Here's something that happens all the time: a client contacts me when their project is nearing completion (or is already complete) to book the photography.
So let's talk about when to book an architectural photographer, because that first conversation needs to happen well before that.
Ideally, I'd like to hear about a project approximately six months before you anticipate needing photography.
Now, that does NOT mean I expect you to know the exact shoot date. I photograph architecture. I know construction schedules move. Six months out, you might only know that the project should be finished sometime in March.
That's enough to start a conversation.
How Far in Advance Should You Book Architectural Photography?
Here's the short version:
Six months out: Ideal.
Three or four months out: Usually perfectly workable.
Inside about two months: Risky.
Once we get inside that two-month window, you're increasingly taking the chance that I simply won't be available when your project is ready.
Why I Limit My Schedule
The short of it is that I build my entire schedule around my photo shoots and it is first come, first served. Also, because 90% of my shoots involve travel of some capacity, I am typically setting aside multiple days for one single shoot. That timing matters even more because I intentionally limit the number of projects I photograph. I simply wouldn’t be able to function as a photographer, let alone a human being, if I am working 7 days per week. All things considered, I'd rather know what's coming and build my schedule around a handful of projects that people put on my radar in advance than stack as many shoots onto the calendar as possible.
Elementary school library in Beaufort, SC for LS3P.
You Don't Need a Firm Date
This is probably the biggest misconception, so I'll say it plainly: contacting me early does not mean you need to know exactly when the project will be finished.
We can pencil in a date, or even just a general window.
As construction progresses, we'll stay in communication. When we're closer and have a better understanding of completion, landscaping, installation, styling, weather, and everyone else's schedules, we can firm things up.
The important thing is that I know the project exists, that you are planning to hire me to shoot it for you, and that I need to consider this when other people call for photo shoots around that same time.
What Early Notice Looks Like in Practice
If I know you're anticipating photography in April, I can plan the rest of my April schedule accordingly.
If I first hear about the project on April 15 and you need photography on April 22... our options are substantially more limited.
Photography for PNC’s office in Greenville, SC
Don't Wait Until the Project Is Finished
I get why clients do this. Day to day responsibilities consumes everyone's attention. Photography feels like one of the final steps, so it gets handled at the end.
But the time to start planning the photography isn't when the building is ready to be photographed.
The photography itself may happen at the end. The conversation shouldn't.
What Early Planning Gives Us Time For
Getting in touch early gives us room to think through:
What you're trying to accomplish
What needs to be photographed
Who else might want to use the photos and cost-share
What licensing you'll need
Whether publication is a goal
When the project will look its best
Mixed use development at Raleigh Iron Works in Raleigh, NC for LS3P.
Start the Conversation Now
Do you have a project that may need photographed in the next 6 months? You don't need all the answers yet - let’s just start the conversation.