David Altrath on Architectural Photography as an Experience of Space
In a guest essay featured in designboom's SPECTATOR AND SPECTACLE chapter, photographer David Altrath, based in Hamburg, explores how architectural photography allows for a unique experience of space. Prior to taking pictures, he dedicates an hour to observing light and materials. Altrath argues that while photographs can suggest locations, they fail to capture elements like shadows, sound, or temperature. He is particularly inspired by architecture with a compelling visual language, such as the Barbican in London, where the passage of time unveils intricate details. He also considers Grundtvigs Kirke in Copenhagen and the CBR Building in Brussels, emphasizing geometry and relationships. Although he recognizes the limitations of photography, he appreciates its capacity to bring out details. This essay is part of a collaboration with SolidNature, and Altrath graduated from Merz Akademie in Stuttgart in 2018.
Key facts
- David Altrath is a Hamburg-based photographer specializing in architecture and reportage.
- He graduated from Merz Akademie in Stuttgart in 2018.
- The essay is part of designboom's SPECTATOR AND SPECTACLE chapter, presented in partnership with SolidNature.
- Altrath often waits an hour before taking a photograph upon arriving at a building.
- He cites the Barbican in London, Grundtvigs Kirke in Copenhagen, and the CBR Building in Brussels as examples.
- He argues that photographs cannot convey sound, temperature, smell, or movement.
- He is interested in the relationship between architecture and nature in greenhouses.
- The essay was published on designboom.
Entities
Artists
- David Altrath
Institutions
- designboom
- SolidNature
- Merz Akademie
- Barbican Centre
- Grundtvigs Kirke
- CBR Building
Locations
- Hamburg
- Germany
- Stuttgart
- London
- United Kingdom
- Copenhagen
- Denmark
- Brussels
- Belgium