When to Use a Drone for Architectural Photography: A Guide for Architects, Designers, and Photographers
All Images taken by Austin LaRue Baker
This stunning home was built with its surroundings in mind and without a drone perspective the beautiful mountain backdrop would have been lost. Home designed by Phoenix Architecture
Drones have transformed the field of architectural and Hospitality photography, providing new perspectives and creative possibilities. However, their usage must be carefully considered to enhance the visual narrative rather than detract from it. In this blog, we explore when and how to effectively use drones for architectural photography, tailored specifically for architects, designers, and fellow photographers.
Modern architecture often times looks stunning from the top down due to its more bold and geometric structure. Home designed by Phoenix Architecture
Understanding When Not to Use a Drone
Before diving into the benefits, it's essential to acknowledge that unnecessary drone images can be distracting or disorienting. For many standard homes, particularly those without notable surroundings or unique architectural features, traditional ground-based photography may be more appropriate. Most homes do not inherently benefit from drone images, and using them indiscriminately can overwhelm the viewer with unnecessary information.
Highlighting Hidden Landscapes
This same position from the ground level only showed just a sliver of the stunning Superstition Mountains over the top of the home. Home designed by Phoenix Architecture.
One of the most compelling reasons to use a drone in architectural photography is to reveal beautiful landscape views that are otherwise blocked by the home itself. Properties located in scenic environments, such as those with mountain views, lakes, or extensive gardens, can significantly benefit from aerial shots. By positioning the drone to capture these hidden vistas, you can enhance the property's appeal and showcase its natural surroundings effectively.
Capturing Unique and Interesting Compositions
This beautiful garden was designed to look amazing from every angle including top down. Home designed by Candelaria and Wendy Black Rodgers.
Drones offer the ability to capture unique compositions that are otherwise impossible to achieve. For example, an overhead shot taken straight down over a property can provide a striking visual, highlighting design elements such as garden layouts, pool designs, and overall property organization. However, it's crucial to avoid accentuating unwanted details like AC units, pool utility areas, or other unattractive elements that could detract from the overall aesthetic.
Showcasing Taller Structures
Without a drone it would have been impossible to show the scale of this building and the relationship between the upper and lower levels. Photographed for Invesco and The Carmin.
Taller, two-story buildings, and larger structures can significantly benefit from aerial photography. Drones can capture the full scale and grandeur of these buildings, which is often difficult to convey from the ground. Aerial images can showcase architectural details that are not visible from lower angles, providing a comprehensive view of the structure's design and craftsmanship.
Capturing Entire Home Lots
This image shows the unique layout of the home while also explaining how it was positioned on the lot. Home designed by Phoenix Architecture.
Certain properties, particularly those with expansive lots, may require aerial photography to capture the entire space effectively. Drones can provide a comprehensive view of large estates, showcasing the relationship between the home, its landscaping, and any additional structures on the lot. This holistic perspective can be particularly useful for architects and designers in planning and presenting their projects.
Highlighting Proximity to Key Features
Because of the larger trees and the elevation of the home this mountain was nearly impossible to see with a photo from a standard height. Getting into the air 30 or so feet shows how close this home is to Camelback Mountain.
Aerial images taken from a high vantage point can effectively place a home within its larger context. This is particularly useful for properties near desirable features such as the ocean, a neighborhood park, or urban amenities. By showing the home's proximity to these attractions, you can create a more compelling narrative about the property's location and lifestyle benefits. This approach can be especially persuasive in real estate marketing.
Navigating Difficult Terrain
This image was taken over the water which is clearly only possible with a drone. Home designed by Candelaria and Wendy Black Rodgers
In some cases, the terrain around a property can be challenging or even impossible to navigate with traditional photography equipment. Drones excel in these situations, allowing photographers to capture images over water, steep hillsides, or other inaccessible areas. This capability ensures that no aspect of the property is left undocumented, providing a complete visual representation.
Aerial Photography for Elevated Plots
This home sat well above the road below. If this image was taken at a standard height you would see very little of the home past the driveway and the front wall.
Homes that sit on plots of land higher than the surrounding area can also benefit from aerial photography. Drones can capture the elevation changes and provide a clear view of how the home sits within its environment. This perspective can highlight the advantages of the home's positioning, such as enhanced privacy, better views, and architectural prominence.
Conclusion
Drones have revolutionized architectural and Hospitality photography, offering new ways to capture and present properties. However, their use should be strategic, enhancing the visual story without overwhelming the viewer. By considering factors such as landscape views, unique compositions, structural height, proximity to features, terrain challenges, and the size of the property, you can determine the most effective use of drone photography. For architects, designers, and photographers, mastering this balance is key to creating compelling and impactful imagery.
This home was completely designed around camelback mountain and this drone image was the best way to showcase that. Home Designed by Candelaria and Wendy Black Rodgers.
Tips for Effective Drone Photography
1. **Plan Your Shots:** Before flying, plan the shots you need to avoid unnecessary flight time and ensure you capture all desired angles.
2. **Check Regulations:** Ensure you are compliant with local regulations regarding drone flights, especially in residential areas.
3. **Optimize Lighting:** Early morning or late afternoon light can provide the best conditions for aerial photography, reducing harsh shadows and glare.
4. **Use High-Resolution Cameras:** High-resolution cameras on drones ensure that your aerial images are sharp and detailed, suitable for professional use.
5. **Post-Processing:** Utilize post-processing tools to enhance your images, correcting any distortions and adjusting lighting to achieve the best results.
By following these guidelines, you can leverage drone technology to elevate your architectural photography, creating stunning visuals that highlight the beauty and functionality of your designs.
