Category: Awareness

At Studio BluOra, we believe in raising awareness about the significance of exceptional Interior and Architectural Photography. Our mission is to educate clients and the broader community on the impact high-quality visuals have on showcasing architectural brilliance and design aesthetics. Through workshops, social media, and collaborative projects, we strive to highlight the artistry involved in our craft and the value it brings to the industry. By fostering a deeper understanding of our work, we aim to inspire and elevate the standards of architectural photography.

7 Aesthetic Cafés in Jaipur, We Photographed

As best café photographers in Jaipur, we’ve had the pleasure of capturing some of the most charming and aesthetically pleasing cafes in the Pink City. Each café provides a unique experience and vibe, ranging from contemporary chic to heritage elegance.

As best café photographers in Jaipur, we’ve had the pleasure of capturing some of the most charming and aesthetically pleasing cafes in the Pink City. Each café provides a unique experience and vibe, ranging from contemporary chic to heritage elegance. Here is a curated list of seven must-visit cafes that offer more than just coffee and food—they offer an ambiance that delights the senses. Let’s take you through the cafes we’ve photographed that have also caught the attention of renowned magazines and publications.

Paro – Modern Indian Bar

Paro has been a sensation since it opened, drawing visitors for its exquisite ambiance, energetic vibe, and delightful food. As one of the top café photographers in the city, we focused on highlighting the essence of this café, capturing the seamless flow between its indoor and outdoor spaces, the interplay of light, and the distinctive décor that makes Paro a visual delight. It’s no wonder this café has been published in notable publications like Architectural Digest, Condé Nast, and Vogue.

D’Yore

Nestled in a heritage haveli dating back to 1935, D’Yore is a new all-day restaurant and bar that exudes timeless charm. The architectural beauty and rich history of the building have been carefully preserved while infusing modern design elements. Studio BluOra being expert in capturing the best café photography in Jaipur aimed to showcase its vibrant energy and intricate design details. Featured in Condé Nast, D’Yore’s aesthetic is truly a blend of Jaipur’s cultural past and its evolving present.

Camiano

Located in the posh locality of C-Scheme, Camiano is a famous patisserie and brasserie known for its minimalist interiors. The cafe embraces the “less is more” philosophy, with a soothing palette that create a calming environment. We captured the subtle elegance of Camiano, demonstrating why our clients consider us the best café photographers in Jaipur. Perfect for those who appreciate refined simplicity and seamless design.

Silk Route Jaipur

For those who love Asian cuisine and the ambiance that transports you to another era, Silk Route is the place to be. A vegetarian Asian restaurant, it has interiors that draw inspiration from the ancient Silk Route era, using traditional elements that evoke a sense of nostalgia.

Our team, expert in café photography, focused on capturing the intricate details and antique aesthetics that make Silk Route feel like a journey through time.

Opera

Opera is one of the newest additions to Jaipur’s cafe scene, housed in a beautifully restored old home turned into an Italian brasserie. The interiors offer a fresh vibe with light tones complemented by pops of red, creating a contemporary yet cozy atmosphere. As top café photographers, we highlighted the cafe’s charming contrasts and inviting layout, making Opera a perfect spot for enjoying Italian delicacies in an intimate setting.

Carbon Jaipur

If you prefer a dark, earthy aesthetic, Carbon is a must-visit. With its raw, minimalistic interiors, Carbon offers a unique atmosphere that stands out from the usual café crowd. Our photographs showcase the textured walls, moody lighting, and unique décor elements that give this café its distinctive character. Whether you’re a coffee connoisseur or simply enjoy a unique ambiance, Explore Carbon on IG through the eyes of Jaipur’s best cafe photographers, capturing its distinctive charm and ambiance.

Napoli

Also situated in C-Scheme, Napoli is an Italian restaurant that brings a slice of Italy to Jaipur. Famous for its wood-fired pizzas, Napoli’s interiors are equally delightful, combining rustic charm with contemporary comfort. Our role as top café photographers was to capture the cozy, warm atmosphere and the thoughtful design elements that make Napoli a great spot for both dining and unwinding. The restaurant’s delicious menu will leave you yearning for more.

These seven cafés offer an eclectic mix of experiences, from heritage charm to modern minimalism, each with its unique character. As the best café photographers in Jaipur, specializing in hospitality and interior design photography, it was a joy to bring their stories to life through our lenses. If you’re ever in Jaipur, make sure to visit these spots not just for their food but for their unforgettable ambiance, expertly captured through the best café photography in Jaipur.

Also Read:

Interior Photographer Mumbai

Best Café Photographers in Jaipur | Cafe Photography in Delhi | Cafe Interiors Photography in Jaipur | Hospitality Photography Services in near me | Best Hospitality Photography Services in Jaipur | We provide Cafe Photography services in Mumbai, Delhi, Bangalore, and Pune also.

Best Hotel Photographer in Jaipur

As the Best Hotel Photographer in Jaipur, being tasked with capturing the grandeur of the prestigious Rambagh Palace Hotel was a dream come true. Known as one of the top hotel properties in the world, Rambagh Palace holds a special place in the hearts of those who appreciate history, luxury, and impeccable design. For us, the opportunity to photograph this iconic hotel was not just a professional milestone but also a deeply rewarding experience.

Majestic Aura of Rambagh Palace

The moment we were commissioned for this project; our excitement knew no bounds. A few days before the shoot, we did a recee of the site to familiarize ourselves with the layout, lighting conditions, and overall ambiance. What we encountered left us in sheer awe. Rambagh Palace is not just a hotel; it’s a piece of history, a realm where luxury meets tradition, and every corner tells a story.

Upon entering, the hotel’s majestic aura immediately enveloped us. The grandeur of the interiors and the top-notch hospitality all contribute to a surreal experience.

As photographers specializing in architectural and interior photography, we’ve worked in numerous luxurious settings, but Rambagh Palace stood out for its unparalleled charm.

Preparing for the Shoot

The challenge of photographing such an esteemed property lies not only in its grandeur but also in the need to maintain the highest standards of professionalism and respect for the guests. To ensure that our shoot was conducted without disrupting the hotel’s operations, we meticulously planned the timing and sequence of our shots. Our work had to be carried out during hours when the hotel was less busy, ensuring that the guests’ experience remained unaffected.

Documenting the Reimagined Kachhawa Suite

The highlight of our project at Rambagh Palace was the documentation of the reimagined Kachhawa Suite. This suite, steeped in history, had been recently transformed by Ideas Architects, who also entrusted us with the task of capturing its new look. The Kachhawa Suite is a blend of traditional elegance and contemporary luxury, designed to offer guests an experience that is both opulent and intimate.

As the Top Photographer in Jaipur for hotel photography, we were thrilled to take on this project. The brief was clear: to capture the essence of the suite. However, this project presented a significant challenge—lighting.

Mastering the Lighting

Typically, we prefer to shoot in natural light, as it allows us to capture the true essence of a space. However, the design of the Kachhawa Suite’s interior limited the natural light. The muted tones of beige and yellow, combined with the suite’s glamorous style, required us to adapt to new approach. We had to rely on studio lighting to bring out the best in the space, a retreat from our usual method.

Using studio light strategically, we worked to highlight the suite’s luxurious features while maintaining the integrity of its design.

Styling and Composition

To further enhance the suite’s luxury ambiance, we incorporated fresh fruits and baked goods into the styling. These add a touch of refinement and emphasized the suite’s appeal. The hotel staff was incredibly accommodating, ensuring that everything we needed was promptly provided. This collaboration allowed us to execute our vision seamlessly.

We began the shoot by focusing on narrower angles, capturing the intimate details that give the suite its character. Gradually, we moved to wider shots, ensuring that the entire space was documented comprehensively.

Although the suite was not particularly large, it required extensive coverage to capture its essence fully. The shoot took an entire day, with twelve key shots documented in careful detail.

The Art of Post-Processing

The muted tones and intricate lighting setup made the post-processing phase equally critical. Even with strategic use of studio lighting, the subdued colors required careful editing to bring out the desired contrast. We meticulously crafted each image, selecting specific areas to enhance the visual appeal and ensure the final photographs did justice to the suite’s splendor.

A Serene Surrounding

Beyond the suite, the beauty of Rambagh Palace extends to its surroundings. As we stepped out of the Kachhawa Suite, a serene ambiance greeted us—lush gardens, majestic fountains, and the soothing sound of birds at dawn and dusk. These elements create a peaceful retreat, further elevating the guest experience at the hotel.

Embracing Hospitality Photography

Situated in Rajasthan, where the landscape transforms into a breathtaking scape post-monsoon, we are fortunate to operate in such a picturesque environment. While we have started as a Studio 9 years ago, focused on architectural and interior photography for residences, commercial spaces, and institutional projects, we’ve now grown by expanding our portfolio which include hospitality photography projects PAN India.

As the Best Hotel Photographer in Jaipur, we are eager to explore this dimension. Hotels, Airbnb properties, Resorts, and other hospitality venues offer a unique blend of challenges and opportunities, and we look forward to bringing our expertise to these projects. The Rambagh Palace shoot was just the beginning of what we hope will be an exciting journey into the world of luxury hospitality photography.

Designer: Ideas Architects Jaipur
Project: Taj Rambagh Palace
Location: Jaipur, Rajasthan

Boutique Hotel Experience and Hospitality Photography in Udaipur

Best Hotel Photographer in Jaipur | Hotel Photographer in Delhi | Hotel Architectural Photographer in Jaipur | Hospitality Photography Services in near me | Best Hospitality Photography Services in Rajasthan | Behind the Scene | Our Hotel Photography services are available in Mumbai, Delhi NCR, Bangalore, also.

How Professional Resort Photographs Boosts Bookings

In the series of our Hospitality Photography blogs, this article will educate the luxury hotels, boutique hotels and Airbnb owners regarding the advantages of professional resort photographs or hotel photographs.

Being in Hospitality business it is a must to showcase your resort and the experiences you’re going to offer to guests.

Yes, Resort Photographs Can Boost Bookings!

Getting people to interact with your brand on different platforms takes time and patience, but can be an effective marketing tool when deployed correctly. The way businesses are using content as part of their inbound marketing strategies is evolving. People have always loved to see a well-curated photo or video, thus these are new opportunities to generate leads.

With professional resort photographs, you can supercharge your sales funnel and can help your business with its marketing.

Before hiring a professional photographer for hotel or resort photography there are a few important things that you shall tick off the list. We have mentioned some points to keep in mind while getting the photos clicked.

Crafting a Distinct Brand Identity for Your Resort

Some preparations should be made before the photographer arrives to capture images of your luxury resort or hotel from your end. Let’s begin with a simple activity, write down the answers to these two questions. They will serve as a roadmap to the whole mission.

Question 1: What is the Identity you want to create through your Brand?

Question 2: What’s so unique about your Resort/Hotel/Airbnb?

Once you answer these, then you will be better able to share with the photographer what your aim is and get the most out of the investment you are making. Keeping the answers in mind, capture amazing resort photographs.

Variety is The Spice of Life

Ensure all the features and amenities are being photographed by the photographer you are going to hire. In order to get any multi-purpose space clicked. It shall be set prior to being photographed to display the variety of purposes that space can serve. Ask them if the space is functional, organised, and thoroughly cleaned before the shot.

If any area requires some particular styling to be clicked, then ask them to do the arrangements.

This will convince your guests and ensure they are going to have a luxurious stay with all things they need. Creating a snug ambiance with fashionable fabric choices will tempt guests to take advantage of your room services.

Marie Kondo’s Method

Ask your housekeeping team to clean and arrange all the areas of the resort be it rooms, lounge, pool area, etc. Keep the elements that add beauty to the frame and remove those that don’t.

We could not stress enough upon the fact that washrooms are a key factor for guests to do the bookings. Always keep one housekeeping staff tagged along with the photographer to solve any cleaning issue there and then.

Moreover, keep all the departments of your resort in the loop as it will quicken the whole photography process.

If any other prop is missing to make a space more lively and functional then place it. Make it a team project and explain staff members the purpose and need of the shoot. This will bring more guests and consequently good incentives.

We Eat With Our Eyes First

You must understand that the dining experience starts long before the first bite. Hence, showcase your culinary creations in a way that promises an unforgettable dining experience.

The food preparation and plating shall visually tantalise guests from the very beginning. If there are any local delicacies, make sure to get them clicked as well to share the experience of food and drinks you’re going to offer them.

Moreover, you can include other aspects to display the rich culture and heritage of your state or country to guests. This will explain to you that the Food Photography is equally important for your resort bookings.

Lights, Camera, Action!

While the photography session is going, be there or appoint a housekeeping staff to shadow the photography team so if there is any need it can be dealt ASAP. She/he shall switch lights and snatch the curtain in order to let the maximum lights in.

Plus, an authoritative person who can communicate and command all the departments per the needs of the shoot.

If budget allows, bring onboard an interior stylist to enhance the space, making the property look more aesthetically desirable.

Be A Local Guide

You can share the story behind the theme and story of establishing the resort your vision that can be incorporated in photos.

Ask the professional photographer to spin a story and while capturing your resort but also add other nearby tourist attractions, to put it on social media or the resort’s website. This will draw in a larger number of guests to your resort.

Per Stats

To give you a clearer picture of the above mentioned points we have attached some stats. According to data collected in 2022, following points are seen as a trend and impact of getting hospitality photography done by a professional.

Hike in Booking: Per VFM Leonardo, resort or hotels having high-quality photographs achieved 63% more bookings than those having low-quality ones.
Visibility and Engagement Online: Those who list professionally clicked resort photographs were likely to receive more engagement and views on booking portals namely, Booking.com, Airbnb and Expedia.
Increase in Room Rates: The resorts hired professional hospitality photographers were able to increase their rooms price by 44%, per Fstoppers’s survey.

Summary

In conclusion, professional resort photographs is an indispensable asset for resorts, luxury hotels, boutique hotels and Airbnb. To ensure a successful hospitality photography project, keep in mind the key considerations shared above.

Maintain a strong presence on platforms like Instagram, Facebook, YouTube, and Twitter, with a simple and catchy account name that guests can easily find and tag.

It’s not just about showcasing your physical space but also about conveying your brand identity, uniqueness, and the experience you offer to potential guests.

In the competitive world of hospitality, professional resort photographs and a strong online presence are essential for success.

Also Read:

Mastering Hotel Photography : Tips and Techniques

Resort Photography: Your Ticket to Guest Engagement

In fact, a study suggested that ninety-two percent agree that good resort or hotel photographs are important to make ‘the decision’. The most natural way we retain information these days is through images/ videos.

I am positive you will agree on the fact that while eagerly searching for hotel rooms for your vacations, the ones that make you stop and tap are those with the most appealing photos, even if the name is hard to pronounce. In fact, a study suggested that ninety-two percent agree that good resort or hotel photographs are important to make ‘the decision’. The most natural way we retain information these days is through images/ videos. Customers and prospects interact with your company if they see a professionally photographed property. Hence, the need for Resort Photography arrives.

Authenticity Matters

Do you really think that adding stock images to your resort websites or socials will bring you clients? They can easily make out when things are not authentic, don’t assume it is easy to fool them.

People have started taking their vacations seriously, they research well before tapping on the ‘Book Now’ button. We have around seven years of experience as professionals in this field, our hospitality portfolio is a mix of projects ranging from 5-star resorts to boutique stays and hotels hence you can trust us for the essential tips for your journey.

Let me brief a bit about the same, grab your notebook to list them up to convince yourself or your clients for professional resort photography.

Why Resort Photography Is Essential for Your Business?

When you think about the requirement to get your hotel or resort clicked, you might not come across these points, we have done a deep study for you.

Beginning with why there is a requirement to get your resort photographed by a professionals nowadays, reasons are:

First Impression

Per a research done, about sixty-five percent of the population was counted as visual learners. Apart from this, we as humans process the visual stimulus at lighting speed. This implies how impactful and significant an image can be.

The customers are going to judge your services and stay through the photos you share on social media or websites first.

What Is Seen Sells

You might come across the saying ‘What is seen sells.’ Therefore, the need for a professional photo session arrives. There is a reason why every competitor of yours is investing in professional resort photography for their resort.

The professionals will be able to seize the exact colour, vibe and essence of your resort rooms. They would be better able to showcase all the amazing features that your resort offers through the photos you share.

Therefore convincing them to ‘Book’ the stay at your resort. As the photos are the only source for them to know your facilities.

Capture The Emotions

With the right composition, light and shadows, you can spin a story that appeals to your potential guests at an emotional level. You would not require a supporting statement for humans being emotional.

It’s All About Business

With resort photography you aim to make your guests imagine the weekend they’re going to spend at your stay. You should give them all the best frames to manifest their vacation.

What We At Studio BluOra Offer

Since storytelling lies at the core of our process, we create and curate stunning images and document visual data that enable resorts, boutique stays, and hotels in powerful branding, marketing, and advertising. We have been associated with numerous Airbnb and StayVista locations.

With us you will be able to get your photos and videos shot as well as editing. You can check resort photographs & videos shot by the Studio BluOra team here.

Be like Bijapur Lodge

To provide you with an example how impactful professional Resort photography can be in yielding engagement, we’d like to share one of our recent success stories.

We had the privilege to do the photoshoot of the Bijapur Lodge, an eco-friendly retreat nestled amidst the lush landscapes of Rajasthan. The resort approached us with a specific goal in mind – to enhance their bookings and online presence.

Situated in a village of Jawai, this tranquil boutique hotel had garnered recognition from both national and international circles.

resort photography — Courtyard of Bijapur Lodge Captured by Studio BluOra

After beginning the journey with the professional captured photos they not only attract more bookings but has also earned a spot in renowned publications like Architectural Digest India, TRAVEL + LEISURE ASIA as well as Nature Safari India.

Conclusion:

The points discussed above might have stimulated some great ideas and convinced you about resort photography. To assist you with the same, we have summed up our years of experience in the field in the next blog; read it and begin now.

In that we have discussed some major hacks/tips that will help you with professional resort photography of your opulent hotel or resort.

Read Part Two:

Mastering Hotel Photography : Tips and Techniques

Mastering Hotel Photography : Tips and Techniques

In our previous blog post, we highlighted the growing importance of hotel photography. In today’s article, we’re delving deeper into the subject to provide you with invaluable tips for achieving stunning hospitality photographs that capture the essence of the luxury hotels, Airbnb, Boutique hotel, or resorts.

Pro Tips for Capturing Luxury

Photography serves umpteen purposes; we shall know what ours is.

Before taking professional photographs of any exquisite hotel, have a meetup with the client. While having the discussion ask them their purpose and expectations. At the same, it is equally important to communicate your terms and ideas you are moving forward with, for the project.

This conservation will set tone for the project and you will be better able to shoot and make the most out of the given time, while doing hotel photography.

Let’s begin!

Take a Close Look

It is very necessary to take photographs from different angles displaying all the amenities and services available for the guests. Before beginning with photography one shall experience the space and then think how things can be used at which place precisely.

Perspective plays an important role in making the indoors of the rooms look warm and cosy or big and airy at the same time. Try and capture the feel of the room, take close-up details as well. Make sure the horizontals and verticals are lined up perfectly, within every frame.

Housekeeping, Help!

Before beginning the shoot, tell your clients to ensure all the areas are speck and span. This will help in getting perfect clean photos. Everyone wants a clean and hygienic stay, especially the bathrooms.

If the hotel has different amenities, then ask them to clean beforehand for more impressive photos.

Golden hour & Blue Hour

Make use of the beautiful hues the Sun creates before and after. Hotel Photography requires every frame to be aesthetically pleasing, taking advantage of these hours is important.

(Fun Fact: Our company name is inspired by the enchanting “Blue Hour,” that captivating, fleeting 20-30 minute period when the magic truly unfolds.)

Bring into Being

Don’t just go and photograph as is. Try and imply what all can be added to enhance in the particular space you are shooting. If it requires cleaning, more light, another bedsheet, flowers in a vase, etc., check whether there is something that is not pleasing in the frame, and ask for the help politely.

Let The Good Light In

Speaking about our photography methods, we always prefer natural light over studio lights. While taking photos, try to utilise as much sunlight as possible. Open windows, draw curtains, and let the good light in.

While taking shots outdoors, avoid taking photos in harsh sunlight; instead, prefer golden hours for the softness.

Go The Extra Mile

If budget allows, arriving before and doing Recce will help you plan and execute professional photography sessions better. Also, it will serve as a conversation opener between you and your clients.

After this, brainstorm to know the potential of the project site and allow them to know your scope of delivering.

Empowering you to share and capture a broader range of content related to the hotel and its surroundings, which can attract a larger number of guests.

Staff, Smile Please!

Taking photos of the staff that are going to serve the guest will also help make the hotel more preferable. Capturing some in-between moments of their work sessions would be great.

For this make the hotel’s staff aware of the shoot day so they can come prepared in proper uniform. This will minimise unnecessary delays that go in preparation.

Summary

In conclusion, mastering the art of hotel photography is a crucial investment for any hotel in today’s digital age.

By following the tips provided in this article, including playing with angles, ensuring cleanliness, utilising natural light, being a local guide, and capturing your staff’s warmth, you can significantly enhance any hotel’s online presence.

Therefore, all the photographers tasked with capturing the essence of a hotel property, these insights will serve as your roadmap to create captivating hotel photographs that resonate with the target audience. Embrace the power of visual storytelling, and watch your work make a hotel’s appeal soar in the competitive world of hospitality.

Resort Photography: Your Ticket to Guest Engagement

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Interior Photographer Mumbai

Bringing Spaces to Life: The Creative Vision of Interior Photography

Interior photography is a specialised branch of photography that focuses on capturing the beauty, functionality, and unique aspects of interior spaces. It involves the photography of interior spaces, such as homes, offices, hotels, or retail environments through a skilful composition that showcases its design elements, ambience, and overall aesthetics.

It requires a combination of technical expertise and an understanding of design principles to effectively convey the vision and intention of the interior designer.

7 Things to keep in mind while doing Interior Photography

Analysing the Space:

Before clicking the shutter, an interior photographer must analyse the space. The analysis helps to identify the design elements, focal points, and unique features that need emphasis in the photographs. Understanding the purpose and function of the space enables the photographer to create images that accurately represent the intended experience and ambience.

Different Frames for Different Purposes:

Interior photography serves various purposes, depending on the intended audience. For interior designers, photographs may focus on capturing the design details, layout, and overall aesthetic. In this case, narrow shots that showcase the entire space or specific design elements are preferred. On the other hand, for builders, real estate agents or brokers, the emphasis may be on highlighting the functionality and potential of the space to attract potential buyers. In such cases, photographs may include wide-angle shots, close-ups of specific features, staging elements, or lifestyle shots that evoke emotions and demonstrate the lifestyle the space offers.

Showing Functionality and Connectivity:

interior photograph showing connectivity

A well-executed interior photograph not only captures the static elements of a space but also showcases its functionality and the way different areas connect. Through carefully composed images, photographers can convey the flow and purpose of each space, illustrating how various rooms or zones seamlessly interact and contribute to the overall design narrative. Motion pictures, such as cinematography or short videos, can further enhance the storytelling aspect, providing a dynamic perspective.

Time is of the essence:

The time at which interior photographs are taken can significantly impact the mood and story they convey. Natural light has a profound effect on the ambience of a space, and the photographer must carefully consider the time of day to capture the desired lighting conditions. Morning light may create a fresh and airy ambience, while twilight or evening shots can evoke a cosy and intimate feel. The choice of lighting and the time of shooting can enhance the story and evoke specific emotions associated with the space.

interior photograph showing interior styling

Interior Styling: Interior styling plays a vital role in interior photography. By carefully curating and arranging furniture, accessories, and decorative elements, stylists collaborate with photographers to create visually appealing and balanced compositions. Their expertise in creating cohesive colour palettes, adding texture, and optimising the visual impact of space enhances the overall aesthetic and helps to bring the design vision to life.

Filling Life into the Space:

As interior photographers, our motive is to breathe life into the spaces we capture. Through thoughtful composition, lighting techniques, and attention to detail, we strive to showcase the unique character, ambience, and functionality of the interior. Our photographs aim to inspire, evoke emotions, and transport viewers into the envisioned experience of the space.

Understanding the End User:

To capture the perfect interior photographs, it is crucial to understand the intended purpose and audience. Whether it’s for portfolio showcasing, publication in magazines, or selling a space, tailoring the approach and style of photography to meet the end user’s needs ensures that the photographs effectively communicate the desired message.

Interior photography is a skilful blend of technical expertise, artistic vision, and an understanding of design principles. We capture images that fill life into interior spaces by analysing the space, employing different frames for different purposes, showcasing functionality and connectivity, considering the time of the shooting, incorporating interior styling, and understanding the end user. As interior photographers, we have the privilege of immortalising the work of interior designers, architects, and stylists, and our photographs serve as a visual testament to the beauty and functionality of these thoughtfully crafted spaces.

What to charge as Architectural Photographers?

So you are a photographer who is diversifying into the real estate niche. Or maybe you are an architect who wants to apply your education to photographing buildings. Whoever you are, you are just starting as an architectural photographer, and out of all questions you have, one that makes you the most restless is this, “How much should I charge?”

Various factors are at play in Architectural Photography. While there is no established formula to price your architectural photography correctly, there are a few metrics you can use to come up with a sustainable fee for your services.

First and foremost, you must possess impeccable photography skills. The higher your skillset, the higher you can charge—it is as simple as that! As a photographer, your craft matures with your career; the more time you spend sharpening your skills, your expertise and reputation grow. A portfolio stacked with your most prestigious works will demand respect, and your client will trust you to get them the photos they need.

“Clients are happy to pay more to someone with experience who will deliver results in one go. So build your skillset!”

The shoot location also matters when raising a quote to your client. Are you in a Tier-1 city or a Tier-2 city? Is your site more urban or rural? Cities with a culture of art will be willing to pay more than other cities. Newly developing cities have a greater scope for opportunities. New construction brings more competition between the stakeholders, and everyone likes to have an edge. So they’ll pay more for a skilled photographer.

The client will also be interested in your published works, along with your portfolio. Architects want to get published, and they will undoubtedly look to see where your work has been published before hiring you. Another thing to consider is personal connections. Having a former client vouch for you or recommend you to their friends in the industry can work wonders for your reputation.

“A photographer with a good portfolio and a publication history will easily find clients willing to pay.”

With the shift towards ‘aesthetic’ on social media, architectural photography no longer concerns itself with photographing houses. It contains within itself a range of sub-genres, from corporate interiors to construction site photography and product advertising photography. While there are many ways to make money in this line of work, some of these genres will pay better than others.

Different clients have different budgets and will accordingly offer you varying pay. A publisher or a newbie architect may pay you less than corporate firms and starchitects. Still, such gigs can help you build visibility for your work. Companies may have a strict budget, or you may encounter clients unwilling to pay for one reason or another.

“However, you will also find people who recognise the value of good photography and are willing to pay for it.”

Architectural photography does not end with wrapping up on location. Post-production is a critical step in the process of creating quality images. The amount of retouching required can vary significantly between clients and your signature style. Post-production should be included in your billing to compensate for the valuable time you are using.

A little about licensing

A license gives your client certain rights to use your images within an agreed scope. It means you give your client rights in exchange for a payment to use your work for a particular purpose and a specific period. Licensing will be an essential part of your billing. You can increase or decrease your charges depending on the rights a client seeks or the number of entities using your photos.

How much should you charge?

As mentioned above, Architectural Photography is a field with numerous variables, and coming up with a standard pricing scheme can be a bit daunting. Individuals may vary in their approach, but one of the modes can be to charge a day rate for your time and a post-production fee for each image. The day rate varies according to the complexity of the job, your skillset, equipment and the physical labour you put in on location. You can set a minimum limit for the post-production fee or let the client decide, depending on the subject matter.

“Your pricing plan should allow you to have a comfortable schedule and the freedom to take some personal projects or time off.”

What is Architectural Photography?

It is precisely what it sounds like—photographing architectural structures!

We are an image-obsessed society with extremely short attention spans. Images are registered and processed in the brain automatically. A photograph that contains people in some sort of setting not only tells their story but also showcases the subject and draws the viewer in, allowing them to focus on the details. Architectural photography is no different, except the subject is often a building.

Today, our encounters with architecture are more digital than spatial. Access to a screen in every hand and a shift in digital media towards ‘aesthetic’ has helped individuals gain visual knowledge of spaces they may never have an opportunity to visit.

It is easy to aim a camera at a subject and take a picture, but capturing the essence of architecture is an art form. This is where Architectural Photography comes in.

“Great architectural photography must make the most of a structure’s design and environmental setting. The best architectural photography is interesting, aesthetically appealing, skillful, and accurate.”

Architectural Photography is photography that focuses on capturing photographs of buildings or structures. It concerns itself with accurately representing a three-dimensional built environment on a tiny flat area. Still, there is a lot more to it than merely capturing buildings. A photograph will enhance the visual language of a structure to the public, to not look at it as just a photo but to see it also as an art display. The spectator seeks a precise portrayal of the subject matter and, along with it, an aesthetic appeal in the pictures.

Architectural photography began as a method to chronicle the history of the built environment. Still, today it has evolved into a varied art form. You must understand the designer’s intent to fully capture some fantastic moments of the particular structure. Today, there are different types of subjects regarding Architectural Photography – it can cover skyscrapers, bungalow houses, heritage sites, modern buildings, construction sites, factories, and many more.

But why architecture needs a specialised form of photography? One might wonder!

Architects put a lot of thought, time and energy into designing a structure. A good photographer can transform the interpretation of a building—leaving visitors slightly disappointed when they experience it in person. Architecture photographers can create images as bold and imaginative as the structures they photograph.

It has been well established by now that photography can capture architecture. But can it capture everything about it? Like any medium, architectural photography comes with its own set of limitations. It is a symbiotic relationship between the photograph and the viewer—the picture represents something, and the viewer creates its meaning!

Importance of editorial publications for architects and interior designers.

Editorial publications are curated pieces of industry-based news that are curated for both industry-related people as well as a general audience interested in the subject.

They are colourful and vibrant dictionary that is available to us and updated from time to time.

So many new ideas and such variety!

Some of the major considerations why ‘Editorial publications’ would be important to architects and interior designers would be:
#Trending
Editorial publications are one the major platforms to follow up and understand the ongoing phases, trends and styles in the field. It provides a great base for staying up to date on ongoing work around the world.

Selective curation and glossary of ideas
Editorial issues are often thematic and follow a certain line of style. It provides a palette of ideas, colour schemes and styles that can serve as a glossary and inspiration. New materials, technologies etc and their application are the major learnings.

Mind-set and Expert opinion
One of the main aspects of such publications is that reflect the mindset and opinions of the editor/curator. The team may have so many experts come in to understand the nuances of the works and address the selection and finalisation of the issue. It can work as a learning process to understand experts’ opinions on subjects.

Audience and potential client base
The audience base of publications is various industry-related people like suppliers, clients and co-designers. Readings are often indulging and inclusive of various aspects, suitable to respective readers. Reading between the lines and identifying such underlying knacks is the key to cracking such editorials and monetising on them. Tapping on such a client base and creating your own contact bank for future projects is prime.

Editorial publications feature is a dream for all budding designers. The best way in would be to learn and wait for the right issue to be published and featured!

BTS: Shooting on a ‘Live-site’: Problems faced by photographers when the site is pre-occupied.

Architectural photography has a few very essential components that form a crucial part of the frame/shot planning & consideration:

Architectural component
Existing props: Both external & internal
Users of the space

Shooting at a live site might not be the same as shooting at a site that is not in use or is vacated for the shoot. While it has its own charm of being a bustling space, it can get difficult for the photographer & choreographer to carry out their frames.

Personal space & professional space: merging of the frame & the living space

The activity component along with the users might create a hassle to coordinate & frame the shots. Spaces of residential & office use specifically are difficult to manoeuvre around owing to the discomfort of infringing workspace or living space of the users.

Staging problems

Setting up the frame is easy when you are staging it yourself. At real locations, however, when the set is already present, although alterations happen, it can become a bit dis-coordinated.

Props are one of the main contributors to an architectural photography session, especially when it comes to interiors shoot. Prop-management is a difficult task in a space, especially when it is in use.

Communication gap & time delay

With active users, on-site, coordination & choreography of the shoot & frame can get difficult. In case of a communication gap, the architectural photographer might seem to infringe their privacy & space.

Planning & patience can gain great results in such situations. Some precautions can save you time & efforts.

Proper & timely coordination with the client is necessary. If possible, explain & discuss your session with the users to avoid confusion.
Visit the site a couple of times before the shoot. Get a hold of the available props on-site & studying the user patterns can give you a better hold of the space & frame.
Pre-planning of the staging & frame is essential to avoid last-minute issues.
Backup plan for shots & props, just in case the planned shot cannot happen.

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Analysing the Space:

Different Frames for Different Purposes:

Showing Functionality and Connectivity:

Filling Life into the Space:

Understanding the End User:

Personal space & professional space: merging of the frame & the living space

Staging problems

Communication gap & time delay