Grant Smith

Arriving in Paris in the winter of 1982, I was captivated by the enigmatic Pompidou Centre, by Rogers & Piano. My impressions of modern architecture were defined by that building. The Pompidou was like a magnet for me, I spent many days sheltering from the cold Parisian winter in the library and the museum. I had never seen another building in the world like it, and today it still has the power to shock.

Since my first encounter with that structure, I have developed a long relationship with the practice, documenting the Millennium Dome (now the 02), Mossbourne Academy and Terminal 5 for Rogers Stirk Harbour & Partners. In addition to my work for RSH &P, the City of London is a rich source of inspiration for me, having photographed the construction of the Millennium Bridge and 30 St. Mary Axe (the Gherkin). Many of the marketing images for the buildings on site in the City now were taken by me. I am also an established portrait photographer, examples of my work can be seen at the National Portrait Gallery, the RIBA Photographic Collection and the National Portrait Library in Vienna.

As a regular contributor to Practical Photography, I offer critiques of architectural images and recently judged a photographic competition for architects. I have given presentations to architects, public relations companies and students.

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