So, you wanna know about this whole “sustainable travel photography” thing, huh? It’s something I’ve been figuring out, bit by bit. Wasn’t like I woke up one day and was a pro at it. Nah, not at all.
My Old Ways – Just Clicking Away
I used to be like a lot of folks, I guess. Go somewhere new, whip out the camera, and just fire away. Get the famous landmarks, the pretty sunsets, you know the drill. Didn’t really think much beyond getting “the shot.” If a place was crowded, I’d just elbow my way in, or wait impatiently. The focus was on me and my camera. What I wanted. Didn’t really consider the impact, not really.
I remember one time, I was in this really quiet, small village. Beautiful place. And I saw this old fella, just sitting, watching the world go by. I just pointed my big lens at him and started clicking. He looked up, kinda startled and, well, not happy. I got my photo, but it felt… empty. And a bit shameful, if I’m honest. That stuck with me.
Figuring Things Out – Small Steps
After that, and seeing other tourists sometimes behaving pretty badly – trampling over delicate areas for a photo, or being super loud in quiet places – I started to think. There had to be a better way to do this, right? It’s not about not taking pictures, but how you take them.
So, I began with really simple stuff:
- Asking permission. Seriously, this was a game changer. Just a simple “Is it okay if I take your photo?” or even just a smile and a gesture. Most people are fine, some say no, and that’s okay too. The photos I got when people said yes felt way more genuine.
- Being more aware of my surroundings. Like, literally watching where I stepped. Not going off paths in nature reserves just for a slightly different angle. Seems obvious, but you’d be surprised.
- Thinking about my gear. Did I really need that massive backpack full of lenses all the time? Sometimes, just a small camera, or even my phone, was less intrusive and made me blend in more. Less intimidating, I reckon.
Going a Bit Deeper – It’s More Than Just Pictures
Then I started thinking about the “travel” part of travel photography. It’s not just about what you capture, but how you experience a place.
I tried to:
- Support local. Instead of big chain coffee shops, I’d find a small, local cafe. Buy souvenirs from actual artisans, not just the mass-produced stuff. That money goes back into the community, which feels good.
- Learn a few words of the local language. Even just “hello,” “thank you,” “please.” People appreciate it, and it opens up little interactions you wouldn’t have otherwise.
- Slow down. This was a big one. I used to rush from one “photo spot” to another. Now, I try to spend more time in fewer places. Get to know a neighborhood a bit. The photos come more naturally then, and they tell a better story, I think.
It also meant sometimes not taking a photo. Just being present and enjoying the moment. Sounds a bit cheesy, I know, but it’s true. Some memories are just for you, not for the ‘gram.
Still a Work in Progress
Look, I’m not perfect at this. Still learning, still making mistakes probably. Sometimes I get caught up in the moment and forget. But I’m trying. The main thing is being mindful, I guess. Thinking about the people and the places I’m visiting, not just what cool shot I can get.
It’s made my travel experiences richer, and I think my photos are better for it too. They feel more connected. It’s less about just taking, and more about a respectful exchange. And that feels a whole lot better than just clicking away like I used to.
