I just returned from my dream trip — driving and photographing Route 66 from Chicago to Santa Monica. The trip was not a photography trip, per se. I traveled with two non-photographers. Except for the Grand Canyon, we did not organize our day for sunrises and sunsets. We also did not plan ahead for photographic opportunities. Of course, I still took a ton of photographs. If you haven't been following the saga of my Route 66 adventure, check out my first two articles. The first was on pre-trip planning and the second was about the trip … [Read more...] about The Traveling Photographer: Photographing Route 66
travel
The Traveling Photographer: Driving Route 66, part 2
This summer my two friends and I did it. We drove Route 66 from Chicago to Santa Monica. It took us about two weeks, which isn't much time since we made a detour to the south rim of the Grand Canyon and spent an entire day at the Petrified Forest National Park and Painted Desert. Due to our limited time, we found it very important to pre-plan our days and set priorities, leaving room for some flexibility. Preparation for the trip While planning the trip I accumulated a small duffel bag filled with guidebooks and maps. The bag came with me … [Read more...] about The Traveling Photographer: Driving Route 66, part 2
How to travel light AND have your camera gear too!
B&H Photo provided Photofocus the Pelican MPD40 40L Duffel bag in return for a review. I was one of the first authors to volunteer — thinking it was a camera backpack. Imagine my surprise when I learned it was, well, er... a backpack. My views changed after a visit from my cousin Mary Ann. Here are my thoughts on how a photographer can use this backpack to travel light and have their camera gear too. Her overseas trip to Paris meant packing light As I mentioned to my cousin Mary Ann — who happen to stop by to borrow a camera bag for her … [Read more...] about How to travel light AND have your camera gear too!
Photographer of the Day: Brandon Kopp
Category: Architecture Photographer: Brandon Kopp Photo: “Cable Grist Mill, Great Smoky Mountains National Park HDR” While this image may not be a traditional architectural photograph, it is everything a good architectural image should be. It displays the timeless feel of the building, the utility of its purpose, and vertical lines are plumb. Adding to the elegance is a slow shutter to illustrate water movement, and highlights and tonal range add drama and impact. Originally shared with the Photofocus Readers Flickr Group. Join the … [Read more...] about Photographer of the Day: Brandon Kopp
Traveling abroad? Things U.S. photographers need to know
Things that U.S. photographers who travel internationally need to know... If you're in the USA and are planning to go make photographs in another country, you may, no make that really, want to know about Form 4457 — Certificate of Registration for Personal Effects Taken Abroad. This document allows you to get a record proving that you owned the camera gear before you left the U.S. That way when you return, some over-zealous customs agent doesn't try to ding you for a duty when you re-enter the country. I have friends who have been forced … [Read more...] about Traveling abroad? Things U.S. photographers need to know
Summertime photography: ¡Fiesta!
I was recently on a family trip to San Miguel de Allende (SMA) in central Mexico. This colonial town is known for a seemingly endless succession of festivals throughout the year. Even the hot pinks, oranges and ochers favored for the architecture make it seem as if the town is perpetually decorated for a party. Our only prior trip to SMA was during a multi-day annual celebration for which it is rightfully famous: Dia de los Muertos, or Day of the Dead. If you’ve never experienced this, it may seem odd to hear it referred to as a … [Read more...] about Summertime photography: ¡Fiesta!
“The Enthusiast’s Guide to Travel Photography” gets you geared up for your next trip
(Editor's note: Photofocus is pleased to announce a partnership with Rocky Nook. Rocky Nook publishes great books about photography by photographers. Coming soon we'll be featuring excerpts from "The Enthusiast's Guide to Multi-Shot Photography" by Alan Hess. Stay tuned!) After my trip to Ireland last summer, I didn't want to stop traveling. Since then, I've been traveling to places like Las Vegas and Toronto. And I wish I would have read Jordana Wright's book, "The Enthusiast's Guide to Travel Photography" before then. There's a lot that … [Read more...] about “The Enthusiast’s Guide to Travel Photography” gets you geared up for your next trip
Gear Review: iForway PowerElf Portable Power Station
If you ever leave your house and spend time away, then this battery may be a good option for you. The PowerElf from iForway is sleek and compact but offers a significant amount of electricity and several good options for charging. I've been using it on a three-week trip. I charged it before I left and used it for phone charges, camera battery charges, and even topping off my laptop and it's still got juice in it. PowerElf features The PowerElf has two USB ports for phones and tablets and whatever else charges off USB. Many cameras' battery … [Read more...] about Gear Review: iForway PowerElf Portable Power Station
The Traveling Photographer: Shooting wildlife in wintry Japan (Part 1: Choosing a trip)
Our most recent trip to Japan was completely different from its predecessors: We went in the winter, on a trip dedicated to wildlife photography. Seeing the best of Japanese wildlife took us to the far reaches of Japan’s northernmost main island, Hokkaido, far enough to see the off-shore islands claimed by both Russia and Japan. We had a chance to see and shoot the marquee nature stars of Japan: Snow monkeys relaxing in steaming onsen hot springs, whooper swans in an idyllic snowy scene straight out of Swan Lake, soaring Steller’s Sea Eagles … [Read more...] about The Traveling Photographer: Shooting wildlife in wintry Japan (Part 1: Choosing a trip)
Photographer of the Day: Anna Savino
Category: Travel Photographer: Anna Savino - "Vulci" I love the softness of the light in this and the way the wooden railing leads me into the image to the castle and across the bridge. The colors in the railing also reflected in the bridge and the rocks along the water complete the trip through this lovely scene. Originally shared in the Photofocus Community on Google+ here. To learn how your work can be featured on the Photofocus, please read this article. … [Read more...] about Photographer of the Day: Anna Savino
Photographer of the Day: Michael Berg
Category: Travel Photographer: Michael Berg - "Corporativo Citibanamex" As I was scrolling through images looking for this week’s Travel photo of the day this one made me stop and look again. At first, I thought it was a looking up perspective, then I thought maybe it was a mirror image shot or even a created mirror image. I love images that make you stop and think. This is a great example of that and it’s pushed me to do some investigating to find out who the architect is. Please click on the link here to see the full image as … [Read more...] about Photographer of the Day: Michael Berg
Gear Review: Ruggard Hunter Pro 65 DSLR Holster Bag
A holster bag is a terrific addition to your camera bag quiver. In fact, it's a very good choice as a first camera bag. You'll always find uses for it, even when your equipment needs outgrow its size. I have far more gear than will fit in this bag, but I use it as a convenient bag for keeping a camera and lens handy. It sits next to me in the car, it goes inside another duffle bag or backpack and I attach it to the belt of my backpack when hiking. In this video, I show you the 65, but it comes in various sizes, including a larger bag which … [Read more...] about Gear Review: Ruggard Hunter Pro 65 DSLR Holster Bag
Traveling Photographer in Japan: Eastern Kyoto
Any single article on Kyoto’s many splendors will necessarily be an overview. In our last post, I described a potential itinerary to see highlights on the western fringes of Kyoto. If you missed it, check it out here: https://photofocus.com/2018/05/20/traveling-photographer-in-japan-kyoto-and-arashiyama/ The eastern margin of Kyoto is a treasure trove as well, with much to reward the traveling photographer. As always when traveling, flexibility and portability are keys to maximizing your photographic opportunities. It is a balancing … [Read more...] about Traveling Photographer in Japan: Eastern Kyoto
Photographer of the Day: Bert de Bruin
Category: Travel Photographer: Bert de Bruin - "Business Plane in Fog" Though traveling has its share of hassles, it also has many beautiful moments, yes, even at the airport (or train/bus stations). Bert has captured a beautiful sunset while waiting for his flight. Want to see more fun and beautiful airport photos? Check out #airportphotowalk by our own Levi Sim on social media. Proof you can find beauty and something to shoot anywhere. Originally shared on the Photofocus Group on Flickr here. To learn how your work can be … [Read more...] about Photographer of the Day: Bert de Bruin
Photographer of the Day: Michael Hoffman
Category: Travel Photographer: Michael Hoffman - "A. J. Meerwald" The light on the sails of this tall ship caught my eye. The black and white conversion is perfect for this to limit the distractions of all the buildings and activity on the shoreline and it also helps to make the shape of the sails and tall ship more distinct to separate it from the background. This is also a great reminder to travel in your own backyard. The A. J. Meerwald is the state ship of New Jersey where Michael is from. Originally shared on the Photofocus … [Read more...] about Photographer of the Day: Michael Hoffman
Photographer of the Day: Justbecvz
Category: Travel Photographer: Justbecvz - "Lovers. Gion, Kyoto" This image caught my eye and made me laugh. I love that the photographer chose to leave the mannequin in the shot because she makes this what it is. Images like this are a great reminder to pay attention to not only your subject but also the background and what might be happening around the area where you are shooting. Originally shared on the Photofocus Group on Flickr here. To learn how your work can be featured on the Photofocus, please read this article. … [Read more...] about Photographer of the Day: Justbecvz
Photographer of the Week: May 21 ~ 25, 2018
Weekdays, Monday through Friday, Photofocus curators share a great photograph in the categories of Travel, Beauty, Outdoor, Sports, and Street, respectively. Each selected picture earns its maker the title "Photofocus Photographer of the Day." Their work has impressed us and we hope, it touches, inspires & invigorates you as well. Our curators explain what they love about the image they have chosen. These are quick thoughts to help each of us become more aware of what's in an image and why it works. Every Sunday, the Photofocus Photographer … [Read more...] about Photographer of the Week: May 21 ~ 25, 2018
Photographer of the Day: Kurt Kramer
Category: Travel Photographer: Kurt Kramer - "In the Church" The light and colors in this image remind me of a painting by one of the Old Masters. Images like this can sometimes be found by peeking in buildings, stepping through a doorway and actually going in a building that may not be a tourist attraction. If you do this though, remember to be respectful and if you are asked to leave, just smile and turn around. Originally shared on the Photofocus Group on Flickr here. To learn how your work can be featured on the … [Read more...] about Photographer of the Day: Kurt Kramer
Traveling Photographer in Japan: Kyoto and Arashiyama
In our prior posts, I suggested starting points for exploring the sprawling metropolis that is Tokyo, modern Japan’s capital. If you missed those posts, here are links: Tokyo & Tsukiji and Tackling Tokyo Kyoto is another essential element in exploring Japan. Kyoto was the imperial capital of Japan for over a millennium, until the mid-19th century and is ringed by historic and beautiful temples and gardens, many of which are UNESCO World Heritage sites. Unlike Tokyo, which is served by a comprehensive subway network, the Kyoto subway … [Read more...] about Traveling Photographer in Japan: Kyoto and Arashiyama
Photographer of the Day: Eduardo Mendoza
Category: Travel Photographer: Eduardo Mendoza - "F32 TMax400R1Scan-ExposureX3" When we are traveling we get caught up in capturing the sites and forget to take images of the actual journey. This can be the streets, bikes, taxis, trains, waterways and all types of how we get where we are going. When we capture images like this one it helps us to tell a better story of our travels. Yes, we saw amazing sights but we also experience new ways of getting around, new foods, different types of accommodations, and all the other details that go … [Read more...] about Photographer of the Day: Eduardo Mendoza
Rick Ray, Documentarian & Adobe Stock Contributor
Rick Ray is a documentary filmmaker who has traveled all around the world making video stories. His work ranges from "The Soul of India" and "Raise the Bamboo Curtain: Vietnam, Cambodia, & Burma" to his 2006 "10 Questions for the Dali Lama." Learn why he contributes footage to Adobe Stock. https://youtu.be/ohH6A00lvC0 … [Read more...] about Rick Ray, Documentarian & Adobe Stock Contributor
Photographer of the Day: Cathy Donohoue
Category: Travel Photographer: Cathy Donohoue - "Watering Cans" This just screamed spring and here in the U.S., it seems to finally be showing up. I love the vibrant and happy colors in this and the whimsicalness of the watering cans as a decoration. So many places we visit when we are traveling have wonderful shops, parks, and gardens. As tourists, we tend to gravitate toward all the historical tours, city tours, and all the typical tourist spots. Shots like this remind us that wandering around the local neighborhoods can allow us … [Read more...] about Photographer of the Day: Cathy Donohoue
Photographer of the Week: April 30 ~ May 5, 2018
Weekdays, Monday through Friday, Photofocus curators share a great photograph in the categories of Travel, Beauty, Outdoor, Sports, and Street, respectively. Each selected picture earns its maker the title "Photofocus Photographer of the Day." Their work has impressed us and we hope, it touches, inspires & invigorates you as well. Our curators explain what they love about the image they have chosen. These are quick thoughts to help each of us become more aware of what's in an image and why it works. Every Sunday, the Photofocus Photographer … [Read more...] about Photographer of the Week: April 30 ~ May 5, 2018
The Traveling Photographer: Photographing People: Using Flash
This is the third and last post in a series on Photographing People while you are traveling. The first article provided general guidelines on setting up the shot and the second provided guidelines on working with the light. This post discusses tips on using a flash. Know the Difference Between Fill Flash and Main Light As photographer’s we all have “ah-ha” moments when the lightbulb goes off in our head. I still remember mine when I realized how I used my flash depended on whether I was using it as a fill light, filing in shadows on a … [Read more...] about The Traveling Photographer: Photographing People: Using Flash
Photographer of the Day: Ken Lee
(Editor's note: Lauri has been on hiatus from curation of the Travel category. She'll be back to Photographer of the Day next week.) Category: Travel Photographer: Ken Lee "I'm in Love with an Uptown Grill" The pun of the title of "I'm in Love with an Uptown Grill" ought to be enough to earn Ken Lee Photographer of the Day for Travel here on Photofocus. The colors of the wide angle interpretation of the junker automobile compliment the sky blues in the background. This two-minute long time exposure combines with photographer Lee's … [Read more...] about Photographer of the Day: Ken Lee
Photographer of the Day: Gilles Letang
(Editor's note: Larui is on hiatus from curation of the Travel category. She'll be back to Photographer of the Day soon.) Category: Travel Photographer: Gilles Letang "Arriére de L'Opèra, Toits de Paris" Gilles Letang earns honors as the Photofocus Photographer of the Day for his photograph "Arriére de L'Opèra, Toits de Paris." The "Back of the Opera, Roofs of Paris" shows Napoleon's Opera House home of the famed Phantom rising above residences and business of downtown Paris. The two gold statues on either corner show the front of … [Read more...] about Photographer of the Day: Gilles Letang
Japan for the Traveling Photographer: Part 4: Tackling Tokyo
Tokyo is to Japan as New York City is to the US: modern, frenetic, a mélange of sub-cultures; in short, a blast! You can’t do it all, don't even try, there’s just too much going on. But it’s great fun to explore and most corners are interesting. We covered aspects of the transportation system two posts ago: it is comprehensive and user-friendly, clean and safe. (If you missed it, here's a link). Should you find yourself lost, no worries: it’s doubtful you could find yourself in an unsavory situation. Most Japanese will go out of their way … [Read more...] about Japan for the Traveling Photographer: Part 4: Tackling Tokyo
Photographer of the Day: Jens
(Editor's note: Larui is on hiatus from curation of the Travel category. She'll be back to Photographer of the Day soon.) Category: Travel Photographer: Jens "Hafen Hamburg, Germany" Two men in silhouette are framed by a doorway that leads outside to a seagoing port in Hamburg, Germany. Their position is perfect. They have passed the frame of the door on the right and are just before the gigantic container cranes in front of them. There is a lot to see in this photograph. There is a cruise ship, a windmill, a tugboat and a barge all … [Read more...] about Photographer of the Day: Jens
The Traveling Photographer: Photographing People: Taking Control of the Light
This is my second post of three on photographing people during your travels. My first article provided basic guidelines…paying attention to the background, camera settings, composition, and waiting to capture that special moment when everything comes together. This post will cover making the light work for you, the last of my guidelines mentioned in my first post. Make A List And Plan Your Day Decisions regarding lighting begin before you leave on your trip. It is important to do some research and to make a list, even if it is just in … [Read more...] about The Traveling Photographer: Photographing People: Taking Control of the Light
Photographer of the Day: Simone D’Alessio
(Editor's note: Larui is on hiatus from curation of the Travel category. She'll be back to Photographer of the Day soon.) Category: Travel Photographer: Simone D'Alessio "Sunset on Palmarola" The silhouette of a sailboat snuggled in a cove in Ponza, Lazio, Italy at sunset. Cliffs rise from the water on the right creating a natural frame. The islands in the background add depth. The shimmering sunlight on the wave washed sea glistens as a thick set of bushes constrain the photo on the left side. This is a peaceful expression of art by … [Read more...] about Photographer of the Day: Simone D’Alessio
