Amateur Photographer - Reader Portfolio - Geraint Rowland

Earlier this month I had several of my travel images published in the Amateur Photographer Magazine. Five of my travel photographs were included in the premium edition of the magazine which came out on the twelfth of March 2024. The photos and write-up were published in the ‘Reader Portfolio’ section, which the magazine describes as, ‘a spotlight on readers’ excellent images and how they capture them’. You can click through the slideshow below to see the photographs Amateur Photographer Magazine published in their Reader Portfolio (12/03/2024):

Below is the write up published in the Amateur Photographer Magazine for Geraint Rowland’s Reader Portfolio. It can also be read in full online via Redly here:

Reader portfolio

Spotlight on readers’ excellent images and how they captured them

About Geraint

Geraint loves anything to do with the outdoors. See more of his work at www.geraintrowland.co.uk and on Instagram @geraint_rowland_photography

Favourite subjects

I like taking photos of nature, especially the coastline, seas and oceans at sunset or sunrise. I like to highlight the beauty of the world.

How did you get into photography?

I had a dabble as a teenager, and 15 years ago I was given a small compact camera, which reignited my interest.

What do you love about photography?

The ability to see things in a different way, and the fact that it has taken me to several countries and has allowed me to meet interesting people.

Favourite photographers

I admire many travel photographers, and I also look up to artistic photographers in different genres, including skateboarding and surfing.

First camera

My first DSLR was a Canon EOS 500D.

Current kit

Canon EOS 5D Mark IV, 50mm f/1.4 lens, the EF 16-35mm f/2.8L II USM, and the 135mm Sigma f/1.8 Art lens.

Favourite lens

Without doubt the 50mm. It is small, excellent for portraits and street photography, but also for landscapes.

Favourite accessory

A shoulder bag, which I won. It holds my camera and lenses, and some clothing when I travel.

Dream purchase

I would love to try out some of the newer mirrorless cameras.

What software do you use?

Adobe Lightroom Classic.

Favourite tips

Practice as much as possible, take your camera everywhere, learn from friends and other photographers, don’t be afraid to try new things, and make sure you have fun.

Where do you find inspiration?

Through travel. If I stay in one place too long, I lose the motivation to go out and take photos. I try to meet local photographers in the places I visit to explore these new destinations.

Tell us about your pictures

I’ve spent much of the past 15 years travelling and living in other countries. I like to capture each place I visit in a way that represents its culture, and takes the viewer to that location.

Colourful Cuba

Cuba!

Colourful Cuba, Winner of the Wanderlust Travel Magazine by Geraint Rowland

I took this on the seafront of Havana, Cuba, after a heavy rainfall. I loved the Orthodox church and used a wideangle lens to get the classic car and the architecture in frame. A fast shutter speed froze the splash from the puddle. Canon EOS 5D IV, 16- 35mm, 1/2000sec at f/7.1, ISO 160. This photograph won a competition with Wanderlust Travel Magazine with a nice prize to Hong Kong and Macau.

Photobombed by a Llama

A Llama welcomes you to Machu Picchu, Geraint Rowland Photography

Taken at the famous Inca ruins of Machu Picchu in Peru. I wanted to capture one of the llamas, with the ruins still visible behind, so used an aperture of f/10 to provide a long depth of field. Canon EOS 5D Mark II, 85mm f/1.8, 1/320sec at f/10, ISO 250. I took this image whilst spending a week at Machu Picchu working for the Peruvian Tourist Department, it is one of my most sold travel images and can be licensed from Getty Images here.

Views of the Monastery, Petra

I travelled around the Middle East for six months, including a week at Petra in Jordan. The dressed donkey adds a nice splash of colour. EOS 5D IV, 50mm f/1.4, 1/320sec at f/7.1, ISO 100. More of my Jordan images can be viewed on my Flickr account here.

Tabaski Festival, Senegal

Tabasco Festival Photography in Senegal by Geraint Rowland

I was in Dakar during the Tabaski Festival which is celebrated annually in Senegal in which each family sacrifices and cooks a sheep. The children are preparing to wash it prior to the festival. EOS 5D II, 50mm f/1.4, 1/1000sec at f/7.1, ISO 125. I have written some photography blogs about my travels in Senegal which can be found on my website here.

Morning Light, River Ganges

Sunrise over the River Ganges, taken in Varanasi by Geraint Rowland

A man takes a dip on the shore of the Ganges River, India. I used Lightroom to enhance the sunrise. Canon EOS 5D IV, 16- 35mm, 1/1000sec at f/5.6, ISO 250. I have just returned from a six month trip around India, I am still going through my large stash of photos. You can find many of my India travel photographs on my Flickr account here.

More of my travel photography can be found on my website, my Instagram, my Facebook Page and my Flickr account. If you would like to write a guest blog, please send an email to: geraintrowlandphotography@gmail.com. Many of my photographs are available to license via Getty Images here, alternatively you can send me a message if you would like a digital image or print. Cheers!

Capturing the World Through Your Lens: Essential Tips for Transforming Your Travel Photos into Artistic Masterpieces

For those who frequently travel, the power of photography to amplify the impact of your journeys is well known. Capturing your adventures in photos isn't just about preserving moments and sights, but also about sharing your enthusiasm and love for your destination with your audience. Photography allows you to tell a story that words alone can't, bringing viewers into the heart of your experience. It's a powerful tool to evoke the same emotions and wonder you felt during your travels.

However, mastering the art of travel photography goes beyond simply snapping photos with a camera or smartphone. In this guide hosted by Geraint Rowland Photography, we offer essential tips to consistently capture stunning travel photos, helping you transform ordinary snapshots into vivid narratives.

Maximize the Magic of Light

Photography is deeply influenced by lighting. Plan your photography sessions around the sun's position, capitalizing on the golden hour around sunrise or sunset. The most magical lighting occurs within 15 minutes before and after these times. This ethereal light can add drama and beauty to your shots, making ordinary scenes look extraordinary. Early mornings and late afternoons are also typically less crowded, allowing for more candid and serene compositions.

Explore Various Perspectives

Challenge yourself to explore your surroundings from different viewpoints, discovering unique and captivating shots. Equip yourself with a range of lenses to broaden your creative options. A change in perspective can unveil hidden details and offer fresh insights into familiar scenes. Don't be afraid to experiment with high or low angles, as they can dramatically alter the mood and story of a photo. Incorporating the environment into your shots adds depth and intrigue to your photos, and it also contextualizes your subject within its setting.

Honor Local Customs

Travel photography, akin to journalism, requires sensitivity to cultural practices. Approach photographing people and traditions with respect and seek permission before including locals in your shots. Sometimes, discretion is key in certain situations. Understanding and respecting local customs not only enriches your photography but also fosters deeper connections with the people you meet. It’s important to remember that a respectful approach often leads to more authentic and meaningful images.

Venture Beyond Tourist Spots

While classic tourist landmarks are great, capturing the true spirit of a place means delving deeper. Explore less-trodden paths to uncover the unique and extraordinary aspects of your travel destination. By venturing beyond the usual, you can capture images that reflect the true essence of a place, offering a glimpse into the daily lives of locals. This approach often leads to more engaging and storytelling photos, differentiating your work from typical travel snapshots.

Master Your Camera

Understanding your camera's capabilities, regardless of its complexity, is crucial. Familiarize yourself with its settings, modes, and lenses. Knowledge of your equipment ensures that you can quickly adapt to changing conditions and capture fleeting moments. Remember, professional photos aren't exclusive to high-end cameras. Experiment and also learn basic photo editing skills to enhance your images. Regular practice and experimentation will not only improve your technical skills but also help develop your personal photographic style.

Create Lasting Memories with Adobe Express

Adobe Express, a user-friendly mobile app, simplifies photo editing and creative post-production. Use it to make minor adjustments, create social media posts, or design personalized keepsakes with your travel photos. Here are a few tools to get you started:

  • Create a beautiful photo calendar that uses a different travel photo for each month of the year. This makes a great gift, or you can hang it in your office and relive your trip all year long. The hardest part is deciding which photos to use!

  • Create an attention-grabbing blog post with striking images and engaging copy. You can choose from an array of templates. The best part? Each one is designed to look great on any device, so your followers will never miss a thing.

  • Make a Facebook story that highlights your favorite moment from your trip. This is a great way to show off a meaningful shot to your followers. Customize your story using this free tool.

  • You can make a fun thank-you card, holiday card, or greeting card using your travel photos. This is easy to do with Adobe’s free tools. Just choose the template you like and pick a photo that goes well with the layout.

Effective travel photography is an art that can be honed with practice. It involves understanding the best times for shooting, immersing in the environment, mastering your equipment, and respecting local cultures. By embracing these practices, you not only enhance your skills but also deepen your appreciation for the places and people you photograph. By following these guidelines, your travel photos will transform into emotive, memorable masterpieces that capture the essence of your experiences.

For further inquiries or personalized advice, reach out to Geraint Rowland Photography via his website or social media accounts below. His expertise can help you take your travel photography to the next level. More of Geraint’s travel photography can be found on his Instagram, and Flickr account. A large number of his images are also available to license via Getty images.

Exploring Dublin's Natural Gem: Phoenix Park

Nestled in the heart of Dublin, Phoenix Park is a must-visit destination for travel enthusiasts and photography lovers alike. Phoenix Park is a breathtaking oasis in the heart of Ireland’s Capital City of Dublin. This sprawling green expanse spans over 1,750 acres, making it one of the largest enclosed recreational spaces in Europe. With its rich history, diverse wildlife, and stunning landscapes, Phoenix Park is a photographer's paradise, offering endless opportunities to capture the beauty of the Irish countryside throughout the year. Take a look through the following slideshow to view some of the images I took in Phoenix Park in May of this year:

Spread across 1,752 acres, this expansive park is not only a favourite recreational spot for locals but also a haven for photography enthusiasts seeking to capture the essence of Ireland's natural beauty. I spent several days walking around Phoenix Park and probably saw less than half of it. If you do not have much time to explore, you can hire bicycles at the entrance, there is a road that cuts through the centre of the park.

Phoenix Park boasts an awe-inspiring landscape that showcases Ireland's raw natural beauty. From lush green meadows to serene lakes, every corner offers a picturesque backdrop for your photography adventures. The park's historic landmarks, including the iconic Wellington Monument, provide fantastic backdrops for architectural photography enthusiasts. Use your creativity to frame these structures in unique ways and let your images tell a captivating story. Whether it's the vibrant colours of the blooming flowers or the tranquility of a serene lake, Phoenix Park offers endless opportunities to hone your photography skills and unleash your artistic vision. Phoenix Park is also home to several hundred deer. Go early in the morning to encounter these magnificent animals and take a telephoto lens for some close up images. The Deer of Phoenix Park are a big pull for Tourists who visit Dublin. Click through the slideshow below to view some of my favourite Deer photos taken in Dublin:

Next time you visit Dublin, grab your camera and immerse yourself in the beauty of Phoenix Park. Whether you're a professional photographer or an amateur enthusiast, this enchanting location promises to ignite your creativity and leave you with some unforgettable memories of Ireland's natural wonders. More of my Phoenix Park and Dublin photography can be found on my Instagram, and my Flickr account. Many of my images from Dublin are available to license via Getty images here.

When posting your images from Phoenix Park, don't forget to use these hashtags to connect with fellow adventurers: #DiscoverIreland #ExploreDublin #NaturePhotography #IrishWildlife and #PhoenixParkDublin. Feel free to tag me in your Instagram posts @geraint_rowland_photography and have fun in the Park!

Abstract Ocean Photography for Sale

As a keen travel photographer and lover of nature, I am excited to announce that my abstract ocean photography is available to purchase via my website. If you're looking for unique and stunning pieces of art for your home or office, look no further than my varied collection of abstract seascapes. These abstract images capture the beauty and majesty of nature in a way that is both striking and serene. Click through the following slide show to browse some of my abstract water images for sale:

My abstract photography captures the beauty and wonder of our oceans & seas in a unique and artistic way. The images are created using the photographic technique of ICM (intentional camera movement), you can read more about the process here. My abstract collection features a range of images that showcase the many moods and colours of the ocean, from the deep blues and greens of the open sea to the bright pinks and oranges of a sunset over the water. Or for something more subtle and fine art in approach, why not choose one of my black and white abstracts. My abstract approach to seascapes creates unique pieces that truly are one-of-a-kind. They will add a sense of calm and wonder to any space they occupy, whether it's a living room, bedroom, or office. Taken in a variety of locations around the World including West Africa, Peru, Cuba, Spain, England and Wales, the stunning pieces are perfect for any home or office. View the second slideshow to view more of my abstract water images for sale:

So if you're looking for a unique piece of abstract art for your home or office, drop me a message today: geraintrowlandphotography@gmail.com. Whether you are looking for a large statement piece or a series of smaller prints, my collection offers a range of sizes and styles to fit any space and taste. With a variety of sizes and framing options available, there's something for everyone in my collection. Choose your favourite abstract and bring a piece of the ocean into your home or office!

Abstract artwork for sale by Geraint Rowland Photography:

If you would like a piece of my abstract photography take a look at my ‘Ocean & Sea’ and ‘Abstract Ocean Art’ albums on my Flickr account, as well as the abstract page on my website. Some of my abstract pieces are also for sale via Art Vogue, check out their website here. The majority of my abstract ocean images are also available to license via Getty Images. Have a look and if you are interested in purchasing a print, using an image online or would like further information send me an email to discuss.

Photography of Hampstead Heath, London

Hampstead Heath is a stunning location for nature photography in the heart of London. With its rolling hills, ancient woodlands, and stunning city views it is a perfect location for photography. Perfect in all seasons, you can choose between the new shoots of spring, the beauty of a summer sunset, the vibrant colours of autumn, or the frost and snow covered scenes of Winter. Click through the following slideshow to view some of the images I recently captured in Hampstead Heath:

Hampstead Heath is a vast wild park of woodland and meadows, located inside north London’s Zone Two, less than four miles from the centre. The parkland sprawls over 800 acres and boasts some of the most spectacular and alternative photographic views of the city. Capture the beauty of the Heath's flora and fauna by exploring its varied landscapes. From the tranquil ponds where ducks and geese swim, to the wooded areas where you might spot a fox or a deer, Hampstead Heath offers endless possibilities for nature photography. The Heath has many unique features, including Kenwood House, and the famous swimming ponds, which hold an almost mystical status among those brave enough to take a dip. Head up to the Parliament Hill viewpoint where you can juxtapose the natural beauty of the Heath against the cityscape for some unique landscape images.

My Hampstead Heath and London photography is available for license through Getty Images. More of my photography can be found on my Instagram, and Flickr accounts.

Corniche Beirut Travel Photography

The Corniche of Beirut is a beautiful promenade that stretches alongside the Mediterranean Sea in the Capital of Lebanon. It offers a stunning view of the city's skyline and the clear waters of the sea below. It was my favourite location to take photos in Beirut, offering both great street photography opportunities and beautiful sunsets. Click through the following slideshow to view some of my favourite images from the Corniche Beirut:

The Corniche of Beirut stretches for nearly five miles along the coastline of the Lebanese Capital. It is the perfect place for a leisurely walk or jog, offering stunning views of the sea and the city skyline. The Corniche is a popular destination for locals and tourists alike, offering numerous cafes, restaurants, and shops to explore. I found Sundays were a particularly good day for documenting the Lebanese lifestyles with lots of families heading to the Corniche. Likewise late afternoon was a great time to visit, not only for the golden hour and sunset possibilities but also for the increase of activity at that time of day. Make sure you capture the crazy locals who dive into the sea below, and the old fishermen who line the rocky coastline. After the sun has done its thing turning the sky into beautiful shades of orange, yellow and pink, wait around for some great night photography. Street vendors line the Corniche when the sun goes down, and stunning photographs can be taken of Beirut with the City skyline lit up in the background.

The Corniche is also steeped in history, with several monuments and landmarks to visit, including the iconic Pigeon Rocks and the Martyrs' Statue. The summits of Mount Lebanon can be seen on the Eastern side and to the North of Pigeon Rocks you can see the old Ferris Wheel that is still active today. Whether you're an amateur or professional photographer, the Corniche of Beirut is a fantastic place for taking a variety of different images.

I have fond memories of my time in Beirut and especially exploring the Corniche, you can read my earlier blog on travel photography in Beirut here. If you have some time to travel within Lebanon I highly recommend you visit Tripoli in the North of the country. My photography from the Beirut Corniche are available for license via Getty Images here. More of my travel photography can be found on my Instagram, and my Flickr account.

Travel Photography in Beirut, Lebanon

Beirut, the Capital City of Lebanon, is a great destination for travel photography with a lot to offer in such a small geographical area. It has an unique blend of culture and history resulting in some stunning architecture, it is located on the coast so provides for some excellent seascape and sunset images. Finally the colourful and bustling city streets provide a wide range of street photography opportunities. Click through the slideshow below to look at some of my photography from Beirut:

Last year I spent a couple of months in Lebanon at the beginning of my first trip around the Middle East. Despite the current political and financial problems the country is experiencing, I found Lebanon an enjoyable country to visit. The people of Lebanon are friendly, funny and extremely welcoming, and the food is fresh, home grown and delicious. I look forward to returning one day to explore more of the country, and meet more of the Lebanese.

Accommodation wise I started my time in Beirut at the Colony Beirut Hostel which is well located, just a ten minute walk to Armenia Street and Downtown Beirut. The hostel was nice enough, offering box style dorm beds, a nice outdoor shared space, and with friendly and informative staff. The wifi, like everywhere in Lebanon was very slack, with the government only guaranteeing one hour of electricity per household per day, wifi takes a backseat! The Colony Hostel was also located near the Port of Beirut where the devastating blast occurred two years earlier. By chance, on the afternoon of the second anniversary of the Beirut Port blast, further silos collapsed at the site. I was able to capture this moment and document the surrounding area. The 2020 explosion at Beirut’s Port killed over 200 people and wounded a further 7,000. It was one of the largest non-nuclear explosions in history. There are still a large number of damaged and vacant buildings throughout the city following the blast. In addition to the Port explosion damage you will see a lot of buildings in Beirut still damaged from the Lebanese Civil War which took place between 1975 and 1990.

Some of my favourite photos from Beirut were taken on the Corniche, a seven kilometre promenade stretching around the peninsula of Beirut. At sunset and during the weekends, there is a lot of activity on the Corniche with local families heading to the beach. It’s a good location for street photography and travel portraits as well as capturing some vibrant sunsets. One of the most iconic landmarks in Beirut are the Pigeon Rocks, which are two massive rock formations standing in the Mediterranean Sea. There’s also a funfair and some interesting abandoned buildings on the corniche which you can explore. Here’s a travel blog I wrote about photography on the Beirut Corniche.

For the latter part of my stay in Beirut I stayed in a small Airbnb studio apartment in the friendly and laid back Mar Mikhael neighborhood. The neighbourhood has plenty of good cafes, bars, and restaurants. Be sure to check out Le Chef, a family run Lebanese restaurant that has been running for over fifty years, amazing food, welcoming staff and very reasonable prices. A few minutes walk from Le Chef and you will find some very interesting buildings to photograph including Mohammad Al-Amin Mosque. Also known as the Blue Mosque, Mohammad Al-Amin Mosque is a stunning structure that is the largest mosque in Beirut. The mosque's intricate architecture and beautiful dome make for some great architectural photography.

On a Saturday head to Souk El Tayeb - Lebanon's First Farmers Market, it was here I met local photographer Karim Sakr who sells his excellent photography at the Market. Karim also took me on a couple of photo walks in and around the Hamra neighbourhood which were fun and very interesting. Karim’s Beirut & Lebanon images can be viewed on his Instagram account (@beirut_streets).

In conclusion, Beirut is a city that offers a diverse range of opportunities for travel photographers. Whether you're interested in architecture, street photography, or seascapes, Beirut has something for everyone. And why stop at Beirut, Lebanon is a relatively small country with a lot to offer including: The Unesco World Heritage sites including Baalbek and Byblos, the underground caves of Jeita Grotto, the Jabal Moussa Nature Reserve, some stunning beaches and the interesting City of Tripoli to name just a few. Visit Beirut and Lebanon, take lots of photos, and have fun. Bon Voyage! My photography from Beirut and Lebanon is available for license via Getty Images here. More of my travel photography can be found on my website, my Instagram, my Facebook Page and my Flickr account. Here is a final Beirut & beyond slideshow with some more of Lebanese photography, enjoy:

Animal Portrait Travel Photography

I love animals and love photographing them whilst away on my travels. Animal portrait photography can be an excellent addition to your travel portfolio. Animal portraits can capture both the personality of the animal and the essence of the place itself. In addition, it is a lot easier to take photos of animals up close than it is of humans, and you do not have to worry about model releases! Click through the slideshow below to view some of my favourite animal portraits I have taken whilst on my travels:

Animal portrait photography requires patience and skill as they can be very unpredictable! But with enough time on the road you can create some lasting memories to treasure for years to come. As with everything, practice really does make perfect, although often a bit of luck and being in the right place at the right time also helps! As well as being a rewarding activity, animal portraits can also bring in some much needed travel cash. Whether it is the sale of online prints or licensing via stock photography, animal images do sell! My photo of the llama at Machu Picchu has been licensed via Getty images over two hundred times, everyone loves a Llama…. Another popular selling animal portrait of mine is this Dog in pink shades covered in dollar $ bills taken in California. The amusing close-up portrait of the crazy dog in India is another popular seller of mine. And, the boy band style monkey shot taken in The Gambia is also another firm favourite. I have also had a few of my animal portraits exhibited in various place around the World. My photograph of a silhouetted camel at sunset taken in Rajasthan, India was exhibited in the Praxis Gallery in Minneapolis, USA. In May of this year one of my travel images from Nepal is going to be included as part of the “Animalia” exhibition at the Photoplace gallery in Middlebury, Vermont.

Taking Animal Portraits on your Travels

Whether you are photographing domestic pets, wildlife in their natural habitats, or even exotic animals in zoos or wildlife parks, there are endless opportunities to capture stunning animal portraits on your travels. To take your animal portrait photography to the next level, it's important to understand the behavior and habits of your subjects, as well as having a good understanding of composition, lighting, and exposure. So spend some time observing your animal and getting a sense of their personality. This will help you capture their unique traits and characteristics in your photos. Use a high shutter speed to ensure a sharp image and focus whenever possible on the animal’s eyes. All of my animal portraits were taken with natural light, most were taken up close with a 50mm lens, but it can be advantageous to use a telephoto lens. Experiment with different angles and perspectives, get creative. Don't be afraid to get down low or climb up high to get a unique shot with an unusual angle. Varying your angles will add interest and depth to your photography portfolio. Finally have patience, be persistent and have fun doing it! Here’s some more of my animal portraits for your amusement, click through the slideshow below:

If you're interested in exploring the world of animal portrait photography, be sure to check out the many resources available online, including tutorials, forums, and photography communities. Join animal photography groups on photography communities such as Flickr for some useful peer feedback, and don't forget to share your work on social media to connect with other photographers and pick up some inspiration. More of my animal portraits taken on my travels can be found on my Instagram, and my Flickr account. If you would like to purchase one of my animal portraits, please send me a message. Alternatively you can license many of animal photographs via Getty images. Sometimes you get the Bear, sometimes the Bear gets you.

Travel Photography in Istanbul

Istanbul is a city of contrasts, blending ancient history with modern innovation. With stunning architecture, vibrant culture, and breathtaking landscapes, it's no wonder that Istanbul is a favorite destination for travel photographers from around the world. From the beautiful Mosques to the bustling markets and the never ending activity surrounding the Bosphorus, there is no shortage of inspiration for photographers in this enchanting city. Istanbul is also a colourful city with the vibrant red Turkish flag and bunting displayed everywhere. If, like me, you are a fan of flags, be sure to head to Çamlıca Hill to capture the biggest flag in Turkey, the flag pole itself is 111 meters (364 feet) tall. Click through the slideshow below to take a look at some of the travel photography I took whilst in Istanbul:

One of the best times to capture the essence of Istanbul is during the early morning hours. The soft light and empty streets make for a perfect setting for photographers to capture the city's architecture and historical sites without the crowds of tourists. Be sure to head to the Galata Tower for a panoramic view of the city skyline and the Bosphorus.

If you are interested in people and street photography head out later in the day when you will find a lot of activity throughout the City. My favourite place for photography in Istanbul was by the Bosphorus, the large waterway which cuts through the City. Take a stroll along the Bosphorus, where you can capture stunning views of the city from across the water. Cross one of the bridges and watch the hundreds of fishermen jostling for space. Alternatively take a ferry or boat across the water or to other parts of Istanbul. The sunset over the Bosphorus is one of the most magical moments you can witness, so head down for the golden hour and capture some of it’s beauty. Click through the slideshow below to view some of my favourite photos of Istanbul taken by the Bosphorus:

While I was in Istanbul I stayed in the Wabi Sabi Hostel for a couple of weeks. The hostel is conveniently located close to the downtown Taksim area. The hostel has a great rooftop bar overlooking the City (great for sunset shots) and runs regular events such as the excellent stand up comedy nights. For more information on the standup comedy nights follow @altustandup on Instagram and make sure you check out the set of @_ozguntuna_, lots of laughs! All of the staff in the hostel are extremely friendly and will offer you help with anything related to Istanbul and Turkey. Wabi Sabi hostel has a lot of affordable and nice restaurants close to the hostel and they serve an amazing breakfast buffet which is included in the price. I met some great people in the hostel who I am still in touch with today, and I will definitely stay the next time I visit Istanbul.

In conclusion, Istanbul is a city that offers endless photographic opportunities for both amateur and professional photographers. So, grab your camera, hit the streets and capture its beauty through your lens. Explore the different parts of the city on foot or by the easily accessible public transport system. Capture some of the beautiful architecture, get involved with some candid street photography, and last but by no means least, head down to the Bosphorus and enjoy. More of my Istanbul travel photography can be found on my Instagram, and my Flickr account. Many of my images from Istabul are available to license via Getty images. Istanbul, see you again someday.

Photographing Mil Palmeras, Alicante, Spain

Mil Palmeras is a small coastal town located in Orihuela Costa, the province of Alicante, Costa Blanca, in the Valencian Community, Spain. Mil Palmeras is located in the Vega Baja region, bordering the Region of Murcia, being the most southern municipality in the province of Alicante. I spent the month of January living in Mil Palmeras looking after a friend’s dog, cat and apartment. Being the off season the town was very quiet, but the weather was unusually warm for that time of year and the coastal region was a perfect place to explore with a camera. The Alicante region of Spain is renowned for its turquoise waters and clean beaches with golden sands. Click through the slideshow below to view some of the coastal images I took whilst in Mil Palmeras, Spain:

As a travel photographer, Mil Palmeras offers plenty of opportunities to capture the beauty of the Mediterranean Sea and the surrounding landscapes. The name Mil Palmeras translates to ‘a thousand palm trees’ and you will find many tall palm trees along the coastline next to the sea. Experiment with a wide angle lens, pointing the camera up to the sky to capture the trees and the sky beyond. The beach itself is ideal for capturing stunning sunrises and sunsets, with the changing light during these times of day providing a range of colours and moods that are perfect for artistic photography. The sun rises over the Mediterranean Sea down the far end of the beach. Early starts are worth it for the vibrant colours found at that time of the day, bring a tripod to capture some long exposures in the low light conditions. I am a fan of abstract seascapes using intentional camera movement (ICM) and would head down to the beach early morning to practice this type of photography. Take a look at some of my abstract seascape photography taken on the beach of Mil Palmeras in the Alicante region of Spain by clicking through the following slideshow:

Beyond the beach itself, the surrounding area is also worth exploring, hire a bike and cycle for miles up or down the coastline on safe and empty cycle paths. The nearby cliffs and coves provide stunning landscapes for landscape photography, while the charming coastal towns offers picturesque and typical Spanish architecture.

Mil Palmeras is a hidden gem in the Alicante region, offering a wealth of opportunities for travel photography. Whether you're interested in nature, landscapes, or simply capturing the essence of a charming coastal town, this destination is definitely worth exploring with your camera in hand. More of my travel photography from Mil Palmeras can be found on my Instagram, my and Flickr account. Many of my images from Mil Palmeras and the Alicante region of Spain are available to license via Getty images. Enjoy the sunshine and have fun in Mil Palmeras.