Maybe you worry too much. You will never do every place justice. There will always be a better photograph that you never got. You can only do your best and be thankful for being able to do what you do. As an older and less able photographer, I envy your youth, energy and vigour. Seize the day, enjoy living the dream and worry not.
As a disabled photographer I woukd love to be able to get to some other places but I'm restricted to finding places that are literally by the roadside. That's why I love Scotland so much as I can still be in amazing landscapes without hiking
Scotland is fabulous for Accessible Photography. Road side views are so abundant. I did initially try to aim my channel at disabled access but it’s incredibly difficult to do so. Too many pit falls and legal requirements if describing accessibility of a location. I’ve opted for the ease of access locations but a lot are from right beside the car. Just wish I was as good at photography and videography as our Henry here. 😊
In 2009 I started landscape photography during a trip to the Highlands. Few years later I photographed an arson fire in my hometown. Sent it to the press and within 3 years was full time with them. Highlights were Tom Cruise on MI set and loads of music acts at festivals. My point is we are never "just" a landscape photographer or press or whatever. We are whatever we want to capture 👊👊👊
As someone who has been told it is wrong to take pictures that are out of the norm for a place - yes. Take a different picture. I recently went back to a park known for its waterfall and did not take a picture of the waterfall. I got a little grassy area full of pollinators, some deer hiding in the brush, and the rocky river that leads to the falls. So many people told me it was wrong because you're supposed to shoot the waterfall. I have years worth of pictures of the waterfall and I cant tell mine from anyone else's.
Here's my point of view, for what it's worth. I travel around Portugal and Spain by bicycle, and I actively choose to visit places unknown or less known. Although I'm not a photographer, my purpose is still the same as yours, Henry.......to visit beautiful places and capture the moment. This started off when an American friend of mine wrote a book about his cycling travels behind the Iron Curtain in the 1980s. The title of the book........."The Secrets are not on the Map". Say no more. Thanks for another excellent vlog.
I just love these photos, Henry. Well done. This is the type of thing that I travel hours to shot. I call them abandoned and forgotten. They will always find their place in someone's heart and mind. I love you and your incredible spirit of life. Fair Winds Henry!
I believe it is good to venture away from the same photo that everyone takes. If you do end up at the standard shot try adding a challenge of X number of different shots of the same subject. I did that for a bridge and set X=50. Each photo has to be different. I think for lanscape photos set X to about 10 would be sufficient. But make it challenging, that way your shot isn't the same as everyone else's as one of the commentors pointed out. Great job as always.
A few years ago, I visited San Francisco and walked around. At one point I was jostled by a party of tourists trying to get the picture and then onto the next point. That was disrespectful to all and their rudeness was rubbing up people the wrong way. Love your latest update. 👏👍
The last photo of the heather and house was brilliant. You captured the subject and essence of the countryside wonderfully. Oh, and better a battery then a camera….
Hey . I can't speak for all photographers, but for myself I will say this. I get drawn to a place because of photographs I have seen of it, so that I can try and try and capture a photograph of it for myself. Whilst I am there, I often find other compositions that I find just as appealing, and I take those pictures too. Usually, I find that I like those surprise photos more. But if it wasn't for the original image that drew me to the location, I would have missed out . You seem to look beyond the main attraction yourself. Which I find awesome. So I think you might be overthinking the issue of respect vs. disrespect for a location. Just my thoughts on the matter. Cheers Glenn
Really like the first photo with the boat. I understand what you are getting at about the potential for showing disrespect, but you are always so appreciative of the variety of places you get to see, and choices of location have to be made on short visits. I don't think you are in any way disrespectful, and your exploration of different sites for this video proved it.
I'm a new subscriber and have to say your videos and photos are wonderful. The great thing about being new is I get to binge all your older videos. 😂 Looking forward to the next one. 👍
Really enjoyed you taking some different images Henry and liked the last shot with heather close up with building in top right. Cant beat a challenge to get something different from the norm at popular locations, i think it helps improve the way we look for compositions. Recently took a shot of a lone tree with a large stone column next to it, it was part of Ribblehead viaduct but didnt bother to take the viaduct. Its what memories the shot brings back thats important for me personally. Hope everything is or has gone well with the eye.
It is amazing that we can get tired of different things that we shoot. I think a lot of it has to do with the instant gratification we have now. I know that with film, you had to wait to see what you got so you paid close attention to everything. Now, we get instant results and we might not pay as close attention as we should sometimes. I think if we take a step back and really look around and think of the thing we would like to see again, and take pictures of that, maybe we can enjoy it a little more.
I can relate to your notion that you get "fed up" with landscape photography. I love landscape photography, however to have a change I have started taking some bird photography which I enjoy, but I do not have the patience for!!
Love the shot of small building. We all loose batteries on occasions. I lost a brand new one, on the first trip out, like you by the sea. Expensive and frustrating , but there is some much more intangible value in being there , and capturing the images. Keep it going Henry, its great
I don't think it's a matter of disrespect, Henry. When you are a professional photographer, the primary purpose of your visit is to take the shots you came to take. Exploring is secondary (time and interest permitting). When you are a hobbyist (like me), the primary purpose of your visit is for exploration/enjoyment and the availability of photo opportunities is a bonus. Love your introspection!
Thanks Henry for your mention of Dougie's Photographing Scotland book. Very much appreciated. We've got a two-volume Hebrides coming out this year by Chris Swan.
Hi Henry Another superb video. Being a photographer who travels quite a bit I can totally relate to what you was saying in this video. The way I look at it is that as much as we all like to get those epic photos I also believe that the not so epic shots are also part of why I enjoy the trips and I say that for a couple of reasons. Firstly every photo is a memory and documents the whole trip. They may not be the best photos in the world but they are for me a very important part of the trip. Secondly the not so epic photos make me slow down and think more about what I need to do in order to make them look good .. I think that is so important because it is how I keep improving my skills as a photographer.. Plus the variety is a great way of staying motivated even if they do not make it to the portfolio 👍
I feel it's disrespectful when people go anywhere not at least trying to research/ understand something about the history, culture and understand the place they are in. Thank for taking us with you. Would have loved to know your itinerary on your trip.
I know what you mean, I moved from the uk to Iceland over 5 years ago and spent 3 years going to all the “photogenic” spots. I now realise that I enjoy myself so much more when I find places that I haven’t seen photographed before, they might not all be the epic places Iceland is known for but it’s still far more fulfilling to get something unique.
Henry great shots as always. That last shot with the heather to the left and the old building in the background was awesome the dead branches mixed in with the heather really caught my eye. Wish I was in Scotland, but first on my bucket list is Iceland.
Great video Henry....I love the photos especially the one of the rowing boat..... location looks very interesting with great potential for any photography...I just always enjoy new places to visit & photograph..no matter what the subject... cheers from Australia 🦘🦘😊
Loved the shot with the heather and mountains, but for me what made it was not the heather but the rocks, they mirrored the mountains really well. Great job. As for exploring all the options? - of course! Mad to visit an area and not see all it has to offer. I look for those unclassified roads marked white on the map, they are like a magnet for me when I'm in a new area.
Loving all of the images, but the one at 7:50 really is class!! Hmm, I think it's hard to find everything to photograph to really do a place justice, when going somewhere that is not near where you live. You just simply run out of time eventually and unless you're rich, can't stay at locations for a very long time all the time.
I definitely think about this a lot too. For instance I’m in East Neuk in Fife this weekend. I’ve been here many times but never really explored the small villages or hung around much. So yes I feel like I have previously parachuted in, got what I wanted in terms of images, and then fled. Not saying my MO will change much, but I do think about this a lot. Feels a shame not to see more, visit cafes/pubs and generally hang about
I travel yearly to Skye and each time i try my hardest to find some new locations, yet yes i think we all fall for the safe photo. But sometimes that safe one is in different light I feel sometime the new spot could get over shot, but even local areas try something new.
I think to explore beyond the typical common scene is what can make for more unique photography. It's is impossible to see everything, but the more off the beaten path the more one's photograhy seperates itself from the familiar! Plus explore new areas keeps one's interest up and fresh. Beautiful images Henry.
I live in Dorset and while Durdle Door and Corfe Castle are great locations there is so much more to see. Having said that we like to keep a few locations for ourselves ;-)
I think it's good to think outside the box and take image's that you would not normally take. I enjoyed the video as usual Henry. You captured some really nice image's as usual.
The only thing a photographer can ever do at any location, is try to make the best of the conditions and what you can see there. As for batteries, I keep mine in an 1.5 litre Osprey Dry bag. It's bright orange so not too easy to misplace and being a dry bag, once closed up, waterproof.
Good point. Myself I try to take in the place, look around at all aspects before taking my camera and capture stuff. I spent about 15h next to an erupting volcano 2 weeks ago and tried to capture the best shots. I might not have the best gear (original mavic pro drone is fried now) but still I know all the techniques. During the 3h hike back to the car I had some thoughts on how lucky I am and hoping I captured everything I wanted to capture. Reviewing my photos I wish I'd done more long exposures...
You may well be overthinking it Henry. The beach is my favourite place too. That said, I try to mix it up, which when you think about it, and look back over your videos, is what you do too! I will also do some urban (early morning) photography from time to time as well, it's not one of my strengths, but I normally enjoy myself, apart from occasionally having to deal with late night revellers wobbling their way home! I'm off to Harris in March, and am really looking forward to it, but I must admit, Uist looks very attractive too. As always, great set of shots! Have a good weekend!
Henry you are right! There is always more to places than the honey pot locations. Great images you got as well. I visited Uist three years ago. If you care to look at my Hebrides part 3 video you will see me drive off the main tourist route and find some great locations. As I can’t walk too far I do tend to explore by car up any dead end road and sometime like there it pays off. Keep up the good work. Alastair
I am primarily a wildlife photographer, and the corollary to your thoughts about only shooting the epic sites is only shooting the stunning birds with bright colors or huge elk with massive racks etc. I find common little squirrels, a dull colored sparrow, or a goose found in most any lake to be very worthy subjects. The trick is to get the right composition at the right time with the right light, isn’t it? 😊
Thank you. I think variety is great - beach, forest, mountain, etc. change is always interesting. I think the stone house would be great in B&W. Cheers
I'm an amateur but as you said, like you also for me is about being there, feeling the space and nature (when not hostile 😅). Taking the photo is just the final phase of the experience.
Another great video Henry ,absolutely love the photo with the rowboat, a simple photo but has a lovely feel,hopefully if you put it on your website I’ll buy it keep up the great work😊
Another video with a unique and interesting topic, Henry. (with great pics, of course!) I don't think it's a question of "disrespecting" as it is more a question of time and opportunity. Ideally, a week in an iconic location would be the best so we could have a chance at the famous spots and exploring off the proverbial "beaten path." Or, maybe even better, knowing we can make multiple journeys to these locations over a period of time. But a rare opportunity to visit a grand location with just a day or two, it's hard to pass up the "big scenes!" BTW, way to go losing your battery! I'll see you at the next "Photographers Who Lost Their Batter(ies)" meeting!
I’m really enjoying how you are constantly evolving in your videos Henry, and an occasional bit of philosophical thinking is no bad thing because if nothing else it sets the video apart from ‘run of the mill’ topics which appear to abound at this time of year. To me, the most important thing is to be enjoying your craft, you enjoyed your photography (apart from murdering your batteries by drowning), so who cares what anyone else may think? I really liked the second image of the hut with the heather by the way.
Not wired at all thoroughly enjoyed it, it’s good to stray from the norm I do it all the time, keeps the creative juices flowing, I’ve even bought a couple of primes to try some street photography, anything that makes you feel positive about what you shoot is a good thing
We are really lucky to own a campervan and have made it priority to always spend our money with local independent business. First shot with the green boat 👍
I go out walking quit a bit and when i take my camera i shoot what i like, if there happens to be a "hero shot" then i will take it just to add to the story of the walk im on. I dont seem to go out to get a specific photo.
Love taking something different than the usual ones that people expect you to take!! I love doing that, it just breaks up the monotony ! Driving down through Lincolnshire and I saw an abandoned barn covered in ivy with an old rusty tractor poking out the broken door. Stopped took the photo, came out great. Passed by coming home a few hours later…it had been flattened!!! Timing!!! Love your photos mate. Graham
As an amateur I tend to do most of my serious photography whilst on holiday and that is normally with other members of the family, so that limits your time. It would be disrespectful to commandeer other peoples time just so I can facilitate my hobby. Holidays normally happen in places you love being and taking images of as many well know locations is a given just to have them in your portfolio. Iceland, Orkney, Scottish Highlands, Lake District etc but I also try to get images of completely unknown locations, especially if the light is playing ball. Variety is the spice of life IMO and can only improve your skills 😉
Hi Henry, do all the "weird" you like mate, thanks for another grand day out. Super images again. I very much appreciate that that you respect the places you go to and the flora an fauna you find there. As for your lens, at the risk of triggering an argument in the wider photography community, maybe think of getting a UV filter to take the brunt of the punishment the lens is getting ... but do spend a few quid on getting a good one so it is optically of good quality. Don't use it all the time, just when say the weather is bad. Try taking a few shots using no filter and then with one to see if a filter actually has a detrimental effect. My experience is that I found it didn't and a filter is so much cheaper than a new lens. To be fair though, even with the modest rash on the front element the images look well good enough. Following from last week, its amazing that its the relatively cheap things that hold us back sometimes, this time for you it was batteries. Not that batteries are particularly cheap. Keep up the good work!
I find it depends why I'm there....family holiday, work, or a photography weekend...that depends on what I do. I guess you are on Uist for work...Will knowing the history sell more images...I don't know. Having said that I love mixing it up on my trips so tend to do a bit of everything. Try not to over think things... love your images and videos. Can't wait to see the new calendar.
In answer to your initial question, no. I do a lot of bird photography and find by revisiting places I find you start finding more there and can improve your photographs of those locations or the things there. The same with landscapes, one visit it often never enough. And some places just connect with you. I love the isolation of the Outer Hebs along with the wildlife there and the landscape. It is not as photogenic as Harris/Lewis and you have to work a lot harder for images away from the beaches but there's a beauty about it and a rich history. Weather can be a a bit keen though if you get unlucky.
Going to a new location usually leaves you with limited time to cover the desired subjects. So, limitation comes naturally with that, doesn't it. I don't mind people coming to my coastal region and limiting themselves to the beach while missing out on the beautiful woodlands.
I really enjoyed this Henry, always something to grab a photo of. It’s impossible to grab a banger of a shot on every trip but you’ve got some nice shots there. Love the boat one 👍🏻
Instead of aiming for a specific type of location, why not pick a circular walk somewhere with varied terrain (woodland, river, village, hills etc), and challenge yourself to take at least 5 shots from that walk? You never know, you might come across a shot you note to return to in a different season or different weather. You could even challenge yourself on that walk, to only use one focal length.
I've visited few truly 'honeypot' locations, but it seems every time I've visited even reasonably photogenic locations I tend to kill myself trying to shoot each and every possible shot. That ends up adding stress, ramping up the frantic factor in general and eventually impacting my shots in a negative manner. But I know when I leave, that's it... I'm going back to a non-photo area and it might be months if not a year or more before I can get such opportunities again. I can only imagine how messed up I'll be if I ever visit an honestly world-class site, LOL. 🙂 As usual, a very worthwhile video, thanks!
Lovely images today Henry. In terms of your discussion, I think there will be a range of factors that need to be considered such as time at location, the range of compositions available or the physical landscape compared to the individual's physical abilities. Originality in some instances is becoming scarcer but that itself is also a positive, as the challenge to create something that has not been done before is a good motivator. From a personal perspective, I like the challenge of learning and some occasions it may be to replicate something that has been done before as there will still be learning to be had from that experience
You raise a good point Henry. I guess if time permits it is nice to be able to fully absorb and explore a new area and come away with a series of images which capture the essence of the place in as broad a way as possible. Always of interest to hear you raise such questions in your engaging videos. 👏
Well Henry the Uists are not as well known as say Skye which has a camper van overload. You need a ferry which these days are not reliable. It is a lovely place with beaches, mountains and lochs and also bird reserves. As you can see it is a place that is recommended. Cheers.
Nice shots, Henry. A bit if James Popsys influence including man made objects. We have a coastal area down here n Viktoria, Wilsons Promontory. When you guys are at Harris & Lewis, it takes me back there. I too get the feeling at a location.... Wha have I missed here?
I suppose it all depends on whether you view yourself as a photographer who uses their camera to describe the landscape, or one who uses the landscape to aid their photography. You can draw a parallel with portrait photography, some use their cameras to show us all aspects of the human condition while others choose the most beautiful people to make attractive photographs. All approaches are valid, it's just a matter of what you choose to be.
Landscape photographers are a different breed to tourists. For both, there will always be a feature of a location, highly promoted as the drawcard element. That element is what first attracts your attention gets you to that location in the first place. Tourists go to the drawcard feature, say wow, take a selfie and rush off to the next drawcard or cafe. For Landscape Photographers, as we travel to those promoted sites, other things will catch our attention and we will stop and investigate and either photograph or bookmark it for a future trip if conditions are not quite right or time is an issue. I don't think too many landscape photographers have tunnel vision. We are always scanning the surroundings looking for opportunities. We often can look past the "now" and see the "potential" in a scene. Also, while I may often go to a location with a particular feature and shot in mind, during my location research I always plan B, C, D.... options because rarely will weather and light go perfectly in my favour every time. No, I don't think we are being disrespectful. One discovery will always lead to another, maybe not on this excursion but the next.
I think it is a matter of how long you have - I think if you are in a place longer then I would definitely go for more variety but if you only have a short time then you have to go for the main event at least initially
I find I need some variety in subjects and location otherwise it gets boring for me . Also I think it's a very good idea to put a UV filter or some kind of a protector on the front of the lenses , I do that for all of mine and it gives me peace of mind, really enjoy watching your videos Henry , cheers !
Hi Henry glad to see 15:20 what you got up to on South Uist. When I was there it poured with rain the whole time. Thanks for respecting ground nesting birds. 😊 You shoot what you fancy, sometimes well known views might be rubbish when you're there, or take less known views. Enjoy your time! BTW beware of rock pools and water AND their inhabitants coz some bite or nip. Take care mate!
It’s important not to exhaust locations , I like visiting places and firstly shoot the iconic shots then a year later or what ever I’ll return to these places and explore a bit more for new locations , we’re all a bit ADHD when it comes to shots we flit between places and that’s OK. Bought the m43 camera you recorded on before and it’s opened my eye to a new sensor , which opens the shots again that I’ve already captured to revisit just keep doing what your doing stay happy and healthy it’s the best way
Thank you so much Henry. I took your advice and we packed up the van and went to Glencoe. What an incredible place. We found your spot too. I don't care its overshot. Its gorgeous. Do you work with budding photographers to improve thier work?
Henry, new(ish) to landscape photography and have found I enjoy woodland and water. I like you use screw on filters and I hope you don't mind an off piste question. I have had occasions when I need to use 2 filters usually polarised and soft head ND, however have a real problem trying to turn one without moving both, i.e I get one just right but that then moved when I turn the 2ND! I'm I missing a trick of the trade? Am subscribed to several channels but always look forward to yours, often watching twice, keep up the good work Thanks.
Always like your vids Henry mad or otherwise, and great images as ever, Have not been Uist, but on Harris/Lewis, I did just a couple of the so called must haves, the rest of the time I spent looking for different images, also did a lot of drone images especially on Harris
Great video and images Henry - just subscribed. I’m sure most of us like some variety in our photography and it’s exciting visiting new places. However I find myself regularly drawn back to one local place I really love, which I think is a helpful way of re-grounding if that makes sense. In my case that’s Mersea Island in Essex.
I think you hit the nail on the head when you mentioned always leaving a shoot buzzing. Maybe you are just overthinking. When I have been on a similar shoot, I like to include some man made objects, not as the main subject but to the side or in the foreground. This can be an abandoned dwelling, farm equipment or even an old telephone box.
Wow these images where amazing. Specialy the heather shot and the one with the yellow flowers. I get what you mean by being disrespectful. I see it a lot that photographers visit this exact composition just to copy something they've seen. I've stopped doing that about 2 years ago. Now I just go and see whatever my eye catches and try to photograph it is as best as possible. I actualy think that that creative process grows when you photograph more. And these creative shots are far more rewarding then when you copy something. Anyways great trip and a great channel. You're an inspiration to my own channel hope to get as big as you are now someday. Keep up the great work 🙂 grt guido
I think social media has killed the art of photographic adventures. For many years before the internet I traveled to Skye to walk and climb and visited all the areas that have become iconic viewpoints for mostly tourists and selfie takers. These places are now spoilt with crowds, car parks and congested roads and I no longer go there. I think it's great that people post videos of places they have found to photograph but please if you have found somewhere new just post the pictures without the locations, if we want to go there we will do the research and find it anyway but it will keep the crowds away. Yep I know I'm a grumpy old git but I remember the good times.
Pff that hotel sucks big time. The least thing they could have done was give you the penthouse suite at an all inclusive base for about a week. Ow and 1 of you're fellow youtuber and landscape photography friends to come along... I'm not not saying you have to bring me but I just wanted to let you know that I am available on any given date 😂 I tought that last shot was just amazing. Great to see how much time you spend on planning a shot. I'm the one you mentioned just wandering around searching for a shot... shoot try some planning every now and then... grt guido
That last image was a bit 'James Popsys' wasn't it? It's the kind of thing he likes to photograph! In answer to your questions, I just take photos of what I like regardless of whether they're the popular or famous subjects or not. In fact half the time I wouldn't even know what the popular subjects are! 🤣🤣
Sorry Henry I’m catching up tend binge watch a creator at a time. To answer your question Yes it’s a shame. One of the things I learnt shooting my local project on Dartmoor is the more you learn and understand about the location the more meaning your images have, and the more rewarding the experience.
Not so much being disrespectful to a place as photographer’s time constraints and preference for easier compositions, IMO. Time and effort to cover a site’s variety can yield better images, but that takes experience to master. Henry, first heather shot looked kind of a windy place for a focus stack - was it? Cheers!
I think you do yourself an injustice Henry. You obviously 'feel' the environment wherever you are, and that's enough. Be respectful, be satisfied and be proud.
I don't really go to touristic places or not the places that are filled to the brim with tourists, or I go at different times. I'm in Norway fairly often but you'll probably never catch me in the Lofoten, at Trolltunga or Preikestolen (despite those two being fairly within reach from where I go). Those locations become memes, in the first sense of the word. Images made there are memetic through social media and it's an immediate turn off for me. The country is vast and on its eastern parts, very few tourists ever venture. But don't go tell them. We don't want them there. :D
Maybe you worry too much. You will never do every place justice. There will always be a better photograph that you never got. You can only do your best and be thankful for being able to do what you do. As an older and less able photographer, I envy your youth, energy and vigour. Seize the day, enjoy living the dream and worry not.
Agreed. We all need to be better at living in the moment.
As a disabled photographer I woukd love to be able to get to some other places but I'm restricted to finding places that are literally by the roadside. That's why I love Scotland so much as I can still be in amazing landscapes without hiking
Scotland is fabulous for Accessible Photography. Road side views are so abundant. I did initially try to aim my channel at disabled access but it’s incredibly difficult to do so. Too many pit falls and legal requirements if describing accessibility of a location. I’ve opted for the ease of access locations but a lot are from right beside the car. Just wish I was as good at photography and videography as our Henry here. 😊
In 2009 I started landscape photography during a trip to the Highlands. Few years later I photographed an arson fire in my hometown. Sent it to the press and within 3 years was full time with them. Highlights were Tom Cruise on MI set and loads of music acts at festivals.
My point is we are never "just" a landscape photographer or press or whatever. We are whatever we want to capture 👊👊👊
As someone who has been told it is wrong to take pictures that are out of the norm for a place - yes. Take a different picture. I recently went back to a park known for its waterfall and did not take a picture of the waterfall. I got a little grassy area full of pollinators, some deer hiding in the brush, and the rocky river that leads to the falls. So many people told me it was wrong because you're supposed to shoot the waterfall. I have years worth of pictures of the waterfall and I cant tell mine from anyone else's.
Here's my point of view, for what it's worth. I travel around Portugal and Spain by bicycle, and I actively choose to visit places unknown or less known. Although I'm not a photographer, my purpose is still the same as yours, Henry.......to visit beautiful places and capture the moment.
This started off when an American friend of mine wrote a book about his cycling travels behind the Iron Curtain in the 1980s. The title of the book........."The Secrets are not on the Map". Say no more.
Thanks for another excellent vlog.
I just love these photos, Henry. Well done. This is the type of thing that I travel hours to shot. I call them abandoned and forgotten. They will always find their place in someone's heart and mind. I love you and your incredible spirit of life. Fair Winds Henry!
I believe it is good to venture away from the same photo that everyone takes. If you do end up at the standard shot try adding a challenge of X number of different shots of the same subject. I did that for a bridge and set X=50. Each photo has to be different. I think for lanscape photos set X to about 10 would be sufficient. But make it challenging, that way your shot isn't the same as everyone else's as one of the commentors pointed out.
Great job as always.
A few years ago, I visited San Francisco and walked around. At one point I was jostled by a party of tourists trying to get the picture and then onto the next point. That was disrespectful to all and their rudeness was rubbing up people the wrong way. Love your latest update. 👏👍
The last photo of the heather and house was brilliant. You captured the subject and essence of the countryside wonderfully. Oh, and better a battery then a camera….
Hey .
I can't speak for all photographers, but for myself I will say this. I get drawn to a place because of photographs I have seen of it, so that I can try and try and capture a photograph of it for myself. Whilst I am there, I often find other compositions that I find just as appealing, and I take those pictures too. Usually, I find that I like those surprise photos more. But if it wasn't for the original image that drew me to the location, I would have missed out .
You seem to look beyond the main attraction yourself. Which I find awesome.
So I think you might be overthinking the issue of respect vs. disrespect for a location.
Just my thoughts on the matter.
Cheers
Glenn
Really like the first photo with the boat. I understand what you are getting at about the potential for showing disrespect, but you are always so appreciative of the variety of places you get to see, and choices of location have to be made on short visits. I don't think you are in any way disrespectful, and your exploration of different sites for this video proved it.
I'm a new subscriber and have to say your videos and photos are wonderful. The great thing about being new is I get to binge all your older videos. 😂 Looking forward to the next one. 👍
Really enjoyed you taking some different images Henry and liked the last shot with heather close up with building in top right.
Cant beat a challenge to get something different from the norm at popular locations, i think it helps improve the way we look for compositions.
Recently took a shot of a lone tree with a large stone column next to it, it was part of Ribblehead viaduct but didnt bother to take the viaduct.
Its what memories the shot brings back thats important for me personally.
Hope everything is or has gone well with the eye.
It is amazing that we can get tired of different things that we shoot. I think a lot of it has to do with the instant gratification we have now. I know that with film, you had to wait to see what you got so you paid close attention to everything. Now, we get instant results and we might not pay as close attention as we should sometimes. I think if we take a step back and really look around and think of the thing we would like to see again, and take pictures of that, maybe we can enjoy it a little more.
I can relate to your notion that you get "fed up" with landscape photography. I love landscape photography, however to have a change I have started taking some bird photography which I enjoy, but I do not have the patience for!!
Love the shot of small building. We all loose batteries on occasions. I lost a brand new one, on the first trip out, like you by the sea. Expensive and frustrating , but there is some much more intangible value in being there , and capturing the images. Keep it going Henry, its great
Those images were stunning. Loved the abandoned house/hut images.
Found them very interesting indeed.
I don't think it's a matter of disrespect, Henry. When you are a professional photographer, the primary purpose of your visit is to take the shots you came to take. Exploring is secondary (time and interest permitting). When you are a hobbyist (like me), the primary purpose of your visit is for exploration/enjoyment and the availability of photo opportunities is a bonus. Love your introspection!
Thanks Henry for your mention of Dougie's Photographing Scotland book. Very much appreciated. We've got a two-volume Hebrides coming out this year by Chris Swan.
Very cool!
Hi Henry Another superb video. Being a photographer who travels quite a bit I can totally relate to what you was saying in this video. The way I look at it is that as much as we all like to get those epic photos I also believe that the not so epic shots are also part of why I enjoy the trips and I say that for a couple of reasons. Firstly every photo is a memory and documents the whole trip. They may not be the best photos in the world but they are for me a very important part of the trip. Secondly the not so epic photos make me slow down and think more about what I need to do in order to make them look good .. I think that is so important because it is how I keep improving my skills as a photographer.. Plus the variety is a great way of staying motivated even if they do not make it to the portfolio 👍
I feel it's disrespectful when people go anywhere not at least trying to research/ understand something about the history, culture and understand the place they are in. Thank for taking us with you. Would have loved to know your itinerary on your trip.
As a visitor you will never stay for a long enough period to do the place justice.
Very true indeed
I know what you mean, I moved from the uk to Iceland over 5 years ago and spent 3 years going to all the “photogenic” spots. I now realise that I enjoy myself so much more when I find places that I haven’t seen photographed before, they might not all be the epic places Iceland is known for but it’s still far more fulfilling to get something unique.
Henry great shots as always. That last shot with the heather to the left and the old building in the background was awesome the dead branches mixed in with the heather really caught my eye. Wish I was in Scotland, but first on my bucket list is Iceland.
Love the rowing boat image. Would have liked to see a B&W version ,
Lovely images and subtle editing Henry!
Great video Henry....I love the photos especially the one of the rowing boat..... location looks very interesting with great potential for any photography...I just always enjoy new places to visit & photograph..no matter what the subject... cheers from Australia 🦘🦘😊
Loved the shot with the heather and mountains, but for me what made it was not the heather but the rocks, they mirrored the mountains really well. Great job. As for exploring all the options? - of course! Mad to visit an area and not see all it has to offer. I look for those unclassified roads marked white on the map, they are like a magnet for me when I'm in a new area.
Loving all of the images, but the one at 7:50 really is class!! Hmm, I think it's hard to find everything to photograph to really do a place justice, when going somewhere that is not near where you live. You just simply run out of time eventually and unless you're rich, can't stay at locations for a very long time all the time.
I definitely think about this a lot too. For instance I’m in East Neuk in Fife this weekend. I’ve been here many times but never really explored the small villages or hung around much. So yes I feel like I have previously parachuted in, got what I wanted in terms of images, and then fled. Not saying my MO will change much, but I do think about this a lot. Feels a shame not to see more, visit cafes/pubs and generally hang about
Loved the last photo, well done.
I travel yearly to Skye and each time i try my hardest to find some new locations, yet yes i think we all fall for the safe photo. But sometimes that safe one is in different light I feel sometime the new spot could get over shot, but even local areas try something new.
I think to explore beyond the typical common scene is what can make for more unique photography. It's is impossible to see everything, but the more off the beaten path the more one's photograhy seperates itself from the familiar! Plus explore new areas keeps one's interest up and fresh. Beautiful images Henry.
Thank you. All the best. 👍📷😎
Love the photo with the green boat, keep up the good work.
I live in Dorset and while Durdle Door and Corfe Castle are great locations there is so much more to see. Having said that we like to keep a few locations for ourselves ;-)
Perhaps you are starting to discover your inner photographer. Smashing video, great pics.
I really like your heather and abandon house photo.
I think it's good to think outside the box and take image's that you would not normally take.
I enjoyed the video as usual Henry.
You captured some really nice image's as usual.
The only thing a photographer can ever do at any location, is try to make the best of the conditions and what you can see there.
As for batteries, I keep mine in an 1.5 litre Osprey Dry bag. It's bright orange so not too easy to misplace and being a dry bag, once closed up, waterproof.
Top man, I look forward to your videos every week mate.
Good point. Myself I try to take in the place, look around at all aspects before taking my camera and capture stuff. I spent about 15h next to an erupting volcano 2 weeks ago and tried to capture the best shots. I might not have the best gear (original mavic pro drone is fried now) but still I know all the techniques. During the 3h hike back to the car I had some thoughts on how lucky I am and hoping I captured everything I wanted to capture. Reviewing my photos I wish I'd done more long exposures...
You may well be overthinking it Henry. The beach is my favourite place too. That said, I try to mix it up, which when you think about it, and look back over your videos, is what you do too! I will also do some urban (early morning) photography from time to time as well, it's not one of my strengths, but I normally enjoy myself, apart from occasionally having to deal with late night revellers wobbling their way home! I'm off to Harris in March, and am really looking forward to it, but I must admit, Uist looks very attractive too. As always, great set of shots! Have a good weekend!
Henry you are right! There is always more to places than the honey pot locations. Great images you got as well. I visited Uist three years ago. If you care to look at my Hebrides part 3 video you will see me drive off the main tourist route and find some great locations. As I can’t walk too far I do tend to explore by car up any dead end road and sometime like there it pays off.
Keep up the good work. Alastair
I am primarily a wildlife photographer, and the corollary to your thoughts about only shooting the epic sites is only shooting the stunning birds with bright colors or huge elk with massive racks etc. I find common little squirrels, a dull colored sparrow, or a goose found in most any lake to be very worthy subjects. The trick is to get the right composition at the right time with the right light, isn’t it? 😊
Thank you. I think variety is great - beach, forest, mountain, etc. change is always interesting. I think the stone house would be great in B&W. Cheers
I'm an amateur but as you said, like you also for me is about being there, feeling the space and nature (when not hostile 😅). Taking the photo is just the final phase of the experience.
You never disappoint ❤
Another great video Henry ,absolutely love the photo with the rowboat, a simple photo but has a lovely feel,hopefully if you put it on your website I’ll buy it keep up the great work😊
Another video with a unique and interesting topic, Henry. (with great pics, of course!) I don't think it's a question of "disrespecting" as it is more a question of time and opportunity. Ideally, a week in an iconic location would be the best so we could have a chance at the famous spots and exploring off the proverbial "beaten path." Or, maybe even better, knowing we can make multiple journeys to these locations over a period of time. But a rare opportunity to visit a grand location with just a day or two, it's hard to pass up the "big scenes!" BTW, way to go losing your battery! I'll see you at the next "Photographers Who Lost Their Batter(ies)" meeting!
I felt that way in the Faroes... just not enough time to give it the justice it deserved... and I can only afford to have gone the one time.
I’m really enjoying how you are constantly evolving in your videos Henry, and an occasional bit of philosophical thinking is no bad thing because if nothing else it sets the video apart from ‘run of the mill’ topics which appear to abound at this time of year. To me, the most important thing is to be enjoying your craft, you enjoyed your photography (apart from murdering your batteries by drowning), so who cares what anyone else may think? I really liked the second image of the hut with the heather by the way.
Not wired at all thoroughly enjoyed it, it’s good to stray from the norm I do it all the time, keeps the creative juices flowing, I’ve even bought a couple of primes to try some street photography, anything that makes you feel positive about what you shoot is a good thing
We are really lucky to own a campervan and have made it priority to always spend our money with local independent business.
First shot with the green boat 👍
I go out walking quit a bit and when i take my camera i shoot what i like, if there happens to be a "hero shot" then i will take it just to add to the story of the walk im on. I dont seem to go out to get a specific photo.
Nice mate
Exactly - it's about the experience, and if we lose that then we lose the point of going out!
Love taking something different than the usual ones that people expect you to take!! I love doing that, it just breaks up the monotony ! Driving down through Lincolnshire and I saw an abandoned barn covered in ivy with an old rusty tractor poking out the broken door. Stopped took the photo, came out great. Passed by coming home a few hours later…it had been flattened!!! Timing!!! Love your photos mate. Graham
Loch Druidibeag? Absolutely stunning place ...Henry loving your uist videos am heading out September been many times and love the place ❤️
As an amateur I tend to do most of my serious photography whilst on holiday and that is normally with other members of the family, so that limits your time. It would be disrespectful to commandeer other peoples time just so I can facilitate my hobby. Holidays normally happen in places you love being and taking images of as many well know locations is a given just to have them in your portfolio. Iceland, Orkney, Scottish Highlands, Lake District etc but I also try to get images of completely unknown locations, especially if the light is playing ball. Variety is the spice of life IMO and can only improve your skills 😉
Hi Henry, do all the "weird" you like mate, thanks for another grand day out. Super images again. I very much appreciate that that you respect the places you go to and the flora an fauna you find there.
As for your lens, at the risk of triggering an argument in the wider photography community, maybe think of getting a UV filter to take the brunt of the punishment the lens is getting ... but do spend a few quid on getting a good one so it is optically of good quality. Don't use it all the time, just when say the weather is bad. Try taking a few shots using no filter and then with one to see if a filter actually has a detrimental effect. My experience is that I found it didn't and a filter is so much cheaper than a new lens. To be fair though, even with the modest rash on the front element the images look well good enough.
Following from last week, its amazing that its the relatively cheap things that hold us back sometimes, this time for you it was batteries. Not that batteries are particularly cheap.
Keep up the good work!
I find it depends why I'm there....family holiday, work, or a photography weekend...that depends on what I do. I guess you are on Uist for work...Will knowing the history sell more images...I don't know. Having said that I love mixing it up on my trips so tend to do a bit of everything. Try not to over think things... love your images and videos. Can't wait to see the new calendar.
In answer to your initial question, no. I do a lot of bird photography and find by revisiting places I find you start finding more there and can improve your photographs of those locations or the things there. The same with landscapes, one visit it often never enough. And some places just connect with you. I love the isolation of the Outer Hebs along with the wildlife there and the landscape. It is not as photogenic as Harris/Lewis and you have to work a lot harder for images away from the beaches but there's a beauty about it and a rich history. Weather can be a a bit keen though if you get unlucky.
not weird at all. love to go along in your adventures. cheers
Going to a new location usually leaves you with limited time to cover the desired subjects. So, limitation comes naturally with that, doesn't it. I don't mind people coming to my coastal region and limiting themselves to the beach while missing out on the beautiful woodlands.
I really enjoyed this Henry, always something to grab a photo of. It’s impossible to grab a banger of a shot on every trip but you’ve got some nice shots there. Love the boat one 👍🏻
Hi Henry, some more good shoots, yes different for you but, remember, variety is this spice of life. The rowing boat shot, perfect. 👍
Instead of aiming for a specific type of location, why not pick a circular walk somewhere with varied terrain (woodland, river, village, hills etc), and challenge yourself to take at least 5 shots from that walk? You never know, you might come across a shot you note to return to in a different season or different weather. You could even challenge yourself on that walk, to only use one focal length.
I've visited few truly 'honeypot' locations, but it seems every time I've visited even reasonably photogenic locations I tend to kill myself trying to shoot each and every possible shot. That ends up adding stress, ramping up the frantic factor in general and eventually impacting my shots in a negative manner. But I know when I leave, that's it... I'm going back to a non-photo area and it might be months if not a year or more before I can get such opportunities again. I can only imagine how messed up I'll be if I ever visit an honestly world-class site, LOL. 🙂 As usual, a very worthwhile video, thanks!
When are you going to have a go at urban landscape? Think it would be interesting to see!
Cheers Henry nice video always a pleasure to watch
I guess we are all guilty of rushing around trying to photograph all the honeypot locations we should just slow down and look around once in a while
Also really liked this pics in this video
Lovely images today Henry. In terms of your discussion, I think there will be a range of factors that need to be considered such as time at location, the range of compositions available or the physical landscape compared to the individual's physical abilities. Originality in some instances is becoming scarcer but that itself is also a positive, as the challenge to create something that has not been done before is a good motivator. From a personal perspective, I like the challenge of learning and some occasions it may be to replicate something that has been done before as there will still be learning to be had from that experience
You raise a good point Henry. I guess if time permits it is nice to be able to fully absorb and explore a new area and come away with a series of images which capture the essence of the place in as broad a way as possible. Always of interest to hear you raise such questions in your engaging videos. 👏
Well Henry the Uists are not as well known as say Skye which has a camper van overload. You need a ferry which these days are not reliable. It is a lovely place with beaches, mountains and lochs and also bird reserves. As you can see it is a place that is recommended. Cheers.
Nice shots, Henry. A bit if James Popsys influence including man made objects. We have a coastal area down here n Viktoria, Wilsons Promontory. When you guys are at Harris & Lewis, it takes me back there. I too get the feeling at a location.... Wha have I missed here?
I suppose it all depends on whether you view yourself as a photographer who uses their camera to describe the landscape, or one who uses the landscape to aid their photography. You can draw a parallel with portrait photography, some use their cameras to show us all aspects of the human condition while others choose the most beautiful people to make attractive photographs. All approaches are valid, it's just a matter of what you choose to be.
Landscape photographers are a different breed to tourists. For both, there will always be a feature of a location, highly promoted as the drawcard element. That element is what first attracts your attention gets you to that location in the first place. Tourists go to the drawcard feature, say wow, take a selfie and rush off to the next drawcard or cafe.
For Landscape Photographers, as we travel to those promoted sites, other things will catch our attention and we will stop and investigate and either photograph or bookmark it for a future trip if conditions are not quite right or time is an issue. I don't think too many landscape photographers have tunnel vision. We are always scanning the surroundings looking for opportunities. We often can look past the "now" and see the "potential" in a scene. Also, while I may often go to a location with a particular feature and shot in mind, during my location research I always plan B, C, D.... options because rarely will weather and light go perfectly in my favour every time.
No, I don't think we are being disrespectful. One discovery will always lead to another, maybe not on this excursion but the next.
I think it is a matter of how long you have - I think if you are in a place longer then I would definitely go for more variety but if you only have a short time then you have to go for the main event at least initially
Hi Mate hope your eye op went ok and you have had a quick recovery .Great images as usual
I like the photographs the are beautiful.
I find I need some variety in subjects and location otherwise it gets boring for me .
Also I think it's a very good idea to put a UV filter or some kind of a protector on the front of the lenses , I do that for all of mine and it gives me peace of mind,
really enjoy watching your videos Henry , cheers !
Hi Henry glad to see 15:20 what you got up to on South Uist. When I was there it poured with rain the whole time. Thanks for respecting ground nesting birds. 😊 You shoot what you fancy, sometimes well known views might be rubbish when you're there, or take less known views. Enjoy your time! BTW beware of rock pools and water AND their inhabitants coz some bite or nip. Take care mate!
Thanks 👍
It’s important not to exhaust locations , I like visiting places and firstly shoot the iconic shots then a year later or what ever I’ll return to these places and explore a bit more for new locations , we’re all a bit ADHD when it comes to shots we flit between places and that’s OK.
Bought the m43 camera you recorded on before and it’s opened my eye to a new sensor , which opens the shots again that I’ve already captured to revisit just keep doing what your doing stay happy and healthy it’s the best way
Actually DO take the best piccys humanly possible at each and every spot though all with the utmost respect for the LAN!
Thank you so much Henry. I took your advice and we packed up the van and went to Glencoe. What an incredible place. We found your spot too. I don't care its overshot. Its gorgeous. Do you work with budding photographers to improve thier work?
Henry, new(ish) to landscape photography and have found I enjoy woodland and water.
I like you use screw on filters and I hope you don't mind an off piste question.
I have had occasions when I need to use 2 filters usually polarised and soft head ND, however have a real problem trying to turn one without moving both, i.e I get one just right but that then moved when I turn the 2ND!
I'm I missing a trick of the trade?
Am subscribed to several channels but always look forward to yours, often watching twice, keep up the good work
Thanks.
Always like your vids Henry mad or otherwise, and great images as ever, Have not been Uist, but on Harris/Lewis, I did just a couple of the so called must haves, the rest of the time I spent looking for different images, also did a lot of drone images especially on Harris
Great video and images Henry - just subscribed. I’m sure most of us like some variety in our photography and it’s exciting visiting new places. However I find myself regularly drawn back to one local place I really love, which I think is a helpful way of re-grounding if that makes sense. In my case that’s Mersea Island in Essex.
Awesome, thank you!
I think you hit the nail on the head when you mentioned always leaving a shoot buzzing. Maybe you are just overthinking. When I have been on a similar shoot, I like to include some man made objects, not as the main subject but to the side or in the foreground. This can be an abandoned dwelling, farm equipment or even an old telephone box.
Wow these images where amazing. Specialy the heather shot and the one with the yellow flowers. I get what you mean by being disrespectful. I see it a lot that photographers visit this exact composition just to copy something they've seen. I've stopped doing that about 2 years ago. Now I just go and see whatever my eye catches and try to photograph it is as best as possible. I actualy think that that creative process grows when you photograph more. And these creative shots are far more rewarding then when you copy something. Anyways great trip and a great channel. You're an inspiration to my own channel hope to get as big as you are now someday. Keep up the great work 🙂 grt guido
I think social media has killed the art of photographic adventures. For many years before the internet I traveled to Skye to walk and climb and visited all the areas that have become iconic viewpoints for mostly tourists and selfie takers. These places are now spoilt with crowds, car parks and congested roads and I no longer go there. I think it's great that people post videos of places they have found to photograph but please if you have found somewhere new just post the pictures without the locations, if we want to go there we will do the research and find it anyway but it will keep the crowds away. Yep I know I'm a grumpy old git but I remember the good times.
What lens is this?
Pff that hotel sucks big time. The least thing they could have done was give you the penthouse suite at an all inclusive base for about a week. Ow and 1 of you're fellow youtuber and landscape photography friends to come along... I'm not not saying you have to bring me but I just wanted to let you know that I am available on any given date 😂 I tought that last shot was just amazing. Great to see how much time you spend on planning a shot. I'm the one you mentioned just wandering around searching for a shot... shoot try some planning every now and then... grt guido
That last image was a bit 'James Popsys' wasn't it? It's the kind of thing he likes to photograph!
In answer to your questions, I just take photos of what I like regardless of whether they're the popular or famous subjects or not. In fact half the time I wouldn't even know what the popular subjects are! 🤣🤣
Sorry Henry I’m catching up tend binge watch a creator at a time.
To answer your question Yes it’s a shame. One of the things I learnt shooting my local project on Dartmoor is the more you learn and understand about the location the more meaning your images have, and the more rewarding the experience.
Henry, I don’t think it’s disrespect, but photographers do miss out on those other opportunities.
What bag are you using there?
To me the photo of the abandon building has the feel of a Led Zeppelin album cover, strong work.
Not so much being disrespectful to a place as photographer’s time constraints and preference for easier compositions, IMO. Time and effort to cover a site’s variety can yield better images, but that takes experience to master.
Henry, first heather shot looked kind of a windy place for a focus stack - was it? Cheers!
I think you do yourself an injustice Henry. You obviously 'feel' the environment wherever you are, and that's enough. Be respectful, be satisfied and be proud.
I don't really go to touristic places or not the places that are filled to the brim with tourists, or I go at different times. I'm in Norway fairly often but you'll probably never catch me in the Lofoten, at Trolltunga or Preikestolen (despite those two being fairly within reach from where I go). Those locations become memes, in the first sense of the word. Images made there are memetic through social media and it's an immediate turn off for me. The country is vast and on its eastern parts, very few tourists ever venture. But don't go tell them. We don't want them there. :D