This week in our Architectural Photographers series, we look at Spanish architect Montse Zamorano, who after living in Shanghai for a year decided to photograph architecture. She is currently based in New York, where she is studying for a Masters in Branding at SVA as a Fulbright student. Montse works internationally as a freelance photographer and videographer for studios such as Foster and Partners, Álvaro Siza and Héctor Fernández Elorza.
Today her work has captured projects such as Venecia Park and Sotogrande's Sailing School, among others.
Below you can read an exclusive interview about her work.
When and how did you start photographing architecture?
I have always loved photography. During college I loved photographing models, and buildings during school trips.Shortly after, I started receiving small orders and was asked to collaborate with the Arquitectura Viva magazine in Madrid. Right after graduation I worked as an architect in China, and at the same time made the photographs of the constructive evolution of the Spanish Pavillion at Expo Shangai 2010. It was then that I realized I wanted to devote myself exclusively to architectural photography.
Are you an architect?
Yes.
What do you like about photographing architecture?
Translating and visually synthesizing the architect’s ideas, finding new ways of communicating and tools such as branding that add value to architecture.
How would you summarize your work?
While I photograph it is essential to avoid rushing. In addition, I think it is very important to have a direct relationship with the architect in order to understand the ideas and intentions pursued through his work.
Favorite Architect?
It depends on the point of view. For me, Le Corbusier was a very complete architect, and Mies van der Rohe changed architecture.
Favorite architecture project?
Pierre Koening´s Stahl House.
Favorite Artist or Architectural Visualization Studio?
The Seventh Art.
How do you keep abreast of what is happening in the industry?
Through the Internet, magazines and talking to fellow architects.
What software do you use?
Photoshop.
What hardware do you use?
Mac.
How would you define your style?
I try to avoid frames, illumination or spectacular elements that are unnecessary, although I don’t consider that as a style itself. What characterizes my photography is that it adapts to the needs of each project at all times.
