ar·chi·tec·ture noun \ˈär-kə-ˌtek-chər\ 1 : the art or science of building ; specifically : the art or practice of designing and building structures and especially habitable ones
pho·tog·ra·phy noun \fə-ˈtä-grə-fē\ 1 : the art or process of producing images by the action of radiant energy and especially light on a sensitive surface (as film or a CCD chip)
These definitions each describe a similar process. At the end of the process we are left with buildings and structures on the one hand, and images on the other.
However for most people the reason to appreciate these works of art is the story, the design challenges, the architect, the photographer, the journey, the process. Representing that in a static image is what architectural photography is all about. That is the art of it. Even if you have to fabricate or embellish the narrative.
I received an AA in commercial photography from Seattle Central Community College in 2002, went on to study architecture for two years at California College of Arts and Crafts, then enrolled into the photo program. I received a BFA with honors in photography from CCAC in 2007. I currently live in Oakland, California and I love my job.