Urban Travel Photography: A Guide to Taking Better Pictures

by Richard I'Anson, Lonely Planet

For the travel photographer, the urban environment provides the greatest variety of subject matter and photographic possibilities. The challenge is to delve beyond the cliched landmarks and capture the vibrancy and unique character of any city you find yourself in. This essential guide is extensively illustrated with images taken on film and digital cameras, showing what to do and how to do it. Succinct and easy to understand, it is packed with tips and techniques to maximize drama and interest in your photos and so reveal the city's soul. Including:
-Cityscapes and aerials, architecture and interiors, public art and life on the streets
-Taking both classic and original views of much-photographed icons
-Exposure, composition and making the best use of natural and artificial light
-What to take, when to go, preparing shot lists and finding the best vantage points
Richard I'Anson is the author of "Travel Photography, " the first book in this series. His photographs have been published worldwide in magazines including "Wanderlust," "Escape" and "Conde Nast Traveller." His work also appears in more than 300 Lonely Planet titles, including "One Planet, Rice Trails, The Travel Book," and "The Cities Book," and in books published by National Geographic, Penguin, White Star, Random House, Times Editions and Reader's Digest.

Genres: Photography, Travel, Nonfiction, Reference

174 pages, Paperback

First published June 1, 2006

Reviews

[Mathew Carruthers]

Good resource for improving your photography skills in an urban environment. There may be better guides out there, but this is pretty good. Good technique tips, good examples, and a good size for travel. Lets face it - no one really wants to haul around a photography library to make the most of their urban vacation photography...this book condenses information into the essentials for urban travel photography and does it very well.

[Tomi · Rating 4 out of 5]

A very useful book, especially for an amateur photographer like me. As said by the author, it is not for a beginner, but it gives us a very handy guide to arrange time to get the best lighting, to spot interesting spots or angles even in the dull urban sceneries as well as to manage our gear.

[Megan · Rating 4 out of 5]

Overall a useful and enlightening book for even the most amateur photographer. While it's certainly aimed at those already posessing some camera and photography experience, the information about framing, light, and possible subject matter is interesting and helpful whatever your skill level.

[Clra · Rating 3 out of 5]

it was really useful - the tips and advice in it were exactly what i needed. it's common sense, such as asking permission before taking photos of people or private establishments, but after seeing it written in a guidebook, i now know it is what i should do.

[Sean · Rating 5 out of 5]

Very awesome and interesting book. Full of great techniques, tips, and ideas. I wish I had read it years ago. Enjoyable reading for anyone interested in photographing cities.

[Kim Farrell · Rating 3 out of 5]

Really enjoyed looking through the photos for inspiration. The technical tips are getting dated though in this fast-evolving digital era.

[Vicky · Rating 4 out of 5]

good examples of taking pictures... really help me to think about composition and lighting while taking pictures.