Hélène Binet
"For me, photography is a way of exploring the world, of understanding the world."
Hélène Binet is a Swiss-French photographer best known for her architectural photography. With a career spanning over three decades, Binet's work has been featured in numerous international publications and exhibitions. Renowned for her ability to capture the essence of architectural spaces through her use of light and shadow, she has become one of the most respected photographers in the field. Throughout her career, Binet has worked with some of the most influential architects, such as Daniel Libeskind, Peter Zumthor, and Zaha Hadid.
Early Life and Career
Hélène Binet was born in 1959 in Sorengo, Switzerland. She grew up in a family with a strong artistic background, with her mother being a painter and her father an architect. Binet studied photography at the École Supérieure d'Arts Visuels in Geneva, Switzerland. After completing her studies, she moved to London in the mid-1980s, where she began her career as a freelance architectural photographer.
Binet's first significant collaboration was with architect Daniel Libeskind on his project "The City Edge" in Berlin. This partnership allowed her to develop her unique style and establish herself as a leading architectural photographer.
Photographic Style and Techniques
Hélène Binet's photographic style is characterized by her focus on the interplay between light and shadow, which she uses to create dramatic, atmospheric images that emphasize the architectural forms and spaces. She primarily works with black and white film, believing that this medium allows her to convey the essence of the buildings she photographs more effectively.
Binet's approach to architectural photography involves extensive research and understanding of the architectural concepts and the intentions of the architects. She often visits the sites multiple times, studying the way light interacts with the structure and the surrounding environment. This meticulous preparation enables her to capture images that not only document the architecture but also communicate the emotional impact and atmosphere of the space.
Career Highlights
Throughout her illustrious career, Hélène Binet has photographed a wide range of iconic architectural projects, including Peter Zumthor's Therme Vals, Zaha Hadid's Phaeno Science Center, and Le Corbusier's Notre-Dame-du-Haut in Ronchamp. Her work has been featured in numerous exhibitions, such as the 2016 solo exhibition "Hélène Binet: Fragments of Light" at the Ammann Gallery in Cologne, Germany.
In recognition of her contributions to architectural photography, Binet was awarded the 2015 Julius Shulman Institute Excellence in Photography Award and the 2019 Ada Louise Huxtable Prize.
Photography Gear
Hélène Binet primarily uses a large format film camera for her architectural photography, often a Linhof Technika or a Sinar. She prefers using black and white film, such as Ilford Delta 100 or Kodak Tmax 100, due to its ability to capture a wide range of tonal values and its potential for producing rich, nuanced images.
Photography Books
"Composing Space: The Photographs of Hélène Binet" is a comprehensive exploration of Binet's approach to architectural photography. The book provides insights into her techniques and offers inspiration for photographers looking to develop their skills in capturing the essence of architectural forms and spaces.
"Light Lines: The Architectural Photographs of Hélène Binet" is a collection of Binet's work, showcasing her ability to capture the interplay of light and shadow in architectural spaces. This book offers valuable inspiration for photographers interested in exploring the role of light in architectural photography.
"Hélène Binet: The Intimacy of Making: Three Historical Sites in Korea" documents Binet's exploration of three historical sites in Korea. The book highlights her unique approach to capturing the essence of these sites and offers inspiration for photographers looking to document the cultural and historical significance of architecture.
"Hélène Binet: The Walls of Suzhou Gardens: A Photographic Journey" is a visual journey through the ancient gardens of Suzhou, China. Binet's photographs capture the beauty and intricacy of these spaces, providing valuable inspiration for photographers interested in exploring the relationship between architecture and nature.
"Kistefos-Museet Sculpture Park" is a photographic exploration of the Kistefos-Museet Sculpture Park in Norway. Binet's images document the park's unique blend of art, architecture, and landscape, offering inspiration for photographers interested in capturing the interplay of these elements.
"Helene Binet: Seven Projects" showcases seven architectural projects photographed by Binet. The book provides insights into her approach to capturing the essence of each project, offering valuable inspiration for photographers looking to develop their skills in architectural photography.
"Holocaust Memorial Berlin" is a documentation of the Holocaust Memorial in Berlin, designed by architect Peter Eisenman. Binet's photographs capture the emotional impact of the memorial, offering inspiration for photographers looking to document the power of architecture in evoking memory and emotion.
Quotes
"For me, photography is a way of exploring the world, of understanding the world."
"I try to work in a way that I can be true to the building, but also true to my own vision and my own emotion and my own way of interpreting space." 3. "I think light is the most important factor in architecture. It's what makes the space alive, and it's what makes the space have an emotion."
"The idea of finding the soul of a building is quite important to me. I try to capture the essence of the architecture, the poetry and the atmosphere."
"The camera is an extension of my body; it's like my arm or my eyes. I never thought of using a digital camera because I don't think I could have the same relationship."
Legacy and Influence
Hélène Binet's exceptional work has left a lasting impact on the field of architectural photography. Her ability to capture the essence and emotion of architectural spaces has inspired a new generation of photographers and has established her as a key figure in the industry. Her collaborations with renowned architects have also contributed to the greater appreciation and understanding of contemporary architecture.
Photographers who have been influenced by or share a similar style with Hélène Binet include Iwan Baan, Ezra Stoller, and Julius Shulman. These photographers, like Binet, have become known for their ability to capture the spirit and atmosphere of architectural spaces through the interplay of light and shadow.
In conclusion, Hélène Binet's unique approach to architectural photography has solidified her position as a leading figure in the field. Her work continues to inspire both practicing photographers and architecture enthusiasts, while her collaborations with some of the most influential architects of our time have left a lasting legacy on the world of architectural photography.
Iwan Baan
"For me, the people who use the space are just as important as the space itself."
Iwan Baan (website) is a world-renowned Dutch architectural photographer known for his unique approach to capturing the essence of buildings and their surrounding environments. Born in 1975 in Alkmaar, the Netherlands, Baan has made a name for himself by focusing on the stories that architecture tells about the people who inhabit it. His images are characterized by their human-centered perspective, showcasing the relationship between buildings and the communities that interact with them.
Early Life and Career
Growing up in the Netherlands, Iwan Baan was exposed to a rich architectural landscape that undoubtedly influenced his passion for the field. He studied photography at the Royal Academy of Art in The Hague, where he honed his technical skills and developed a keen eye for capturing unique perspectives of architecture.
Baan's professional career took off in 2005 when he began working with renowned architect Rem Koolhaas on the documentation of the CCTV Headquarters in Beijing, China. This collaboration served as a launching point for Baan, who went on to work with other leading architects like Zaha Hadid and Herzog & de Meuron.
Photographic Style and Techniques
Iwan Baan's photography is known for its storytelling aspect and a focus on the relationship between architecture and the people who inhabit it. He often captures candid moments and interactions between individuals and their environments, highlighting the human aspect of design.
Baan's style can be described as journalistic and immersive, as he prefers to document buildings in their actual context rather than isolating them from their surroundings. His images often include people, landscapes, and urban scenes, creating a holistic understanding of the architectural subject matter.
Career Highlights
Some of Iwan Baan's most notable projects include:
Documentation of the CCTV Headquarters in Beijing by Rem Koolhaas and the Office for Metropolitan Architecture (OMA).
Images of the Heydar Aliyev Center in Baku, Azerbaijan, designed by Zaha Hadid Architects.
The photography of the Elbphilharmonie in Hamburg, Germany, by Herzog & de Meuron.
Collaborations with architects like Sou Fujimoto, Bjarke Ingels, and SANAA.
Photography Gear
Iwan Baan's photography gear includes:
Canon EOS 5D Mark IV DSLR Camera
DJI Phantom 4 Pro drone for aerial photography
Photography Books
"Wang Shu and Amateur Architecture Studio" explores the work of Chinese architect Wang Shu and his firm, Amateur Architecture Studio. Baan's photography captures the essence of their projects, providing valuable insights and inspiration for photographers interested in documenting contemporary architecture.
"Francis Kéré & Iwan Baan: Momentum of Light" is a collaboration between architect Francis Kéré and photographer Iwan Baan. This book showcases the intersection of architecture and light, offering a unique perspective on Kéré's work and providing inspiration for photographers looking to explore the relationship between natural light and architectural design.
"Dudok by Iwan Baan" is a photographic tribute to Dutch architect Willem Marinus Dudok. Baan's images capture the essence of Dudok's architecture, providing inspiration and valuable insights for photographers interested in exploring the work of this influential architect.
"Brasilia - Chandigarh Living With Modernity" is a visual exploration of the urban landscapes of Brasilia, Brazil, and Chandigarh, India. Baan's photographs document the architecture and daily life in these modernist cities, offering a unique perspective on urban photography and valuable inspiration for those interested in documenting the intersection of architecture and society.
"Glenstone: The Pavilions" is a photographic journey through the architecture and landscape of Glenstone, a contemporary art museum in Maryland. Baan's images provide a visual narrative of the museum's pavilions, offering inspiration for photographers interested in documenting the relationship between architecture, art, and nature.
"Diller, Scofidio & Renfro: Institute of Contemporary Art Boston: Museum Building Guides" is a guide to the Institute of Contemporary Art in Boston, designed by architects Diller, Scofidio & Renfro. Baan's photographs capture the essence of the building's architecture, providing a valuable resource for photographers interested in exploring the design of cultural institutions.
Quotes
"I'm interested in the stories that architecture tells and the way people use the spaces."
"For me, the people who use the space are just as important as the space itself."
"I try to show architecture in its actual context, with the people and culture that surround it."
"Architectural photography is not just about the building; it's about the life that happens within it."
"I see architecture as a living organism, and I want to capture its unique interaction with the people and environment."
Legacy and Influence
Iwan Baan's contribution to the field of architectural photography has been significant and long-lasting. His approach to capturing the essence of buildings and their context has influenced many photographers to adopt a more human-centered perspective in their work. Baan's emphasis on storytelling and the relationships between architecture and the people who inhabit it has helped redefine architectural photography as an art form that goes beyond mere documentation of structures.
His collaborations with prominent architects have not only provided them with stunning visual representations of their work but have also enriched the discourse around architectural design and its impact on society. By focusing on the interaction between people and the built environment, Baan's photography invites viewers to consider the importance of thoughtful and sustainable design in shaping the world around us.
Iwan Baan's work has inspired a new generation of photographers, such as Fernando Guerra and Hufton + Crow, to explore the narratives that architecture can tell and to document the way people engage with and are influenced by the spaces they inhabit. As a result, Baan's legacy continues to have a lasting impact on the field of architectural photography and the understanding of architecture's role in contemporary society.
Balthazar Korab
"Architecture is like frozen music, and the role of the photographer is to make it sing."
Balthazar Korab (1926-2013) was a Hungarian-American architectural photographer renowned for his exceptional ability to capture the spirit and essence of modern architecture. With a keen eye for detail and a unique perspective on design, Korab's work has left an indelible mark on the field of architectural photography.
Early Life and Career
Born in Budapest, Hungary, in 1926, Balthazar Korab grew up in a city rich in architectural history. He initially pursued architecture as a career, studying at the Budapest University of Technology and later at the École des Beaux-Arts in Paris. In 1955, he moved to the United States, where he worked as a designer for the legendary architect Eero Saarinen.
It was during his time with Saarinen that Korab discovered his passion for architectural photography. He began documenting the construction of Saarinen's projects, including the iconic TWA Flight Center at JFK Airport and the St. Louis Gateway Arch. As his reputation grew, Korab launched his own photography practice, working with leading architects and designers of his time, such as Mies van der Rohe and Philip Johnson.
Photographic Style and Techniques
Korab's photographic style was characterized by his ability to reveal the essence of a building or structure through the careful use of light, shadow, and composition. He often employed a combination of natural and artificial lighting to emphasize the architectural features and create a sense of depth and texture in his images.
In his work, Korab frequently explored the relationship between the built environment and the natural world, capturing how structures interacted with their surroundings. His keen understanding of architectural principles allowed him to showcase the design intent and convey the emotional impact of the spaces he photographed.
Career Highlights
Throughout his prolific career, Balthazar Korab captured some of the most iconic architectural projects of the 20th century. Some of his most notable works include:
The TWA Flight Center at JFK Airport
The St. Louis Gateway Arch
The Farnsworth House by Mies van der Rohe
The Seagram Building by Mies van der Rohe and Philip Johnson
Photography Gear
Balthazar Korab primarily used large-format cameras, such as the 4x5 Linhof Technika and 8x10 Deardorff, to achieve the highest possible image quality and detail in his photographs. He also occasionally utilized medium-format cameras like the Hasselblad 500 series for greater flexibility in certain situations.
Photography Books
"Balthazar Korab: Architect of Photography" is a comprehensive exploration of Korab's life, work, and artistic vision. This book delves into his photographic techniques and showcases his skill in capturing the essence of modern architecture, offering valuable insights and inspiration for photographers interested in this specialized field.
"Eero Saarinen: Buildings from the Balthazar Korab Archive" is a collection of Korab's photographs of architect Eero Saarinen's iconic buildings. This book highlights Korab's ability to capture the beauty and innovation of Saarinen's work, providing a valuable resource for photographers looking to hone their skills in architectural photography.
"Columbus Indiana: An American Landmark" documents the architectural gems of Columbus, Indiana, through Korab's lens. This book showcases his talent for capturing the unique character of urban spaces and offers valuable inspiration for photographers interested in exploring the interaction between architecture and its surroundings.
"Archabet: An Architectural Alphabet" presents a creative and whimsical exploration of architectural elements through an alphabetical journey. Korab's keen eye for detail and composition is showcased in this book, providing inspiration for photographers looking to push the boundaries of their own work.
"Detroit, the Renaissance City" is a photographic exploration of the architectural and urban landscapes of Detroit. Korab's images capture the city's transformation and resilience, offering a valuable resource for photographers interested in documenting urban change and renewal.
Quotes
"The camera is a remarkable instrument. Saturate yourself with your subject, and the camera will all but take you by the hand and point the way."
"Photography is not about the thing photographed. It is about how that thing looks photographed."
"An architectural photograph is the architect's statement expressed in a visual language that everyone can understand."
"Architecture is like frozen music, and the role of the photographer is to make it sing."
"A photograph should not just show what a building looks like, but how it feels."
Legacy and Influence
Balthazar Korab's work has left a lasting impact on architectural photography, inspiring generations of photographers with his distinct style and approach. His deep understanding of architecture and his ability to capture the essence of a structure have set the bar for what is expected in the field.
Korab's influence can be seen in the work of contemporary architectural photographers such as Iwan Baan, Hélène Binet, and Ezra Stoller, who similarly explore the relationship between the built environment and its surroundings. His dedication to showcasing the beauty and artistry of modern architecture has also helped to elevate the public's appreciation and understanding of design.
In conclusion, Balthazar Korab's work as an architectural photographer has left an indelible mark on the field, capturing the essence of iconic structures and inspiring generations of photographers. His keen eye for detail, understanding of architectural principles, and innovative techniques continue to resonate with both professionals and enthusiasts alike.
Ezra Stoller
"The key to architectural photography is knowing how to read a building."
Ezra Stoller (1915-2004) (website) was an American architectural photographer who earned widespread acclaim for his striking images of iconic mid-century modern buildings. As a master of his craft, Stoller's work has had a lasting impact on the field of architectural photography and continues to inspire generations of photographers.
Early Life and Career
Born in Chicago, Ezra Stoller grew up in New York City. He studied architecture at New York University before deciding to pursue photography as his primary profession. After serving as a photographer during World War II, Stoller returned to New York and began focusing on architectural photography. He quickly gained recognition for his exceptional ability to capture the essence of modern architecture, earning commissions from renowned architects such as Frank Lloyd Wright, Eero Saarinen, and Ludwig Mies van der Rohe.
Photographic Style and Techniques
Stoller's photographic style is characterized by his keen eye for composition, precise framing, and immaculate attention to detail. He was known for his careful consideration of lighting and perspective, which allowed him to showcase the true essence and beauty of each architectural subject. Stoller's images exude a sense of clarity and simplicity, capturing the essence of modernism while highlighting the structural integrity and functional beauty of each building.
Career Highlights
Throughout his career, Stoller photographed many iconic buildings, including the Guggenheim Museum, the Seagram Building, and the TWA Terminal at John F. Kennedy International Airport. His work has been featured in numerous publications, such as Architectural Record, Architectural Forum, and House Beautiful. In 1961, Stoller became the first architectural photographer to be awarded a medal for his contributions to the field by the American Institute of Architects.
Photography Gear
While specific details about Stoller's equipment throughout his career are not widely documented, it is known that he preferred to use large-format cameras for their superior image quality and precise control over perspective. Some of the equipment Stoller may have used include:
Large-format cameras: These cameras, typically using 4x5-inch or 8x10-inch film, offer exceptional detail and control over perspective and depth of field.
Wide-angle and normal lenses: To capture the full scope of architectural subjects, Stoller likely used a variety of lenses, including wide-angle and normal focal lengths.
Tripods: Given the need for stability and precision in architectural photography, tripods were likely an essential part of Stoller's gear.
Photography Books
"Ezra Stoller: A Photographic History of Modern American Architecture" offers a comprehensive look at Stoller's photographic documentation of iconic American buildings. This book showcases his skill in capturing the essence of modern architecture, providing inspiration for photographers interested in this specialized field.
"Ezra Stoller, Photographer" delves into the life and work of Stoller, offering a fascinating insight into his approach to architectural photography. This book explores his techniques, equipment, and artistic vision, making it an invaluable resource for photographers looking to learn from a master of the craft.
"Ezra Stoller: Photographs of Architecture, 1939-1980" is a collection of Stoller's architectural photography spanning over four decades. This book demonstrates the evolution of his style and showcases his ability to capture the essence of various architectural styles and movements, providing valuable inspiration for photographers interested in the subject matter.
"The TWA Terminal: The Building Block Series" focuses on Stoller's photographs of Eero Saarinen's iconic TWA Terminal at JFK Airport in New York. This book offers a unique perspective on this architectural masterpiece, highlighting Stoller's talent for capturing the essence of a building through his lens.
"Frank Lloyd Wright's Fallingwater: Building Block Series" is an exploration of Stoller's photographs of Frank Lloyd Wright's iconic Fallingwater residence. This book showcases Stoller's ability to capture the beauty and innovation of Wright's work, providing a valuable resource for photographers looking to hone their skills in architectural photography.
Quotes
"Architectural photography is more than just a documentation of a building."
"The key to architectural photography is knowing how to read a building."
"The camera is a remarkable instrument. Saturate yourself with your subject, and the camera will all but take you by the hand and point the way."
"Photography is an important part of understanding architecture."
"Architectural photography is a discipline that requires an understanding of design and the ability to interpret it in a visual language."
Legacy and Influence
Ezra Stoller's legacy continues to impact the world of architectural photography, inspiring both aspiring and established photographers. His precise compositions and careful attention to detail have set a high standard for architectural photographers worldwide. Stoller's work serves as a visual record of some of the most significant architectural achievements of the mid-20th century and continues to be a source of inspiration for contemporary photographers.
In addition to his influence on architectural photography, Stoller's work has also impacted the broader field of photography. Photographers such as Iwan Baan, Hélène Binet, and Thomas Struth have drawn inspiration from Stoller's approach to capturing the essence of architectural structures. His images have not only been instrumental in shaping the public's perception of modern architecture but have also contributed to the establishment of architectural photography as a respected discipline within the realm of fine art photography.
In summary, Ezra Stoller's exceptional body of work has left an indelible mark on the field of architectural photography. His ability to distill the essence of modern architecture into compelling visual narratives has earned him a place among the most revered architectural photographers of all time. His influence on future generations of photographers, both in the realm of architecture and beyond, is a testament to the enduring power of his vision and his unwavering commitment to the art of photography.
Julius Shulman
"The picture should tell the story of the building."
Julius Shulman (1910-2009) (website) was a highly respected American architectural photographer, renowned for his ability to capture the essence and spirit of modern architecture, particularly during the mid-century era. His photographs have not only documented the evolution of architectural design but have also played a vital role in shaping the public's perception of modern architecture.
Early Life and Career
Born in Brooklyn, New York, Julius Shulman moved with his family to Los Angeles in the early 1920s. He developed an interest in photography during his high school years, and after briefly studying at the University of California, Los Angeles, and the Art Center College of Design, Shulman began his career as an architectural photographer in the late 1930s.
His breakthrough moment came when he was asked to photograph Richard Neutra's Kun House in 1936. This assignment led to a fruitful collaboration with Neutra and other prominent architects, including Rudolph Schindler, John Lautner, and Pierre Koenig. Shulman's work gained widespread recognition, and he soon became the go-to photographer for many architects in Southern California and beyond.
Photographic Style and Techniques
Julius Shulman's photographic style was characterized by his keen eye for composition, lighting, and perspective. He possessed an extraordinary ability to showcase the essence of architectural designs and their relationship with the surrounding environment. His images often highlighted the interplay between indoor and outdoor spaces, emphasizing the unique features of each project while maintaining a sense of harmony and balance.
Shulman was meticulous about his photographic process, often spending hours arranging the perfect shot. He made extensive use of large format cameras, such as the 4x5 view camera, which allowed him to achieve exceptional detail and depth of field in his images.
Career Highlights
Pioneering architectural photography during the mid-century modern era
Collaborating with some of the most influential architects of the 20th century
Capturing iconic images, such as the 1960 photograph of Pierre Koenig's Case Study House No. 22, also known as the Stahl House
Receiving the American Institute of Architects' Gold Medal for Architectural Photography in 1969
Exhibiting his work in major institutions, including the Los Angeles County Museum of Art and the Smithsonian Institution
Photography Gear
4x5 view camera (typically a Sinar or Linhof model)
Wide and standard lenses, such as the Schneider Super-Angulon and Symmar-S
Photography Books
"Julius Shulman Los Angeles: The Birth of A Modern Metropolis (Rizzoli Classics)" explores the architectural history of Los Angeles and its transformation into a modern metropolis. Through Shulman's masterful photography, readers gain an understanding of the city's evolution and the significant role of architecture in shaping its identity.
"Julius Shulman. Modernism Rediscovered" is a comprehensive collection of Shulman's work, featuring previously unpublished photographs that offer a fresh perspective on modern architecture. This book showcases the beauty of mid-century modern design, highlighting the innovation and artistry of the era.
"Julius Shulman: Architecture and Its Photography" delves into the relationship between architecture and photography, examining how Shulman's images have shaped our understanding of modern design. The book provides insight into Shulman's techniques, allowing photographers to learn from his artistic process and approach to capturing architectural subjects.
"Julius Shulman: Palm Springs" focuses on the architectural gems of Palm Springs, a city known for its modernist structures and unique desert landscapes. Shulman's photographs convey the essence of the city's architectural heritage, providing a visual exploration of its iconic buildings and design elements.
"A Constructed View: The Architectural Photography of Julius Shulman" offers a comprehensive look at Shulman's career, showcasing his ability to convey the spirit of modern architecture through his images. The book emphasizes the importance of composition, lighting, and perspective in architectural photography, providing valuable lessons for photographers looking to improve their skills in this specialized field.
Quotes
"The camera is the least important element in photography."
"I sell architecture better and more directly and more vividly than the architect does."
"The picture should tell the story of the building."
"It's the human touch that counts, the emotional aspect."
"Every time I see a beautiful building, I want to wrap my arms around it."
Legacy and Influence
Julius Shulman's work has left an indelible mark on the field of architectural photography. His images have not only documented the evolution of mid-century modern architecture but have also played a crucial role in shaping the public's perception of modern design. His photographs have become synonymous with the era, and many of his iconic images are still celebrated today for their timeless appeal.
Shulman's influence extends beyond the realm of architecture and photography, as his work has inspired countless photographers, architects, and designers. His meticulous approach to composition, lighting, and perspective has become a benchmark for architectural photographers worldwide. In addition, Shulman's focus on the human touch and the emotional connection between the viewer and the architecture has had a lasting impact on the way people perceive and interact with the built environment.
Some contemporary architectural photographers who have been inspired by Shulman's work include Iwan Baan, Hélène Binet, and Ezra Stoller. These photographers, much like Shulman, showcase the beauty and elegance of architecture while emphasizing the importance of capturing the essence of each design.
In conclusion, Julius Shulman's legacy as a pioneering architectural photographer continues to inspire and influence the fields of architecture and photography. His unique ability to capture the spirit and emotion of modern architecture has left an enduring impact that will be remembered and celebrated for generations to come.