Tom Buckard
July 2026 - Innovation
Original
About the Image(s)
My camera club recently took a field trip to Florida Polytechnic University to photograph its centerpiece, the Innovation, Science & Technology (IST) Building. Designed by renowned architect Dr. Santiago Calatrava, the 162,000-square-foot structure is a striking symbol of the university’s commitment to STEM innovation.
The building is surrounded by an elegant aluminum pergola that provides partial shade and helps reduce heat inside. Its most distinctive feature is the roof, which has 92 motorized louvers that automatically adjust to the sun’s position, controlling the amount of natural light entering the glass-covered meeting hall below.
The roof’s wing-like design is reflected in the surrounding pool, creating a beautiful sense of symmetry and showcasing Calatrava’s signature blend of engineering and artistry.
Image taken with a Nikon D850, 24-70mm Nikkor Lens, ISO-200, F 8, 1/100, Focal length 70, Manual exposure.
The image in the Original area is just an example what this amazing building looks like.
14 comments posted
(Groups 40 & 88)
Hey Tom. I hope you don't mind me visiting from another group. I love Architectural photography and this one is great. I think you captured the exposure and composition really well. Without seeing the original of this image, I am not sure why you cut off the top and bottom. This is what it may have looked like with a little more room. I love your image and you are a very talented photographer, I was just wondering. Hope you do not mind my comment. Posted: 07/01/2026 03:46:44
Good morning, Don.
I more than welcome Digital Dialogs photographers visiting from other groups. The more people who participate and engage across groups, the stronger and more rewarding Digital Dialogs becomes for everyone.
As a member of the DDG Management Team, we've spent a great deal of time discussing ways to encourage photographers to visit and participate in other groups, so it's especially nice to see that happening.
Thank you, too, for your comments about my image. I think my intent was to make the unusual center portion the subject while using the outer part of the building as a natural frame. I like your suggestion, though. I have quite a few images of this unique building, so I'll go back and see if I have one that isn't cropped so tightly. Thanks again for your thoughtful feedback. Posted: 07/01/2026 12:06:48
I more than welcome Digital Dialogs photographers visiting from other groups. The more people who participate and engage across groups, the stronger and more rewarding Digital Dialogs becomes for everyone.
As a member of the DDG Management Team, we've spent a great deal of time discussing ways to encourage photographers to visit and participate in other groups, so it's especially nice to see that happening.
Thank you, too, for your comments about my image. I think my intent was to make the unusual center portion the subject while using the outer part of the building as a natural frame. I like your suggestion, though. I have quite a few images of this unique building, so I'll go back and see if I have one that isn't cropped so tightly. Thanks again for your thoughtful feedback. Posted: 07/01/2026 12:06:48
What can I say other than this is an A++ image. Looks great in black and white. I'm impressed that you got such a sharp focus throughout shooting at only f/8. Posted: 07/01/2026 13:30:46
Thanks Mike, this building is so unusual it's hard to get a bad shot from any angle. Wish I had a drone so I could get an overhead view. Posted: 07/01/2026 18:11:08
Very striking image, beautiful lines and symmetry, you captured this image well, agree the image would be even better if the two tips in the center are complete. Great subject for mono presentation, well done! Posted: 07/03/2026 03:26:32
Thank you Spring. This unusual building has many angles to shoot both inside and out. Posted: 07/03/2026 12:29:50
Hi Tom,
This is an impressive building, and thank you for providing additional background about it.
The image works well in black and white, as it renders the structural pattern very effectively. However, I agree with Don that the crop is too tight. His image presents a more complete view of the structure while still maintaining focus on the pattern.
Best wishes
Michele Posted: 07/03/2026 10:07:48
This is an impressive building, and thank you for providing additional background about it.
The image works well in black and white, as it renders the structural pattern very effectively. However, I agree with Don that the crop is too tight. His image presents a more complete view of the structure while still maintaining focus on the pattern.
Best wishes
Michele Posted: 07/03/2026 10:07:48
Thank you for your comments Michele. I absolutely agree with you and Don that the one with both points is far better. I definitely cropped it to tight! Posted: 07/03/2026 12:34:26
I love the symmetry in this composition and the use of the the central structural element to create a powerful, balanced anchor that draws the eye directly into the frame. The black-and-white conversion is also highly effective here, as it strips away any distracting color to emphasize the intricate geometry, repeating patterns, and stark contrast of the architecture. Optionally, you can think about adding a human element here to serve as an "interruptive element" and give it a sense of scale. Posted: 07/08/2026 00:33:45
Thanks for your comments Dennis. This amazing building is about two hours from my home and I hope to go back soon and take more images from different angles and with different lenses. Also want to be there during the golden hour. Posted: 07/08/2026 23:44:41
Lovely symmetry as mentioned and the only thing I'd have commented on is the crop - but it's already been done. Well taken Tom. Posted: 07/08/2026 14:30:36
Thanks Nigel. This is why Digita Dialog is so good. I cropped looking at the inner image where should have been looking at the whole picture. Posted: 07/08/2026 23:46:52
This is a well balanced architectural photography. I love its color contrast and sharpness. Also I like the Original shows its scale too. Posted: 07/09/2026 00:06:22
Thanks, John. This building is so spectacular that it's hard to take a bad photo. The one thing you can't control, though, is the weather. If you can photograph it just before a storm or during the golden hour, the dramatic light will make it even more stunning. Posted: 07/09/2026 01:30:49