Composition, Capture, and Digital Image Processing by Adrian Schulz
A brief, one chapter history of architectural representation from painting to photography sets the theme for this book and shows the fascination the author held while he completed his architectural studies in Berlin. Architecture is so critical to the preservation of mankind, for in some climes, survival depends on it. Yet for many, people walk by architecture day-in and day-out and pay it no heed whatsoever.
At the same time, to bring recognition to a building, a photographer has the option to emphasize or de-emphasize many of its elements depending on lens selection, time of day, filtration and post-processing. It’s for this reason that architects and photographers often have wildly different viewpoints on how a building should be shown (see page 45). Is it a “real” view or an “artful” view that is expressed in the two-dimensional representation of this three-dimensional creation?
Those are the choices of the photographer and those are the options very nicely laid out in this 225-page book. From basic camera choice to accessories to the proverbial argument for “shooting raw,” Schulz makes the reason for each as it relates to the specific field of architectural photography. With understanding that not everyone has an unlimited budget, he lays out suggested equipment packages for novices, advanced hobbyists and up on page 31. Page 35 gives logic to the need for some basic filters.
Chapter three has a wonderfully explained and beautifully illustrated discussion of the importance of viewpoint and lens selection. Three photos of the same building’s corner with different lenses on page 74 show the dramatic effect that lens selection plays in the resulting photos. Discussion of composition rounds out the photographer’s decision’s before shooting. Schulz even addresses the age-old argument of people vs. no people in the photo.
These days, HDR (or DRI – Dynamic Range Increase) photography is used with great effect on architectural photography and Schulz shows how to avoid the “unrealistic” look that sometimes results from HDR processing. Shooting during the “blue hour” of the day is a favorite of architectural photographers and he mentions it briefly in chapter three as well.
The last chapter is devoted to post-processing with specific hints as it relates to architectural subject matter. Here, both photographers and architects who shoot their own projects are sure to find some gems that will aid their final output.
According to the publisher, “This second edition has been extensively revised and includes 80 new images and illustrations, as well as an expanded chapter on shooting interior spaces. Also included is an updated discussion of post-processing techniques and the latest technical developments in the world of photography. With this book, you’ll learn a variety of creative tips, tricks, and guidelines for making the perfect architectural image.”
Look for this book in your local bookstore or on-line from O’Reilly or Amazon.