Travel photography: How to avoid the postcard shots
Travel photography incorporates many different styles and is, therefore, a great creative exercise. Vacations are usually for relaxing and having a good time, but for the shutterbug they are also an opportunity for taking pictures with impact. Many beginning photographers, however, get frustrated as soon as they return home. They realize that most of their travel photos are in the line of classic postcards. Many interesting attractions suddenly seem like they could have been captured in a more original, creative way than the traditional way. Here a few guidelines to help you stay out of the postcard format next time you go on vacation to an interesting location.
Take the classic shot right from the beginning
It’s bound to happen and there absolutely nothing wrong with preserving a memory of a place you visited. Getting the classic, postcard photo isn’t wrong, as long as you don’t limit yourself to that. Make sure you get it right from the start, so that even if your creative experiments go wrong, you will at least have a lifetime memory.
Move around
Classic postcard shots are usually taken from a famous landmark. It’s ok to take out your camera when you get there. The key thing to remember is that you need to move around. One or two steps to the right or left might not make much difference, but a different focal length might do the trick. Also, don’t be afraid to try new angles. That landmark will probably be crowded with tourists, especially if you visit in full season. Make your way around them and look for new views. Everybody will probably be shooting landscapes with a wide angle lens. Use a telephoto lens, not to be different, but to get a different result.
Push yourself to see things in a different light
When you get to an interesting location, one that is popular among tourists, it will all feel new and that might seem like enough for the time. Don’t fall for that trap, or you will get home only to realize that your photos are barely different from anyone else’s.
Pay attention to details
This is especially important when you are in front of a famous building. Take some landscape photos to capture its full shape, but don’t forget to switch to a macro or telephoto lens to capture the details. They are part of what makes a building beautiful. Look for shapes, colors and contrasts.
Be there at the right time
It’s not always possible, but whenever you can, try to visit a special location when the light is just right. It’s usually at dusk or dawn, when the light is soft and gently wraps around everything. Be careful however. The local pros also know when the light is right and that’s probably when all the pretty postcard pictures are taken. You might find yourself alone on the spot, but you still need to find interesting and different angles.
Image credit: sborisov / 123RF Stock Photo