HABS-Like Photographic Documentation (out-takes)

The Los Angeles skyline from the roof of the Garment Capitol building (click to enlarge)

In every photographic documentation project there are the requirements – the Scope of Work – and then there are the photographs that aren't contractually obligated, but rather the subjects just demand to be photographed. Much of what I photograph for a living is CEQA HABS-Like mitigation photography when buildings will be rehabilitated, altered or demolished. Though many of my subjects have existed for long enough to be deemed historic, their architectural, landscape and engineering qualities will surely change after my documentation is complete.

HABS/HAER/HALS (For a definition see my website: habsphoto.com)

HABS, HAER and HALS photographers have a duty to record historic resources as a permanent record of the growth and development of the nation’s built environment so that architects, engineers, scholars, preservationists, and the public can examine and study their technological and cultural significance. Generally I get a Scope of Work that outlines the general parameters of a project and how many photographs may be needed to adequately document a building. Sometimes twenty photos will do, sometimes 300.

Then there are the photos that aren't on the roster. The unique sign, the yellow Lab, the perfect weather, the robot in the back of the church. They speak to me, and I must obey (must be the robot ESP). So I thought I would share a few views that were "off the list" on some of the HABS and HAER and HALS jobs I've been doing lately.

They just spoke to me…