the catalyst
client: gss architecture
brief
I was briefed to photograph a new building in the heart of the Newcastle University Science City site. Initially, twilight images were required showing the illumination of the building in context within its surroundings. After a two-month period, GSS architecture then commissioned photography of the exteriors and interiors to show the building in use. I worked closely with the lead architect in order to capture the essence of the building.
GSS were keen to complete award submissions for the project, so a quick turnaround was necessary.
execution
After the initial planning stage, I was on site photographing as light and weather allowed. I worked closely with the building manager for site access and to manage the lighting (making sure they were all switched on as needed!), as well as clearing the site of unwanted machinery. The building was a joy to photograph – carefully designed lighting allowed for some really creative imagery.
Timed exposures captured the lighting and twilight sky during the ‘blue hour’. As usual I utilised architectural lenses but also some stitching techniques for some of the panoramic images. Timed exposures were used in order to create movement with people inside the building to emphasise the internal and external structure, while still showing the space in use.
outcome
The images were used on the website, including the homepage and a dedicated project area, as well as printed material and case studies.
As specified in the brief, photographs were also used for award entries including a shortlist for the North East Property Awards – Design Excellence (winner TBA 17/09/2020) and five shortlists for the Constructing Excellence North East Awards (Building Project of the Year, Innovation, Sustainability, Digital Construction and the Integration & Collaborative Working awards).
brief
I was briefed to photograph a new building in the heart of the Newcastle University Science City site. Initially, twilight images were required showing the illumination of the building in context within its surroundings. After a two-month period, GSS architecture then commissioned photography of the exteriors and interiors to show the building in use. I worked closely with the lead architect in order to capture the essence of the building.
GSS were keen to complete award submissions for the project, so a quick turnaround was necessary.
execution
After the initial planning stage, I was on site photographing as light and weather allowed. I worked closely with the building manager for site access and to manage the lighting (making sure they were all switched on as needed!), as well as clearing the site of unwanted machinery. The building was a joy to photograph – carefully designed lighting allowed for some really creative imagery.
Timed exposures captured the lighting and twilight sky during the ‘blue hour’. As usual I utilised architectural lenses but also some stitching techniques for some of the panoramic images. Timed exposures were used in order to create movement with people inside the building to emphasise the internal and external structure, while still showing the space in use.
outcome
The images were used on the website, including the homepage and a dedicated project area, as well as printed material and case studies.
As specified in the brief, photographs were also used for award entries including a shortlist for the North East Property Awards – Design Excellence (winner TBA 17/09/2020) and five shortlists for the Constructing Excellence North East Awards (Building Project of the Year, Innovation, Sustainability, Digital Construction and the Integration & Collaborative Working awards).
feedback
“We had a number of issues trying to arrange access to site initially, however Andrew was able to work around this and ensure that the everything went smoothly. Andrew was very accommodating with his time, visiting the site twice in one day in order to get daytime and twilight photos, giving us some striking views of The Catalyst, which have no doubt assisted in award submissions and creating a “buzz” about the project whenever images are shared online.”
Gabbie Snelling, Business Development Coordinator – GSS Architecture
