Architecture

October — A Year in Photographs — Architecture by Adrian Galli

Piazza del Collegio — Day 279

October’s theme, Architecture, invited one to explore structure—literal and metaphorical—in a year defined by patterns, connections, and our spaces. Architecture is about intention: humans shaping light, form, movement, and meaning. Throughout the month, I immersed myself in both Italy and Chicago, the old and the new, with one unexpected decision—I photographed entirely on iPhone Air.

I chose the iPhone Air for its constraint and clarity—and it removes friction. Light, fast, always with me, it allows instinctive shooting. In a month focused on sharp lines, patterns, and city geometry, I wanted a tool for free movement, awkward angles, and spontaneity. iPhone Air’s simplicity became part of the concept: architecture is everywhere, and sometimes the best camera meets you where you stand.

Shooting the October series entirely on the iPhone Air realizes #AYearInPhotographs’ reality: each photograph, each month is about the relationship between the subject and the photographer, not the tool. But iPhone Air as a tool created intimacy with these spaces. Buildings and structures we pass, live in, and often take for granted, have defined place’s rhythm and identity. iPhone Air captured that rhythm with simplicity, honesty, and lightness. And one major advantage—no one cares when you’re taking a photo with iPhone. They do care when the big, traditional camera comes out.

Some of the locations I photographed were in relatively secure buildings but when I walked in confidently, appeared to just be passing by and snapping a quick photo, never did anyone seem to care. In the past, when my Nikon, Fujifilm, or even tiny Olympus cameras came with me, suddenly I was the paparazzi to everyone. iPhone Air is not only slim, beautiful, and powerful, it is stealthy.

Shot on iPhone Air, edited in Photos.

Cartagena de Indias — Black and White by Adrian Galli

Stars, Cartagena 2024

One of the striking features of Cartagena would most definitely be that which saturates it, the colors… followed by the sun and shadows cast. But putting those devices together, sometimes the only way to see it best it without color—in black and white. These facets together bring a genesis of moments revealed.

I always come back to black and white.

Cartagena de Indias — Arquitectura by Adrian Galli

Early in my photography journey, architecture stood out as one of my favorite subjects to capture. Regardless of my travels, I always find remarkable structures that deserve the timelessness of a photograph to preserve their essence.

Cartagena was no exception. The Centro exudes an “old world” Spanish charm that perfectly reflects its time period and origins. On the other hand, Barrio Bocagrande infuses Miami Beach with a Latin American flair, particularly captivating with its white buildings, blue glass, and the stunning contrast against a blue sky.