Capturing Time: How Understanding Building History Elevates Your Architecture Photography
- Tristan Todd
- Jul 12, 2024
- 3 min read
As a Sydney based architecture photographer, I've learned that the key to creating truly captivating images lies in mastering technical skills and understanding the rich history behind each structure. In this post, we'll explore how delving into building history can revolutionise your architecture photography, allowing you to capture the facade and the soul of Sydney's iconic buildings.
Why Building History Matters in Photography
Understanding a building's history provides context that can dramatically enhance your photographic approach:
It reveals the significance of architectural details
It helps you capture the building's character and atmosphere
It allows you to tell more compelling visual stories
It guides you in choosing the best angles and lighting to highlight historical features
Researching a Building's History
Before you pick up your camera, invest time in research:
1. Local libraries and historical societies: Often have archives of old photographs and documents.
2. Online databases: The NSW State Archives and Records is a treasure trove of historical information.
3. Heritage lists: Check if the building is listed on the State Heritage Register or local council heritage lists.
4. Architectural guides: Books like "Sydney Architecture" by Graham Jahn can provide valuable insights.
5. Talking to locals: Sometimes, the best stories come from people who have lived or worked in the area.
Architectural Styles Through the Ages
Sydney's architecture is a fascinating mix of styles, each reflecting a different era:
Colonial (1788-1840): Simple, functional designs like Hyde Park Barracks
Victorian (1840-1890): Ornate terraces in areas like Paddington
Federation (1890-1915): Queen Anne style homes with intricate details
Art Deco (1920s-1930s): Streamlined designs like the ANZAC War Memorial
Image by Rob Tuckwell Photography
Modernist (1950s-1970s): Functional structures like the Sydney Opera House
Contemporary: Cutting-edge designs like One Central Park
Understanding these styles helps you emphasise defining characteristics in your photos.
Capturing the Evolution of Buildings
Many Sydney buildings have evolved over time. Capture this by:
Shooting before/after comparisons if historical images are available
Focusing on details that show different architectural periods
Capturing juxtapositions of old and new elements
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Telling Stories Through Your Lens
Use your knowledge to create narrative-rich images:
Focus on features that reflect historical events or social changes
Capture details that showcase the craftsmanship of a particular era
Use lighting to emphasize the mood of different historical periods
Include surrounding elements that provide historical context
Practical Tips for Historically-Informed Photography
1. Golden hour magic: The soft light of dawn or dusk can enhance the timeless quality of heritage buildings.
2. Play with perspectives: Use unusual angles to highlight often-overlooked historical features.
3. Embrace imperfections: Weathering and wear can add character to your shots.
4. Combine old and new: Juxtapose historical elements with modern surroundings for striking contrasts.
5. Focus on details: Ornate cornices, original door handles, or heritage tiles can tell powerful stories.
Case Study: A Sydney Icon
Let's apply these principles to one of Sydney's most photographed buildings: The Queen Victoria Building (QVB).
Built in 1898, the QVB has lived many lives – from a concert hall to a library, and even faced demolition before its glorious restoration in the 1980s.
When photographing the QVB:
Capture the grandeur of its Romanesque Revival style
Focus on intricate details like the stained glass windows and copper domes
Shoot from the surrounding streets to show its imposing presence
Include images of the interior to showcase its function as a modern shopping centre
If possible, juxtapose current images with historical photos to show its evolution
Ethical Considerations
As you delve into building history and photography, keep in mind:
Respect private property and obtain necessary permissions
Be mindful of cultural sensitivities, especially with Indigenous heritage sites
Avoid perpetuating harmful historical narratives through your work
Consider how your images might impact current communities connected to these buildings
Conclusion
Understanding building history transforms architecture photography from a straightforward documentation of structures to a powerful form of storytelling. By researching and appreciating the rich past of Sydney's buildings, you can create images that not only please the eye but also educate and inspire.
Remember, every building in Sydney has a story to tell. As photographers, it's our privilege and responsibility to uncover and showcase these narratives through our lenses. So, the next time you're out shooting, take a moment to consider not just what you see, but the centuries of history behind your subject. Your photographs – and your viewers – will be richer for it.
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