Interview to Müge Karatas – Winner 2nd Edition Photography Competition Share Your Green Design

Share Your Green Design | Interview to Müge Karatas - Winner 2nd Edition Photography Competition Share Your Green Design

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Müge Karatas, the winner of the “2nd Edition: Historic and Contemporary Stone Architecture” photography competition, has captivated us with her stunning image, “Veiled Facade,” a breathtaking view of the Treasury at Petra, Jordan. This isn’t just a photograph; it’s a testament to Müge Karatas’ unique perspective, blending her architectural training with a keen eye for capturing light, texture, and the cultural narratives embedded within architectural forms. Her journey, as she reveals in this interview, began with the allure of analogue photography, evolving into a digital mastery that perfectly complements her architectural studies at the University of Cambridge.

Share Your Green Design | Interview to Müge Karatas - Winner 2nd Edition Photography Competition Share Your Green Design
Müge Karatas
In this conversation, Müge Karatas shares the inspiration behind “Veiled Facade,” explaining how the careful framing of the view, the “veil” created by the canyon’s embrace, evokes a sense of mystery and wonder. We delve into her creative process, her approach to photographing historically significant locations like Petra, and the delicate balance she maintains between her academic pursuits and her passion for photography. Her insights into the interplay between architecture and its surrounding landscape, her unique visual style, and her aspirations for the future of architectural photography offer a compelling glimpse into the mind of a talented young professional poised to make a significant impact on both fields. Prepare to be inspired by Müge Karatas’ journey and her extraordinary talent.

1.Could you tell us a bit about your background and how you came to be involved in architecture and photography?

My journey into photography began through analogue format and has evolved digitally over time. My two interests have always been intertwined. I was drawn to capturing light, texture, and the cultural narratives embedded in architectural forms.

2. Your winning photograph, Veiled Facade, was taken in Petra, Jordan. What inspired you to capture this particular moment and what drew you to Petra as a location?

Emerging from the narrow, winding, orange-hued sandstone canyon, the first glimpse of the Treasury in Petra is utterly mesmerising. The elongated journey to the Treasury deepens your sense of wonder as ancient craftsmanship merges seamlessly within the dramatic landscape.

Jordan is captivated with stunning architecture, rich culture, and genuine hospitality, which offered an unforgettable blend of exposure and warmth to what the nation has to offer. I travelled from Amman to The Dead Sea, diverting the route through Petra and Wadi Rum.

3. The title of your photograph, Veiled Facade, evokes a sense of mystery. Could you explain the concept behind this title and how it relates to the image you captured?

I felt the title was appropriate due to the framing of the view. The image was captured at the final turning before you’re enveloped in the natural embrace of the Al-Khazneh, hence the narrative of the ‘veil’

 

Share Your Green Design | Interview to Müge Karatas - Winner 2nd Edition Photography Competition Share Your Green Design
Veiled Facade

4. As an architect in training, how do you think your education and experience in architecture influence your approach to photography, especially when capturing architectural subjects like Petra?

My L7 architectural training sharpens my eye for proportion, texture, and light. I aim to convey both form and atmosphere, telling the story of the architecture within its cultural context.

5. Petra is known for its stunning stone architecture and ancient heritage. What aspects of the site do you find most captivating, and how did you approach photographing such a historically significant location?

Petra’s seamless blend of natural stone is captivating, especially how light transforms the spaces throughout the day. When photographing Petra, I aimed focus on the interplay between architecture and its surrounding landscape.

6. Veiled Facade has a very distinct visual style. Can you walk us through your creative process when taking architectural photographs? What do you look for in a subject before capturing it?

Framing a view is my starting point. Considering elements within the foreground allow for a more interesting take on the subject.

7. In your final year of a part-time master’s programme at the University of Cambridge, how do you balance your academic commitments with your passion for photography? Do you find that one informs the other in your work?

I balance my studies at Cambridge with my L7 work in practice, fulfilling my passion for photography through personal development and discipline. I have kickstarted Atelier & Other recently to pursue my hobby further. Photography allows me to explore and capture architectural details in a more intuitive way, often revealing aspects that inform my design perspective. The two disciplines constantly inform each other, enhancing my ability to see, create, and communicate through both mediums.

8. You are close to qualifying as an architect. How do you think your work as an architectural photographer complements your career aspirations? Do you see a future where the two fields intersect for you?

I hope to balance both elements, and intertwine my photography deeper into practice – beginning with photographing our completed projects

9. What do you think makes architectural photography such a unique art form, and how do you aim to contribute to the field in the future?

Architectural photography captures the interplay of form, light, and context, revealing deeper stories of a space. I aim to showcase how form and context shape our experience of space and culture.

10. Winning the competition must be a proud moment for you. What does this recognition mean for you?

It validates my passion for capturing architecture’s beauty and essence. It means that my work resonates with others and highlights the stories and emotions that spaces can convey, reinforcing my commitment to exploring the intersection of architecture and photography.

11. Looking forward, are there any other places or architectural styles you’re particularly eager to explore and photograph in the future?

I’d love to take my photography further into project specific work, capturing the completed works of architecture, including those I have been involved in.

12. As someone still in the process of qualifying as an architect, what advice would you give to others who are just starting their journey in both architecture and photography?

My advice would be to embrace curiosity and observation in both fields. Pay attention to details, light, and materiality, as these often reveal the most profound insights about design and space. Be bold and experiment —both architecture and photography are about learning through making. Lastly, let your passion drive your work, as it’s that curiosity and love for creation that will sustain your journey in both disciplines.

 

The interview with Müge Karatas has left us with a profound admiration for her talent and passion. We hope her story inspires others.

We eagerly await the next competition and the discovery of another exceptional talent.

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