Five College of Western Idaho (CWI) Digital Photography students recently had the opportunity to work alongside Boise-based architectural photographer, Tobin Rogers, during a professional photo shoot at the College’s new Nampa CapEd Student Success Center (NCSC).
Annie Jo Thompson, Holly Miller, Carter Hull, Kimheang Vance, and Amanda Whitman spent the day observing and assisting Rogers as he photographed the building, learning what goes into planning and producing professional architectural images.
For Thompson, the experience revealed how much preparation goes into capturing a single photograph.
"The amount of attention that was given to every single tiny element in each shot was fascinating," Thompson said. "Things I would have never thought to take into consideration were so careful staged and well thought out."
The students had recently completed Landscape and Architectural Photography (PHOT 261), where they learned to use technical cameras, also known as view cameras. These specialized cameras give photographers greater control over perspective and focus, making them particularly useful for photographing buildings and interior spaces.
During the shoot, students watched Rogers put those same techniques to work on a professional assignment.
"Watching Tobin put the technical camera to use with such ease and precision was inspiring to witness," Thompson said. "It helped to really convey how to utilize a technical camera to capture shots that would be unattainable with a regular camera."
Architectural photography involves careful attention to composition, lighting, and perspective to capture both the design and intended use of a space. Students observed how Rogers staged each scene, adjusted lighting, and captured multiple exposures to create the final images.
"Perfection doesn't happen in one click," Miller said. "It begins with a strong vision, and unfolds click by click, layer by layer."
The shoot also gave students a chance to see how photographers collaborate with other professionals. NCSC was designed by Cushing Terrell, constructed by ESI Construction, and furnished with the involvement of interior design and furnishings specialists Freeform.
Representatives from Cushing Terrell participated in the shoot, allowing students to observe how photographers and design professionals work together to capture a building's architectural features.
Beyond the technical aspects of photography, Rogers shared his experience building a career in the industry, including some of the challenges he faced when getting started.
"Tobin was very honest and open with us about his career and some of the challenges he faced when starting out," Thompson said. "It's encouraging and inspiring to know that it wasn't easy for him at times but with dedication and commitment it's possible to achieve your end goal if you stick it out and bet on yourself."
Experiences like this connect what students learn in CWI's Digital Photography program with professional photography practices. Students can see how equipment and techniques are used on real assignments, meet industry professionals, and explore career opportunities in photography.
For Thompson, Miller, Hull, Vance, and Whitman, the opportunity offered a firsthand look at the technical skills, preparation, and professional relationships involved in architectural photography.
Interested in turning your passion for photography into a career? Explore CWI’s Digital Photography program and discover how hands-on learning can help you develop your skills and prepare for professional opportunities.
