While it is easy to get caught up in the moment and shoot nearly every scene found in a new city, producing a quick image list will help produce much stronger images that will leave family and friends envious.
A quick glance at any travel magazine will reveal the need for diverse images. Compose a combination of small details, wide scenics, unique architecture, and local people to truly depict a destination.
Set the Scene With Landscape Images
The most common, and perhaps most important, travel image is the wide-angle landscape. This image sums up the geography and culture of the area in a single image.
While the image could be captured at any time of day, remember that professional landscape photographers only shoot during the golden hour before sunrise and after sunset when the light is even and warm. Use the rule of thirds to compose the image. To increase interest, remember that landscape images need an obvious subject as much as any other photograph.
Shoot the Intricate Architecture
Cities are defined by their unique architecture and the biggest key to success for architecture and city images is walking. Visit the landmarks, wander the neighborhoods, and explore side streets to see, photograph and experience the endless variation found throughout any city.
Use a three image approach to capture the entire architectural design. An overview image will display the entire building or landmark, while a medium image will provide a closer look at much smaller portion of the scene. Finally, fill the frame to show a single detail that can define the building.
Architecture images are often distorted when shooting tall buildings because photographers aim the camera upwards to capture the top of the building. Move back, keep the camera level, and use a longer lens to capture a more realistic image. Another option is to find a vantage point that is half the height of the intended subject.
Capturing Intimacy with Detail Images
Standing too far away from the subject is an amateur photographer’s key mistake. Professionals know that standing two or three steps closer to the subject and filling the frame with a single detail is an easy way to create a strong image.
Shoot the grapes in Tuscany or the tulips in Holland. Unique details stand out to nearly everyone, but few photographs depict them clearly. Remember the photographers’ motto “less is more” and move in closer before pushing the shutter.
Capture Personality by Shooting Portraits
Photographers cannot afford to be shy. Images of local residents will define any photographic collection but few photographers muster the courage to walk up to strangers and ask permission to photograph them. Don’t make the same mistake.
Shoot tight portraits to depict ethnic and cultural differences. Capture an environmental portrait to show the person and their surroundings. Capture children playing in the park, vendors selling their products at markets, and seniors basking in the sun. Capture dramatic silhouettes and large social gatherings. Just remember to shoot early and often. Be polite, be confident, and ask permission.
Jeff Bartlett - I still fear the all–too–common travel situation that seems to arise at least once per week. The one where I am sitting in a ...
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