Choosing a photo location demands research. The last thing you want to happen is to arrive at a location ready to shoot only to find that your destination has limited access or is not how your friend described it. Even though much work can be done on the internet, the best place to begin is in the travel section of a book store.
If you want to find a great location in the United States, there are several series of books that you can use to begin your research. A four volume series called “Photographing the South West” by Laurent Martres is among the best series I have read. These volumes outline by chapter regions of the southwest, practical shooting guides, recommended trails, highway directions, weather, road difficulties, places to stay. The books are absolutely complete!
Another valuable series of books are produced by National Geographic. They have various volumes that cover the best places to photograph from Maine to California and they are also very reliable. National Geographic is not going to put their reputation on the line by provided poor or false information. They have no vested interest in having you go to one place over another. Their many “Field Guides” are the books to purchase.
If you are planning a trip abroad, the DK Eyewitness Travel Guides are among the best. These books can be purchased for an entire country or for just a famous city. The information given starts with a brief history and then breaks down into regions, sights, points of interest, historically significant art, monuments and buildings. These books include maps, suggested places to eat, places to stay, shopping venues, activities, entertainment, weather, transportation, and regional specialties. They even offer a section on personal safety. I have often traveled with this particular guide and on one occasion when I found myself stranded in Ireland, it indeed saved my trip!
Book research should be followed by internet research. The addition of internet information is a bonus. Beware however, relying solely on the internet is risky. Websites are meant to lure your business and while there are so many credible sites, the goal is to get your business. Start with the books. They are almost always written by independent parties who are simply reporting.
Comments
Joanna, great book suggestions! Can’t wait to check them out. I completely agree that it is dangerous to depend completely on the internet. Often, real life changes such as weather or construction happen before Google Maps and Google Earth can catch up. Plus, the internet cannot provide you with the emotional, interesting aspects of an area, such as the significant history, monuments, and art.