Capturing The Shard: A Guide to London's Iconic Skyscraper
There are endless images of the amazing Shard in London. I have tried to publish something different here, a different view. This shot was taken from the public viewing gallery called "View From The Shard".
Whilst there are endless fantastic views of the Shard, I was interested in the architectural details on view on this floor. It was a cloudy evening, which I found pleasing as it added interest to the background, complementing the colours in the foreground nicely. Another day, I will process this as a black and white image.
This is such a fantastic building with brilliant architectural details, one of which I have chosen for this image.
Shot in RAW, processed in Adobe Lightroom with a bit more work in Topaz Labs Lightroom plug-in to quickly give this excellent image.
As I always say, the success of this shot is down to composition and correct exposure only - get either of these wrong and it would have just been another shot of the Shard.
Some more thoughts that I have added to the original blog post.
London's skyline has been forever changed by The Shard. As a photographer, this iconic glass masterpiece presents a thrilling challenge and an endless opportunity for creativity. It’s more than just a building; it’s a study in light, reflection, and modern design. This guide from Rick McEvoy Photography will walk you through my best tips for capturing this architectural giant and creating your own stunning photographs. For anyone interested in architectural photography or just starting their journey in London photography, this is a must-read.
The photograph that would accompany this post captures a dramatic nighttime view of The Shard. This shot was taken from the public viewing gallery, "The View from The Shard," looking down on the city below. From this high vantage point, the glass structure soars upwards, its sharp, geometric lines cutting into the dark sky. The building glows with a soft, ethereal light from within, contrasting with the warm, golden glow of the city lights and the winding River Thames below. The photo captures a sense of modern awe and the dynamic relationship between London's past and future.
1. Timing is Everything: The Blue Hour Advantage
While you might be tempted to shoot in the golden hour, the absolute best time to photograph The Shard is during the blue hour, just after sunset. As the sky deepens into a rich, velvety blue, the lights of the city begin to pop, and the windows of The Shard take on a beautiful, internal glow. This contrast between the cool blue sky and the warm lights of the city is what gives the photo a truly magical quality. Mastering this type of blue hour photography is a key part of your urban photography guide.
2. Find Your Vantage Point
Don’t just shoot from the street level. To get a unique perspective on this stunning London cityscape, you need to find an elevated vantage point. Locations across the river, such as the bridges or the South Bank, offer classic views. For a more dynamic composition, consider incorporating other London landmarks photography, like the Tower of London or Tower Bridge, to provide context and scale.
3. Play with Reflections and Weather
The Shard's glass facade is a photographer's dream. It reflects the sky, the surrounding buildings, and the clouds, constantly changing its appearance. On a moody, overcast day, the reflections can be dark and dramatic, while on a clear day, they are sharp and vibrant. Use a wide-angle lens to capture these reflections and the building's immense scale.
4. Focus on Details and Symmetry
While the whole building is magnificent, look for smaller details as well. The intricate patterns of the windows, the sharp angles of the roof, and the way light plays on the glass can all be powerful subjects for a more abstract shot. From a distance, look for symmetrical compositions with the building perfectly centered, or follow the "Rule of Thirds" to create a more dynamic image. These night photography tips will help you master your craft.
Final Thoughts
The Shard is a modern masterpiece that has become a symbol of London. By taking the time to plan your shot, find a unique perspective, and use the light to your advantage, you can create a photograph that not only captures the building but also tells a story about the city around it. This guide on how to photograph The Shard will certainly help you on your next trip to London.
#architectural-photographer