Capture the architectural drama of Walt Disney Concert Hall with these interior photo spots and professional techniques.
Prime Interior Locations
- Grand Lobby Staircase: Use a wide-angle lens to emphasize its sculptural, sweeping curves. Frame looking up towards the skylight or down from the mezzanine level.
- BP Hall Timber Forest: Shoot upwards into the intricate Douglas fir canopy. A fisheye lens creates an immersive effect; a slightly wider lens isolates geometric patterns. Utilize the stairs for leading lines.
- Founders Room Exterior Walkway: The undulating stainless steel walls create stunning abstract reflections. Frame the sharp exterior curves against softer interior elements.
- Upper Terraces (Access Permitted Areas): Capture unique downward perspectives into the Grand Lobby or angled views showcasing layered geometries. Compose carefully to include leading lines.
- Auditorium Entrances: Framing doorways offer dramatic views into the warm wood interior of the main auditorium hall.
Essential Pro Shooting Tips
- Manage Reflections: The pervasive stainless steel requires vigilance. Use a polarizing filter to control unwanted highlights and reflections. Carefully adjust your position.
- Handle Mixed Lighting: Balance cool daylight from skylights with warmer interior lamps. Shoot RAW and bracket exposures (when possible) for flexibility or use manual white balance (around 4500-5000K often works).
- Master Exposure: Spot-meter on mid-tones. Avoid blown-out highlights on reflective surfaces; slightly underexpose if necessary and recover shadows in post.
- Stabilize: Low-light interior areas demand stability. Use a tripod where permitted (check rules), or a fast lens + high ISO + excellent handholding technique. Fast prime lenses are ideal (e.g., 24mm, 35mm f/1.4-1.8).
- Observe Symmetry & Geometry: Gehry's architecture thrives on form. Actively seek leading lines, repetition, and contrasting shapes for impactful compositions. Rotate your perspective.
- Minimalize Distractions: Compose tightly to exclude unnecessary signage, railings, or furniture. A clean frame emphasizes the architecture. Patience is key for uncluttered shots.
