As we come to the end of the people and peopled places of photographic excellence, let us not forget some of the most unexpected, or expectedly planned, types of photographs which we should all include in our albums, humourous ones.
You already know that most pictures are best when left natural and not forced staging. Keep the tone of many of your peopled photos light and fun. Too much structure isn't exactly the best thing in the world when people look at your photographs, or when they are getting their photographs taken. To keep things interesting, add some touches of humour every so often.
Some people cleverly use a common theme or item included in their pictures as a sort of prop. I remember one person who uses a teddy bear in nearly every picture, and it really makes it interesting to see what that little bear would get into next. It could be relaxing in a beach chair on Miami's South Beach, or looking like it's climbing the Empire State Building.
If you aren't exactly the creative type, have your subjects pose the way they want to. Have them imitate a famous group, person, or event, or maybe even copy a statue next to them, or a famous one like the Statue of Liberty in New Jersey. Of course, in the case of humourous photographs, it is always best to not catch people off guard or take a photo without them noticing. Otherwise you might be traveling without certain people next time.
Now that you know just about everything necessary to take the best people pictures, let's get your picture-worthy vacation booked. First step? Go to www.kingarthur.myttn.com and book that vacation!
Wednesday, June 30, 2010
Friday, June 25, 2010
Travel Photography: Events
Some people travel the world to watch certain sporting events or sport teams or contestants. But photographing sports events is not at all an easy task. First, you have to be close enough to what's going on. Second, you have to be able to stop the motion.
Position yourself where the most exciting action will take place, such as at the goal, or the finish line, or the end zone. On the other hand, you might also want a wider shot which includes identifying landmarks and a sense of place. Such as the Louvre during the Tour de France, or South Beach hotels during a sailing regatta.
Fill your shots with action when you can, including identifying backgrounds at other times.
If you time your vacation well enough, you could find yourself in your location during an exciting, colourful parade or ceremony. What an interesting, exciting addition to your travel photographs book!
Some events are very crowded, others are more local or regional and therefore much much less crowded. Find a good place to take the photographs from, when you can. That means either getting to the location early enough, or getting to a higher vantage point.
Other than action during the actual event itself, you can always shoot some interesting picture of crowd reactions, or of interested (or sometimes disinterested) children. And the colourful costumes and elaborate decorations and always eye-catching in your books.
Before you can possibly take such exciting photographs of such colourful events, you have to book your vacation at www.kingarthur.myttn.com !
Position yourself where the most exciting action will take place, such as at the goal, or the finish line, or the end zone. On the other hand, you might also want a wider shot which includes identifying landmarks and a sense of place. Such as the Louvre during the Tour de France, or South Beach hotels during a sailing regatta.
Fill your shots with action when you can, including identifying backgrounds at other times.
If you time your vacation well enough, you could find yourself in your location during an exciting, colourful parade or ceremony. What an interesting, exciting addition to your travel photographs book!
Some events are very crowded, others are more local or regional and therefore much much less crowded. Find a good place to take the photographs from, when you can. That means either getting to the location early enough, or getting to a higher vantage point.
Other than action during the actual event itself, you can always shoot some interesting picture of crowd reactions, or of interested (or sometimes disinterested) children. And the colourful costumes and elaborate decorations and always eye-catching in your books.
Before you can possibly take such exciting photographs of such colourful events, you have to book your vacation at www.kingarthur.myttn.com !
Tuesday, June 22, 2010
Travel Photography: People
While you are on vacation, you would probably want some proof that you were actually there, so you would have some pictures of yourself and others included in some of your travel photographs. The most interesting people pictures are those which are not staged and set up.
One way to not get that goofy forced smile and to have your subjects appear relaxed is to actually have them be relaxed. Most of the time, your pictures will not be of the military positions, so you do not need people standing at attention! Sometimes you don't even have to take a face front stance, either. You can take an interesting picture of their silhouette against a background, or of them turned away from the camera to see what your camera is taking a picture of, whatever it is behind them.
Working with children is often difficult. So, for your best photographs with them is to compose the shot first, then have the kids step into it.
Also for especially sunny days or under bright lights, do not have the subject looking directly into the light behind you. They will squint, and your photograph will show that quite clearly.
When you are on vacation, however, some of the most interesting portraits are that of the native people. They really show your photo-viewing friends the true experience and culture and even the lifestyle of your vacation destination.
The best places to find some exciting local subjects is where many people gather, such as marketplaces, parks, and fairs. As long as you are not obtrusive or disruptive, most subjects will gladly pose or even stand still for your portrait.
Incidentally, there are some places around the world that do not allow or appreciate photographs being taken of people. Ask before you take the picture, possibly even at your hotel.
It's not so bad when you take a photography with one, two, or even three people, but when you are dealing with four or more, especially strangers, you will encounter new challenges. Groups do not have to be lined up in ordered rows a la grammar school class photographs. They can be casually sitting around something, or just relaxing naturally in the same area.
Finally, another interesting personal touch for your vacation travel pictures is when it showcases people working. Fishermen in the Chesapeake, or train engineers in Tokyo are always interesting, exciting people. When you are photographing working people, however, it is very important to get their permission first.
So, when you are ready to embark on your photographic journey, first you must book with www.kingarthur.myttn.com . Then you can be on your way to the wonderful world of portrait photography!
One way to not get that goofy forced smile and to have your subjects appear relaxed is to actually have them be relaxed. Most of the time, your pictures will not be of the military positions, so you do not need people standing at attention! Sometimes you don't even have to take a face front stance, either. You can take an interesting picture of their silhouette against a background, or of them turned away from the camera to see what your camera is taking a picture of, whatever it is behind them.
Working with children is often difficult. So, for your best photographs with them is to compose the shot first, then have the kids step into it.
Also for especially sunny days or under bright lights, do not have the subject looking directly into the light behind you. They will squint, and your photograph will show that quite clearly.
When you are on vacation, however, some of the most interesting portraits are that of the native people. They really show your photo-viewing friends the true experience and culture and even the lifestyle of your vacation destination.
The best places to find some exciting local subjects is where many people gather, such as marketplaces, parks, and fairs. As long as you are not obtrusive or disruptive, most subjects will gladly pose or even stand still for your portrait.
Incidentally, there are some places around the world that do not allow or appreciate photographs being taken of people. Ask before you take the picture, possibly even at your hotel.
It's not so bad when you take a photography with one, two, or even three people, but when you are dealing with four or more, especially strangers, you will encounter new challenges. Groups do not have to be lined up in ordered rows a la grammar school class photographs. They can be casually sitting around something, or just relaxing naturally in the same area.
Finally, another interesting personal touch for your vacation travel pictures is when it showcases people working. Fishermen in the Chesapeake, or train engineers in Tokyo are always interesting, exciting people. When you are photographing working people, however, it is very important to get their permission first.
So, when you are ready to embark on your photographic journey, first you must book with www.kingarthur.myttn.com . Then you can be on your way to the wonderful world of portrait photography!
Sunday, June 20, 2010
Travel Photography: Churches
Not only do churches reflect the spiritual values of the surrounding community, but they are especially photogenic in regards to both architectural design and social progress. The goal of photographing them is to capture their beauty as well as their meaning and personality.
One of the most commonly unfortunate situation in which you may find yourself when you attempt to photograph the exterior of a church, especially a historical one, is that it is likely closely surrounded by city life, city people, and city buildings. It might be a nice juxtaposition to include, say, a modern office building in the same shot as a centuries-old church. Some churches are also in picturesque settings, from specific vantage points, such as Notre-Dame, which is most commonly and most beautifully captured as it is reflected in the Seine.
Incidentally, since churches as sacred and value-protected houses of worship, always inquire if photography is allowed and don't flood either the interior or the exterior with an overabundance of flashes. Also, one must be especially mindful of the parishioners.
If you are allowed to photograph inside the church, you would likely find some very interesting, highly-photogenic stained glass windows. With exciting splashes of colour and meaning, they are actually quite simple to photograph.
Ideally, they are bet lit (for photographic purposes) when it is hazy or slightly overcast, rather than in bright direct sunlight. Don't worry if your camera blackens the surroundings, as long as you can see the colours of the stained glass windows, you should have an excellent photograph. Alternately, you can always fill the frame with the window and not worry much about the surrounding apparent darkness.
Also, when photographing stained glass windows, don't always concentrate only on the entirety of the design, but also look for interesting patterns in the glass blocks and smaller sections that capture the spiritual theme of the window.
So, when you are ready to experience the wonder and the majesty of the churches and their stained glass windows, book that vacation at www.kingarthur.myttn.com and let's get you started!
One of the most commonly unfortunate situation in which you may find yourself when you attempt to photograph the exterior of a church, especially a historical one, is that it is likely closely surrounded by city life, city people, and city buildings. It might be a nice juxtaposition to include, say, a modern office building in the same shot as a centuries-old church. Some churches are also in picturesque settings, from specific vantage points, such as Notre-Dame, which is most commonly and most beautifully captured as it is reflected in the Seine.
Incidentally, since churches as sacred and value-protected houses of worship, always inquire if photography is allowed and don't flood either the interior or the exterior with an overabundance of flashes. Also, one must be especially mindful of the parishioners.
If you are allowed to photograph inside the church, you would likely find some very interesting, highly-photogenic stained glass windows. With exciting splashes of colour and meaning, they are actually quite simple to photograph.
Ideally, they are bet lit (for photographic purposes) when it is hazy or slightly overcast, rather than in bright direct sunlight. Don't worry if your camera blackens the surroundings, as long as you can see the colours of the stained glass windows, you should have an excellent photograph. Alternately, you can always fill the frame with the window and not worry much about the surrounding apparent darkness.
Also, when photographing stained glass windows, don't always concentrate only on the entirety of the design, but also look for interesting patterns in the glass blocks and smaller sections that capture the spiritual theme of the window.
So, when you are ready to experience the wonder and the majesty of the churches and their stained glass windows, book that vacation at www.kingarthur.myttn.com and let's get you started!
Wednesday, June 16, 2010
Travel Photography: Castles and Gardens
Castles and other royal dwellings are exciting, photographic places. But they have a few different rules regarding photographing them. Also, they have some of the most amazing, beautiful gardens imaginable. And they, themselves, have their own photographic rules. Either way, both present challenges. You must be able to capture their historical, as well as their fantasy aspects.
Most castles were historically built as strong defense positions. So, the best ways to present that is to find interesting angles that show their inhospitable surroundings, their dramatic locations, and imposing sizes.
Close up viewpoints of the intricate carvings, colourful mosaics, and immense showings of vast wealth, are also important characteristics which also must be captured in your photographs. Opt for a tour of the grounds and building.
Also, since castles are such old historical buildings, try to keep any sign of the modern age out of your viewfinder. Of course, having something modern next to something so historically old, is an interesting viewpoint in itself!
Now. let's go outside the castles, to the royal gardens. Other than at castles and royal dwellings, but there are numerous grand public gardens around the world which are just as lovely and photogenic. You can opt to show the symmetrical lines and patterns, or you can shoot close up on individual flowers. You can shoot from high above for an overall, distant perspective, or you can show close-to-ground shots that exaggerate the long lines and rows of flowers and greenery.
Peak season will certainly show the most colourful blooms and interesting patterns. However, pre- and post-peak times are great for more distance shots, and those that portray the patterns rather than the individual flowers and colours.
So, let's get you to find your own personal Camelot, complete with castles and royal gardens. Go over to www.kingarthur.myttn.com today and be ready to be transported back in time!
Most castles were historically built as strong defense positions. So, the best ways to present that is to find interesting angles that show their inhospitable surroundings, their dramatic locations, and imposing sizes.
Close up viewpoints of the intricate carvings, colourful mosaics, and immense showings of vast wealth, are also important characteristics which also must be captured in your photographs. Opt for a tour of the grounds and building.
Also, since castles are such old historical buildings, try to keep any sign of the modern age out of your viewfinder. Of course, having something modern next to something so historically old, is an interesting viewpoint in itself!
Now. let's go outside the castles, to the royal gardens. Other than at castles and royal dwellings, but there are numerous grand public gardens around the world which are just as lovely and photogenic. You can opt to show the symmetrical lines and patterns, or you can shoot close up on individual flowers. You can shoot from high above for an overall, distant perspective, or you can show close-to-ground shots that exaggerate the long lines and rows of flowers and greenery.
Peak season will certainly show the most colourful blooms and interesting patterns. However, pre- and post-peak times are great for more distance shots, and those that portray the patterns rather than the individual flowers and colours.
So, let's get you to find your own personal Camelot, complete with castles and royal gardens. Go over to www.kingarthur.myttn.com today and be ready to be transported back in time!
Wednesday, June 9, 2010
Travel Photography: Cities
Ah, you've finally decided to take some snapshots during your vacation. And if part of your vacation involves time in large cities, what a wealth of opportunities you have for taking amazing photographs! There is something new around every corner. New York City, especially, has so many different styles just blocks apart from each other.
Take city tours, especially if your stay is not long, to get ideas for the best views and scenery.
Historic and Modern often occur next to or near each other. Centuries old cathedrals neighbor skyscrapers. Historic ruins border modern hotels. Contrasting photographs of such combination are great subject matters for your photographs.
Close up photography in the city gives you one impression. but distant vistas make the cities look entirely different. City overlooking vantage points might be hard to come by in some areas. But keep your eyes open for such great distant opportunities, especially when you are traveling to and from the city itself. Sunsets and sunrise are especially dramatic in cityscape views.
On the other hand, the details of the cities are often seen in close up photographs of its architectural details. Anything from gargoyles, to filigree, to elaborate carvings. Just make sure to fill your viewfinder with the object. Cities are often best photographed up VERY close.
Famous city landmarks and monuments are certainly common. In fact, the more famous the landmark, the more famous the pictures of them are. You probably won't get many unique photographic opportunities, but don't refuse taking even the cliched photos of those famous statues and towers. Of course, you can always take photographs from different vantage points too, to give your subject matter more interest.
Now that you know what to do when you travel to a new city, let's get that vacation booked to the city. Come on over to www.kingarthur.myttn.com today!
Take city tours, especially if your stay is not long, to get ideas for the best views and scenery.
Historic and Modern often occur next to or near each other. Centuries old cathedrals neighbor skyscrapers. Historic ruins border modern hotels. Contrasting photographs of such combination are great subject matters for your photographs.
Close up photography in the city gives you one impression. but distant vistas make the cities look entirely different. City overlooking vantage points might be hard to come by in some areas. But keep your eyes open for such great distant opportunities, especially when you are traveling to and from the city itself. Sunsets and sunrise are especially dramatic in cityscape views.
On the other hand, the details of the cities are often seen in close up photographs of its architectural details. Anything from gargoyles, to filigree, to elaborate carvings. Just make sure to fill your viewfinder with the object. Cities are often best photographed up VERY close.
Famous city landmarks and monuments are certainly common. In fact, the more famous the landmark, the more famous the pictures of them are. You probably won't get many unique photographic opportunities, but don't refuse taking even the cliched photos of those famous statues and towers. Of course, you can always take photographs from different vantage points too, to give your subject matter more interest.
Now that you know what to do when you travel to a new city, let's get that vacation booked to the city. Come on over to www.kingarthur.myttn.com today!
Monday, June 7, 2010
Packing 101
Before you pack, you'll need some good luggage. Rather than using those easily-scratched hard-sided suitcase, opt for a softer sided model. Preferably one with wheels. Yes, wheels really DO make it much much faster and easier to lug along beside you down those extensive airport halls. Here are some important things to remember when you are packing whatever style luggage you choose:
1. Opt for clothes than can be washed by hand and drip-dried when at all possible. This will save you quite a bit of money and time, as well as save your patience instead of waiting for a washer or dryer to finish, or for someone to collect his garments.
2. Trick potential thieves? On your luggage tags, write your name and business address and telephone number rather than your home ones.
3. Before you pack your clothes, lay out all that you want to take with you on your bed. Put HALF of them back!
4. On the inside of your luggage, put your name, address, phone number, and travel information in case something gets lost.
5.Wrap your clothes in tissue paper. Roll them instead of folding them. Pack them normally, then remove wrinkles by hanging them in the bathroom with the shower turned on hot.
6.Pack your heaviest items on the bottom of your suitcase, with your socks and underwear inside your packed shoes.
7. Opt for clothes than can be layered, and/or fall into a colour theme.
8. Valuables MUST always be packed in your carry-on bag. Not just money or jewelry, but also prescriptions, and financial and work documents!
9.Things you don't normally think of taking, but make a whole lot of sense to take, include a travel umbrella, a foldable bag for your purchases, a plastic bag for dirty clothes, and a travel clock run on batteries.
10. Make a list of all that you need to take with you, including pajamas and slippers, robe, outfits, undergarments, toiletries, pantyhose, formal wear, casual wear, and rain gear. Then do the unthinkable, and CROSS OUT 25% of the entire list!
11. Your carry on luggage should also include a change of clothes and undergarments, a sweater, toiletries, and anything else you would need.
1. Opt for clothes than can be washed by hand and drip-dried when at all possible. This will save you quite a bit of money and time, as well as save your patience instead of waiting for a washer or dryer to finish, or for someone to collect his garments.
2. Trick potential thieves? On your luggage tags, write your name and business address and telephone number rather than your home ones.
3. Before you pack your clothes, lay out all that you want to take with you on your bed. Put HALF of them back!
4. On the inside of your luggage, put your name, address, phone number, and travel information in case something gets lost.
5.Wrap your clothes in tissue paper. Roll them instead of folding them. Pack them normally, then remove wrinkles by hanging them in the bathroom with the shower turned on hot.
6.Pack your heaviest items on the bottom of your suitcase, with your socks and underwear inside your packed shoes.
7. Opt for clothes than can be layered, and/or fall into a colour theme.
8. Valuables MUST always be packed in your carry-on bag. Not just money or jewelry, but also prescriptions, and financial and work documents!
9.Things you don't normally think of taking, but make a whole lot of sense to take, include a travel umbrella, a foldable bag for your purchases, a plastic bag for dirty clothes, and a travel clock run on batteries.
10. Make a list of all that you need to take with you, including pajamas and slippers, robe, outfits, undergarments, toiletries, pantyhose, formal wear, casual wear, and rain gear. Then do the unthinkable, and CROSS OUT 25% of the entire list!
11. Your carry on luggage should also include a change of clothes and undergarments, a sweater, toiletries, and anything else you would need.
Tuesday, June 1, 2010
Disabled Travel Planning
With 37,000,000 Americans having some sort of physical disability, disabled travel is becoming far more possible and plentiful. Many tour companies are now specializing in disabled traveling. But, like with any other travel partner, a disabled traveler needs to plan ahead of time is quite necessary.
First, you have to be realistic. Although people don't usually admit to their limitations and inabilities, they do realize that there are some places that they simply cannot go. Travel where you can, and go where you can, and as often as you can.
Second, put a little extra thought into booking your vacation. Historic inns and bed & breakfasts are very charming and quaint. But they also are known for twisting hallways and staircases with many stairs. Instead, opt for a location that has enough room for you to get around.
Third, when you book, make sure your travel agent, as well as the specific hotels, know that you are disabled. They can arrange for a wheelchair in advance. Most hotels even have rooms that are specifically wheelchair-accessible. Cruise ships do too, but they get taken very quickly, so do book your cruise well enough ahead of time. Even some rental vehicles have special gear and wheelchair lifts, if you require them, and request them ahead of time.
Fourth, before you leave, make sure to pack what you need. Folding wheelchair, hearing aid batteries, medication, collapsible cane, portable oxygen, and especially a list of your doctors! They're all allowed, if you make the appropriate arrangements ahead of time.
Fifth, don't be afraid to ask for help when you need it. Wheelchairs are always available at airports. Make sure there is also one available when you have connecting flights, in the interim airport. If you cannot walk down the aisle in the plane, make sure to ask the flight attendant for a chair narrow enough to roll down the aisle. Even if you have a folding one, use the airline's one on the plane.
So, you see, just having a disability does not mean you cannot travel. There are always opportunities available all over the place. Just be sure to arrange for things ahead of time. And book it at www.kingarthur.myttn.com!
First, you have to be realistic. Although people don't usually admit to their limitations and inabilities, they do realize that there are some places that they simply cannot go. Travel where you can, and go where you can, and as often as you can.
Second, put a little extra thought into booking your vacation. Historic inns and bed & breakfasts are very charming and quaint. But they also are known for twisting hallways and staircases with many stairs. Instead, opt for a location that has enough room for you to get around.
Third, when you book, make sure your travel agent, as well as the specific hotels, know that you are disabled. They can arrange for a wheelchair in advance. Most hotels even have rooms that are specifically wheelchair-accessible. Cruise ships do too, but they get taken very quickly, so do book your cruise well enough ahead of time. Even some rental vehicles have special gear and wheelchair lifts, if you require them, and request them ahead of time.
Fourth, before you leave, make sure to pack what you need. Folding wheelchair, hearing aid batteries, medication, collapsible cane, portable oxygen, and especially a list of your doctors! They're all allowed, if you make the appropriate arrangements ahead of time.
Fifth, don't be afraid to ask for help when you need it. Wheelchairs are always available at airports. Make sure there is also one available when you have connecting flights, in the interim airport. If you cannot walk down the aisle in the plane, make sure to ask the flight attendant for a chair narrow enough to roll down the aisle. Even if you have a folding one, use the airline's one on the plane.
So, you see, just having a disability does not mean you cannot travel. There are always opportunities available all over the place. Just be sure to arrange for things ahead of time. And book it at www.kingarthur.myttn.com!
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