Downtown Photography.pdf

Photography is crucial in documenting downtown business districts, serving as a marketing tool to showcase revitalization efforts. A photo inventory is useful for various projects, including building inventories, streetscape planning, and historic surveys. To eliminate perspective distortion, use a perspective-correcting lens or elevate the camera to remain parallel to the building facade.

Photos should be taken at a consistent distance, with the sun at the photographer's back, and during early morning or evening hours when the sun is not too bright. A tripod is recommended to keep the camera level and consistent. Include all structures, vacant lots, and parking lots in the photos.

Digital cameras offer convenience, but high-resolution images can be large files, requiring adequate storage solutions like recordable CDs or photo CDs. Archival-quality prints are necessary for long-term records, using special paper to ensure durability and color retention. Computer technology facilitates the storage and sharing of digital images, with software programs like PowerPoint enabling easy sharing with a broad audience.

A well-planned photo inventory, involving local photographers, can provide a valuable collection of current photos, benefiting future downtown preservation efforts.