There are different approaches to capturing photos when you travel. Some people are happy to just point the camera at the first thing they see and fire away. Others focus on taking selfies of them in front of the famous building or site to prove to everyone they were there.
But how do you take a photo of one of the most photographed natural wonders in the world that is a bit different to every one else's? Below are a couple of tips to assist.
Tip 1: Stop and look. The art of good travel photography is to pause and take in the full moment allowing your eye to explore the large vista right down to the smallest detail. This may give you a different perspective on what you capture. When you arrive at a place such as Uluru grab that iconic photo that you have seen on the cover of every tourist magazines with the rock taking full stage. But once you have done this, put the camera down and just take in the scenery. Not only does this give you a chance to experience the power of this ancient monolith without looking through a view finder, it also allows the mind to begin to see other things.
Tip 2: The Reveal. In photography sometimes it is the 'reveal' or the part not in the photo that gives it a greater sense of mystery, allowing the viewer to crete the rest of the picture in their mind.
When you see the image below you immediately recognise it as Uluru, even though the centre of the image is a tree.
Now I am not pretending that this photo is unique as I am sure others have captured this image. However it is a slightly different way to capture this great location.
I also like this image below as you can still clearly tell it is Uluru but the sun shining of Kata Tjuta gives a majestic feel.
Tip 3: Don't forget the detail. It is hard not to spend most of your time taking panoramic photos of this amazing rock. The way it sits in the landscape with the flat plains stretching out is breathtaking. But it also pays to get up close. From here the rock takes on a different character. And don't forget to think about the things surrounding the rock. There are some amazing trees that contrast beautifully against the red ochra walls.
Tip 4: show the change. Now don't get me wrong. I did capture that traditional shot of the sun setting as you can see below but I think it is even more amazing when you see the change in colours it goes through.
If you want to see some more of my images of Uluru go to here:
http://www.lensontheroad.com/outback-lens-gallery?category=Big+Rocks
I would also highly recommend you have a look at Julie Fletcher Photography, an amazing photographer from Maree.
http://www.juliefletcherphotography.com.au/
This principle can apply to any location you visit. Allowing your eye to explore the unusual will allow you to not only capture that memorable moment, but also an image that may be just a bit different to those you have seen before.
For those interested in the first photo, below is the un-edited version. While the photo may appear to be unintentionally underexposed, this is actually done on purpose. When taking photos if you expose to the shadows what happens is the bright areas get 'blown out' or become white. Once this happens it is impossible to recover the detail. However in the photo above the sky still retains its colour. I was able to bring the shadows out of the tree in post production.
you will also see there was a bit of horizon correction and spot removal.
