FAQ

What do I do? 

I am an Architectural Photographer with 30+ years of award winning professional experience. I have extensive knowledge of lighting and photographing interiors and exteriors of commercial and residential buildings.

How do I do it? 

I make high resolution digital photographs using a wireless system using studio flash, LED Panels and tungsten lighting to supplement or enhance the available light.

Do I specialize in a certain industry? 

I specialize in photography for Architects, Engineers and Construction professionals primarily for marketing, publication and awards. I really enjoy working with talented, passionate professionals. High quality design and construction deserves high quality photography. 

What qualifies me to do architectural photography? 

I have been photographing architecture and interiors for over thirty years, initially as a Senior Photographer with Armstrong World Industries, then Assistant Studio Manager with Filene’s/Macy’s and for the last fifteen years leading my own company.

Do you work with a crew or alone?

I have a trusted network of experienced support staff who I draw on when needed.

Assistant photographer: 

I use an assistant photographer, when needed, to make “detail” photos under my direction, which enables us to cover larger buildings

with a greater quantity of photos per day. This saves the client the cost and inconvenience of additional photography days on location. 

Stylist: 

On larger projects a stylist can shop for required props in advance and expertly styles each location. This expedites the schedule and

ensures that we move efficiently from space to space.

Photo Assistant: 

Photo assistants transport and set up equipment. They can also stage rooms by adjusting furniture position, declutters and style the

space with my direction. This saves time and increases productivity.

Videographer: 

Under my direction the videographer captures motion and records sound during the shoot. 

Video Editor: 

The video editor processes raw video, edits video clips onto music or spoken soundtrack, color corrects and delivers finished video.

Retoucher: 

The retoucher expertly processes and retouches final image files, removes distracting elements    

(vents, exit signs, vehicles, power lines) or adds elements (grass, artwork, etc.) 

Producer: 

I partner with producers when needed. On smaller projects, I handle production myself.

Art Direction:

I can work with AD’s and CD’s or I offer art direction myself.

Scouting Days?

When possible I scout the location with the client in advance of photography, ideally prior to estimating the project. Seeing the actual space in person helps define the scope of the project, best camera angles, missing elements or obstacles to plan for on shoot day. If a client is unavailable, I utilize a scouting gallery to facilitate our discussion on Zoom or by phone. 

How many days does it take?

Normally one day gets everything done, of course it depends on the scope of the project. My experience helps me plan the most efficient schedule, maximizing efficiency on set and maintaining the shot schedule. We don't waste time, but we do take the time that is required to get the highest quality images that represent your project accurately. Sometimes an additional day or two is needed because the scope of the project is too large to complete in one day or the weather is not suitable for exteriors. I have done several projects that were two or three day shoots with multiple team members; a 2nd photographer, first and second assistants, videographer, photo stylist, talent and a digital technician keeping everything organized and running at peak efficiency. A larger team can accomplish a far greater amount of work in a compressed schedule without compromising image quality and variety.

What services do you offer?

Architectural Interiors and Exteriors 

Drone Aerials + Mapping

360 Virtual Tours (Matterport Cloud Processing and Hosting)

Video - Drone and ground based 4K. 

What type of projects do you do?

Commercial Photography

Education

Healthcare

Institutional

Public Spaces

Hotel + Hospitality

Landscape

Residential Photography - From Modern to Historic homes

What type of clients do you work with?

Architects, Builders, Engineers, Interior Designers, Landscape Designers, Developers and Home Owners.

How much do your services cost?

I price the photoshoot based on the Creative Fee and Licensing model. Each customized estimate is based on the scope of the photography required, client budget, pre-production and post production out of pocket costs; photo assistant, stylist, props, talent and retouching. The creative fee covers my time and licensing covers the anticipated use and distribution of the images.

Licensing? 

I typically license my images to Architects for a non-exclusive, unlimited term. The license fee covers most essential uses: Web, print, marketing portfolio, social media and award entries. Advertising is additional and based on the specific needs of the client. Editorial Fees (when paid by the publication) are retained by the photographer. Award releases are signed at no additional charge if they do not exploit the rights of the client or photographer.

Who owns the image copyright? 

I retain the copyright and license images to each party on an individual basis. I don’t allow third party transfer of images but equitable pricing is offered for any party that wishes to use the images after they are completed. Licensing existing images will always be more expensive than commissioning new photography to compensate for the risk of licensing images prior to creation. The commissioning party or parties will always have the most favorable terms for any given project. You can be sure the completed images are exactly the project features you need to have photographed and in the style you prefer.

Do you offer Multi-Party or Cost Sharing contracts? 

Yes, the best way to save money on architectural photography is to share the cost with another party. Typically, the architect, builder, engineer or interior designer will split the creative fee and costs equally. Each party pays a separate licensing fee. The best analogy for licensing is to think of the image as a hammer or other tool. If each party uses their hammer simultaneously, then multiple hammers are needed and each must be paid for. Images are also considered intellectual property by the US Copyright office. As such, they can be licensed for multiple uses by the copyright holder ( The photographer, unless he/she/they transfers the copyright in a written document or they are an employee or it is a “work for hire” situation.) As a rule, I don’t sign “work for hire” contracts. Copyright will only be transferred under very limited circumstances and for a considerable remuneration.

Do you travel? 

Absolutely! I have a fully equipped commercially licensed van, with cameras, flash and LED lighting gear, drones, tripods, a 26’ high-camera stand and everything else needed to photograph architecture on location. Air travel is also an option. During my career, I have photographed all over the United States and throughout Europe and Kenya. I currently travel to Dallas and Athens, Greece on a regular basis - Travel expenses can be reduced by coordinating your assignment with one of my previously scheduled trips. 

Do you do video/motion?

Yes, I shoot 4K video with my drone on architectural projects. For ground based video, including those with sound recorded live or in studio voice overs, I partner with an experienced videographer/sound technician/editor. My primary function on set is the Director of Photography and/or Still Photographer. Video capture and editing are generally outsourced for greatest efficiency.

What makes you different?

I strive to make every shot as informative and graphic as I can, within the constraints of the location and schedule. I pay attention to the details and am attentive to your goals.  I have thirty plus years of experience … Which enables me to get the high quality results you need and expect.

What happens during a photo shoot? 

I begin with a brief site walk with my client, to assess the location and confirm the shot list and schedule. My assistant unloads and sets up the required equipment, I compose each view, we style/declutter space, add lighting and shoot each view on the shot list. I also explore alternate views and take as many as are warranted, we then restore the space to its original state, pack up and load gear into the van and depart. Meal breaks are scheduled around the shot schedule. We either order food in for the team or we pack lunch and take a break during or after the shoot as the schedule dictates. For peak efficiency, I find its best to take a break and recharge to maintain our focus and energy levels. Its also important to assess the shoot in progress and discuss any required modifications to the shot list before resuming photography.   

Do you shoot tethered?

Yes, I shoot wirelessly to an iPad Pro that remotely controls the camera and allows the client to see the camera viewpoint and set decoration in real time. This way, images can be reviewed and approved on set, eliminating uncertainty and improving the creative process . This system allows for the most efficient collaboration between photographer and client on image composition and for shooting remotely on my 26’ high-camera stand or when the camera is mounted against the wall for maximum lens coverage. 

How many photos can you take in a day?

For most commercial building projects, I can shoot up to 15-20 final views per day. For residential projects that require propping, styling and additional lighting, up to 10-15 interior and exterior photos are typically produced. If the building is over 5,000 sq. ft. or each shot location is a great distance apart or on another floor level, travel time between shots can reduce the quantity of images produced. Dusk photos take place during a limited time window after sunset. I can shoot 1-3 views simultaneously using multiple remote controlled cameras. (Example: Case study for Greenwich Contemporary and Canal Dock Boathouse.) When an assistant photographer is utilized, the shot list can be significantly larger. They typically shoot detail photos or video under my direction.   

How long have you been doing this?

I have been photographing architecture and interiors for over thirty years. Initially on 8”x10” transparency film with view cameras for national magazine ads (Armstrong World Industries - Flooring, Furniture and Ceilings) then digital scanning backs on 4x5 view cameras (Macy’s/Filene’s) and now with 35mm digital cameras and tilt shift lenses.

With my extensive experience, I am able to anticipate a lot of issues before they arise and usually know how to quickly solve the problem. As the famous TV ad says: “I know a lot, because I’ve seen a lot” and I’ve made thousands of photographs and travelled thousands of miles in the process. I’ve had a magical career and experience counts. Delivering excellent photographs without returning for a reshoot is what every client wants and needs. I strive to get it right the first time and every time.

I know being given access to make photographs, especially in private homes, is a privilege. Respecting the homeowner and their privacy is paramount. I go places where very few people are welcome or allowed. When working in primary bedrooms, closets, bathrooms or other private areas of a home, the respect I show for the occupant’s privacy and confidential information is absolute. I don’t post location photos on social media or allow assistants to take photos or post online. I treat everyone as I would like to be treated. Ther

Do you have specialized gear for shooting architecture?

Yes, I use tilt shift lenses for in-camera perspective adjustment. I pilot three types of drones for aerial views, mapping and  4K video. I also carry a 26’ elevated camera stand for dusk photos and wherever a drone can’t be flown for practical or legal reasons. My lighting kit is designed to enhance available lighting and match it in color temperature. I often use flash or LED Panels to mimic the look of the lighting design while adding form and showing surface texture.   

Delivery Turn around?

A color corrected proof gallery, with standard retouching, will be delivered within 7 working days. Additional custom retouching will be delivered within 7 working days. After final approval, image files are delivered by Dropbox within 1 day. Rush turnaround is available. 

Payments?

I typically require a 50% retainer to book the assignment and secure a date. The balance is due when the final approved images are delivered. I accept checks, credit cards, PayPal and Venmo.