Architectural Photography – A Process of Research and Discovery
Research, exploration and discovery are important steps in the process of designing an architectural photograph.
Designing an Architectural Photograph
My photograph of the Citic Tower is the predetermined result of my design process for architectural photography.
“How Does It Feel?”
Over time you can forget what you have seen, but you will not forget an image if you remember how it made you “feel”.
Composing an Architectural Photograph
“The China Resources Tower in Shenzhen, designed by KPF Architects, is a masterpiece of modern architecture. Photographer Paul Dingman captures its striking design with a carefully composed image that highlights the tower’s curvilinear elegance and towering scale.”
Watching…Waiting…Waiting…
Great art represents a moment that stops time. It represents a point in time that can never be exactly repeated or replicated – these are the moments I strive to capture in my photography.
When The Time Is Right, It Doesn’t Last Long
The moment was perfect, but it did not last long. As soon as the sun cleared the horizon the scene was gone in a flash. I felt fortunate to have been able to capture this moment. While the scene did not last long, this image has, and it will remain in my portfolio for a long, time.
The Importance of Design in Photography
The design of a photograph is the all-encompassing thread that unifies all of the other elements of the image – concept, composition, lighting, technique, and execution. It’s deliberate. It’s intentional. And it’s planned to achieve a predetermined pre-visualized result. Great photographs are not just taken or made; rather, they are designed. There is a great design unifying the elements of every great photograph.
Being There
Architectural photography is all about bringing design to light, but it should also suggest to the viewer what it’s really like to be there.