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Day in the life of a travel photographer

Dream of shooting sunsets for a living? Get the inside scoop on becoming a travel photographer.
Daniel Burdett is a freelance photographer, who has travelled the world and produced a catalogue of award-winning imagery for some of the biggest fashion, music and travel brands. He’s had the opportunity to capture some of the world’s most outstanding sights – from ancient cities and natural attractions to detailed photographic journeys of locals going about their daily life. We followed him to the Amalfi Coast, Sicily and Sardinia to find out a little more about life as a leading photographer…

HOW DID YOU BECOME A PHOTOGRAPHER?

My passion for photography started very early on, in fact, my first photos were holiday photos. Every time we went on a family holiday, I’d be allowed to take four or five photographs at the end of the film. The anticipation while waiting to get them developed was so exciting.

My early career began in moving image, which adopts the same principal as photography – capturing stories, emotions and moments on camera. However, I enjoyed the challenge of telling a story within a single frame much more, so I gradually moved into stills photography and have been fortunate enough to work with some of the world’s leading brands. There’s nothing more satisfying than capturing an atmosphere or personality in a single photo, be it of a city, an individual or a moment in time. And, travelling the world to do so is a huge advantage.

YOU’VE TAKEN HUNDREDS OF PHOTOS, BUT WHICH ONES ARE YOU MOST PROUD OF?

I have such a love for the Amalfi Coast – the region makes for such a dramatic coastal drive, with its winding roads and tiny fishing villages, all set beside the breathtaking azure of the Tyrrhenian sea. We were tearing around the bends in a little vintage Fiat 500, and I managed to capture some incredible shots of the cliffs from the open window. The end result was worth it for the drama.

WHAT ARE THE QUALITIES A PHOTOGRAPHER HAS TO HAVE?

Curiosity is essential, patience and passion are a must, and an eye for detail is everything. You have to be continually on the lookout for that great shot, and up early, ready to capture every little behind-the-scenes detail that makes a story – little Nonnas hanging out their laundry, fisherman preparing their nets, or restaurateurs setting up for the day. Sometimes you’re stood for hours in the same spot waiting for that perfect moment.

WHAT ARE THE BIGGEST CHALLENGES WHEN YOU’RE ON LOCATION?

Capturing a moment as it happens makes for the best image, but photographing people naturally can be a challenge. It means you have to take the image first and ask for permission later, or you will lose that magic. People are usually happy to give permission when they see the image you’ve captured, however.

It can also be a challenge to portray the scale and grandeur of these majestic buildings and landscapes – a challenge I love though. I’ll often use people in the shot or experiment with different angles to try and create a sense of perspective. And, although you get to travel to some amazing places, being on location is not always glamorous. You can be working in extreme temperatures, carrying lots of heavy equipment, and trying to avoid crowds. I’ve been on location in Canada when it’s been -40 degrees, and in the Australian outback during the most extreme summer heat. It’s great when you’re on holiday, but difficult when you’re working.

WHAT DO YOU LOVE PHOTOGRAPHING THE MOST?

One of my great passions lies in classic portraiture, taking inspiration from the greats such as Cornel Lucas. I also like to photograph old architecture combined with vintage cars. So Italy is perfect for me – the contrast of the Fiat 500s and Vespas zipping along the roads with a backdrop of the Amalfi Coast.

WHAT'S YOUR FAVOURITE DESTINATION TO SHOOT AND WHY?

Los Angeles, which might sound surprising, but it's because the light there is unbelievable. You could shoot almost anything and it would look great. Perhaps that’s why they built Hollywood there.

WHAT TIPS WOULD YOU GIVE TO ASPIRING PHOTOGRAPHERS?

Photograph what you are most passionate about. Your subject must excite you. And, never let your lack of technical ability stand in your way, you will never stop learning and your keen eye, combined with a growing expertise and portfolio will be everything.

The internet is an incredible tool for ensuring that your work is seen. Instagram is a great platform for any creative – use it to showcase your images and create your clearly-defined style.

HAVE YOU GOT ANY TIPS FOR TAKING GREAT PICTURES ON YOUR PHONE?

Never use the zoom on your smartphone, zoom with your feet and get closer to what you want to shoot, or you will lose image quality. I tend to stay away from the flash as well, natural light is much more interesting – don’t be afraid of shadows. Shooting from the hip gives you a great child’s perspective as well, and it’s a little more discreet when capturing those natural shots.

WHAT’S THE BEST CAMERA OR SMARTPHONE FOR PHOTOGRAPHY?

'The best camera is the one you have on you at the time,’ is a famous quote from Chase Jarvis, and I think that is completely true. It’s not about the technology – it’s about capturing in the moment, wherever and whenever you can. Technology is so advanced these days, you can now take great, high quality images on your phone.

WHEN YOU’RE NOT TRAVELLING THE WORLD ON SHOOTS, WHERE DO YOU LIKE TO HOLIDAY?

In all honesty, if I actually want to switch off, I have to be somewhere with just a beach or pool, or I can’t help myself – I’ll spend the whole time taking photos. So, when it comes to a relaxing holiday, just a pool, great company, sunshine and wonderful food.
Fancy the Amalfi Coast yourself?

Check out our deals to Sorrento. Or, for more job inspiration, watch a day in the life of a TUI BLUE Entertainer.

Author: Selina Akhtar

Last updated: 13.09.2017.

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