Whether you are entering The Cube Photographer of the Year competition, or just adding to your own picture collection, here are our top tips for capturing the best image of our iconic building.

Timing
The lustrous façade of The Cube was designed to glimmer in the light, and its tones change as day turns to evening. A photo taken in the cold light of morning will be very different that one in the glow of the setting sun. Each will be beautiful, you just need to decide what time of day you prefer to get your perfect shot.

Composition
The angles of The Cube give plenty of scope for ‘leading lines’ the perspectives that lead your eye into the photo. When you take the time to look closely, there is actually a clever symmetry to the apparently random shapes, which can perfectly frame each shot. A great tip is to imagine the photo split into sections – e.g. quarters or thirds – and position the feature details within the grid to please the eye.

Context
The Cube commands its own place in the Birmingham skyline, clearly standing proud alongside other identifiable structures, but also the juxtaposition of its modern design alongside some of the city’s historic buildings can create fantastic ‘then and now’ images. You can also demonstrate the scale of the building by showing it alongside larger structures or in perspective with people.

Details
Sometimes the strongest photo is not of the whole building, but focuses on one small detail – a window or corner perhaps that clearly defines the character and style of The Cube. This is a place with lots to see, so it can be tempting to try to fit everything into the frame, but often less is more. A glimpse of sky surrounded by the angular levels of the internal atrium makes a stunning shot.

Filters
Most mobile phone cameras offer a selection of image filters, and there are lots of Apps that can be used to create unusual after-effects on your images so you don’t have to be using professional cameras and expensive editing software to get a fantastic photo. Try changing the colour balance to brighten up a blue sky, or add a filter to ‘age’ the image. Don’t be afraid to play with the options until you are happy with the appearance.

Architectural photography can be a hugely rewarding hobby and the most practised eyes can create a successful career from it, so get out there and indulge your passion for snapping.

Details of how to enter The Cube Photographer of the Year can be found here.