Howard Moo Young, Contributor
Photograph by Howard Moo Young
FOR THE average person, travel photography means holiday photography. This can mean, to many of us, problems such as flight cancellation, not enough time, bad weather, children fighting in the back of the car, a bored partner yearning to get back to the hotel for happy hour, your favourite building being painted and refurbished, a stomach upset, sunburnt shoulders and oh ... so much more!
But wait! You don't just want snapshots, you really want to capture satisfying pictures that will evoke great memories for years to come, and this can be a hassle. But most of the hassle is usually caused by the normal everyday stress of travelling.
BEFORE YOU LEAVE HOME
We don't just get up in the morning and decide on the spur of the moment to go on holiday, unless you are just running out of town to catch the jerk or kite festival. But if you're going away for some time, there's a whole load of things that need to be done.
RESEARCH
Great planning will reward you with great holidays and great travel pictures. Do some research, don't just automatically book a package-tour holiday because at first it looks easy and is a good bargain. You might get better deals if you check the Internet and even research the local hotels.
Whether you are holidaying in Jamaica or going abroad, it makes sense to pick up a local travel guide from the Jamaica Tourist Board, or buy one about the country you're visiting. Maybe your travel agent can help, or you can check the Internet. It still amazes me how many locals still don't know about their beautiful island, and its beauty spots and attractions, towns and villages.
PHOTOGRAPHIC POTENTIAL
Plan your holiday based on photographic potential. Find out what part of the country is most beautiful at your holiday time of year. Are there festivals going on? Is the weather too hot, too cold or just the right temperature? Make a list of your criteria.
I remember when 15 photographers, including myself, made a five-day trip to our neighbouring island of Cuba a few years ago. We hired three Ladas and their owners to act as guides and drivers, which included a medical doctor, an engineer, and a computer technician. I vividly recall that all our meals, except breakfast, were prepared in private homes, deliciously and generously served at a bargain price, as compared to Jamaica. Our local guides did a fine job. They knew exactly where to take us to get the best photographs in and around Old Havana.
OLD OR NEW CAMERA?
You will have to make a choice regarding your equipment every time you go on a photography holiday. Whether you take your old camera (which might not be even that old) or buy a new one, you will make a choice. Here's a couple of points you should bear in mind.
Never take brand new camera on a trip without first shooting at least two rolls as a test and get-to-know-each-other. If your new purchase is a digital camera, it's even more critical if you have never used one before.
Try out all the modes on your new camera. Don't forget to read your instruction book carefully and pack it in your camera bag. The same advice applies to your old camera. If you haven't used it in a long time, get it out and check if it's working. Put in new batteries, shoot a roll and have it processed 2 weeks before you leave, just in case it needs to be repaired or replaced. Don't go away with any camera - new or old - without first making sure it's in good working order.
Remember that since 9/11, it might be illegal to take pictures of airports, military personnel, and other "sensitive" subjects and buildings. (To be continued next week)
Howard Moo Young is an Advertising / Graphic Design / Photography Consultant with over 40 years experience. Email:mooimages@yahoo.com
