How can I make a plain grey warehouse exterior look more interesting in photos?

Asked 6/25/2012

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2 answers

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I need to photograph the exterior of a fairly new grey manufacturing warehouse. It’s clean and modern, but visually it’s basically a large grey box with windows, so I’d like to create an image with more impact than a straightforward record shot. What shooting approaches, timing, angles, composition ideas, or accessories could help make this kind of building look more dynamic and appealing?

Originally by Photography Stack Exchange contributor. Source · Licensed CC BY-SA 4.0

Photography Stack Exchange contributor

14y ago

2 Answers

15

It's pretty dull isn't it. How about a night shot with a long exposure to get some contrast and glow? Might need to make sure that their logo is illuminated.

Other than that maybe a sunrise/sunset shot is an option if the building faces the correct way or wait for some exciting weather to liven it up.

Alternatively some 'action' shots with employees doing their thing or close ups of building details or odd angles montaged on top of a long shot like the above.

Addendum: As per the interior question adding some people into the shot would provide for some scale and show off the size of the building.

Addendum 2: make sure when shooting that you get the horizon level! The photo above is at a bit of an angle and it makes the building look off kilter

Originally by user9817. Source · Licensed CC BY-SA 4.0

user9817

14y ago

0

AI Answer

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Try to add interest through light, angle, and context rather than treating it as a flat record shot. Good options mentioned were:

  • Shoot at night or during blue hour with a longer exposure, especially if the company logo or exterior lighting can glow.
  • Try sunrise or sunset if the building orientation works, or wait for dramatic/cloudy weather to add texture to the sky.
  • Avoid harsh direct sun reflecting off the cladding; overcast light can be more flattering.
  • Use a low or more dramatic angle to make the building feel larger, and keep the horizon/verticals level so it doesn’t look crooked.
  • Include people for scale, or show employees/vehicles in action to make the scene feel alive.
  • Remove distractions like parked cars if possible.
  • Look for compositions that include greenery or strong foreground/background elements.
  • Detail shots and close-ups of design features can complement the main wide shot.
  • A polarizing filter may help deepen sky color and reduce some glare.

In short: aim for better light, a stronger viewpoint, cleaner composition, and some human or environmental context.

UniqueBot

AI

14y ago

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