Architecture photography, also known as building photography, is a type of photography that focuses on buildings. It started as a means to document buildings, but along the way, it has evolved into its own diverse art form. Building photography has been around for hundreds of years and it remains popular these days. That’s not really a surprise considering the significance of architecture in today’s modern world.
If you have a fondness for architecture and want to pursue architecture photography or travel photography, here’s a list of the most iconic architecture photography locations that you should visit.
Lotus Temple, New Delhi
Completed in 1986, the Lotus Temple in New Delhi is a Bahá’í House of Worship that costs around $10 million to build. This iconic building is noted for its flower-like shape that has become a prominent tourist attraction in the city. It features free-standing marble-clad walls that were made to look like “petals” and are arranged in clusters of three to represent all nine sides. The Lotus Temple has earned several architectural awards. It was also featured several times in the top architecture magazines in the world.
St Basil’s Cathedral, Moscow
Also called the Cathedral of Vasily the Blessed, this iconic church is located within Moscow’s Red Square and one of Russia’s most iconic symbols. Now a museum, this building was built around 1555 to 1561, under the order of Ivan the Terrible, which commemorates the capture of Kazan and Astrakhan. Before the completion of Ivan the Great Bell Tower, St Basil’s Cathedral is the tallest building. Nowadays, the cathedral is still just as impressive, both inside and outside. When capturing this iconic building, try to focus on the colors and its shapes.
Forbidden City, Beijing
In central Beijing, you will find a palace complex that now functions as a museum covering an area of more than 700,000 square meters. In it, you will find the Imperial Palace that has 980 rooms that follow a certain pattern. The significant municipal buildings are right on the front while the gardens are at the rear. This is based upon the idea that work should come first before playing. The palace is enclosed with walls that are about 8 meters high. Taking photos of the Forbidden City requires lots of patience. To make sure you don’t miss anything, dedicate your entire day to wander through this massive complex.
Chand Baori, Jaipur, India
Chand Baori has been featured in several Hollywood films, such as the Best Exotic Marigold Hotel and The Fall. This iconic landmark can be found in the Pink City of Jaipur, in India. Built between 800 CE and 900 CE by King Chanda from the Nikumbh Dynasty, this iconic landmark was dedicated to Hashat Mata, the Hindu Goddess of Joy and Happiness. This structure is used as a well, where water is kept for public baths. The steps create a beautifully textured background, which makes the photos look very remarkable. To get the best shots, get up high and shoot down at an angle.
Leaning Tower of Pisa, Italy
The Leaning Tower of Pisa (aka Pisa Tower) is one of the world’s most photographed structures in the world. This freestanding bell tower in Italy has become famous for its unintended tilt. Standing behind the Pisa Cathedral, the Leaning Tower is one of the oldest structures in the Cathedral Square. The tower’s inadequate foundation and the soft ground are the reasons behind its tilt, which happened around the 12th century. To make your photo stand out from everyone else, try to look for a unique angle when capturing this interesting architecture.
The Pyramids of Giza, Egypt
The massive Great Pyramid which was built for Pharaoh Khufu and completed around 2560 B.C.E, is the only marvel from the original Seven Wonders of the Ancient World that remains intact. Perched on the outskirts of Cairo, the complex consists of six pyramids, the most popular of which is the Great Pyramid. Being able to photograph the only remaining one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World is a dream come true for many photographers. But you need to be strategic when taking photos of this popular landmark since there are often too many tourists in the surrounding.
Dome of the Rock, Jerusalem
The Dome of the Rock is one of the most significant religious structures in the world. It’s an Islamic shrine situated on the Temple of the Mount in Jerusalem’s Old City. This structure has a fascinating history, which makes it even more interesting to capture. It was first built in 691 CE on the site of the Second Jewish Temple. During the Roman Siege in 70 CE, the temple was destroyed but was rebuilt in 1022–23. In 1959, a gold-plated roof was added to the dome and another in 1993. Below the shrine, you’ll find the Foundation Stone, which plays a significant role in both Islam and Judaism. This structure is one of the oldest surviving works of Islamic architecture, making it one of the best architecture photography locations in the world.
The Dancing House, Prague
The Nationale-Nederlanden building in Prague, Czech Republic, was dubbed the “Dancing House” due to the building’s resemblance to two dancers. Designed by Croatian-Czech architect Vlado Milunić in cooperation with the world-famous architect Frank Gehry, this iconic building stands out from among the gorgeous buildings that Prague is famous for. When taking a photo of this iconic building, try to emphasize the strange uniqueness of this architectural marvel by showing both sides in the same image.
Taj Mahal, Agra, India
Known as the “Symbol of Love”, the Taj Mahal is perhaps, one of the world’s most photographed monuments in the world. Every minute, there are hundreds of cameras clicking to capture memorable photographs out of it. Built in 1632 by the Mughal emperor Shah Jahan, the Taj Mahal has never lost its charm. It continues to delight photographers from around the world. Each day, hordes of photographers, both amateurs and professionals, are shooting pictures of this white marble mausoleum. For many photographers, capturing the Taj Mahal is a fulfillment of their long-cherished dream.
Do you know of any other Architecture Photography Locations that is as stunning as these are and where you would like to visit? Share your thoughts with us.