ABOUT
Denise Retallack is a New England-based photographer specializing in architectural and landscape architectural design projects. From an early age, her love for photography grew in a unique way, shaped by her experiences in nature and the architecture of the land. She became fascinated with the architecture books her father kept while designing their home, unknowingly studying architectural photography by absorbing the details of space and design. Denise’s interest blossomed further during an internship with a commercial photographer in college, where she discovered the intricacies of studio photography, lighting, and large-format film.
In 2004, Denise graduated with a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Commercial Photography from Brooks Institute of Photography. Soon after, she began her career as an in-house photographer for SWA Group, a global leader in landscape architecture, planning, and urban design. This experience gave Denise an inside perspective on the process and the mindset of the designers she worked with.
Denise’s background in fine art, graphic design, and film photography has shaped her thoughtful and detail-oriented process. She approaches every project with an intuitive understanding of the designer’s vision, allowing her to create images that capture the essence of a space. With her experience in film photography, Denise has developed a deep appreciation for lighting and composition. Her process involves blending traditional techniques with digital tools, ensuring her images reflect both the beauty and intent of each project.
Throughout her career, her work has helped architects, landscape architects and designers receive numerous awards for their designs. One of her key clients, LandDesign, was recently awarded ASLA’s Firm of the Year, with her images prominently featured in their nomination submission and across their portfolio. Her experience and credibility in the field are further reinforced by her national list of clients, with whom she has maintained ongoing relationships from the early days of her career.
With her bold and vibrant aesthetic, Denise’s style features graphic compositions that make use of natural light. She is passionate about storytelling and conveying the spirit of a place through her lens. Whether photographing expansive landscapes or intricate architectural details, her work captures the feeling, essence, and purpose behind the designs. Denise’s ability to connect deeply with her client's vision and translate it into powerful imagery sets her apart.
CLIENTS
Arcadis | BarberMcMurry Architects | Brown and Caldwell | Dalhoff Thomas Design Studio | FXCollaborative | Grand Rapids Chair Company | Gresham Smith | Hastings Architecture | Johnson & Galyon Construction | Knoll | LaCantina Doors | LandDesign | Lauderdale Design Group | Lavallee Brensinger Architects | Lord Aeck Sargent | Manuel Zeitlin Architects | McCarty Holsaple McCarty | Open Door Architecture | Partners by Design | Presson Interior Design | Prudential Lighting | Randolph Architecture | Sanders Pace Architecture | Sesco Lighting | Shepley Bulfinch | Steve Ward & Associates | Surface Architecture + Design | The Lewis Group | 3-form