Travel Photography: Older People

One of the most loved aspects of travel photography is capturing the faces and movements of the elderly. This is because old people often capture the essence or feel of a place. The stories these elders have are like having history read to you.

Step 1: Choosing a Subject

One of the best ways to choose your subject is to wander around in areas where the locals usually hang out. This includes market places, parks, local cafes or the streets to name a few. Aside from checking out the local hang outs of the elderly, it is also a good idea to see what common activities they normally do. It is highly recommended that you capture old people in their normal activity.

Step 2: Choosing Between a Candid or Posed Shot

When photographing older people, there are generally two approaches you can use for your shot - a candid and a posed shot. Candid shots are great if you are shooting a group of old people or want to capture their emotion or the movement of the person. On the other hand, a posed shot is a great way to take a focused shot. This type of shot is also a good way to capture the character of an old person.

Step 3: Placing Your Shot

Make sure that your subject is placed appropriately in your camera frame. If you want to include the background of your subject, place the subject a little off center to allow room for the background. If you are using the vertical setting, it is best to place the subject or person near the bottom or top of your frame. If you are using the landscape mode, make sure you place the elder to the right or left of the frame.

Step 4: Using the Black and White Setting

Shooting older people is the best way to use the black and white setting in your camera. Set your camera to black and white then focus on the face of your subject. Black and white is great, especially if you want to capture the emotion in a person's face. Also, a black and white photo of an elder will show the distinct uniqueness of their face. However, it is advisable to shoot your subject in color first before switching to black and white. In this way, you are able to get the best of both worlds.

Step 5: Shooting Portraits

Maximize the portrait mode in your camera when shooting old people. Zoom in on the face of the person while making sure that the focus is on the face. Allow a few inches of space from the top and bottom of the frame otherwise the shot will look a little spaced in or boxed in. If you want to include the background, use a larger aperture which will blur out the background.

Step 6: Using Natural Light

It is recommended that you take advantage of the natural light as much as possible. This is to capture the true essence of your subject. Also, it is a little disconcerting to have someone's camera flashing right in front of your face.