It's
Possible
Keep Reading To Find Out How…
Picture this: images of sprawling oceans and picturesque landscapes splashed across your feed, a feeling of dread consuming you, wishing you had a round-trip ticket to Mykonos like that one ex-classmate from uni who always disappears at the first sign of winter. You sit, wondering when it will be your turn to take beautiful images of exotic locales and moody shots of architecture far removed from present day. Your dreams of being a travel photographer with an overused preset have been dashed and divided; you feel defeated. But what if I told you that you don’t even need a plane ticket to get your dream shots?
I like to think I have mastered the art of being a tourist in my own country, even in my own city. As a certified explorer (according to my Instagram), I can assure you that the best sights are all around you.
Step 1: Be delusional – but not like that
Treat your photography journey like you would an all-expenses-paid trip to Bali. Plan an itinerary for the day or weekend and consider the potential shots you wish to take. Planning can help maximise your time and achieve the desired results, even if it’s just to make everyone wonder, “Where the heck did [insert name] go?” Or you could forget all of that and just see where the wind takes you. Spontaneity and endless road trips have birthed many of my best shots because I wasn’t worried about all of the details. Whether you are a careful planner or prefer to go with the flow, make sure to treat this like any other vacation, even if it means getting more acquainted with what you think you already know.
Step 2: Take a hike (literally)
Seriously, go out and walk around or drive, depending on how safe your neighbourhood is. You’d like to think you know every crevice and corner of your city, but you’d be surprised at how much you don’t notice in the hustle and bustle of daily life. Perhaps there is a building you have walked past too many times to notice, or a creek magically appeared on your weekly trek to get coffee, that would make for perfect shots. Keep a travel journal and document the little wonders you find, how they made you feel, and whether you would like to return. Don’t look to find; look to discover something new. Focus on the memory attached to your little adventure rather than the shots themselves. If you are feeling particularly daring, venture out of your comfort zone and try a new suburb or town. Make a day of it and see what the area has to offer.
Step 3: Look up local tourist attractions
This may appeal more to planners, but it never hurts to know what to expect in a new locale in order to get the shots you want. Research the local lore and find out what hidden gems they have to offer. If you need some help, I will be releasing an article later this month highlighting my favorite hidden gems that I still make sure to visit as much as I can. Try to speak to a local and see what might’ve been left out by the websites. If you have some spare cash, go on a city sightseeing red bus tour; they often hit multiple attractions in one trip if you prefer a more curated experience. If you aren’t the type to do it alone, invite friends and family to join you.
Step 4: Watch the weather
Some of my best shots were taken in the worst weather. One in particular comes to mind when I traveled to Melkbosstrand on a stormy day, which left me with both a sore throat and amazing shots. There is so much emotion to capture, especially when the weather isn’t great. Once again, I urge you to take care of your health and safety, as I have quite impulsive tendencies due to my desire to get the ‘perfect’ shot/shots. Don’t underestimate the power of shots from a moving car, but obviously, make sure you’re not the driver. As a photographer, experimentation shouldn’t be limited to technique and location but also to mood and documenting different weather conditions, as they can be great devices for storytelling.
Step 5: Stop comparing yourself to other people (seriously, man!)
You will get to go on an overseas holiday like Jedd from uni, but perhaps you should focus on how you can make your adventures right here with what you have. Remember, social media is merely a projected depiction of what life may be like for someone, and you shouldn’t feel as if you will never achieve the dream holidays you wish to have. Starting small is still starting, and as you go along, you might realise the beauty in every moment, regardless of how mundane it may seem.
