Photographing colonial homes in Mérida’s historic center
Colonial homes have high ceilings, courtyards and tiles that need special care. Tips for capturing their character and light.
Mérida’s historic center is full of restored colonial homes with tall ceilings, central courtyards, arches, pasta tiles and plunge pools. They are a favorite with buyers and vacation renters.
Embrace the height
Ceilings of 5 to 6 meters are a selling point. Lower the camera a bit and use a slightly wider angle to show height, while keeping verticals straight.
The courtyard is the heart
Shoot the courtyard from the living area through arches, from the back toward the house and from a high position if possible. Midday sun creates harsh contrast in courtyards; morning or late afternoon is softer.
Show the tiles
Original pasta tiles are prized. Photograph floor patterns from above with a top-down detail shot.
Long, narrow layouts
Many colonial homes are deep and narrow. Shoot down the long axis to show the depth and flow from street to garden.
Handle mixed light
Rooms open onto bright courtyards. Use flash or bracketing to balance interior shade with outdoor light.
Details
Hand-painted signs, iron grilles, wooden doors, antique furniture and hammock hooks tell the story of the home.
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