Auckland-based architecture photographer Simon Devitt travels extensively throughout Australasia and further afield as part of his photography practice.
Every photograph here has been chosen by Simon to reflect ideas important in his practice as a photographer. As he tells us the stories behind each image, he says:
"Photographs are literally made of time and for me the alchemy of photography really begins when the picture is made. Just add time and context."
New Zealand War Memorial, Hyde Park Corner, London
Simon flew into London to photograph the new memorial, which was unveiled just the day before by the Queen. However, the site didn’t present a pretty picture with rubber mats protecting the grass, bollards and fluorescent fencing everywhere. After speaking to the park ranger, he had all the offending artefacts removed within an hour so that he could carry on his work.
Auckland residence
The interior of the Auckland residence was styled by the architect – a man with impeccable taste and a penchant for fine objects. Since the house wasn’t occupied at the time, they were able to create a scene that best captured the ambience. According to Simon, styling a house for a photo shoot can take the entire day.
Wellington High School
A Modernist building designed by architect Bill Alington in 1973, Wellington High School was photographed by Simon to communicate the silence and calm of the view.
Dawn and Dusk
Simon decided to photograph the house only at dawn and dusk for a period of three to four days. He explains:
"Dawn and dusk are really important times of day when a house is drawn into an altered state, the in-between moment from day to night, from sleep to rise."
Simon’s work has been published in numerous publications including Elle Decor (Italy), Architectural Digest (Germany), Dwell (USA), Habitus, InDesign (Australia), Architecture NZ, Urbis and Interior (NZ).
Images Credit: Simon Devitt
