5 Types Of Architectural Photography For Every Professional

Architectural photography has evolved significantly over the years. The different types of architectural photography offer unique ways to capture the design, materials, and atmosphere of a structure.

When photographing residential or commercial spaces, learning about these techniques can enhance the way a building is presented.

Exterior Photography

Exterior photography is perhaps the most common form of architectural photography. It involves capturing a building’s outer appearance–often emphasizing its design in relation to the surrounding environment. Lighting plays a major role in this style, with golden hour providing optimal conditions to showcase the structure’s features.

Professional photographers use this type of photography to highlight the scale and context of a building. Standing alone or integrated into an urban setting, exterior shots deliver a complete view of the architectural structure. The use of natural light can dramatically enhance the texture and material of the building.

Interior Photography

Interior photography focuses on showcasing the inside of a building. This type of photography requires careful attention to lighting and composition to portray the space in the best light. Interior shots aim to reflect the design layout. They emphasize the functionality and aesthetic appeal of rooms.

In residential architecture photography, interior photos play a significant role in conveying the atmosphere and usability of living spaces. Wide-angle lenses are often used to create a sense of depth. Photographers may incorporate elements like furniture and decor to add a human touch to the space.

Aerial Photography

Aerial photography takes architectural photography to a higher level, literally. With drones or other aerial techniques, photographers capture structures from above. This brings a bird’s-eye view of the building and its surroundings. It is ideal for large-scale buildings or projects that have significant outdoor features, such as parks or plazas.

Aerial shots are commonly used in commercial architecture photography to highlight the full context of a building within its environment. It also emphasizes the relationship between the building and the landscape, which is often lost in ground-level images. This type of photography helps clients visualize the broader impact of their structures.

Night Photography

Night photography captures buildings after dark, with artificial lighting to highlight architectural features. This type of photography offers a dramatic effect, with the play of light and shadow adding depth and intrigue to the image. Nighttime is a unique opportunity to showcase lighting design elements, such as illuminated facades and accent lighting.

For commercial architecture photography, night photography is often used to highlight how buildings engage with the urban landscape after hours.

The lighting not only draws attention to the structure itself but also creates a vibrant and dynamic atmosphere. This technique can convey both elegance and energy–depending on the lighting scheme.

Detail Photography

Detail photography zooms in on specific elements of a building’s design, with a focus on textures, materials, or unique architectural features. Rather than capturing the entire structure, this type of photography highlights smaller aspects that contribute to the overall aesthetic. It is an effective way to showcase craftsmanship and intricate design work.

Photographers often use macro lenses or close-up techniques to capture these details. This can include things like woodwork, stone finishes, or glass installations. In residential and commercial architecture photography, detail shots highlight specific design elements.

These close-ups allow architects and designers to emphasize the finer points of their work, which may go unnoticed in broader shots.

Transforming Buildings through Photography

Mastering the different types of architectural photography can truly transform how a building is represented in photos. Each style—exterior, interior, aerial, night, or detail photography—serves to highlight different facets of a design.

If you want to showcase your commercial space or residential architecture in the best possible way, contact us at Peak Visuals.

Let us help you capture the essence of your design through expert commercial architecture photography.