Starting My Architectural Portfolio

Hi Zander. Are you using a shift lens to straighten up those verticals or are you doing it in software? My initial thought was of how well your first image would work in black and white with high contrast. My second thought (and this always seems to apply when photographing buildings) is that it is often helpful to identify the particular quality/physical property that piques your interest in a building and then focus in on that property/quality in abstract isolation. And then treat that as your subject material exclusively, abstracting further as you go.

Nice photos.
What is your market?
The Architect?
Building owner?
Just abstract art?
All?
As an Architect you should ask me about it if for me.
Same for the owner.
Good luck.

Hi Zander, the images are fine but IMO you need more images of complete buildings. I would also add that a days ramble leaves you at the mercy of whatever light and atmospheric conditions are present.

Details are always welcome as examples of the architects attention to certain features and how they resonate artistically but in the end images of the complete building are the meal ticket.

I would look to see striking buildings in your area by looking at the websites of local architects and lists of architecturally significant buildings in your area.

Keeping your eyes peeled for interesting buildings helps.
I would also give consideration to the time of day you are shooting. As you know, that will make a dramatic difference in the mood of the structure.

Look at the websites of architectural photographers and see what others are doing as that is a general indicator of what is selling.
Keep practicing and learning. Cull your photos brutally. This becomes easier as you get better and have more stuff to discard. Practice by setting projects to photograph a specific building. Almost anyone will do as almost any sort is what one gets hired to do. Take a ton of pictures and you will learn a lot about scouting, prep, scheduling and PP.
Then you need to know how to bid a job. Don't think in terms of dollars per hour. Take a business class at the local Community College if necessary. That will make you more money than any camera.
THEN if you choose to do this as a business or side gig you need insurance, permits business licenses etc.

After you feel fairly confident, start cold calling architects, builders, designers etc.

I would note that most of them are likely working with a photographer already. No problem. Keep a line of contact open and check back to show your work periodically. Your enthusiasm and persistence will pay off.
Also remember that despite the heroic buildings some of these people work on, their budgets are surprisingly small for photography.

Lastly, keep in mind that beauty is in the eye of the checkbook holder. Attitude that bespeaks arrogance and "my way or no way" is the direct road to failure. Many projects are mundane but all projects are worthy of your best efforts. Note that some of the greatest names in architecture built a lot of forgotten buildings yet those buildings paid the bills.

In my 40+ years in the business nice guys with average skills get the jobs. Jerks with mad skills don't.