I often get questions about how post production works in architectural photography. In reality every shot is different but there is somewhat of a loose formula that all the images fall into. We do (almost 100 percent of the time) stack multiple different shots into one final image. There can be anywhere from 2 to 15 in total that make up the final shot. I would say on average there are 4 - 7 total per final image.
Architectural Photography Before and After at Fusion In Omaha, NE with RDG Planning and Design
In order to understand the post production process some explanation of the shooting process is necessary. We always try to start with a basic bracket of exposures. This is when we shoot 3 or 4 images starting with a bright exposure and work our way down to a dark or underexposed image. Then we spend some time flagging reflections and lighting the space as needed. Flagging is when we hang large 8x8 black fabric in specific places killing unwanted reflections in glass or glossy surfaces. You can se an example of flagging below.
Flagging in Architectural Photography - Allsteel Beyond Wall System
The last thing we do as add in the “models”. Models in our world is slang for architects, designers, marketing people, photographers, assistants, or staff the was unlucky enough to be in the area when we needed people in the shots ;).
Exposure specifically for models - Legat Architects - College of Lake County
Then we are finally off into post production. I send all the raw images to my retoucher Sean in the UK (Two Bears Studio ) with specific instructions for each image and setup. Sean has worked with me for the last 4 years and has a keen understanding of what I am looking for and expect. There he spends time layering all the files together, correcting all color balance issues, and retouching out all unwanted distractions. Sean sends the images back to me for final review and I contribute my finishing touches to each shot before delivering back to the happy client.
Architectural Photography Before / After - Urban Works - Esperanza Center - Chicago, IL
There you have it! A brief description of our shooting and post production process in architectural photography. Like I said before, every architectural shot is different but this formula generally runs it’s course throughout every shoot.