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.
