I want to pursue editorial travel photography with a mix of street and documentary.
In mind, when I think of travel photography, I don’t want to limit myself to just the architecture of the place. I also want to grasp the photography of the culture mostly the people! I want to be able to do editorial work with the locals, this may look like actually having them model for my camera. (Something like this: http://www.paperboats.me/article/photos-day-super-yaya)
In cases like this, for those of you who have done travel photography or know about it, how often are locals willing to do things like this? How to build that connection for them to feel comfortable? If so, do you compensate them by giving them the photos you take?
When it comes to the street photography aspect, was there any backlash from that, were locals thrown off? Safety? Etc.
I’ve been looking of possibly doing a trip with an organized organization who does things like this (which wouldn’t be too long term) or I’m thinking of attending a missions school to get accredited and a degree that builds a travel trip inside of the degree program.
The examples you have posted look more like a fashion shoot for a teen magazine, not what I would consider travel photography. Those kids are paid models, if that is what you are after then most major cities will have model agencies that may be able to help.
Otherwise
It very much depends on where you go. In some places kids, and even adults, will fall over themselves to get in front of your camera, in others they are more reserved. In the case of the former you will probably find it is a bit like trying to get cats in formation. If you are hiring from agencies though, you will get people who have a bit of modelling experience.
Do you have any experience of travel? Have you been to any of the places where you think you would like to work? Perhaps you should narrow that down a bit and then look at what options are available.
You will need a nose for a good story. Because the first question an editor will ask when you present you pictures is “What’s the story?”
Ahhh I can definitely see this route as well! I think when it comes to more so editorial photography in the link I sent, working with an actual agency would work much better.
I also love the idea of photographing and storytelling a local’s life, following a local around, their home life, and documenting that. This would consist of me most likely needing a fixer (contact) to help bring that to life. If you have any advice there please let me know.
I also love the idea of just street photography, taking photos of locals on the go, and it’s not so much a “pose for the camera” feel. Rather I’m getting things in the action and documenting as I go. The only fear I have there is how ethical it is, if locals catch you doing it how would that work, etc.
And for working with an editor for a story, are you referring to using my work / working alongside a fashion publication, newspaper, etc? I was thinking of doing most of my work independently, sharing it via social media, selling prints, and making books based on the story I’m trying to sell. What’s your advice there? I’d love to work with fashion publications though, which may open up more doors for opportunities.