Reflecting the complexity of the project, photographing the last phase of the CHUM's new hospital complex presented several challenges related to its size, its location in a dense sector of downtown Montreal, the sequencing of sessions between the end of the work and the occupation of the premises, the access to secured spaces and the coordination of numerous stakeholders.

Given the progressive delivery of the spaces and the large number of views to be taken, the photo shoot was divided into 4 sessions over 5 months, the first one gathering the clinical spaces, the second one the interior views of the amphitheatre, the public spaces and the library, the third one the exterior views and the fourth one the drone views.

In order to discover the project from another angle, to enhance this crucial step in the communication of an architectural project and to discover some secrets of the profession of photographer, we spoke with Adrien Williams, who photographed the two phases of the new CHUM hospital complex. We also asked a few questions to architect Roxanne Rochette, who was involved in all stages of our mandate in consortium with MSDL —from the finalization of the design to the delivery of the work—, and who accompanied the photographer for the interior shots.

Adrien Williams, architecture and design photographer

How long have you been doing architectural photography?

I graduated from Dawson College's photography program in 2011 and have been working in this field ever since.

What led you to this profession and to choosing this specialization?

I really like lines, shapes, and contrast between different materials. I also like to take my time when I photograph, and architectural photography moves much more slowly than portraits or fashion, for example.

What role can an architect play in architectural photography? Are the images the result of a shared vision between several people or of the photographer's own artistic creation? How are the views chosen and who chooses them?

It is a collaborative work. First, during the photo shoot, I appreciate the presence of the architect(s) designer(s), who can explain the project, point out certain angles to be documented, etc. Then, in the post-production phase (i.e. at the stage of image selection and retouching), I make a pre-selection of images, which I then send to the clients (architects) and they are the ones who make the final selection. At this stage, the client's comments are always crucial to ensure that the project is well documented.

On the other hand, what is the role of photography in architecture?

To showcase projects and contribute to their influence and recognition. It also allows the public to see certain projects that are more difficult to access, both inside and out, that they would not have the opportunity or possibility to visit, such as a hospital for example.

How do you translate architectural intent through photography?

It helps a lot when the architects are involved in the photography. They can explain to me the architectural intention that I can then translate into photos. It's a great collaboration.

**More specifically, what should an architectural photo in the field of healthcare give off? **

In the field of healthcare, in my opinion, the photos must give off a feeling of well-being and it must be quite luminous.

What are the particularities and constraints of photography in a hospital environment?

The biggest challenge is the coordination of the various participants and the access to the spaces, which are secured. In addition, in a project of the scale of the CHUM, there are sometimes great distances to walk. These projects therefore take longer to photograph.

Is special permission required to photograph with a drone, especially in downtown Montreal?

It takes an advanced drone operator's license and authorization from NAV Canada.

Are there any prerequisites, specific rules, or even trends specific to architectural photography?

Well, the beauty of photography is that there is no code, no prerequisites, no rules in general. In my opinion, it is important that the photos are of a high standard, but it's not necessarily mandatory. You have to create the trends and try to make your own style.

What were the main challenges in taking photos of the last phase of the new CHUM?

The CHUM is a huge building in an dense urban environment. It was difficult to get enough distance to photograph certain angles.

What did you enjoy photographing the most in this project?

Definitely the amphitheater building, I find it really photogenic. Especially the contrast of the material and the unique shape that stands out from the tours.

Are there any other techniques, technologies, or innovations you'd like to try in a future photo shoot?

I would love to try shooting with a Phase One medium format field camera. It's a high-performance camera designed specifically for architectural and landscape photography.

Roxanne Rochette, Architect

Jodoin Lamarre Pratte architectes

What challenges did you face in your mandate to accompany the photographer in taking interior shots for a project of this type and scale?

Because of the scope of the project and its tight schedule, the window of time to photograph the interior spaces was relatively small before the CHUM took possession of the space. It is then very difficult, if not impossible, to photograph. The clinical spaces were essentially completed, while the public spaces were still under construction. So we had to split the photography to make sure we completed the clinical photos as quickly as possible before the client started securing/preparing/cleaning the site, prior to opening to patients.

Did this experience change your perspective on the project? Did it allow you to make any discoveries?

I worked on the project for three years, including more than a year of watching the site evolve from day to day. To me, it had lost its magic. But when Adrien showed me the first photo, I was blown away. It was like seeing the CHUM for the very first time, with new eyes. I have to say it felt good. That's when I realized how much work had been done and how beautiful the project was. It honestly made me very proud!

What do you think is essential for a successful photo shoot session?

That the work is fully completed and that the spaces are cleared and cleaned. However, this is not always possible or easy to control. I think that a good preparation must be done before the arrival of the photographer to make the session go more smoothly and quickly.

How would you sum up your experience on this project?

This experience was very rewarding on many levels, mainly because it allowed me to participate in all steps. It is also the project to which I contributed the most in my young career. My biggest challenge was certainly the site supervision. In a project of this scale, there is a lot of surface to cover and many construction stages taking place at the same time.

It's a really complex project with the amphitheatre, its size, but especially because of its extremely tight schedule. A lot of things were rushing around, everything was always "urgent". But I learned to compartmentalize and prioritize the right elements according to the schedule and the available resources. I am very proud to have been able to participate in this project, as the experience I gained is invaluable.