Abstract

This study explores the role of lighting in creating photogenic spaces. Photogenic spaces are intentionally created spaces within commercial spaces for inviting and stimulating users to shoot and share photographs on social media. Lighting plays a significant role in a photogenic space by creating specific spatial experiences and visual imagery for shooting photographs. The study uses measurable indicators in lighting to define the photogenic space through contrast between the subject and its background. Relevant theories about lighting in photogenic spaces are identified from literature reviews. These theories are used to analyze the existing lighting conditions of a commercial space selected as case study as well as propose suitable design interventions to add photogenic value. Comparative user responses are obtained for the existing and post-design intervention lighting conditions using online survey questionnaires. The results of this study show that photogenic spaces can be created within commercial spaces by the appropriate use of color temperature, direction, distribution and intensity of lighting.