July 13, 2017
Farewell Cruel World!
Well, only for a month…I am headed to the Faroe Islands.
I am really excited about this trip, not because I know what I’ll find there, but because I have no idea what I’ll find.
I do no planning or research when I am planning my trips. I do not look at other people’s images from that area. I do not consult the travel guides for the “must see” sites. My only preparation for this trip consists of renting an apartment and car.
Why?
Because I want to go with a blank slate, with no preconceived ideas or expectations. I do not want to know how others have seen the Faeroes or photograph the same sites that everyone else has.
That’s my goal anyway. My hope is that I’ll see something there that inspires my imagination and which will result in a new portfolio.
I’ll not be posting much while I’m away, but I will post some iPhone snapshots each day on my Google+ and Facebook accounts:
- Google+ https://plus.google.com/+ColeThompsonPhoto
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ColeThompsonPhotographer
I’ll be returning at the end of August.
See you then.
Cole
Wow! An adventure many of us wish for. Enjoy. I know with you knack for an open mind, you will return with some gems. And many stories to tell.
Sounds like a great approach – have fun, and don’t forget to bring your film
Have a wonderful trip, Cole! Looking forward to seeing what you get there!
Hi Cole,
Sounds really exciting, I wish you a wonderful and productive trip!
We’ve already discussed the issue of “photographic celibacy”, and I totally understand your point of view.
What I don’t get is not doing any planning regarding the trip itself… in fact, taking your argument to the limit, why did you choose the Faroes? Surely you must have at least heard about it, probably also read about it, to the extent that you consider it a worthwhile destination to photograph.
Even if you don’t want to see other people’s images, it must be worth doing some planning ahead in terms of potential locations. I often go on Google Maps (you can disable the location images) and study the terrain, roads, etc. I also sometimes use the Photographer’s Ephemeris or Photo Pills to determine timings and positions for sunrise/sunset shots. If I go to a coastal area, I try to get an idea of tide times, as often certain beaches or coastal plains are simply unaccessible of even submerged at hight tide.
It’s true I don’t typically have an entire month to spend in a single location, but still this planning ahead allows me to have a more productive time while on location…
Have a wonderful trip, I look forward to seeing the images you create!
Best
Daniel
Hi Cole,
Sounds really exciting, I wish you a wonderful and productive trip!
We’ve already discussed the issue of “photographic celibacy”, and I totally understand your point of view.
What I don’t get is not doing any planning regarding the trip itself… in fact, taking your argument to the limit, why did you choose the Faroes? Surely you must have at least heard about it, probably also read about it, to the extent that you consider it a worthwhile destination to photograph.
Even if you don’t want to see other people’s images, it must be worth doing some planning ahead in terms of potential locations. I often go on Google Maps (you can disable the location images) and study the terrain, roads, etc. I also sometimes use the Photographer’s Ephemeris or Photo Pills to determine timings and positions for sunrise/sunset shots. If I go to a coastal area, I try to get an idea of tide times, as often certain beaches or coastal plains are simply unaccessible of even submerged at hight tide.
It’s true I don’t typically have an entire month to spend in a single location, but still this planning ahead allows me to have a more productive time while on location…
Have a wonderful trip, I look forward to seeing the images you create!
Best
Daniel
Daniel, I can see the logic in your argument!
But…
This works for me, I really do not want to go there with expectations or preconceived ideas. This approach gives me a sense of exploration, it’s almost like a treasure hunt.
Do what works for you!
Happy trails!
Cole,
Curious – do you even check weather (I’m thinking of your harrowing storm experience in Iceland)? If you don’t, does your wife know about your obstinance – probably does!?
Roger
Hi cole
I know that your adventure will be outstanding in a way only you can create
Wow! Cool adventure. Best of luck and good wishes. I KNOW it will be a creative exercise and experience!
Have a safe trip, Cole.
As usual, amazing pictures Cole!