I’ll be heading to Europe soon, first Sicily, then to Spain in May (still spaces available). I can’t wait to get back to travel photography…so many subjects, styles and techniques that all blend together in creating images. As a rule of thumb, there are two main approaches to creating travel images. Fluid or static…hunting or fishing…sitting or walking…
First is the nomad. This photographer roams the streets experiencing as much as they can. Every alley, plaza and street is covered on foot, sometimes logging many miles in just a morning. The wanderer will eagerly approach subjects and interesting scenes to seek out their images. Sitting still could mean you are missing a shot…
In contrast is the ‘statue’. This photographer finds an interesting scene, and waits for the right moment. They might find an amazing building front or alley way, and wait until an interesting person or cyclist goes through the scene. This photographer may not produce as many images, but it is about quality over quantity with this approach. Portrait subjects may approach out of curiosity…friendly conversations lead to evocative portraits.
Which is the right way? I find I combine both styles when I am shooting travel imagery. If I find an incredible scene, one I know will produce a stunning image, then I will wait it out. On the other hand, I keep roaming until I find one of those scenes. Being both fluid, and static, work well for me. Certain cities have much to explore, while other towns might have a few beautiful spots that are worth waiting at for good images.
No matter how you photograph, remember to avoid snapshots and create photographs. I often find myself just snapping away at scenes in a new city…snapshots…but then I slow down and put on my creative glasses to produce interesting photographs.