For about a year now, I’ve been a travel documentary photographer for a figure in office and nothing prepared me for the experiences that the position has offered. The thrill of visiting new places, experiencing new cultures and almost immediately submitting pictures because… is nothing I’ve ever imagined. There are a couple of clip-notes as to what to expect if you hope to venture into the sub-genre of documentary photography to whip out your pen and let’s begin.
BE PREPARED FOR JUST ABOUT ANYTHING
While there’s much to experience, it’s important to note that things happen sporadically (like they would at an event) so it is important to be at the ready at all time for what might be happening. If you’re attached to someone like I am, then that person must be your primary focus point at all time. You are permitted to take a bit of what’s happening in the surrounding to give context but your attache is your primary focus and you need to document every interaction they have those interaction sometimes happen in split seconds so always be focused.
TRAVELED WITH ONLY THE ESSENTIALS
The temptation to pack Gear when we’re traveling is always imminent but please, resist that urge. Chances are you’re only going to need the essentials; Camera, Lenses, Speedlite and that’s it (occasionally, a tripod but that’s what carbon fibre tripods are for). Moving with light stands and modifiers is the most extreme thing you can do (trust me, I did it once). Just pack light and you’d be fine.
GET A LARGE SD CARD
Alot might happen, there’s no telling so getting a large SD card (and possible a storage device to back up when you’re done for the day) is most likely advisable. Also, it is crucial you get a fast card, at minimum a Class 10 SD card and if possible, an extreme card so you can shoot on burst mode, not miss the shot and be certain your card won’t fail on you (again, I would know because it has happened to me and it was the worse experience ever). A minimum of 64GB card would be a good start.
HAVE FUN WHILE AT IT
Visiting a new place will always come with its perks so try as much as you can to soak in all that comes with it. Experience the culture, food, people and all that they have to offer. When you’re having a good time, it is reflective in the images you make. Have fun (as much fun as isn’t seeming distracting to the work that you do).
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All Images were shot by Ofem Ubi and are used with Permission.
