What are some ways to differentiate your architectural photography from other photographers?

1 Choose a niche

One of the first steps to differentiate your architectural photography is to choose a niche that suits your interests, skills, and goals. A niche is a specific segment of the market that has a distinct demand, audience, and style. For example, you can specialize in residential, commercial, historical, or futuristic architecture, or focus on a particular region, culture, or theme. Choosing a niche can help you narrow down your target clients, develop your expertise, and create a consistent portfolio that showcases your strengths and vision.

3 Use different formats and media

A third way to differentiate your architectural photography is to use different formats and media to present and share your work. Instead of sticking to the conventional digital or print formats, you can explore other options that can enhance your photos and showcase your skills. For example, you can create panoramas, collages, slideshows, animations, videos, or 3D models of your architectural subjects, or use alternative materials, such as metal, wood, or canvas, to print your photos. Using different formats and media can help you add variety, interest, and value to your work and reach a wider audience.

4 Learn from the masters

A fourth way to differentiate your architectural photography is to learn from the masters of the genre and draw inspiration from their work. Studying the history, styles, and techniques of the famous and influential architectural photographers can help you improve your skills, expand your knowledge, and discover new ideas. For example, you can learn from the pioneers of modern architecture photography, such as Julius Shulman, Ezra Stoller, or Lucien Hervé, or from the contemporary masters, such as Iwan Baan, Hélène Binet, or Andreas Gursky. Learning from the masters can help you appreciate the art and craft of architectural photography and develop your own voice and vision.

5 Experiment and innovate

A fifth way to differentiate your architectural photography is to experiment and innovate with your methods and tools. Instead of following the trends or the rules, you can try new things and challenge yourself to create original and surprising photos. For example, you can use unconventional lenses, such as fisheye, tilt-shift, or macro, to distort or enhance your architectural subjects, or use drones, tripods, or remote triggers to capture different views and angles. Experimenting and innovating can help you discover new possibilities, overcome limitations, and showcase your talent and versatility.

6 Engage with your audience

A sixth way to differentiate your architectural photography is to engage with your audience and create a loyal and supportive community. Instead of just posting or selling your photos, you can interact with your clients, fans, and peers and build relationships and trust. For example, you can share your stories, tips, and insights behind your photos, ask for feedback and suggestions, collaborate with other photographers or professionals, or participate in contests, exhibitions, or publications. Engaging with your audience can help you increase your visibility, credibility, and influence in the architectural photography field and market.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?