Designers and architects often communicate their ideas through drawings, renderings, and physical models, but one of the most powerful ways to document and present their work is through photography. Learning to photograph architecture is an essential skill that enhances a designer’s ability to showcase their work effectively, whether in portfolios, presentations, or marketing materials.
Students in programs such as Design Communication Arts, Advanced Design Communication Arts, Photography, and Interior Design at UCLA Extension can greatly benefit from incorporating architectural photography into their skill set, as it not only enhances their ability to capture their projects but also deepens their understanding of spatial composition, light, and materials.
Architectural photography is more than just capturing an image of a building; it involves interpreting and presenting space in a way that conveys the designer’s intent. Good architectural photographs highlight the play of light and shadow, the relationship between different materials, and the way a space interacts with its surroundings. Understanding how to frame and document a project visually allows designers to create compelling narratives about their work, making it more appealing to clients, employers, and publications.
For students, developing an eye for architectural photography starts with observation. Looking at the work of renowned architectural photographers, analyzing how light interacts with space, and practicing with different vantage points help build a solid foundation. Utilizing various photographic tools—whether professional-grade cameras or smartphones—can help capture the essence of a space in different conditions. Learning about post-processing techniques, including adjustments in color balance, contrast, and perspective correction, is also an integral part of producing polished architectural images.
Architectural photography is also a valuable asset for those working in interior design. Interior designers often need to present their finished spaces in a way that accurately reflects their design vision.
High-quality interior photography enhances portfolios, social media presence, and marketing efforts, ensuring that the work is viewed in the best possible light. Understanding how to compose shots, adjust lighting conditions, and manage reflections can make a significant difference in the final images.
Beyond its practical applications, architectural photography fosters a deeper appreciation for design. By engaging in the practice of photographing architecture, designers gain a heightened awareness of proportion, symmetry, and the intricate details that make a space functional and beautiful. This discipline also enhances storytelling abilities, allowing designers to craft visual narratives that convey the atmosphere and functionality of a space to clients and the public.
To gain more insight into the importance of architectural photography, we spoke with Douglas Hill, an experienced architectural photographer and instructor of the Photographing Architecture and Interiors course at UCLA Extension.
SL: What inspired you to start teaching architectural photography?
DH: When I began teaching Photographing Architecture and Interiors thirty years ago, my goal was to introduce interior designers and architects to the tools and techniques used by photographers to document buildings inside and out. At the time, there wasn’t much information available about architectural photography, and the course was only offered in a few places nationwide. Having worked for designers, architects, and related professionals for a couple of decades, I had developed a way of working that I knew I could share with anyone. I also wanted to introduce students to the history of the medium as it relates to architecture, which is a personal passion of mine.
SL: How has architectural photography evolved over the years?
DH: When I started teaching, we were working with film, and digital cameras were not yet taken seriously as an evolutionary development. However, while digital technology revolutionized photography, the basic principles of architectural photography have remained largely unchanged. The structure of the course, assignments, and historical overview have stayed consistent, though we’ve revised and updated the curriculum over the years. While we do spend time learning about technical tools, the majority of the course focuses on aesthetic presentation—vantage point, composition, what to include in the frame, and how light affects a space throughout the day.
SL: What do you hope students take away from your class?
DH: The greatest pleasure of teaching this class has been working with so many interesting, creative individuals and seeing them apply their talents to photography. Whether they go on to document their work using sophisticated cameras or smartphones, hire professionals to do the work for them, or simply enjoy capturing the built environment around them, I hope they do so with a greater sense of purpose and intent. Some students have even gone on to become professional architectural photographers. Regardless of their career path, having the ability to document and present their work visually is a skill that benefits all designers.
For students pursuing careers in Design Communication arts, Interior Design, or any related field, learning architectural photography is a vital asset. It enhances their ability to communicate their ideas, document their projects, and develop a stronger visual identity. Whether through formal coursework, self-study, or hands-on practice, mastering the art of architectural photography is an investment in their future as designers and visual storytellers.
