Q&A with Ursi Bürgisser

Ursi Bürgisser is dialed in with architecture photography. A master of revealing humanity and movement through perspective, we love how she translates abstract feeling in such a concrete way. Literally.

The buildings and structures she finds are works of art on their own. But Ursi elevates them further, using space and light to create a flow that feels alive. Openings, stairways, arches, and ceilings become more than just architectural elements. They become a design lover's organic canvas, dynamic stills that make rigid forms anything but static.

So please, enjoy this Q & A with a community favorite!

What is your history with photography? 

In fact, it was my husband who sparked my interest. When we first met, he’d already been a photographer all his life – specifically, a very good landscape photographer. The first time [with] his camera, it was love at first sight (too). Right from the start, I felt a deep sense of calm and peace whenever I held a camera in my hands. I learnt the basics and soon became more independent; my interests turned to street photography, and then architecture captivated me. I now have two cameras of my own.

Architectural monochrome features heavily in your work. Why is black and white so special to you?

In my opinion, monochrome usually complements the clean lines of architecture better and emphasises its elegance. It brings out the contrasts more effectively, and my oh-so-beloved reinforced concrete looks even more special. Monochrome tones reveal thousands of shades within the same colour family, which fascinates me. I also like the timelessness.

There's an abstract quality about the images you share, yet they still feel organic. How are you able to keep the humanity of architecture while still leaving people out of your images? Is there something you look for specifically, or do you go off intuition? 

I’m not looking for anything in particular; I tend to go by my intuition and feelings. As I’ve mentioned before, I usually feel very grounded and content when I’m taking photos, and I think that has an impact on the pictures. Conversely, it’s also very obvious from my photos when I wasn’t in a good mood. But I don’t post those on Glass.

Where do you find your locations? Do you take walks, visit museums, or just generally explore spaces?

A bit of everything. I love museums and strolling through towns, preferably at times when no one else is about. Over time, I’ve developed an eye for where the best treasures are hidden. But I’ve also asked people if I could take photos of their house or building. Of course, the reactions vary, but that’s how I’ve come across some of my favourite subjects. Perspectives are also helpful when there are lots of people around; I often take photos looking up or down.

What has photographing architecture taught you about paying attention?

Quite a lot: to take the time to observe the light and shadows, to take a deep breath and to press the shutter button as gently as a sniper. I’ve also realised that even small changes in perspective can make a big difference. Above all, though, I find calm in old and new buildings and their stories.

Our fun signature question: if you could go on a photowalk with any photographer, alive or dead, famous, or personal, who would it be?

Vivian Dorothy Maier in the 1950s.

Thank you Ursi!