offer a nice illustration for a story. On buildings that are close to completion, it is best to develop a schedule to capture interiors in the mid morning and exteriors in the morning and evening.
There are a number of characteristics and scenarios that capture the unique qualities of your project. Looking at your active project list, consider whether project has a photographic opportunity for capturing a special technique, level of craftsmanship, and/or extraordinary design. Some scenarios may require an iPhone photo but others that may require a photographer. Whatever the circumstance, it is important to evaluate the project phase and visual opportunities.
Additional areas to consider include:
- + The project's location.
- + A notable architect designed the project.
- + The project requires well-thought building approach.
- + The project requires higher-attention to detail and craftsmanship.
- + The project has great team engagement.
- + The project needs to be phased to accommodate business.
Even though the summer and fall seasons provide ideal conditions for photography that does not mean there will not be a few hiccups. In the San Francisco Bay Area, there is a challenge with fog from time to time. Unfortunately, you cannot always plan for the infamous micro climates; it is best to wait until the fog dissipates.
Lastly, it is a photographer's job to make it easier for you to create a schedule for successfully capturing your firm's work. Take advantage of their experience and knowledge of the project's geography. It will not be long before the fall and winter seasons arrive when planning new projects is well underway and eye-catching proposals will be needed. Wouldn't it be great to add new visual content to your arsenal of qualifications?
Creating Images that move you forward