Photos from distant destinations can be wonderful and inspiring. But at the same time, watching them can be a bit depressing when you think you’ll never get to visit those destinations and make such gorgeous photos. This can even cause creative block and keep you from shooting for a while.
But, we must not forget that for beautiful photos you don’t need to travel far. Sometimes it’s enough to simply walk around your neighborhood. This video will inspire you to take great photos without traveling half the world, and it may rekindle your artistic flame.
In the video, Marcin Lewandowski talks about getting inspired by your surroundings. It reminds us that the work of some of the greatest American photographers revolves around “boring everyday reality.” He mentions Ruth Orkin, who photographed the view from her window every day. She did it at different times, looking in a different direction, using different focal point and in different weather. He also mentions Stephen Shore, William Eggleston, Elliott Erwitt, and a photographer who inspired him to make this video – Aaron Siskind.
He suggests learning from the best, but adjusting the ideas and reproaching them in a more personal way.
When we photograph the things we see every day, Marcin suggests trying different approaches. We should give ourselves tasks, like photographing all the houses in our street, or photographing all the doors of these houses. If you like portrait photography, you can ask neighbors to pose in the front or back of their homes.
Your way of looking for photos can also be juxtaposed onto your way to work. If you travel by car, you can take photos at red lights, if you use public transport, take photos at bus stops… And these are only some of the suggestions.
Two blocks away from my place. Sometimes it’s enough to look up.
Sure, traveling is amazing and I believe everyone should travel as much as they can. But when you can’t do it, for whichever reason, don’t let it stop you from taking photos. Sometimes it’s enough to look around you and see your closest surroundings with different eyes.
[Photographing Your Neighborhood: The Viewfinder with Marcin Lewandowski | Adorama]
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