First I carefully select my point of view. I always make sure that the composition is clear for the viewer. I pay attention to the intersection of each line within the frame. The different depths in the composition need to be easily identified by the viewer, unless we are working on producing an abstract image, to show color or texture combination only. I try to use different focal lengths throughout the same assignment in order to highlight different things. To show the layout of a room, I will use a special wide angle lens to give the viewer an amazing sense of depth and height. In order to show texture, colors or materials juxtaposition, I use a mid-range telephoto or even a macro lens. The different point of views combined with the use of the multiple focal-length lenses help the viewer understand the totality of the space. Lighting is obviously a big part of architectural photography. My philosophy about lighting is to add lights strictly in order to create an image that will look very close to what we think we see when we are physically present in the space. Without lighting, I would lose too many shadow and highlight details, I would have unwanted reflections, and the colors would be completely off-balance. (See the "Digital Retouching"section of my site for a few examples of images shot with natural light and with additional lights in order to show you exactly the benefit of lighting.) I use lights not only to balance the color, contrast and intensity of the different values, but also to shape the composition and the depth. Using digital photography has allowed me to light with more control than before.

The first step in any shoot is staging of the space. When needed, we remove the excess items in the rooms or add props. I try not to under-stage the rooms that I photograph: The space should look clean and neat, but also lived-in for the images to look credible. The staging is decided in collaboration with my client. Some firms insist on having people in each image, some just want very clean imagery to show their work. I listen to the client's wishes, offer other solutions and give my opinion, but I always respect my client's choice and direction. My clients always have the final word, as I never forget that I am here to create images for you, not me. If I feel strongly that I should photograph the space differently, I will offer to shoot my version at no additional charge, so you can decide later which image fulfills your need. Once you meet me, you will realize that I really enjoy the process of creating images with my clients. I may be expert in the art and science of architectural photography, but you know what you want to achieve. Only an active collaboration can achieve the results you want.