The exterior of a project is where the story begins, setting the tone for everything that follows.
Exteriors - The first impression
Exterior photography plays a much bigger role in a project’s story than it’s often given credit for. For my clients - Builders, Architects, Designers and Landscapers, the exterior is the first impression and the first thing people see of your project in person.
It sets the tone before anyone steps inside, showing how the building sits within its environment and how the design has been considered from the outside in.
Below, I’ve shared my experience and approach to photographing exteriors for Builders, Architects, Designers and Landscapers.
The best time to have your exteriors captured - Time of day, Weather and Seasons
There are many factors that can make or break an exterior shoot. A home can look and feel completely different depending on the time of day, the orientation of the sun, the weather and the seasons.
For me, here are the most ideal conditions for a successful exterior shoot:
- Always sunrise or sunset - When the light is soft, gentle and never harsh. Early morning light or the warmth of late afternoon creates depth, soft shadows and allows key details of the project to be seen clearly. When exteriors are captured outside of these windows, harsh light and heavy shadows can take over, distracting from the design and failing to show the project at its best. There’s often only a brief moment where everything comes together, which is why super early alarms and late evenings are always worth it to get the perfect shot.
- Spring, Autumn and Summer — These seasons are definitely my favourite to shoot in. I don't completely rule Winter out, it just has a different look with landscaping - not so vibrant in colour.
- Clear and Sunny weather conditions - Typically, I can shoot interiors in rain, hail or shine. When it comes to exteriors, my approach is quite the opposite! I am always keeping a close eye on the forecast when I know I am booked in to shoot exteriors - always crossing my fingers for sun. Rain and even an overcast day can completely change the look of a property, creating dark shadows and a flat feeling to the image.
Project Readiness - How landscaping influences the final images
It’s always exciting to photograph a project as soon as construction is complete, and many projects are captured at different stages depending on timelines, launches or marketing needs. Landscaping plays an important role in how exteriors are experienced and photographed, as it helps a project feel settled and connected to its surroundings.
Where possible, allowing gardens time to establish can elevate the final imagery and help the exterior feel more complete and balanced. That said, this isn’t always practical, and every project is approached individually, with timing and readiness discussed during the planning stage to suit both the project and its purpose.
Again, as much as photoshop can work wonders, it will never truly reflect the same look and feeling as what the true established landscaping will.
Tips to prepare for an Exterior photoshoot
Preparation is a crucial part in making sure we get the perfect shot! While Photoshop is a great tool, it’s far easier, and far more authentic to photograph a space that’s already been cleaned and prepared. Here are some helpful tips to prepare for an Exterior Photoshoot:
- Clear and tidy outdoor areas so the architecture and landscaping remain the focus.
- Ensure exterior surfaces and finishes are clean.
- Remove cars from driveways and visible areas.
- Align window furnishings and window louvers for visual consistency.
- Mow lawns and tidy gardens where possible.
The answer is yes...
Exterior photography is very much part of what I do (although I don't share much of it online) . It’s a question I’m often asked - whether I also capture exteriors, and the answer is yes.
If you have a project you would love photographed in The Illawarra, South Coast or Southern Highlands, I would love to connect!
Annelise