In a previous post I wrote about the upcoming tour of Paris and river cruise through Provence in May of 2011. That's more than half a year behind me now, but it was memorable, enjoyable and a wonderful photography excursion.
This tour was created by Special Travel International http://www.sticanada.com/ and designed to be of particular interest to those who enjoy art. Looking at art, exploring memorable locations related to art, creating artwork in various mediums................
I was along as a "photo guide" for those who take cameras along on their travels.............anyone know who that guy is who DOESN'T take a camera along on his travels?
Mark Heine http://www.spindriftstudios.com/ is an accomplished painter and widely published illustrator, who is now devoting his time to work for galleries. He was along to demonstate for those who are more interested in painting and drawing. He, and his talented family, have been included on many tours for STI over several years. I'm the new guy.
The travellers included members of the local Victoria Camera Club http://www.victoriacameraclub.org/ for whom I often judge competitions and give talks, and one of my favourite former students http://www.kdbphotography.ca/ who is establishing her own portrait and commercial photography business in Prince George, B.C. As well, there were many people who were there because they are regular clients of STI and their special service, for which they have become famous. They mainly had little, or no, photography or art training, but could appreciate where we were and what we were seeing. Mark & I were there to assist them in broadening that appreciation.
In Paris we explored the ancient streets and markets, galleries and cafes 'til our feet were telling us to 'take a break'.
It's important when exploring locations with your camera to consider how much time you're going to spend on your feet, and how much camera gear you've really got to lug along on the walk. I use an older, smaller, less eye-catching camera bag that is a bit beaten up and less likely to attract attention. I don't bring all the gadgets and extras along that are a regular part of my regular shooting equipment. I also trim my load down to a couple of versatile and useful lenses for the type of shooting I'm anticipating. You're not going to be able to enjoy your explorations if you're causing your back, feet and knees to suffer. (More about knees in an upcoming blog).
Of course you know, as soon as you decide to leave your 300mm lens, that's as big as your arm, at home you're going to only find shots where you need that lens. Do you really? Be creative!
Paris is a city of texture. The architecture, the streets (cobblestones), the food and markets, the people!!!
Paris is a city of texture. The architecture, the streets (cobblestones), the food and markets, the people!!!
I led a small group to explore Pere Lachaise Cemetery and the fascinating 'residents' there. This is a
cemetery unlike any other. The grave markers and mausoleums are stunningly unique and often appear to be either right out of a sculpture garden.........or a spooky movie.
We photographed the glass pyramids at the Louvre in the evening, so I bought a cheapie mono-pod, that was more compact and lighter weight, anticipating some low light situations.
We enjoyed the people on the street and the constant moving tide of characters that drift past your table as you relax in a sidewalk cafe. That's the part where we can sit and watch as the subject matter comes to us, and take the load off our feet after a long day.
We enjoyed the people on the street and the constant moving tide of characters that drift past your table as you relax in a sidewalk cafe. That's the part where we can sit and watch as the subject matter comes to us, and take the load off our feet after a long day.
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