Three things to consider when preparing an architecture project for a photoshoot

Architectural photo shoots are exciting. The project is just wrapping up and is usually at its very best, that’s why you are ready to take photographs, right?! Photo day is always a busy one and requires a lot of hands on attention. How can you maximize your photographers time on site and make the day run as smooth as possible? We have a few tips to help you better prepare for the day and help save you time during post-production. Below are three things to consider as the big day approaches.

Exterior – The exterior of a building is typically top-of-mind during architectural photoshoots, but here are a few reminders to consider when preparing for your photo session.

Landscaping should be complete and look it's best. It may be necessary to bring in a landscape crew a day or two before the shoot to perk up the shrub and flower beds, and maybe even plant fresh flowers to add color.
See that the windows are washed and that parking lots are cleaned just before the shoot, this will help eliminate hours in the post-production process.
Have a busy site? Plan to control parking the day of the shoot, if necessary.
Is the punch list complete? Make sure all construction is complete, and debris is removed.
Interior elements can make or break an exterior shot, determine how the photographer can access the building to turn on/off lights and adjust blinds/curtains.

Interior – Details matter, especially when photographing interior spaces. Here are some tips to ensure a space looks its best and that the day runs smooth.

Will all the rooms need to be photographed? Make a list of rooms for the days’ session. Tip: Use a floor plan as a guide for the days’ workload, be sure to include a North arrow on the plan to better plan for natural lighting during the day.
Consider who will need to be on-site for the day. Will the interior designer, architect, or marketing team be a helpful addition? Those with a certain eye for the space, such as an interior designer, can help adjust and style the spaces for the best photographed results.
If the project has not been cleaned yet, a cleaning crew can help prepare the areas scheduled for photography beforehand. Cleaning will help get the space looking its best and allow the photographer to move along quickly, especially for large projects.
If the space is occupied, find out if the photographer and the crew has permission to remove any decorations or furniture. In some cases, it becomes necessary to rearrange furniture, and turn on/off computers, televisions, and electronic devices for the best photo. If the photography crew does not have such permissions ask if a representative of the owner needs to be onsite to take care of such tasks.

Lighting – For the best results without unnecessary time in post-production, it's essential to provide access to lighting controls for your photographer.

In photography, lighting is everything. Consider whether or not the photographer will be able to adjust lighting both indoors and outdoors.
As facilities become greener, spaces tend to come with motion control sensors that regulate some or all of the lighting. Determine ahead of time if the photographer will be able to override them, if need be, or if an owner representative can be onsite to help with this task.
Believe it or not, having access to the circuit panel can come in handy on photoshoot day. Find out early if the photographer can gain access to the circuit panel, should it be necessary.
Is all the lighting working as specified in the architect’s plans? Consulting with the lighting designer available beforehand, for a walkthrough, can eliminate lighting-related delays on the day of the shoot.
Lastly, are any lights on a timer that cannot be changed? It is important to know so those areas can be photographed before the lights shut off for the day.

When it’s time for architectural photography on your project, it’s an exciting time for all involved with the project. Taking the time to address exterior, interior, and lighting before the photoshoot will result in photography that showcases the facility at its absolute best. Speaking of those involved in the project, have you considered asking them if they would like to participate in the photoshoot, or ask if they have considered purchasing all or some of the photographs? This could be a simple way to share in the costs. It can also serve as a moment of client experience for you, or your firm. How? Maybe it’s by asking the client to participate in part of the day’s event, after all, they tend to give their highest praise when their building looks amazing. You could also consider giving them a photo (or two) of their facility at the ribbon cutting. There are so many ways to engage your client, and your project partners in a way that will leave an impression – beyond an image.

If you would like to schedule your next project shoot, reach out to Josh Beeman Photography at josh@joshbeemanphotography.com.