Taking Photos? Look Behind You

August 2014 — Tip of the Month

I take a lot of photos when I travel. Probably too many. But after tens of thousands of shutter snaps, one of the best tips I can provide is one of the most simple. Look behind you.

Whether you're walking with a tour group or on your own, chances are you're always looking forward, trying to frame the next great shot. However, the best photo might be from the one place you didn't look – behind you. Every once in a while, take a moment to stop and turn around. You might find some amazing shots facing the opposite direction.

I found this to be true when I visited Santorini a few summers ago and was taking photos of the classic blue domes. Before walking back to the main road, I turned around and took another picture facing the opposite direction. The resulting photo is one of my favorite shots because it perfectly represents life on the island of Santorini.

Photo #1

Photo #2 (facing the opposite direction)

This is just one example of many times I've taken great, unexpected photos by simply turning around. So on your next photographic journey, don't forget to stop and admire the view – from the opposite direction.

- Per Christensson