The architectural trends and technological advancements of the mid-20th century significantly influenced Julius Shulman's photographic style and subject choices. During this period, modernist architecture, characterised by clean lines, open spaces, and a connection with the surrounding environment, gained prominence. Shulman was drawn to these innovative designs, which contrasted sharply with traditional architectural forms. His photographs often highlighted the interplay between the structures and their natural settings, capturing the essence of modernist principles. Technological advancements, such as improved camera equipment and film, allowed Shulman to experiment with new techniques, enhancing the clarity and composition of his images. His ability to use these tools effectively helped him become the premier photographer of mid-century modern architecture.

The post-World War II economic boom and suburban expansion played a crucial role in shaping the demand for and reception of Julius Shulman's architectural photography. As the American economy flourished, there was a surge in construction, particularly in the growing suburbs. Modernist architects like Richard Neutra, John Lautner, and Pierre Koenig were at the forefront of designing homes that embodied the era's optimism and innovation. Shulman's work, which vividly captured these new architectural forms, became highly sought after by architects and developers who wanted to showcase their designs. Additionally, magazines and publications catering to an increasingly affluent and style-conscious public eagerly featured his photographs, further cementing his reputation. The widespread dissemination of Shulman's images helped popularise modernist architecture and made his photography synonymous with the post-war American dream of sleek, stylish, and harmonious living environments.

Julius Shulman's photographic projects were significantly influenced by the cultural fascination with modernism and the "California lifestyle" during the mid-20th century. His images, particularly those capturing the sleek, innovative designs of architects like Richard Neutra and Pierre Koenig, became emblematic of the modernist movement and its ideals of progress, simplicity, and integration with nature. Shulman’s work celebrated the optimism and technological advancements of the era, portraying homes and buildings as both luxurious and attainable symbols of the American Dream.

His photographs not only documented but also glamorized the indoor-outdoor living and clean geometric lines that defined California modernism, making these designs desirable and influential worldwide. By capturing the essence of this architectural style, Shulman helped to challenge and redefine societal norms around urban development and living spaces, promoting a vision of future-oriented, elegant, and functional design. His work served as both a reflection of and a challenge to the conventional architectural practices of his time, pushing the boundaries of what was considered possible in urban and suburban environments.

Julius Shulman greatly contributed to the discourse of Modern architecture, with his photographs mythologizing buildings and recording an era. He was honoured with a lifetime membership of the American Institute of Architects. In 2005, Shulman donated his extensive portfolio to the Getty Research Institute, which now holds over 260,000 negatives, prints, and colour slides, showcasing his impact on transforming architectural photography into fine art.

Shulman's photographs of Desert Modernism in Palm Springs inspired the latest collection of Cutler and Gross glasses and sunglasses. The designs draw from the experimental architecture of that era, as captured in Shulman's iconic images.