Introduction
Architecture and building awards can be a brilliant way to show the world how good you are, network with influential people, and get a little recognition for a project you are proud of – which never hurts.
The project you submit may have taken years of hard work and stress to bring to life. The last thing you want is for it not to look its best. A guaranteed way to undermine your submission is to take a few quick snaps on your phone and convince yourself they will be good enough. Poor-quality, dark, or badly framed images will not stand up alongside submissions featuring crisp, professional photography.
Here’s how you can use photography to strengthen your award submission and give your project the best possible chance.
Why Photography Plays a Key Role in Award Submissions
Awards are a fantastic, often free, way to gain attention for both you and your project. I have been fortunate to see my images shown at countless high-level awards, including RIBA House of the Year 2022, among many others.
One of the main reasons to invest in architectural photography is to increase your chances of being shortlisted or winning. Your submission needs to stand out, look striking, and capture attention instantly. But the images should do more than just look good – they need to communicate the right story.
For example, sustainability-focused awards like the Holcim Awards or RIBA Sustainability Award demand more than just beautiful pictures. They require photography that illustrates the building’s credentials – thermal performance, glazing orientation, energy production, material sourcing, and more. Without this understanding, those crucial details will be overlooked.
Your photography needs to tell the full story:
- The big picture ‘wow’ shot
- How the building functions
- Unusual or striking details
- The interaction of light, space, and materials
How Award-Focused Photography Differs from Other Shoots
Photography for awards is different from photography for catalogues or general marketing.
- Architects’ portfolios might include 50-100 images covering every detail.
- Awards submissions often allow just 3-5 images.
Those images need to be perfect. They need to capture the essence of the project and create impact – usually with a wide, attention-grabbing shot of the full building.
Tips for Architects Preparing for an Awards Shoot
Plan Ahead
Know your submission deadline and work backwards. If the project might only just be complete in time, be realistic:
- Waiting until everything is perfect and submitting the following year is often the safest choice.
- If you push ahead at the last minute, prepare for potential issues – bad weather, access problems, snagging delays.
Allow plenty of time for post-production. Editing is not something that can be rushed. I allow 10 working days for editing – a single evening is never enough to do it properly.
Prepare the Site
- Ensure key details are photo-ready: fireplaces tidy, cables hidden, driveways clear.
- Move cars, hide bins, sweep up leaves. These small details can ruin a shot.
- Site preparation is the client’s responsibility – not the photographer’s or the homeowner’s.
Consider Including People
Including people in the shots can add life, context and scale. It helps tell the story of how a space is used. Bring colleagues, clients, or even a well-behaved dog.
Work with the Property Owner
Ask the owner when the property looks its best:
- When does the sun flood the living area?
- When are views clear of parked cars?
The owners live with the building daily and can often offer valuable insights.
Secure Access Early
If you think the project will be awards-worthy, write into the contract (or verbally agree) that the homeowner will allow a day for photography. Most clients are happy to agree, especially if they know you intend to showcase their project respectfully and professionally.
Collaborating with Your Photographer Makes a Difference
Get to know your photographer before the shoot.
- Find out what helps them deliver the best results.
- Share a written brief with what’s important to you.
I always check sun orientation to plan the shoot for the best light. If budget allows for a full day, I can capture the project in varied light – morning, golden hour, even twilight.
Sharing site plans or CGI visuals helps me prepare and offer advice pre-shoot. I also check whether a client prefers a subtle or bold style, whether interiors call for soft, natural light or whether a modern, bright space needs contrast and drama.
I always book with flexibility in mind. Weather matters, and being able to rearrange if needed often results in better outcomes. Make sure the homeowner is kept informed, so they are prepared for any delays.
Conclusion: Plan Early, Shoot Intentionally
If your project is nearly complete and you are aiming for awards, start planning now:
- Allow time for finding the right photographer
- Build in a weather window
- Ensure homeowners are on board
- Give your photographer time to produce their best work
Count backwards from your submission deadline:
- 2 weeks for editing
- 2 weeks for shoot flexibility
- Time to find the right photographer
The sooner you start, the smoother the process will be.
So, what are you waiting for? Speak to your client or homeowner, confirm permission, then give me a call.