The Art of Architectural Photography: Capturing London's Iconic Structures

​Architectural photography is one of my favourite niches, and it’s no surprise given my background in architecture. My studies have provided me with a unique perspective on how to frame and compose images, as well as the best times of day to light a piece of architecture, whether it’s a building or a monument. Living in London is a literal goldmine for architectural photography, with historical icons like St Paul’s Cathedral and Tower Bridge, contemporary buildings in Canary Wharf, and modernist structures in Primrose Hill.

I find immense joy in photographing historical monuments because of the rich history evident in their ornate details. These buildings shine especially well in direct sunlight during summer, as well as during the Golden Hour and Blue Hour. Contemporary buildings, with their sleek sapphire glass and steel structures, also offer compelling subjects for my lens.
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For the best results in architectural photography, I recommend using a camera with a lens that can zoom up to 55mm and a tripod for stability, although I rarely use one in the field. A tilt lens is particularly useful for keeping images straight, as even the steadiest hands can introduce a bit of camera shake, But if you don't have one it is fine because a lot of image editing software has cropping features that can straighten the image.

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When photographing buildings, monuments, and structures, I always employ the rule of thirds to create well-composed images with great framing. Drawing inspiration from one of my favourite artist, Piranesi, I ensure the use of axial vertical and horizontal lines to maintain harmony and balance within the composed image. Composition is especially crucial in architectural photography and is what makes the images truly appealing.

One architectural photographer who stands out for his exceptional work is Steven Brooke. With over 30 years of experience, his well-composed and well-exposed photographs exhibit a strong level of balance, making them highly appealing both on screen and in print.

Architectural photography is a wonderful niche, especially if you live in a city like London. I view London as a concrete jungle, with my camera and me as explorers documenting everything we see. Understanding the terminology of architecture is essential in this field, as it helps in knowing what parts make up a building and how best to display them. For example, when photographing St Paul’s Cathedral, I emphasize the dome, which is the most prominent and exposed feature in the image.

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In conclusion, architectural photography offers a unique way to appreciate and document the built environment. Whether capturing the grandeur of historical landmarks or the sleek lines of contemporary structures, the key lies in understanding composition, lighting, and the architectural elements themselves. With the right equipment and an eye for detail, anyone can explore and document the architectural wonders around them, creating images that inspire and captivate.