There is a growing trend to include people in architectural photographs to add a sense of scale to the space. Photographing architecture and photographing people are two very different disiplines. Optimizing one may compromise the other. It is simply a result of the nature of the lighting and exposure techniques that are used.
For architeural photographs it is not uncommon to spend hours to prep and light a room. Often times the lighting scheme is complex and once the scene is ready, the actual exposure may be as long as thirty seconds plus. Far longer than anyone can possibly hold still. In addition, we often make a series of different exposures that will be compined in post production.
When people are introduced into a scene we must change our approach to the photography by eliminating complex lighting and multiple exposures and adopting a more "editorial" style of photography.
Architectural photographs tend to be timeless in nature. This greatly extends their use in a firms's marketing and advertising materials. Adding people in the scene can quickly date a photograph with changing fashion and hair styles. This can quickly diminish the value of the photograph.
Another area of important concern is the federal and state "right to privacy" laws that require that any recognizable rendition of a person used for any commercial purpose must have a model release for such use including the firm's emplyoees.
Minor children must have a parent or guardian sign the release. While this can be done, it is a time consuming process to distribute and collect the releases, prior to the assignment, to make sure each child is covered.
The reality is that 99% of the people appearing in a photograph would be thrilled to see themselves in the photographs, especially if published. However, there's the 1% who do not want to be in the photograph, that can bring legal action against you, the publication and the photographer if a proper release is not obtained.
Should you have any questions please do not hesitate to call:
CELL 775-742-3820
E-mail: vance@vancefox.com
http://www.vancefox.com
