creative live travel photography

photo & video

money & life

self improvement

entrepreneurship

art & design

fundamentals

craft & maker

food & home

needlecraft

jewelry design

music & audio

• Photo & Video
• Money & Life
• Art & Design
• Craft & Maker
• Music & Audio

2,000+ classes ranging from fundamentals to advanced techniques.

Free Photography Classes

Fundamentals

Adobe Lightroom

Adobe Photoshop

Adobe Premiere Pro

Final Cut Pro X

Post-Processing

Adventure & Sports

Documentary

Family & Lifestyle

Food Photography

Glamour & Beauty

Newborn Photography

Portrait Photography

Street photography

Wedding Photography

Aerial & Drone

Mobile Photography

Speedlights

Videography

Camera Guides

Canon Tutorials

Nikon Tutorials

Sony Tutorials

Money & Finance

Self-Improvement

Time Management

Communication Skills

Leadership & Management

Business Basics

Creative Inspiration

Entrepreneurship

Freelancing

Online Business

Social Media

Color Theory

Illustration

Design Inspiration

Design Projects

Design Thinking

Graphic Design

Logo Design

Adobe After Effects

Adobe Illustrator

Adobe InDesign

Calligraphy

Hand Lettering

Mixed Media Art

Paper Craft Ideas

Scrapbooking

Stamp Making

Cake Decorating

Floral Arranging

Holiday & Party Crafts

Interior Design

Cross-Stitching

Fabric Crafts

Fashion Design

Surface Pattern Design

Upcycling Ideas

Jewelry Design

Marketing & Sales

Audio Engineering

Music Business

Songwriting

Sound Mixing

Studio Pass

Ableton Live

Avid Pro Tools

Electronic Music Production

Guitar Recording

Learn to DJ

Live Sound Mixing

Recording Drums

{{ $root.user._data | prettyUsername: ' ': false: false: true }}

• {{ $root.userAccountNotificationsCounter }} My Account
• Back To Biz
• SEE THE IOS APPS

all > photo & video

All Photography Classes

Architectural & Real Estate Photography

Cinematography

Digital Photography

Low key Lighting

Natural Light

Photo Editing

Studio Lighting

Video Editing

All Design Classes

Free Design Classes

Motion Graphics

All Music & Audio Classes

Free Music Classes

Pro Audio Software

Sound Design

All Craft Classes

Free Craft Classes

All Money & Life Classes

Body Language

Business Communication

Business Writing

Copywriting

Free Business Classes

Negotiation

Project Management

Public Speaking

Yoga Classes

Streaming Now

COLLECTIONS

Bundle & Save

Photography Bundles

Design Bundles

Craft Bundles

Business Bundles

Music & Audio Bundles

Conferences

Photoshop Week

Social Media Event

Podcasting Week

Family Photo Week

Wholesale Business

Night Photo Week

30 Days of Genius with Chase Jarvis

The Chase Jarvis LIVE Show

We Are Photographers Video Podcasts

In Focus Series

One Hour Photo with John Greengo

Between the Lines with Kelly Corrigan

Learning Paths

Back to Biz

Fundamentals of Photography

John Greengo

Editing and Organizing your Photography in Lightroom

Jared Platt

Editing and Organizing your Photography in Lightroom Classic

Photography workflow with ai, the streamlined lightroom workflow, adobe lightroom classic: the complete guide.

Ben Willmore

Adobe Photoshop CC: The Complete Guide

28 days of portrait photography, real estate photography.

Philip Ebiner

Landscape Photo Editing with Adobe Lightroom Classic

The photography starter kit for beginners, fine art photography: the complete guide.

Brooke Shaden

The Art of Flower Photography

Kathleen Clemons

Family Photography: Modern Storytelling

Kirsten Lewis

Adobe Photoshop: The Complete Guide Bootcamp

Adobe premiere pro cc video editing: the complete guide.

Abba Shapiro

Studio Lighting 101

Lindsay Adler

Intro to Architectural Interior Photography with Natural Light

Scott Frances

The Art of Wildlife Photography

Tom Mangelsen

Nature and Landscape Photography

Filming families: the modern family video.

Courtney Holmes

Photoshop AI: Getting Started with Generative Fill

Creating painterly photographs.

Improve Your Photography

Visually engaging and in-depth classes

Photography is an amazing skill that can be applied to enrich your life. Getting the shots you envision takes time and education, luckily John Greengo is here to help. John’s unique experience and teaching techniques set the backdrop for an engaging learning experience that is easy to understand even with the most complex of topics.

John’s collection of online classes at CreativeLive are broken down into easy to understand lessons. All of the courses come with additional class material to help you get the most out of your learning experience.

Donna Gonzalez Your illustrations explaining concepts of photography are phenomenal! Learned more in watching just one of the webinars than any number of books and other instruction. Thank you!

Teri Jovanovich Really nice presentation, great information, depth of knowledge and experience of teacher was awesome.

WANT TO STAY IN THE LOOP?

Subscribe to hear about new classes as they are released..

Travel Photography Essentials

Canon R6ii: Complete Camera Guide

Tilt Shift Photography: The Complete Guide

Lens Essentials

Photography Essentials

OM System OM1: Complete Camera Guide

Camera Buyer’s Guide: 2023

Nikon Z9: Complete Camera Guide

Photographic Exposure: The Complete Guide

Fujifilm XT5: Complete Camera Guide

Composition Essentials

Sony A7RIV: Complete Camera Guide

Canon R5: Complete Camera Guide

Nikon Zfc: Complete Camera Guide

Nikon Z8: Complete Camera Guide

Nikon Z5: Complete Camera Guide

Canon R7: Complete Camera Guide

Nikon Z7II & Z6II: Complete Camera Guide

Canon R3: Complete Camera Guide

Canon RP: Complete Camera Guide

Canon R6: Complete Camera Guide

Canon 90D: Complete Camera Guide

Sony A7C: Complete Camera Guide

Nikon D780: Complete Camera Guide

Fujifilm XT4: Complete Camera Guide

Sony A1: Complete Camera Guide

Sony A7RV: Complete Camera Guide

Sony A7IV: Complete Camera Guide

Olympus OMD EM1 III: Complete Camera Guide

Nature and Landscape Photography: CreativeLive

Camera Buyer’s Guide: 2022

Olympus OM-D E-M1X Fast Start

Canon 5D Mark III Fast Start Including Canon 5DS/5DSR

Disclosure: the links on this page are affiliate links, meaning, at no additional cost to you, i earn compensation if you click through and make a purchase or submit your email address to creativelive..

Inspiring and Useful Online Courses for Travelers – CreativeLive Review

Not too long ago, we discovered a really cool online course site called CreativeLive. While many of their video classes are geared toward creatives – photographers, crafters, entrepreneurs – we wanted to share several of the best ones that would especially interest intentional travelers.

How CreativeLive Works

CreativeLive brings in experts to record live, video workshops and courses. They feature photography, video, design, business, audio, music, crafting, and software training.

You can watch each live broadcast for free and interact with the instructors via a live chat. Usually, there is a live studio audience who is learning alongside you and then a moderator will keep an eye on the chat feed and pose questions to the expert on behalf of the audience watching online.

Check Out CreativeLive’s Free On-Air Courses

After a course is recorded, it’s available on the website for purchase. If you want to watch the lessons on your own time and get access to any workbook downloads or other bonus materials, you buy the course and it’s yours to access forever.

I like to keep my eye on the free courses (sometimes they will even replay crowd favorites for free over a certain weekend) and have enjoyed tuning in to things like:

Tara Gentile’s Build A Stand-Out Business Vanessa Van Edwards’ Master Your People Skills Creative Photography Challenge

Great Online Classes for Travelers

The following two classes I (Michelle) personally recommend. Both are top notch and packed full of practical strategies, tips, and techniques.

Travel Photography: The Complete Guide with Ben Willmore

The instructor, Ben, is a photographer who happens to travel, but he’s also a really skilled teacher. He has a great way of explaining things that is easy to follow and keeps you engaged. While CreativeLive has a number of different travel photography courses available, I chose this one for the rave reviews about the instructor – and I was not disappointed.

This course has 37 video lessons and a dozen downloads that will help you:

• choose the right camera and gear,
• strategize to get more compelling images,
• navigate the challenges of photography in foreign situations, and
• master editing techniques in Lightroom and Photoshop

Although I don’t have the Lightroom program and am just using a glorified point-and-shoot camera, I actually skipped quite a few lessons and still feel like I got a ton of value out of this course. I’m really excited to try some new tricks and practice what I’ve learned in our upcoming trip!

At the time of this writing, this course appears to be on sale for $73 (usually $99).

Check out:  Travel Photography: The Complete Guide with Ben Willmore

Make Your Dream Trip A Reality with Stephanie Zito and Chris Guillebeau

We happen to know these two travel hacking gurus, thanks to WDS , but even before we knew them personally, they were the reason we learned how to travel hack and now fly multiple international flights per year completely on miles!

This course has 33 lessons and seven downloads (including the Credit Card Tracker that I use constantly). It will help you:

• Master the system of Frequent Flier miles and hotel points
• Set up a personal points-earning strategy – even if you don’t fly
• Upgrade your dream vacation experience at no cost to you

They also bring in other guest globetrotters and help the studio audience through the process of travel hacking their dream trips, so you can really see how to apply what you’re learning in real life.

This bootcamp was recorded a few years ago, so the price has dropped significantly. Fortunately, most of the main concepts they discuss still apply today. There’s also a Facebook group for students of the course, where current travel hacking deals are shared. 

Check out:  Make Your Dream Trip A Reality with Stephanie Zito and Chris Guillebeau

Some other classes that travelers or digital nomads would appreciate are:

• Fundamentals of Photography  – John Greengo
• Six Months to Six Figures  – Peter Voogd
• Start a Profitable Online Business  – Lewis Howes
• The 4 Hour Life  – Tim Ferriss
• Become Fluent in Any Language  – Gabe Wyner

Although I cannot personally vouch for these ones, you can always check out the reviews on the course page.

Disclosure: We are affiliates of CreativeLive. That means, if you purchase a course after using one of our links, we will receive a small commission – at no additional cost to you. Rest assured that all opinions in this post are our own.

Similar Posts

Is this Digital Nomad Thing Working Out? (Looking Back on Year 1)

In this post, we share our story about becoming digital nomads in 2014. We reflect on the pros and cons of working remotely as self-employed freelancers and traveling. Our Digital Nomad Story: Year 1 Flash Back to July 2014 One year ago, Jedd and I had just begun our journey of being digital nomads and…

How to travel safely and responsibly in 2022 and beyond

Wondering how to travel safely during COVID-19? Many of us are longing to travel again, but only if we can do so safely and responsibly. We’ve put a lot of thought into the safest ways to take a vacation right now. And we plan to continually update this post with safe travel ideas and tips,…

Is JAL Premium Economy Worth It? Japan Airlines 787-9 Premium Economy Review Haneda to San Francisco

We recently flew on JAL’s premium economy for the first time. In those post we’ll share our full review of the flight on the 787-9 from Haneda, Tokyo to San Francisco (HND-SFO) and our thoughts on whether or not Japan Airlines premium economy is worth it. Whatever you might hear, premium economy is not the…

T-Mobile ONE Phone Plan Global Coverage Review

Please note that we have no connection to T-mobile nor were we asked to write this review. We are just very appreciative of this service and found it so helpful, that we wanted to share it with other travelers. That being said, T-mobile, please contact us….we’d love to talk with you. It’s a free call….

Packing List for a Summer Self-Guided Bike Tour in Europe

Are you preparing to pack for a self-guided bike tour in Europe? Wondering what clothing, gear, and other essentials to bring on your bike trip? In this post, we’ll share packing tips and a packing list to help you enjoy your cycle tour. Our self-guided cycle trip from Bruges, Belgium to Amsterdam included 6 days of…

Cambodia Travel Tips: Do’s and Don’ts for Visitors

This post provides about how to be a mindful, respectful traveler in a developing country like Cambodia. Special thanks to our friend and fellow intentional traveler, Karen Bortvedt, who lived and worked in Phnom Penh for nearly four years, for contributing these travel tips for Cambodia! Caring for Cambodia: Travel Tips Known as the “Kingdom of Wonder,”…

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

Get My Free Lightroom Presets

Travel collection.

New to PhotoTraces? Perfect, let me show you around

Learn about Viktor, a photographer behind the PhotoTraces

My Travel Photography Gear

Learn what I have in travel camera bag

Latest Articles & Tutorials

21 World Famous Photographers and Their Photos

Parts of a Camera: Understanding How Digital Camera Works

Full Frame vs APS-C Cameras: Which Do You Need?

10 Best Camera Brands Today: Top Camera Manufacturers

Lens Finder: How to Choose The Right Camera Lens

Lightroom Workflow: 15 Tips for a Better Editing Experience

How to Move Lightroom to a New Computer – A Step by Step Guide

Why Are My Photos Blurry? (3 Main Reasons & Tips to Avoid Blurry Photos)

How Many Photos Can 16GB/32GB/64GB/128GB/256GB Memory Card Hold?

Point Lobos State Natural Reserve: Maps, Weather, Hiking, Wildlife

Lightroom Histogram As Interactive Editing Tool

Image Masking: Essential Tool for Photo Editing with Photoshop and Lightroom

Lightroom Classic vs Lightroom CC: What is the Difference?

How to Export Lightroom Presets (Adobe Lightroom Classic)

21 Famous Female Photographers and Their Photos

Lines in Photography Composition: 7 Types With Examples

Shutter Speed Chart – Cheat Sheet for Controlling Motion in Photographs

Vintage Looking Digital Cameras: My Top 10 Models

Best Photo Locations

National Parks in Washington State

National Parks in Utah: Explore the Best Utah National Parks

National Parks in Hawaii: Discover the Best Hawaii National Parks

National Parks in Florida: Best National Parks and Monuments

National Parks in Colorado: Best National Parks and Monuments

National Parks in California: Best National Parks and Monuments

National Parks in Arizona: Best National Parks and Monuments to Visit

National Parks Near Las Vegas (Map, Distances, Driving Time)

National Parks in Alaska: 8 Unique National Parks

Popular Articles & Tutorials

Are you struggling to determine the best camera brands that exist today? Do you find yourself overwhelmed …

If you are looking for top Lightroom workflow tips to optimize and speed up your editing process, …

The “Shutter Speed Chart” is a tool or cheat sheet designed to help photographers understand and use …

While numerous contemporary digital cameras sport sleek, “futuristic” designs, it’s the retro and vintage looking digital camera …

Histogram in Photography: How to Get Perfect Exposure with Every Shot

Histogram in photography – a topic often perceived as too complex or unnecessary by many photographers. But …

Photography Cheat Sheet Selection [Top Infographics]

A photography cheat sheet is a graphical representation of one of the concepts of photography. As a …

Fujifilm vs Sony: Switching from Sony to Fuji

It’s been a while since I switched from Sony to Fuji. At this point, I am ready …

F-Stop Chart Infographic – Aperture in Photography CheatSheet

If you’re looking to understand aperture in photography, then you’ve come to the right place. F-Stop Chart …

ISO in Photography – Breaking Away from the Exposure Triangle

This photography fundamentals article aims to answer the following questions: What does ISO in photography mean, and …

How to Install Lightroom Presets – Step-by Step Guide

For years, the process of installing presets in Lightroom was simple and straightforward. All you had to …

Memory Card Battle: Sandisk Extreme Pro vs Extreme Plus vs Extreme vs Ultra

So, you’ve purchased the camera that you have always wanted, but what about the memory card? Having …

Best External Hard Drives for Photographers

If you are looking for the best external hard drive for photographers, you’ve come to the right …

Free RAW Photos for Editing

Free Lightroom Presets (Travel Collection)

Lightroom Presets – Free Download (zip + dng)

[email protected]

Privacy Policy

Photography Basics

Camera Settings Guide ISO in Photography F-Stop Chart Photography Cheat Sheets Shutter Speed Chart ISO Chart Histogram in Photography Camera Settings for Sunset Hyperfocal Distance Canon STM vs USM Lens

Lightroom Tutorials Lightroom Histogram Lightroom Before and After Lightroom Workflow Tips Lightroom Smart Previews Where Lightroom Presets Stored Overexposed Photos in Lightroom How to Export Lightroom Presets Free Lightroom Presets Free RAW Photos for Editing

Composition

Leading Lines in Photography Golden Ratio in Photography Elements of Composition Rule of Thirds in Photography 12 Rules of Composition Foreground, Middleground and Background Symmetry in Photography Perspective in Photography Vantage Points in Photography

Photography Gear

Best Camera Brands Vintage Looking Digital Camera Parts of a Camera How to Choose a Camera Lens Holy Trinity of Lenses Sony vs Fujifilm Fujifilm X-T5 Review Best Fuji Lenses Best External Hard Drives for Photographers

PhotoTraces.com is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon.com

© 2014 - 2024 - PhotoTraces.com

• [ August 11, 2019 ] Wildlife & Nature: The 5th Exposure Mode Nature And Wildlife
• [ July 11, 2019 ] What Is Photography?: A Winogrand Vision Beginners
• [ July 8, 2019 ] What is Slow Photography? A Tool Kit Tips & Tutorials
• [ July 8, 2019 ] Best Point and Shoot Camera Equipment
• [ July 3, 2019 ] Shoot for Spirit, But Don’t Let Gear Interfere Beginners

Travel Adventures – Part 4: Moscow

July 7, 2016 Travel

This beautiful woman lingered for a moment on the steps at one of the several churches in the Sergeiv Posad Monastery. I thought she was absolutely beautiful.

So far in this journey we have visited some wonderful cities … Helsinki, Finland, Tallinn, Estonia and St. Petersburg, Russia. We have traveled together along the waterways of Russia to such exotic sounding places as Mandrogy, Kitzy Island, Goritzy, Uglich, and Yaroslavl and seen the beauty of the countryside in between these towns. But our ship finally came to dock in Moscow, the capital of Russia and I really had no idea what to expect!

One advantage of travel tour is that you get a good general overview of an area. That’s the good news, of course. The bad news on most tours — and this tour certainly was no exception –was that you never did have a lot of time to explore on your own. The guides and the schedule kept you pretty busy all of the time. It was great for getting information and seeing a lot, but difficult for photographers who like to explore in more depth.

When we got to Moscow, we hopped on buses and were off to tour the city. Moscow is a huge city with so much traffic that I vowed never to complain about the traffic on Los Angeles freeways ever again. I couldn’t believe how tough you had to be to drive in this city. It played havoc with all schedules and timetables because what should have taken just 20 minutes to drive ended up taking an hour. One of the reasons is how they handle their traffic accidents. From what we understood and saw, cars involved in accidents were not allowed to move until both the police and the insurance adjuster came. So, a simple traffic accident could snarl things for hours. There is definitely a different viewpoint here than back home.

The traffic on every street no matter the hour seemed to be hectic.

The city of Moscow is upbeat with many shops, theaters, and restaurants and such. We saw shops with all of the latest and most expensive designers. All of the big brand names in clothing had shops. During this introductory tour, we were dropped off on a rather large street and told to walk through an arch into a huge open area. A large red brick/stone wall ran down one side and the most magnificent Russian Church we had seen so far was at the far end. The area was enormous and, of course, it was the famous Red Square. Behind the brick/stone wall was the Kremlin. I had to pause to take it all in, because never in my life would I have ever imagined myself standing there! The look on my sister and friend’s faces, told the same story that I was feeling … ABSOLUTE AWE!

We had some time to wander and walk by Lenin’s tomb before we had to return to the bus to continue the general tour of the city. 

From an overlook within the St. Basil Cathedral, you can get a fabulous overview of Red Square. The Kremlin wall is on the left side of the image; at the end of that wall is the Spasskaya Tower. The red building with two towers is the National Historical Museum, barely seen and tucked into the corner to the right of the Museum is Kazan Cathedral and along the right side is the turn of the century arcades of Gum’s department store.

Copyright © Stan Westfall

Along the wall that separates the Kremlin from Red Square is Lenin’s tomb. His body has been on public display there since the year he died in 1924.

A night tour took us past some of the brightly lit gambling casinos in Moscow. The bouncing bus, combined with the bright neon lighting, brought a few interesting photo opportunities. We attended a wonderful concert that featured many of the traditional musical instruments of Russia — another photo opportunity not normally available in a theater, but because the audience was from the various tours and ships that were in Moscow that particular evening, we could take photos — but of course, not with flash, which is always a disturbance to the performers. As we left the concert, the moon was just rising over one of the beautiful cathedral spires. My friend Anne caught the shot (3rd below/right). She is quick and steady and got a round of applause when she “nailed it!”

Driving through Moscow’s downtown area at night was fascinating. It was bright with colored lights. Many casinos and restaurants were lit up and looked very busy. It was a supercharged city that came alive at night.

Copyright © Anne Westfall

St. Basil’s in Red Square was beautiful during the day but at night it was a fairy tale. This is one of Russia’s most beautiful cathedrals.

Fabulously lit fountains switched colors to make an exciting night shot.

Square at night is spectacular with the Gums building in sparkling lights.

Leaving the theater one night we were just in time to see the moonrise near one of Moscow’s cathedrals. 

The next day we toured the park adjacent to the grounds of the beautiful Novodevichy Conventwhere many exiled or self-exiled royal wives, daughters and lovers “took the veil” (which means they chose to become a nun), to get out of their marriage, family or mistress arrangement, since divorce was not allowed. It is in this park where you will find the lovely bronze ducks, given as a gift by President George Walker Bush and Mrs. Barbara Bush. We visited the Kremlin and I was surprised to find out that there were 5 or 6 churches within its walls. In the Armory, the stunningly beautiful royal clothes, jewels and carriages were housed. It was amazing to see that even the carriages were embedded with jewels.

The Novodevichy Convent where many exiled or self-exiled royal family members “took the Veil”. The park like setting was one of the most beautiful we had seen.

We had the opportunity to go into their frightfully expensive, but stunningly wonderful GUM (pronounced we discovered like “goom” not “gum” as in chewing gum). Just wandering up and down this multilevel shopping extravaganza was a treat.

Gums is a large collection of shops on one side of Red Square. The three level, indoor mall features eating establishments, large walkways and bridges from one side to another. It is frequently used as a setting for newly wed brides.

The next morning, my friend Stan Westfall and I decided to take the tour to the Sergiev Posad Monastery. My sister, Sunny, and our friend Anne Westfall opted to visit the Pushkin Museum in the morning and the Tretyakov Gallery in the afternoon. Since we were going to have separate adventures to share that evening, I reminded them to take lots and lots of photographs so we could enjoy their day as well.

In the center of the Sergeiv Posad Monastery there is a beautiful Holy Water fountain where people come to drink, to bless and to carry home a small jar of Holy Water. 

CONTINUE WITH THE STORY AND SEE MORE PHOTOS…………

Be sure to join us next month as we visit Moscow.

Read Travel Adventures – Part 1: Finland and Estonia

Read Travel Adventures – Part 2: St. Petersburg, Russia

Read Travel Adventures – Part 3: Cruising the Russian Waterways

by Noella Ballenger

Be the first to comment

Leave a reply cancel reply.

Your email address will not be published.

© 1995-2020 Apogee Photo Magazine. All Rights Reserved. Learn From Hundreds of photography articles

The Photo Adventure of a Lifetime

The world’s most creative and inspiring photo tours and cultural adventures, may all who come as guests… leave as friends ®.

We offer over 100 carefully curated small-group photo tours in over 40 countries. Our authentic adventures offer you a chance to combine a spectacular vacation with a wonderful creative learning experience. We blend travel, culture, photography, cuisine, and more. Our casual format provides a unique blend of hands-on learning techniques and skills mastered over many years, including our exclusive “The Art of Seeing” approach. Whether you are a beginner, an enthusiast, or a professional, we invite you to join us on a truly amazing photographic and cultural adventure of a lifetime.

Photographers

Destinations.

24 HOURS OF LE MANS

AMSTERDAM & HOLLAND

BANFF & LAKE LOUISE

BARCELONA “SOUL OF THE STREETS”

BUENOS AIRES

CALIFORNIA COAST

CINQUE TERRE

CUBA | EASTERN CUBA

CUBA | HAVANA

CUBA | PRIVATE

CUBA | VANISHING CUBA

DOLOMITES & LAKE COMO

DOLOMITES + MILKY WAY

GRAND TETON

GUATEMALA SEMANA SANTA

HISTORIC ROUTE 66

INDIA | HOLI FESTIVAL OF COLORS

INDIA | KERALA

INDIA | KERALA THEYYAM FESTIVAL

INDIA | LOST TRIBES OF GUJARAT

INDIA | RAJASTHAN

INDIA | THE SOUL OF THE STREETS

INDIA | VARANASI

KENYA | MAASAI MARA SAFARI

LONDON “SOUL OF THE STREETS”

MOROCCO | SAHARA DESERT

NAPLES & THE AMALFI COAST

NEW YORK “SOUL OF THE STREETS”

NORWAY | LOFOTEN ISLANDS

OAXACA | DAY OF THE DEAD

PETRA & WADI RUM

PROVENCE & COTE D’AZUR

SWITZERLAND

THREE AMIGOS SPAIN

TURKEY & ISTANBUL

VENICE CARNEVALE

VIETNAM | CENTRAL VIETNAM

VIETNAM | NORTHERN VIETNAM

• Architecture

North America

South & Central America

Southeast Asia

Middle East

Special Offers

Private Guided

Travel Insurance

Rewards Program

Think Orange Magazine

Terms & Conditions

For more information email us or call us at 1-888-834-0288    © 2008 - 2024 Photo Workshop Adventures LLC    All Rights Reserved   Website design by Red Octopus

Privacy Overview

Necessary cookies are absolutely essential for the website to function properly. This category only includes cookies that ensures basic functionalities and security features of the website. These cookies do not store any personal information.

Any cookies that may not be particularly necessary for the website to function and is used specifically to collect user personal data via analytics, ads, other embedded contents are termed as non-necessary cookies. It is mandatory to procure user consent prior to running these cookies on your website.

Pin It on Pinterest

Passing Thru Travel

Top 12 Travel Photography Hotspots for 2024

Posted: March 21, 2024 | Last updated: March 21, 2024

Photography plays a crucial role in sharing and perceiving travel experiences; practicing responsible travel photography has never been more important. It’s about capturing the world’s beauty with respect for the environment, local cultures, and future generations. This guide explores photogenic destinations and embodies the principles of sustainability and respect, offering photographers the chance to capture stunning imagery while adhering to ethical practices.

1. Banff National Park, Canada

Banff National Park, nestled in the heart of the Canadian Rockies, is a sanctuary of majestic peaks, turquoise glacial lakes, and vast wilderness. As Canada’s first national park, Banff offers photographers unparalleled natural beauty, from the serene waters of Lake Louise to the rugged grandeur of Moraine Lake.

The park’s diverse wildlife, including elk, grizzly bears, and wolves, adds a dynamic element to any photo shoot, demanding a respectful distance and a keen eye for candid moments. The Icefields Parkway, stretching between Banff and Jasper, is a journey through some of the world’s most scenic landscapes, offering endless photography opportunities.

Responsible travel photography in Banff means adhering to park regulations, staying on designated paths to protect the delicate ecosystem, and capturing the natural environment without leaving a trace. The park’s commitment to conservation and protecting its natural and cultural heritage makes it a prime example of how tourism and environmental stewardship coexist.

Insider’s Tip: Focus on capturing the natural beauty without disturbing the wildlife. Use a zoom lens to photograph animals from a distance and stay on designated trails to protect the natural habitat.

When to Travel: Summer (June to August) is for hiking and photography, and winter (December to March) is for snowscapes and northern lights.

How to Get There: Fly into Calgary International Airport, then drive about 1.5 hours west to Banff.

2. Kyoto, Japan

Kyoto, the heart of traditional Japan, presents a rich cultural heritage, serene landscapes, and architectural wonders. The city’s ancient temples, such as Kinkaku-ji (the Golden Pavilion) and Kiyomizu-dera, stand as monuments to Buddhist devotion and Japanese aesthetics, offering photographers a glimpse into the soul of Kyoto.

The historic geisha district of Gion, with its wooden machiya houses and stone-paved streets, provides a backdrop for capturing the enduring traditions of Japan. During cherry blossom season, the city transforms into a picturesque tableau of delicate pinks and whites, with Maruyama Park and the Philosopher’s Walk prime photography locations.

Photography in Kyoto involves respecting the privacy of geishas and locals, avoiding intrusive behavior, and appreciating the city’s cultural sites with mindfulness and reverence. Engaging with the local community, understanding the significance of the sites, and contributing to preserving Kyoto’s heritage are key aspects of responsible travel photography in this ancient city.

Insider’s Tip: Always ask for permission before taking photos of people, and be mindful of private property signs when exploring Kyoto’s narrow alleys and traditional neighborhoods.

When to Travel: Cherry blossom season in early April or autumn foliage in November for stunning natural backdrops.

How to Get There: Fly into Kansai International Airport and take a train or bus to Kyoto.

3. Petra, Jordan

The ancient city of Petra, carved directly into vibrant red sandstone cliffs, offers an unparalleled opportunity to step back in time. This archaeological feat, once a thriving trading center, now invites you to explore its tombs, temples, and theaters.

Visitors should avoid climbing on fragile structures or entering areas that are closed for restoration. The best photographs of Petra come from those who take the time to understand its history and significance, offering viewers a glimpse into the past that respects the efforts to preserve it for the future.

Insider’s Tip: Visit Petra early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid the crowds and capture the best light.

When to Travel: Spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) for mild weather.

How to Get There: Fly into Queen Alia International Airport in Amman, then drive or take a bus to Petra.

4. Machu Picchu, Peru

Machu Picchu, the iconic Incan citadel set high in the Andes Mountains, is a masterpiece of engineering and architecture. Its precise stone constructions, built in harmony with the earth and sky, offer a window into the Incan world and its spiritual connection to nature. This UNESCO World Heritage site, surrounded by lush cloud forests and towering peaks, is a photographer’s dream for its breathtaking vistas and a place of deep cultural reverence.

Photographers are encouraged to be mindful of where they step, staying on designated paths to prevent erosion and damage to the ancient stones. The use of tripods is restricted within the site to minimize impact and congestion, and drones are prohibited to preserve the peace and sanctity of the surroundings.

Insider’s Tip: Use the natural light of dawn to capture Machu Picchu in its most magical and least crowded state, and follow the guidance of local authorities regarding the use of tripods and drones.

When to Travel: Dry season from May to October for clearer skies and safer hiking conditions.

How to Get There: Fly to Cusco from Lima, then take a train to Aguas Calientes and a bus up to Machu Picchu.

5. Great Barrier Reef, Australia

The Great Barrier Reef, the world’s largest coral reef system, is a kaleidoscope of marine life and vibrant corals stretching over 2,300 kilometers along the Queensland coast. It’s home to thousands of species of fish, mollusks, sharks, turtles, and an array of stunning coral formations. Photographers are drawn to the reef’s underwater beauty, seeking to capture its vivid colors and dynamic ecosystems.

However, the reef faces threats from climate change, pollution, and human activities, making responsible photography more crucial than ever. Photographers should practice minimal impact diving and snorkeling, ensuring they do not touch or step on the coral, which can cause significant damage.

It’s also important to be mindful of marine life by maintaining a respectful distance, avoiding the temptation to chase or harass creatures for the perfect shot. The use of natural light is encouraged to preserve the true colors of the reef and minimize disturbance to its inhabitants.

Insider’s Tip: Use natural light as much as possible to avoid stressing marine life with flash, and never touch or stand on the coral reefs to get a better shot.

When to Travel: June to October for the best underwater visibility and diving conditions.

How to Get There: Fly into Cairns International Airport, with numerous options for reef tours departing from Cairns and Port Douglas.

6. Venice, Italy

Venice is famed for its intricate waterways, historic architecture, and rich artistic heritage. This floating city, built on a lagoon, is made up of winding canals, grand palazzos, and vibrant squares, each telling a story of Venice’s glorious past. However, Venice is also a city grappling with the impacts of climate change, rising sea levels, and the effects of mass tourism, making mindful photography practices essential.

Photographers are drawn to the iconic sights of St. Mark’s Basilica, the Rialto Bridge, and the Grand Canal, yet there’s a deeper narrative to be captured in the quieter, less-visited areas that reveal the authentic Venetian lifestyle.

Use your photography to highlight the city’s beauty and fragility, focusing on themes such as conservation, the impact of climate change, and the importance of sustainable tourism. Avoid contributing to congestion in popular tourist spots by exploring alternative viewpoints and compositions that tell a unique story of Venice.

Insider’s Tip: Seek out less-visited areas of Venice for unique shots that also help disperse the impact of tourism away from the most crowded spots like St. Mark’s Square and the Rialto Bridge.

When to Travel: Spring (April to June) and autumn (September to November) to avoid peak tourist seasons and flooding.

How to Get There: Fly into Venice Marco Polo Airport or Treviso Airport for budget airlines, then take a water taxi or vaporetto to the city.

7. Serengeti National Park, Tanzania

The Serengeti National Park is home to the vast migrations of wildebeest and zebras and an impressive array of predators. It’s a place where the cycle of life plays out on an epic scale, offering photographers moments of raw beauty and dramatic interaction. Photography in the Serengeti means keeping a safe distance from animals and using long lenses to capture intimate moments without disturbance.

Photographers should follow the guidance of their guides and park regulations to ensure their presence does not impact the wildlife or their habitat. The Serengeti’s vast landscapes and abundant wildlife require patience and respect from those who wish to capture its essence, ensuring that this natural spectacle continues for generations to come.

Insider’s Tip: Invest in a good telephoto lens to capture close-up shots of wildlife without disturbing them, and always stay in your vehicle during game drives.

When to Travel: June to October is for the wildebeest migration, and December to March is for the calving season and predator interaction.

How to Get There: Fly into Kilimanjaro International Airport, then take a small aircraft to an airstrip in the Serengeti.

Iceland, a country of stark contrasts and natural wonders, offers photographers otherworldly landscapes. From the aurora borealis dancing over snow-capped volcanoes to the serene beauty of its fjords and waterfalls, Iceland is a destination where the elements create art.

Practicing photography in Iceland involves respecting the fragile ecosystems that make its landscapes so unique. Staying on marked paths, refraining from moving rocks or vegetation to get the perfect shot, and being mindful of nesting birds or delicate mosses are all crucial. Iceland’s weather can be unpredictable, and photographers should prepare accordingly, ensuring their quest for the perfect photo does not risk them or the natural environment.

Insider’s Tip: Stick to marked paths when photographing Iceland’s natural attractions to prevent damage to the vegetation and soil, and be mindful of the weather conditions to ensure your safety.

When to Travel: Summer (June to August) is for midnight sun photography, and winter (November to February) is for northern lights.

How to Get There: Fly into Keflavík International Airport and rent a car for the most flexibility in exploring.

9. Angkor Wat, Cambodia

Angkor Wat, the jewel of Cambodia’s ancient Khmer Empire, showcases the country’s rich historical and architectural legacy. This sprawling temple complex, originally constructed in the early 12th century, is the largest religious monument in the world and offers photographers a unique blend of spiritual significance and architectural grandeur.

The intricate bas-reliefs and the grand scale of the temples against the backdrop of lush forests and rising sun create a mesmerizing scene for photography enthusiasts. Photographers are encouraged to tread lightly, staying on established paths to protect the site’s fragile ruins and respecting the sanctity of active religious sites within the complex.

The best photographs of Angkor Wat often come from exploring its less-visited corners at dawn or dusk, when the play of light and shadow brings the ancient stones to life. Responsible travel photography here also means engaging with the local community in a way that supports sustainable tourism, ensuring that the benefits of your visit extend beyond the temple grounds.

Insider’s Tip: Dress modestly when visiting Angkor Wat to show respect for its spiritual importance, and avoid using flash photography inside the temples to preserve the ambiance and the ancient artworks.

When to Travel: Dry season from November to February for cooler temperatures and less humidity.

How to Get There: Fly into Siem Reap International Airport, with Angkor Wat just a short drive away.

10. Galápagos Islands, Ecuador

The Galápagos Islands, Ecuador’s unparalleled showcase of biodiversity, are a haven for wildlife photographers drawn to its unique species and pristine ecosystems. The archipelago’s isolation has given rise to an extraordinary variety of plant and animal life, including the famous Galápagos tortoises, marine iguanas, and blue-footed boobies, many of which show no fear of humans due to the lack of natural predators.

This proximity allows for incredible wildlife photography opportunities but also requires a heightened sense of responsibility. Photographers must follow strict guidelines set by the Galápagos National Park, including maintaining a minimum distance from the animals, staying on marked trails, and not using flash photography.

Capturing the natural behaviors of these unique species without impacting their environment or well-being is the essence of responsible photography in the Galápagos. Visiting with a certified naturalist guide enriches the experience. It ensures that your presence contributes to the conservation efforts that keep the Galápagos a living laboratory of evolution.

Insider’s Tip: Use a zoom lens to photograph the islands’ wildlife, ensuring you don’t disrupt their natural behavior or environment, and always be accompanied by a certified naturalist guide.

When to Travel: December to May for warmer, calmer seas and active marine life; June to November for cooler temperatures and clearer waters.

How to Get There: Fly to Quito or Guayaquil, then take a domestic flight to the Galápagos Islands’ Baltra or San Cristóbal airports.

11. New Orleans, Louisiana, USA

New Orleans offers photographers a vibrant palette of subjects. From the historic French Quarter’s wrought-iron balconies to the spirited parades of Mardi Gras, the city is a feast for the senses. Capturing New Orleans through a lens means diving into its unique cultural celebrations, understanding the significance behind its historic architecture, and portraying the resilience and spirit of its people.

Responsible photography in New Orleans involves engaging with the community respectfully, especially during cultural festivals like Mardi Gras and Jazz Fest. Photographers are encouraged to seek permission before photographing individuals, particularly when people celebrate or participate in personal moments. This respect for personal space and acknowledgment of the subject’s dignity enhances the authenticity of the images captured.

Insider’s Tip: Engage with local musicians and performers before photographing them, showing appreciation for their art and asking for permission to capture their performance.

When to Travel: Late winter to early spring (February to May) to experience Mardi Gras and the Jazz Fest with cooler temperatures.

How to Get There: Fly into Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport, with the city center just a short drive away.

Bhutan, a kingdom on the eastern edge of the Himalayas, is known for its monasteries, fortresses (or dzongs), and dramatic landscapes that range from subtropical plains to steep mountains and valleys. Photography in Bhutan offers a window into a culture deeply rooted in Buddhism, showcasing festivals, traditional dress, and a way of life that prioritizes Gross National Happiness over material wealth.

Responsible travel photography in Bhutan means capturing the essence of its culture and people without intruding on their daily lives or spiritual practices. Visitors should always ask for permission before taking photos, especially during religious ceremonies or in dzongs.

Bhutan’s approach to tourism, focused on sustainability and cultural preservation, requires photographers to be mindful of their impact, ensuring that their work respects and honors the subjects and environments they depict.

Insider’s Tip: When visiting monasteries and religious sites, always ask for permission before taking photos, and be discreet to maintain the sanctity of these spaces.

When to Travel: Spring (March to May) is for blooming flowers, and autumn (September to November) is for clear mountain views.

How to Get There: Fly into Paro International Airport, the only international airport in Bhutan, typically via flights from India, Thailand, or Nepal.

The Bottom Line

Responsible travel photography is about more than capturing beautiful images; it’s about doing so in a way that respects our planet and its inhabitants. By following these guidelines and tips, you preserve the integrity and beauty of the destinations you visit.

Remember, the most powerful photographs tell a story of connection, respect, and understanding, bridging cultures and inspiring others to see the world through a lens of compassion and responsibility.

More Articles Like This…

Barcelona: Discover the Top 10 Beach Clubs

2024 Global City Travel Guide – Your Passport to the World’s Top Destination Cities

Exploring Khao Yai 2024 – A Hidden Gem of Thailand

The post Top 12 Travel Photography Hotspots for 2024 republished on Passing Thru with permission from The Green Voyage .

Featured Image Credit: Shutterstock / A_B_C.

For transparency, this content was partly developed with AI assistance and carefully curated by an experienced editor to be informative and ensure accuracy.

More for You

The Danger of a Small Act of Cowardice

50 actors who didn't live long enough to see their final films

15 Rarest American Muscle Cars You’ll Never See in Real Life

Control gates open for one of the largest natural freshwater lakes after it hits record water levels: 'Our reservoirs are full'

Easy Sour Cream Banana Bread

Bucket List Road Trips: Every State’s Most Iconic Landmark

Prime Video’s latest thriller series is a hit — and it’s 100% on Rotten Tomatoes

Jerry Seinfeld slams ‘Friends,’ brings back ‘Seinfeld’ characters in new movie promo

The Mercedes E60 AMG Is Peak Benz

This Tool Is the Secret to Lump-Free Pasta Sauce

7 Things You Probably Didn’t Know About White Castle Burgers

The Best 27 Red Carpet Moments of the '70s

Forgotten 1990s Blockbusters Everyone Should Rewatch

Christian Bale Transforms Into Frankenstein In First Look At Maggie Gyllenhaal's 'The Bride' | THR News Video

The first interracial kiss aired on TV more than 55 years ago—and more shows that broke racial barriers

15 “As Seen On TV” Products That Are Well Worth The Money

Face of Neanderthal woman buried in Iraq cave 75,000 years ago revealed

99 Barbecue Sides Perfect for a Potluck

The Coolest Car From the Year You Were Born (1945-1995)

Supercomputer predicts humans will face a 'triple whammy' extinction event

• Getting Started in Photography
• General Photography
• Photography Business
• Experimenting
• Selling Your Photography
• Gear Guides
• Gear Reviews
• Portfolio Reviews

Tips, Tricks, and DIY

• Tips & Ideas
• Photo Licensing Tips

10 Tips That'll Take Your Drone Photography to New Heights

Published by Vadim Sherbakov • 8 years ago

Vadim Sherbakov is an independent art director and photography enthusiast. He specializes in interactive web projects and applications for mobile devices at his primary job and he lives in Moscow, Russia.

As a photographer he is interested in landscape and cityscape photography and he is a big fan of aerial photography, using a drone to capture new angles on familiar subjects. He travels quite often to different destinations around the world and tries capturing both traditional and aerial photos of the same places.

He is new to 500px community but will be publishing more of his work in the near future. So check out his account here , or see his video work on Vimeo and join him on social media through Facebook and Instagram .

This article was originally published on Medium and is being republished on 500px ISO with express permission.

My name is Vadim (aka Madebyvadim), and for a few months now I’ve been using the awesome DJI Phantom 3 Professional version quadcopter to capture new and different photos. In this article, I’d love to share some of my experience with you, and help you make the best out of your next aerial photo shoot. Let’s do this!

First, I should say that I only use the Phantom 3 product, though I am sure all the points here are applicable to many other drone models. That said, my advice is most relevant to those of you who want to consider drone photography as a logical step forward and/or addition to your current photography gear.

Let’s face it, the Phantom’s camera is great, but not without its faults. Yes, it shoots 12MP RAW format, but noise and focus are weak points, and shake due to the wind is unavoidable. So, to make best of this awesome-but-limited tool, I follow these principals when I use it:

1. RAW is the Key

Dolomites, Italy

Almost every single professional photographer will tell you that the best way to shoot is in RAW format. They always shoot in RAW in order to be able to correct any flaws in exposure or color with greater precision.

This is even more applicable to drones. Since the camera resolution is only 12MP, it would be a crime to compress it into the .jpg format and not use the advantages of the RAW format.

“Yes, but I only shoot for fun,” you say. Even so, you might one day capture the-best-drone-photo-ever, and how disappointed would you be that day when you realize you won’t be able to process it properly because you’ve been sticking to the compressed .jpg format?

But seriously 🙂 if you are serious about trying drone photography, and I suppose you are if you’re reading this, then forget .jpgs and use RAW. Period.

2. The 16:9 or 4:3 Format Question

Civita di Bagnoregio in 4:3 Format

Civita di Bagnoregio in 16:9

I’ll confess I started out by shooting 16:9, since I come from a production background and it’s a more pleasing ratio for me, but I also shoot in 4:3. Furthermore, I sometimes shoot both at the same time.

Actually I am not sure why DJI is using 4:3 and 16:9 as photography formats, when the most used format is 3:2. I suppose it has something to do with video being the primary format for drone usage. Not sure.

So, I suggest you use both aspect ratios and see what works better for you, or even recompose and shoot in both at the same location. Yes, it will take more time, but I think it’s worth it… especially later in post-production when you have more flexibility in choosing the right shot for your portfolio.

3. Bracketing is the King

Rome, Italy

Braketing with 5 Shots

This is a really awesome feature, and I am glad the Phantom has it. Bracketing serves a few purposes for me.

1. If I made a mistake in assessing the correct exposure, then I can choose the right one from 3 to 5 bracketed photos I’ve taken.

2. I also use them to create HDR images (not that eye-poping-over-the-top-saturated-100-%-hdrs , but more like an intelligent HDR).

In that case, the bracketing is an absolute must. In fact 95% of my shots are bracketed shots, so I can bring shadows back later or bring out highlights even more if necessary, instead of having only one option from a single shot.

4. P (auto) and M (manual) Mode

I almost always shoot in Manual mode. This lets me choose the lowest possible ISO as well as the shutter speed I desire.

The DJI app does not let you know if you have over or under-exposed your picture like a traditional camera would; there is also no half-released shutter button, unfortunately. So you would need to rely on histogram or use this trick:

First, switch to P mode and see what DJI auto mode is offering you, then switch back to M and build on what you saw in P mode.

5. ISO, How Low Can You Go

My advice on this subject is simple: always to shoot at the lowest possible ISO, which happens to be 100 on Phantom 3. This lets you minimize the noise in your photos, plain and simple.

Of course, you need to be aware of shake when shooting during the night and use common sense. I would not recommend going over 3sec exposure; if you end up needing a longer exposure, I’d advise you to go higher on your ISO in order to stay in that 3sec range.

6. Shaking of the Drone & Night Photography

Moscow with a 3sec exposure

This is relevant to a previous point. The drone is a machine that flies up high where the wind is stronger, and although it tries its best to stay stable, some shaking is unavoidable even in low wind conditions. The higher you go, the windier it typically gets—so even if it’s absolutely still on the ground, you may get wind up above.

Although the Phantom offers the ability to go as high as 8sec on the shutter speed, as I mentioned before, it is advisable not to exceed 3sec unless you’re okay with shaky photos.

7. ND and PL Filters

Vernazza, Cinque Terre

I use ND filters quite often, but that’s because I also shoot videos. In order to get a cinematic effect on a shoots, one should use the double of the fps one is shooting with. For example, I use 4K 24fps, which means I should ideally be shooting at 1/50 sec shutter speed. In order to achieve that on a bright day, I need to use Neutral Density filters to reduce the light coming into the camera and enable a slower shutter speed.

Since I use it but mostly for videos and its too complicated to us for photos, I’ll launch my drone, shoot photos, bring it back, put on the ND, and get it back up to shoot a video.

If you are going to use ND filters, be careful in dim lighting. The ND filter reduces the light coming into the camera (that’s the whole point), which slows down your shutter to the point where you might start getting some shake in your shots. In low light, stick to a default camera filter that is supplied with the Phantom.

A circular polarizing filter is another beast. You may know that you need to rotate it to the right position to achieve the desired PL effect when using it on traditional cameras; however, there is no possibility to do so on the drone, so I have never used PL filter.

8. Post-Processing

Rome Before

The shot in my example above was resized, straightened, and colour corrected in both Lightroom and Photoshop to achieve the look of the final version.

Don’t be lazy and share unprocessed shots straight out of camera. There is always room for improvement in any photo you take.

You will be amazed how a photo can be transformed in your favorite post-processing software. I use Adobe Lightroom and Adobe Photoshop to post-process all of my shots. As I said before, I use bracketing extensively to combine 3 or 5 photos together before post-processing. See #3 for that subject.

9. Unique Angles, Panoramas, Long Exposures etc.

Mountain road from above

Moscow State University aerial panorama

Be creative.

You are no longer plagued by the inability to use the right spot in the right location. Drones are unique in the sense that they can take your photographs literally to the next level. So stop thinking in traditional terms—experiment, be open to the new shooting possibilities drones open up for you.

10. Drone Technicalities

Above Russian forest

This subject may vary across the models, but for the sake of simplicity I would assume that these issues apply everywhere.

What I am talking about here are the small technical things that need to be done to your drone before the flight in order to be as safe and productive as possible. Live it,?learn it as they say… and I am talking from experiences that haven’t always been very pleasant. It is better to follow a couple of easy pre-flight steps than to lose your drone and all the great things you captured with it.

Calibrate the Compass

Firstly, one must always calibrate the drone compass once you arrive on a new location far from the previous one (change landscaped, say from a field to a mountainside). This definitely helps avoid abnormal behavior in the air.

Check Your Figures

Secondly, check your figures. By that I mean you should check the drone’s compass sensor index after calibration. Even if your software claims that it is OK to fly, take the time to check those indexes.

For instance, it’s ok to fly my DJI when the index is between 1500 and 1600. Higher index means greater disturbances around, i.e. metal in the ground, some reflective surfaces, etc.

Hover…

Thirdly, this is my own technique that I am simply sharing; I’m not claiming this as an absolute must-follow. It is up to you and your common sense whether you adopt it or not. But it did help me save my drone from crashing a couple of times.

So here it is: take some time to hover. What I mean is, don’t speed up from the ground as soon as the propellers are on. Ease it up a bit and hover. It gives you time to land the drone in case there are any immediate malfunctions or you feel that it has started behaving strangely. Take a couple of seconds to do this, and only fly up once you see that you are in complete control.

Mind the Wildlife

Fourthly, mind the wildlife in the air. I am dead serious about this. Seagulls, for instance, are often eager to attack your drone in order to protect their territory.

Download your Data Right Away

Last but not the least: download your data. I’ve developed the habit of downloading everything from my SD card right after the flight. This way I am safe from losing precious materials in case of any drone emergencies on subsequent flights.

Although I really love using drones for a new and exiting photo opportunities, I often wish that DJI would give us an even better quality camera at an affordable price, so we could use the Phantom series, (one of the best on the market, in my opinion) to its full potential… a man can dream.

In the meantime: Thank you. Fly safe!

• Things I’ve Learned Working on Both Sides of the Camera

Beautiful Photos of Beautiful Women for a Beautiful Cause (NSFW)

Leave a reply, previous post.

Things I've Learned Working on Both Sides of the Camera

Related Posts

Photo Reimagines Snow White Begging In The Streets

Aerial Landscape | The Most Breathtaking Views Of Beautiful Earth From Above

Tutorial: How To Transform Your Landscape Photos Into Surreal Infrared Images

University of Michigan Athletics

Michigan State

Wolverines Travel to In-State Rival Michigan State for Three-Game Series

5/1/2024 4:00:00 PM | Baseball

By: Conor Stemme

ANN ARBOR, Mich. -- The University of Michigan baseball team (24-21, 10-5 Big Ten) heads to East Lansing to take on Michigan State (19-22, 7-8 Big Ten) in a conference series starting on Friday (May 3) at 6 p.m. at McLane Stadium at Kobs Field. The series will continue on Saturday (May 4) at 3:30 p.m. before the finale on Sunday (May 5) at 2:05 p.m. All three games will be streamed live on B1G+.

• U-M is on a five-game win streak and has won 10 of its last 12 games. In conference play, Michigan has won all five Big Ten series and is tied for third in the standings with Nebraska and Indiana. The Wolverines swept Long Beach State in a non-conference series last weekend with two late comebacks, including a 10-run eighth inning on Friday (April 26). The dramatics continued Tuesday against Kent State with a game tying two-run pinch-hit home run from Mitch Voit in the ninth inning and Stephen Hrustich walked it off with a two-run shot in the 11th for a 6-4 win.

• Mack Timbrook had a dominant April, batting an even .500 with a .557 on-base percentage to lead the Wolverines with a .338 season average. He reached base in every game in the month, added four three-hit games and raised his batting average by 110 points over the month -- and 130 points since the start of conference play. He also is second on the team in runs (34), doubles (14) and hits (50). In conference games, Timbrook ranks fourth in batting average (.444) among players with at least 50 at-bats.

• Michigan leads the nation with its 50 double plays turned on the season, including at least one twin killing in its last five games. On the season, U-M has turned at least one double play in 33 of its 45 games with a season high of four.

• Jacob Denner has appeared in each of the last four Michigan games and six of the last seven to run his team-leading total to 20. He also has a 4.42 earned-run average with 49 strikeouts in 57 innings. In conference play, Denner holds a 1.86 ERA which is fourth among Big Ten hurlers with at least 10 innings pitched and ranks first among pitchers with 20 innings or more.

• In his fifth season, Denner is climbing U-M career lists, having tied John Arvai for third all-time in appearances after making his 86th against Kent State on Tuesday (April 30). He is 10th in innings pitched (259.1) and is 1.2 away from tying Brandon Sinnery in ninth. After three strikeouts against Long Beach State and one against the Kent State, he has 248 for his career and closed the gap with Tommy Henry to three ti tie for sixth all-time.

• Hrustich has homered in back-to-back games to tie his single-season career high of 11. On the season, he leads the team in home runs and is second in batting average (.310). He also leads the team in slugging percentage (.619) by more than 75 points. Hrustich is in the midst of a nine-game hitting streak and is hitting .480 over the span with eight runs and 10 RBI.

• Kurt Barr has stepped up in his sophomore season and leads the team in ERA among qualified pitchers with a 2.84 ERA and a 1.15 WHIP. He is ninth in conference games in ERA at 2.32 and first among players with 30 innings. Barr pitched a complete game against Minnesota (April 13) to earn Big Ten Pitcher of the Week honors before pitching the first 6.1 innings of a U-M shutout of Ohio State (April 19) the next weekend. He appeared in the Kent State game and struck out two in his one inning.

• Voit got some rest over the past weekend as the team leader in at-bats (175) and is now second in innings pitched (62.1). He is hitting .291 with 18 doubles and eight home runs and holds a 5-3 record with a 5.49 ERA and 41 strikeouts. On days he also pitches, Voit is hitting .333 with a .632 slugging percentage, nine doubles, and two home runs.

• Thirty-five of the 38 players on the roster have seen game action this season with 23 players recording a plate appearance and 18 players seeing action on the mound. Six Wolverines have done both, with Voit leading the way with 10 pitching starts on and 175 at-bats. Kyle Dernedde is the only player to start every game and is joined by Hrustich as the only other player to appear in every contest this season.

• Michigan State 19-22 overall and is tied with Ohio State for seventh in the conference standings with a 7-8 record. The Spartans are coming off back-to=back losses but have won their past two Big Ten series (Penn State, Ohio State). Michigan is 215-113-2 in the all-time series with the Spartans and 76-57-1 in East Lansing. U-M faced Michigan State on March 26 and dropped the non-conference midweek contest 16-6. Last season, the Wolverines dropped a non-conference game to the Spartans at the MLB Desert Invitational, but took two of three in their series at Ray Fisher Stadium.

Shooter Files by f.d. walker

Street Photography Tips, Interaction, Travel, Guides

Dec 28 2016

7 First Impressions of Moscow, Russia (From a Street Photography Perspective)

At over 12 million people, Moscow is the second largest city in Europe by population. It’s an urban, cosmopolitan city of the highest level, with more than enough glitz to cater to the elite, but without losing its fair share of roughness around the edges. It can be fast paced, brash, busy, and trendy like other big cities, but it has its blend of European and Russian that makes it stand out on its own. And the most beautiful subway system you’ve ever seen.

So here are my first impressions of Moscow, from my personal Street Photographer perspective…

7 First Impressions of Moscow  (From a Street Photography Perspective)

1. big city with so much to discover.

It’s no secret that Moscow is a big city, but it can feel even bigger with how spread out much of it is. This is especially true if you compare it to cities outside of Asia. If I compared it to cities in Europe, I’d probably say only Istanbul would warrant more time to really discover the depths of this city. Most only explore around the Red Square and surrounding area, but that is such a small part of the city. Although, that central area does give you plenty to see on its own. 

Fortunately, I had a good friend living in the city to show me around, but it opened up my eyes even more to how much there is to discover in Moscow. It’s a big city with a variety of atmosphere that can take you from “east” to “west” and trendy to rugged depending on where you go. I’d imagine you’d have to live here a while to really know the city.

2. Museum Metro

The Moscow metro system was the first underground railway system in the Soviet Union and today includes 203 stations across 340km of routes. The elaborate system has some of the deepest stations in the world too, with escalators that seem to go on forever. None of this is what makes it so special, though. Many of its stations feel like stepping inside a museum, making it without a doubt the most interesting and beautiful metro system I’ve been in.

When built, Stalin wanted to make the metro stations “palaces for the people” with marble, chandeliers, and grand architecture. The best part is the variety of architecture and styles used, making many of the stations a completely different experience visually. You could easily spend a whole day traveling the stations and there are even tours available for people who wish to do just that. My advice, though, would be just to buy a ticket and hop on and off at different stations, while exploring different lines. The museum-like surrounding mixed with the crowds of characters can make for a great photography experience.

Since there are so many stations, here are some of my favorites to definitely check out:

• Novoslobodskaya 
• Mayakovskaya
• Elektrozavodskaya 
• Komsomolskaya 
• Ploschad Revolyutsii
• Dostoyevskaya
• Prospekt Mira

3. Not as walkable as Saint-Petersburg

While Saint-Petersburg feels very walkable for a city its size, Moscow can feel very spread out, even for its bigger size. Outside of the Red Square area, you can have a lot of walking before getting anywhere very interesting, so you’ll need to take the metro a lot if you really want to explore the city. Maps are deceiving here too, it will always be further than it looks.

Another reason it’s less walkable than Saint-Petersburg is its completely different set-up. Moscow’s streets are mostly contstructed in rings with narrow, winding streets in-between. This is common with medieval city cities that used to be confined by walls, but you usually don’t have it in a city this massive. Saint-Petersburg has a more grid-like pattern that also uses the canals to help you know your way around. When it comes to navigating on foot in Moscow, it can be more difficult, so bring a map and take the metro when needed. It’s why Moscow’s metro carries more passengers per day than the London and Paris subways combined.

4.  Gorky Park is like a Russian Central Park

One of the most famous places in Moscow is Gorky Park. The official name is Maxim Gorky’s Central Park of Culture & Leisure, which gives you an idea of what goes on here. When built, it was the first of its kind in the Soviet Union. Divided into two parts, it stretches along Moscow River. One end contains fair rides, foods stands, tennis courts, a sports club, a lake for boat rides, and more. This end brings more active life due to its number of attractions, while the other end is more relaxed, where you’ll find gardens, trees, older buildings, and an outdoor amphitheater.

Gorky Park attracts mostly locals so it’s a good spot to capture the non-tourist side of Moscow life. Muscovites come here to escape the city and unwind in a picturesque setting. The park remains alive outside of the warmer months too, especially when the lake turns into the city’s largest outdoor skating rink. I’d recommend taking the metro out here to spend at least half a day exploring the massive park’s life with your camera.

5. Half the city under construction

European cities in general seem to be filled with more construction than usual lately. But while this won’t be true forever, Moscow was filled with the most I’ve ever seen. Moscow already has the most skyscrapers in Europe, with many being less than a decade old. In only the last few years, the three tallest skyscrapers in Europe have opened here, giving it five of Europe’s ten tallest. The 2018 FIFA Word Cup is bringing much of this on, but the city is pushing to complete a skyline here than will rival any in the world.

The recession has slowed down the construction some, but the government is pushing it on. So all over the city, there were sidewalks covered with wood boards and lined with striped construction walls. At first, it was a little disappointing from a street photography perspective to see so much blocked by construction. After a while, though, it became something to capture. The striped construction materials and signs are colorful and all the workers created some interesting activity. It will be interesting to see what the city looks like when everything is complete, but for now, the construction provides interest itself.

6. Learn the Russian Alphabet

Much of Moscow, including the metro system, doesn’t use english. The Russian alphabet uses letters from the Cyrillic script, which if you aren’t familiar with it and don’t know the sounds, it can be hard to decipher the words. This is most important for street names and metro stops when trying to get around. It can save confusion and make it easier getting around if you learn the basic alphabet. At the very least then, you can sound out the words to see which are similar in the english conversion, which can help matching them to maps. When out shooting street photography, getting around is as important as anything. So save yourself some time and frustration by learning the Russian Alphabet.

7. Where East Meets West

Modern skyscrapers mixed with amazing architecture, a world-class metro system with a museum-like beauty, trendy fashion and chic clubs, Moscow is a rich mix of Russian culture and history in a more European package. There is a push to keep the Russian culture, while pushing forward with a modern metropolis the whole world will envy. This comes with an impressive skyline and modernities with soviet emblems and atmosphere mixed in for good measure.

It’s East meets West, modernizations meets Soviet nostalgia, and a whole lot more.

Russia’s Metropolis

Moscow is famous around the world, but it might not be completely what you expect from Russia’s capital. The city’s name brings a certain mystique, but once you’re there it brings something changed over time since its Soviet days. It’s big and sprawling, but beautiful in many ways. Most might say it feels more like a European capital on a grand scale, but you can definitely find its Russian side in there.

The urban sprawl of Moscow can be intimidating, but give it enough time and you’ll be rewarded with plenty to discover. All with the world’s best metro system to take you around.

If any of you have been to Moscow before, tell me about your experience and impressions of the city and country in the comments below! And stay tuned for more on Moscow, including some of the best Street Photography shots I captured while there.

Click Here for More First Impressions on Cities Around the World 

(from a street photographer’s perspective)

Comment Here! Cancel reply

For patreon exclusive educational content:.

Limited Edition Postcard Prints!

Street Photography Workshops

Donations Always Appreciated

I'll always keep Shooter Files free for everyone, but any donations would be greatly appreciated and help me keep it going. Many thanks to everyone following along!

Cheers! -f.d. walker

Search the Files

For Exclusive Patron Content: