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B+WBold shapes, sharp corners, fluid curves,
aggressive angles, eye-catching patterns,
brilliant reflections, unusual lighting –
modern architecture is the fusion of so
many exciting elements; it brings together
the very best in creative design, cutting-
edge technology and material science to
present us with giant works of art.
All forms of architecture make great
subjects, but while we tend to interpret
and photograph old buildings in a literal
way, to capture their character and
beauty, modern architecture encourages
creative exploration and presents almost
endless photographic possibilities.
New York City, USA
This shot features part of the Oculus, an amazing
structure near the new World Trade Centre. You
could spend hours shooting this building alone.
Canon EOS 5DS with 16-35mm zoom lens,
polariser, 1/10sec at f/8, ISO 100
6 SUM OF MANY PARTS
‘Look for patterns – in
railings, spiral staircases,
window frames and other
repeated features, or abstract
shapes against the sky.’
5 COMPOSITION COUNTS
Composition is key when shooting
modern architecture. Great thought has
gone into every element of the building,
and how those different elements work
together, so think carefully about where
you point your lens. Look for patterns – in
railings, spiral staircases, window frames
and other repeated features, or abstract
shapes against the sky. Lines get a
leading role and can make great shots
in their own right, while reflections in
glass are hard to resist. Shoot from a low
viewpoint with a wideangle lens to create
head-spinning converging verticals, or
get up high for a bird’s eye view – multi-
storey car parks make great vantage
points and if you work in a high-rise you
may be able to get permission to shoot
from the roof, or at least the top floor.
New York City, USA
It’s tempting to fire away randomly when you
visit a great building for the first time, but you’ll
produce better images if you take your time and
think about each shot before tripping the shutter.
Canon EOS 5DS with 16-35mm zoom lens,
1/200sec at f/8, ISO 100
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