interviews – Page 2 – TwistedSifter

This Guy Works His Tail Off So He Can Travel and Photograph the World

Travel photographer Andrei Duman has visited over 70 countries around the world (only 126 left!) and he’s doesn’t plan on stopping any time soon. The self-taught artist has been working as an Investment Banker to afford himself the financial means to pursue his passion for travel and photography.

The Sifter caught up with Andrei after his most recent trip to Namibia to chat about what inspires him and where he wants to go next. Check out some of Andrei’s incredible photos below along with a brief Q&A with the photographer.

For more, check out Andrei’s Website and recently launched Facebook page. If you’re interested in prints of any of his photos, please contact Andrei through his website or click here.

1. Masai Mara, Kenya

Photograph by ANDREI DUMAN
Website | Facebook | Prints

2. Kolmanskop, Namibia

Photograph by ANDREI DUMAN
Website | Facebook | Prints

3. Iceland

Photograph by ANDREI DUMAN
Website | Facebook | Prints

You’ve visited over 70 countries,
what is it about travel that is so compelling to you?

The main reason why I have been in investment banking all these years was to have the financial means to travel and not stop traveling. The more bizarre the better. The further away from civilization the better. I want to see how people live, what they are going through, what they eat. On nearly every trip I have taken, I will rent a car and just drive… in any direction I see fit. This way you get away from the tourist traps where you don’t get to experience the heartbeat of a place, country or its people. I think we all should be exploring more, wanting to find out what is over that hill or in that canyon. I find it baffling when someone tells me that they do not have a passport. I have learned more life lessons from my travels and meeting new people than any other traditional way. This world that we live in really is an amazing place, full of amazing things to explore and absorb and I think we all need to get packing.

4. Hofsos, Iceland

Photograph by ANDREI DUMAN
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5. Vermont, USA

Photograph by ANDREI DUMAN
Website | Facebook | Prints

6. Uganda

Photograph by ANDREI DUMAN
Website | Facebook | Prints

What is your favorite place/country you’ve visited to date and why?

As a favorite country it has to be Iceland. I have been fortunate enough to have been to over 70 countries and Iceland is the one that I would drop everything for and go straight to the airport (with gear in tow that is). I don’t think there really is a country like it in the world really, especially when you consider the variety of things to photograph. The waterfalls are simply spectacular, the beaches are so varied in topography, the glaciers are staggering and the unpredictable weather means that you can always get a dramatic shot. It is also a small country and all you really need is a car to explore it as most of the famous landmarks are on the main ring road. The food is true to nordic roots apart from the nation dish which is pretty much hot dogs (simply the best that I have ever had).

As far as a favorite place… that is a hard one. Don’t think that I really have one, but when my mind does wonder it tends to be drawn to Delicate Arch in Utah, Racetrack Playa in Death Valley, Moai of Easter Island, the old market in Damascus, Crystal Cave in Iceland, Angel’s Landing, Zion and the beautiful calm of Lake Titikaka. As for places to visit next: Indonesia, Bhutan, Papua New Guinea, Madagascar, Galapagos

7. Iceland

Photograph by ANDREI DUMAN
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8. Iceland

Photograph by ANDREI DUMAN
Website | Facebook | Prints

9. Iceland

Photograph by ANDREI DUMAN
Website | Facebook | Prints

Do you ever feel torn between experiencing
and capturing ‘the moment’ or are they one in the same for you?

I very much do. I think any photographer has that feeling. I must admit that I do see a lot of these places through the camera’s eye, but I do believe that it is also important to look up and take it all in. The human eye is a great deal more advanced than any camera or lens and it would be a shame to miss out on an events or a place because you are shooting non-stop. I do need to get better at that. The only time where I really had to stop shooting and admire was in Iceland the first time I saw the Northern Lights. Having seen them a few times since, only now can I truly appreciate that the first time was really a special one. The ferocity of the color changes and shape movement was something that I found too challenging to photograph the whole time. In a lot of ways i did not want to photograph. I wanted to keep that memory to myself in some ways.

10. Brooklyn Bridge, New York City, USA

Photograph by ANDREI DUMAN
Website | Facebook | Prints

11. Page, Arizona, USA

Photograph by ANDREI DUMAN
Website | Facebook | Prints

12. Mule Canyon, Utah, USA

Photograph by ANDREI DUMAN
Website | Facebook | Prints

What are some of the biggest challenges in travel photography?

I have found that with travel photography the gear that you carry causes a great deal of problems especially when you have to use small planes to get to obscure places. I do have a lot of gear and my bag is around 46lbs without the tripod. I have my camera body along with 6 lenses including the 500mm which really is seen as a weapon. A lot of carriers don’t like that and try to force you to check them in. I have never checked in my bag and was nearly arrested in Vietnam when I was forced to check in my tripod which I was not too happy about. Also each location poses its own challenges such as the dryness and sands of Namibia, the dark shooting environments of the ice caves in Iceland and the high altitude and cold of the Andes. Knowing your equipment and its limits as well as doing research ahead of time for that particular location is crucial in not only staying safe but getting the right shots.

13. Namibia

Photograph by ANDREI DUMAN
Website | Facebook | Prints

14. Kolmanskop, Namibia

Photograph by ANDREI DUMAN
Website | Facebook | Prints

What advice would you give to photographers who are just starting out?

This is a tough one because the only good advice is to go out and photograph whatever and whenever you can. Understand and never stop wanting to learn what your equipment is capable of doing and experiment with scenes and settings. I am self-taught and for me it makes it that much more rewarding when I am on location and get a great shot that I had to think on my feet and adjust to make work. Believe in your abilities, listen to others and their experiences and don’t be afraid to fail.

15. Ngorongoro Crater, Tanzania

Photograph by ANDREI DUMAN
Website | Facebook | Prints

16. Northern Territory, Namibia

Photograph by ANDREI DUMAN
Website | Facebook | Prints

17. Dead Flei, Namibia

Photograph by ANDREI DUMAN
Website | Facebook | Prints

If you could go anywhere in the world,
where’s the first place you would go?

Iceland, whatever time of year. Each season brings its own opportunities and challenges and that’s another thing that draws me to it. You really have to be on your toes more than ever. You have to really know the in and outs of your equipment to really get the great shots and you have to think fast on your feet due to the quick weather changes. I would say that I daydream about Iceland at least 4 times a week. If I’m caught staring into space… I’m in Iceland.

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Behind the Iron Curtain: An Abandoned Tour of the Eastern Bloc

In 2013, photographer Rebecca Litchfield was commissioned by Carpet Bombing Culture to photograph the abandoned buildings and areas of the former Soviet Union and its satellite states. Litchfield’s journey took her through ten countries in Eastern Europe to capture what was left from the collapse of the Soviet Union.

The result was Soviet Ghosts, a fascinating 192-page hardcover photo book with essays and articles sprinkled throughout. In an extensive blog post, Litchfield recalls:

“For me the place that had most impact on me emotionally was Chernobyl, I have visited many abandoned buildings, some of which have affected me deeply and emotionally. But never had I encountered a whole town, which had been devastated by disaster to such a degree. Decaying slowly and sadly, the town is a snapshot of how Soviet life once was. It was therefore important to me to capture and share it as it is today.”

If you’re interested to learn more about Rebecca’s journey creating this book be sure to check out her detailed blog post. For more from Rebecca, check her out at the links below.

Bulgaria – Buzludzha

Perched on top of Mount Buzludzha, this monument to Communism is the largest in Bulgaria. It is located on the site where the Bulgarian Socialists first began their clandestine meetings in 1891 later, this mountain pass witnessed perhaps the bloodiest battle yet fought in the ongoing war against the Turks. It’s no surprise then, that this location bears a great symbolic importance. Designed by Georgi Stoilov, the monument was funded by voluntary donations from the citizens of Bulgaria, and featured expensive materials such as marble and glass.

At its heart stands a huge amphitheatre, where a mural adorning the walls celebrates themes from Bulgarian and Soviet history. The 70m tower meanwhile, once bore a huge star formed from red glass. It was made in the Soviet Union, although in a display of local one-upmanship, the architects had it constructed to be three times the size of the star adorning the tower of Moscow’s Kremlin.

The monument was abandoned in 1989 and gifted to the state in 1991; since when it has been heavily looted for metal and other valuable materials. The copper that once covered the roof has been stripped away, so that the monument is now open to the elements. Once an opulent symbol of Communist rule, the Buzludzha monument today stands in a state of slow decay on top of the mountain; its thick glass windows smashed, while Bulgaria’s harsh winters bury the structure each year beneath a layer of ice and snow.

Latvia

[Irbene] In the forests of Latvia, two ex-Soviet radio telescopes and a spy centre lie abandoned. In 1967, the Soviets began a Cold War project intended to track and decode signals from US satellites. The larger of the two dishes is also the largest in northern Europe, as well as the 8th largest in the world. There were originally six in total, but others were dismantled by the Soviets. Of the two remaining, all cables were cut and acid poured over them to destroy the potential for future use.

These satellites almost suffered the same fate as the nearby secret base at Skrunda, which was completely destroyed after use; however, the facilities were saved by Latvian scientists who wanted to preserve the objects for future study. There was a lot of secrecy surrounding the activities at the base, even though a small town would develop around the antenna to house the families of those that worked there.

Not just the town itself, but this whole area was a forbidden place in Soviet times; anyone who wanted to visit people in the nearby towns would therefore need special permission to do so. Irbene was so secretive in fact, that the public only found out about it when the site was officially revealed in 1993; long after the Soviets had left.

[Skrunda] Skrunda is a former secret town, where an important Soviet radar station was once located. The installation was of great importance to the Soviets as it covered the whole of Western Europe. Here they were able to listen to objects in space, as well as tracking incoming ICBMs.

During the Cold War this secret location was closely guarded, and in time grew into a full, residential town. There were over 60 buildings in the complex, including a school, apartments, barracks, a shooting range, a gym and a theatre. Once Latvia had gained back its independence however, the Soviets were given four years to dismantle the radars. The entire town was sold at auction for just 17,000 Lats (around £20,000) but as of 2013 nothing has yet been done with the site.

Estonia

[Patarei Prison] In 1828 Tsar Nicholas 1 of Russia commissioned the construction of the prison on the Estonian coast near Tallinn. It was completed in 1840 and remained in use until 2004, a potent symbol of the troubled relationship between Estonia and Russia. The prison was a transit location for thousands of prisoners en route to the fearsome gulags in Siberia. Conditions inside the prison were horrific, with frequent overcrowding. One winter 25 inmates were housed in a cell for just seven.

The prison was the scene of many hangings, with a specific chamber devoted to this purpose. The bodies of the hanged would be thrown over the cliffs into the Baltic sea below. After the death of Stalin in 1953, the resultant thaw in the relationship between the Soviet Union and estonia led to an improvement in prison conditions, with flushing toilets and central heating installed.

Germany

[Berlin Wall] There has been no more potent symbol of the Cold War than the Berlin Wall, which was erected overnight on 12-13 August 1961. The wall sealed West Berlin within a 165.7km concrete enclosure, protected by sentry towers, bunkers, barbed wire, guard dogs, tripwires, floodlights and anti-tank emplacements. The fortifications appeared without warning, and many families were separated when the previously open border was suddenly sealed. It is estimated that at least 239 people were killed trying to escape.

In time the wall became a mural for enterprising and amateur artists, many of whom painted humorous or satirical graffiti across the concrete. Every so often, GDR border guards would supervise workers while they whitewashed the wall; only for the graffiti to reappear. The wall could never be silenced, always finding a way to voice the inhumanity that it symbolised. The last person killed at the Berlin Wall was Chris Gueffroy in February 1989, a matter of months before it finally fell on 9 November that same year.

[Military Barracks] The barracks were constructed in 1937, and used by the Germans as an elite riding & driving school. Soon after the cavalry school moved here from Hanover, and the estate would go on to produce some of Germany’s best post-war equine judges and riders.

During the late 1930s the site would be commandeered by the military and extended to incorporate over 50 buildings, including military barracks. Then, following the end of World War II, the site was occupied by the Soviet 35th Guards Motor Rifle Division; they continued to use Krampnitz as a military base and training site up until their departure in 1992, and the site has remained unoccupied since that time.

Hungary

[Máv Class 424 Steam Train] The 424 053 Mávag 424-class locomotive was made in 1941 by Mávag, chassis number 5345, vehicle number 424.127. The locomotive was renumbered several times, to 424.189 In 1961 and to 424.053 In 1982. It was used during the Communist era with a red star in front of the train. The 424s were coal burner, in the 1960s some engines were converted to burn oil, but their performance did not increase enough to compete with the diesel equipment.

U-475 Black Widow Submarine

[Foxtrot B-39 U-475 Black Widow Submarine] Used during the cold war, the black widow u-45 was a patrol and attack submarine. Between 1957 and 1983, around 75 were made by the soviet navy. This example of the black widow was commissioned in 1967 and based in Latvia. Decommissioned in 1994, the submarine was sold and used as a museum in London. During its operational use it carried 22 nuclear-tipped warheads and 53 explosive mines. Its torpedoes are disarmed. Its owner is seeking investors to restore the submarine to its former glory as it is currently in a decaying state.

Russia

[Laboratory] An abandoned pesticide laboratory in Russia, closed due to the decline of agriculture in Russia. The laboratory was primarily used for the development and research of new methods of chemical plant protection; as a consequence of reduced funding and demand however, the lab was eventually closed, its buildings left abandoned.

[Children Summer Camp] The Young Pioneer Organization was a youth movement founded by Lenin himself, which would become prolific throughout the USSR. The movement ostensibly served the purpose of ensuring that all young people were inculcated with an understanding of the role they should play in a larger collective. Individuality was not seen as a positive virtue, rather it was often considered to lead to problematic behaviour; traits such as wilfulness, or worse, rebellion.

While the family was supposed to instil this collective ethos into young people, the activities of the Young Pioneers supplemented it. Camps would offer free holidays in summer and winter, usually sponsored by the government and trade unions. Under Communism, young people were seen as an important way of remoulding society and its attitudes. In effect, the state sought to create a new ’Socialist personality’; and so even at a summer camp, the activities on offer would have been carefully selected with this goal in mind.

Ukraine – Pripyat/Chernobyl

When the Chernobyl Power Plant was built in 1970, many of the facility’s staff were housed in the nearby city of Pripyat. Around 50,000 people once lived here, spread across 160 buildings that had contained a total of 13,400 apartments. This forward-thinking urban development had featured 3 indoor swimming pools, 2 sports stadiums, 35 playgrounds, 15 primary schools, 5 secondary schools and a technical college; there was a hospital that could hold around 400 patients, while the green streets of Pripyat were lined with over 250,000 trees and shrubs.

After the nuclear disaster in 1986 however, the whole city was forcibly evacuated for fear of radiation poisoning. Now those trees and shrubs are the only inhabitants left, in a sprawling city reduced to broken bricks.

Pripyat’s Hospital No. 126 consists of 5 large buildings, each of them 6 storeys in height. In the wake of its sudden abandonment, medical equipment, beds, bottles, babies’ cribs and other equipment were all left to rust and rot away.

In the hospital’s basement meanwhile, lie the uniforms of the firemen who lost their lives in the days that followed the disaster. They were admitted to the hospital after exposure to the extreme radiation, and were later taken to Moscow hospital where they died in care. To this day, their uniforms register dangerously high radiation levels.

There are many kindergartens in Pripyat. These buildings remain perhaps the most chilling places to see, as they serve such a stark reminder; a reminder of the innocent children who fell victim to the radiation and subsequent sickness.

Most of the kindergartens still contain the toys of the children, which today lay strewn across the floors. Many of the beds are still made and, hauntingly, gas masks appear scattered from room to room. These grotesque masks were intended to offer protection in case of chemical attacks, but ultimately, nothing could prevent the radiation sickness that spread as a result of the Chernobyl disaster.

Pripyat’s ‘Luna Park’ was a new development in the city, scheduled to open as a part of the May Day celebrations in 1986. It stood just behind the Palace of Culture, featuring a Ferris wheel, bumper cars, a carousel ride and swing boats.

The Chernobyl disaster struck just days before the opening ceremony however, and the Luna Park never saw its intended use. The park did provide just a few bittersweet hours of entertainment, though as the citizens of Pripyat awaited the official notice of evacuation, the Luna Park opened its gates to provide a distraction from the smoke clouds that brewed ominously on the horizon.

Click Here for More Information on Soviet Ghosts

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A Tour of Japan Through the Lens of an Urban Explorer

Canadian photographer Chris Luckhardt (featured previously) travels the world in search of adventure and exploration. He specializes in documenting abandoned places and his travels through visual storytelling. His work has been featured on ABC News, The Weather Channel, MSN, The Daily Mail, Buzzfeed and many more. Chris has travelled throughout Japan six times, including a 2-month residency in Yokohama. As he explains:

“Japan is one of the most unique cultures in the world. Its homogeneous society, mountainous topography, and colourfully rich architecture and traditions offer a fertile ground for countlessly interesting photography opportunities. This series of photos is meant to highlight the beauty of Japan.”

The photo tour below is a perfect example of Chris’ visual storytelling. Follow along as we journey through Japan from high above Tokyo, to abandoned relics and famous monuments across the country. For more amazing photography, be sure to check out Chris at the links below.

CHRIS LUCKHARDT
Website | Facebook | Twitter | Instagram

Tokyo from Above

The sprawling metropolis of Tokyo, home to almost 36 million people, is best viewed from above. Tokyo Tower and Tokyo Skytree are the best places to see the extent of Tokyo’s urban reach.

Tokyo Skytree is the tallest tower in the world at 634 meters (Burj Khalifa in Dubai is the tallest building). The tower, opened in 2012, offers a spectacular view of Tokyo and the surrounding area. Mount Fuji can be seen in the distance on a clear day. Sunsets and night scenes from the tower are particularly awe inspiring.

Tokyo Tower, opened in 1958 and reaching 333 meters, also provides a stunning view of Tokyo. Due to the new popularity of Tokyo Skytree, this tower is often quicker to access for a wide view of the surrounding metropolis.

Hiroshima and Nagasaki

Hiroshima and Nagasaki are ground zero to two of the most devastating moments in human history. The atomic bomb that fell on Hiroshima detonated 580 meters above ground near the Hiroshima Prefectural Industrial Promotion Hall (later renamed as Genbaku Dome or A-Bomb Dome). Despite its proximity to the blast, the building’s reinforced concrete construction enabled it to become one of the few structures to remain (at least partially) standing. Approximately 75,000 people died instantly and virtually every other building was destroyed. The dome’s ruins have been preserved as a symbol of future peace.

Nagasaki was the site of the second wartime atomic bombing. Due to crosswinds, the bomb detonated off target in an area confined by a narrow valley, but the devastation was still catastrophic. An estimated 40,000-75,000 people were instantly killed. This site marks the detonation point of the bomb, which is now a beautiful park and memorial.

Fukushima

The second worst nuclear power plant accident in history occurred at the Fukushima Daiichi Nuclear Plant during the aftermath of the “Great East Japan Earthquake” of March 2011. Damage to the plant caused radiation to spread across Fukushima prefecture. Outside the current 30km exclusion zone, the constant fear of radiation exposure looms, but life must continue.

Wakamiya Ōji – Kamakura, Kanagawa

Japan is famous for its Cherry Blossoms (or Sakura) that primarily bloom in March and April. Large crowds turn out at parks, shrines and temples for viewing.

Itsukushima Island / Miyajima

Itsukushima Shrine is a shinto shrine, near Hiroshima, on the island of Itsukushima (popularly referred to as Miyajima). The shrine is famous for its torii gate, which appears to float during high tide. The shrine was off-limits to “commoners” throughout most of its history. Maintaining the island’s purity is considered important, meaning no deaths, births or burials are permitted.

The 5-story Pagoda on Miyajima was constructed in 1407 and is one of five similar structures in Japan. The Buddha of Medicine is enshrined inside.

Kawasaki, Kanagawa

Snow rarely falls in the Tokyo area. When there is snow, it usually melts quickly. In January 2013, the Tokyo area received its worst snowfall in decades; the metropolitan area was essentially shut down. This woman was one of the countless people struggling to walk through the snow covered streets of Kawasaki. Despite her pointed steel heeled boots she made it to her next shopping stop without falling down!

Hashima Island / Nara Dreamland

Haikyo (or “ruins”) is the term used in Japan to describe the art of urban exploration. People often think of Detroit and America’s rust belt when hearing the phrase urban exploration, but Japan also has a wide range of beautifully haunting abandoned places.

Hashima Island is one of the most famous abandoned places in the world. The island is located 15km off the coast of Nagasaki in the southern region of the country. The tiny island city, owned by Mitsubishi since 1880, was the center of a large coal mining operation. When coal use plummeted, Mitsubishi closed the mine and moved all of the residents and workers off of the island. This year marks the 40th anniversary of Hashima Island’s abandonment. The island has gained further notability for being featured as the villain’s lair in the James Bond film Skyfall.

Due to the popularity of Tokyo Disneyland and Universal Studios in Osaka, Japan has become the home of several abandoned theme parks. Nara Dreamland was a thriving copy of California’s Disneyland, but closed in 2006 due to declining attendance. Imagining the playful laughter of children that once occupied what is now a silent, misty theme park is a haunting experience.

Haikyo / Urban Exploration

Gifu prefecture, an industrial region of Japan, is home to several abandoned places. Two examples, a Buddhist temple and a wooden constructed school, demonstrate typical Japanese architecture of the early 20th century.

Deep underground in the Kanagawa region of Japan is a series of tunnels spanning 27km (according to conservative estimates). They were built during World War 2 as protection from United States air raids. The tunnel system was intricate; it was home to a 500 bed hospital, power plant, numerous warehouses and even a submarine factory!

Statues and Temples

Great Buddha is a 93 ton, 13.35m tall bronze statue located in Kamakura. The statue was constructed in 1252 and is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the region.

Another unique cultural and architectural element of Japan is its castles. Unlike it’s European counterparts, Japan’s castles were not built with defense as a strategy. The castle walls only contained the castle itself and not a castle town. They also had uniques stylings such as angled base walls, tiled roofs and were much smaller than European castles.

CHRIS LUCKHARDT
Website | Facebook | Twitter | Instagram

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25 Musicians Painted Directly onto Vinyl Records

Daniel Edlen is an American artist best known for his ongoing series of vinyl artworks. Using white acrylic paint and a unique style of pointillism, Edlen paints amazingly realistic portraits of musicians directly onto vinyl records.

Edlen, whose favourite band is the Beatles and favourite album is After Bathing at Baxter’s by Jefferson Airplane, says about music:

“Music has always been a big part of my identity. It’s an important language along with words and images to communicate with the rest of humanity. Think about what your parents sang to you as a baby, what you and your friends danced to after school, what stirs your emotions at weddings or sports games… even what you might have playing in the background now.”

For those wondering if the record is still playable, the answer is no 🙂 The painted side would definitely harm your needle and is not recommended. Edlen says he tries to source records that are, ‘already damaged to the point they might be thrown away.’

You can find current vinyl artworks for sale on Square Market. If you’re interested in having a vinyl artwork of your favourite artist commissioned, the cost is $280 + shipping for a single framed portrait. Contact information can be found at vinylart.info

DANIEL EDLEN
Website | Facebook | Twitter
Commissions | Currently for sale

visit VINYLART.INFO for more

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My Close Encounter with Lions in Botswana

Photographer Nicolai Frederik Bonnén Rossen poses with a Lion

26-year-old Nicolai Frederik Bonnén Rossen is a freelance photographer and strategic adviser/publicist. Born and raised in Copenhagen, Denmark, Rossen is passionate about travel, writing and photography.

Last year Rossen traveled to Botswana on assignment for Børsen, a well-known financial daily in Denmark. The story produced the series of unforgettable images seen below and would nearly cost Rossen his right hand.

The Sifter recently interviewed the intrepid photographer to learn more about his close encounter with lions of the Kalahari.

Photograph by Nicolai Frederik Bonnén Rossen

What made you decide to go to Botswana
and document this story?

These guys [MODISA] were originally introduced to me via a mutual friend from South Africa. Was instantly fascinated with their story. Knew they wouldn’t be able to afford a publicist, so decided to call up some connections of mine at the Danish financial daily Børsen and document the story myself. They commissioned it right away.

Photograph by Nicolai Frederik Bonnén Rossen

How was living in the ‘bush’?
How long was the assignment?

Spent 12 days in a tent at their Modisa-camp in the bush, 30 clicks off Central Kalahari Game Reserve, 280 clicks south of Maun, nearest city around. It’s basically +35 celsius in the day, goes down to -10 in the night and not a soul within miles to see. Only thing you hear in the night is the lions roaring. Country’s the size of France, population’s the size of Copenhagen. Pretty much one of the most deserted, yet unspoiled places I’ve ever visited.

Photograph by Nicolai Frederik Bonnén Rossen

The MODISA Wildlife Project

MODISA was started in 2011 by Mikkel Legarth and Valentin Gruener. They are currently set up at the Grassland Safari Lodge, about 30 km west of the Central Kalahari Game Reserve. Their vision is to ‘become a leading player in the conservation and preservation of the Kalahari eco-system’, through three main objectives: mitigation of existing human wildlife conflicts, scientific research and outreach.

Mitigation: Boundary conflicts between farmers and wildlife is an ongoing issue, with predators being killed by farmers protecting their livestock. MODISA is working to establish a conservation area for lions by fencing off the 10,000 hectare reserve from neighbouring farms. They also attempt to relocate captured lions to alternate game reserves around the continent.

Scientific research: In collaboration with Dr. Kelley Crew-Meyer and Thoralf Meyer from the University of Texas at Austin, MODISA will start a research project aimed at establishing a long-term program to monitor the Kalahari ecosystem.

Outreach: In the future, MODISA wants to establish an outreach center and program to raise awareness of issues related to nature conservation in the region. They believe educating the public about environmental issues is key to sustainable development in the region.

Photograph by Nicolai Frederik Bonnén Rossen

Okay, so what happened to your hand?

Was out gathering firewood, tried to pull off a branch of a tree manually with a towing-rope and broke my hand doing so – caught a double spiral-fracture. Quite agonizing and embarrassing at the same time, two whole days passed before I could come to a hospital, had to finish the interview with my left hand.

Photograph by Nicolai Frederik Bonnén Rossen

What were some photography challenges
on this assignment?

One thing I didn’t have to worry about was the lighting; simply amazing during sunset and (especially) sunrise. Overcoming your fear though is really difficult and that inhibits you. Shooting the lioness Sirga, at the time she weighed-in appx. 200 pounds (now 300). That’s a pretty big adolescent, so it really puts the fear into you knowing that she at any point of time could bash you unconscious or kill you.

It’s difficult shots to take, with her being curious all the time, wanting to sniff and size you up; you can’t help but freeze and pray. Also, watching her jump the guys constantly, putting them to the ground, it kinda gets you, that if she suddenly decides to do the same to you, maybe your camera is least of worries. Thus, I was out patrolling the bushes with her and the boys many times to get the right shots.

Photograph by Nicolai Frederik Bonnén Rossen

Were you scared to be so close to the lions?
Valentin and Mikkel seem to have earned the lions trust
but what about you?

Can’t explain in words how anxiety-provoking it feels to be just three guys and no weapons whatsoever face-off with six adult, male lions and not a soul to hear you within miles. And yet we never managed to get more than 5 meters close to the big ones for a peculiar reason: We all have this image-wise perception of lions as being somewhat brave. The weird thing here is that the lions are actually terrified of Mikkel and Val, so each time we’d approach them, they’d growl and run away fast, not standing their ground – it’s the world upside down to watch. I am not sure I would do it again though.

Photograph by Nicolai Frederik Bonnén Rossen

What gear did you bring for such a shoot?

It’s funny, I have both Canon DSLR and Leica SLR, yet the one I actually shot the lions with was a small Canon S100 back-up camera. That’s it. Sometimes the camera isn’t the most important thing.

Photograph by Nicolai Frederik Bonnén Rossen

What do you think of the merits of the MODISA project?
Is their active involvement in caring for these lions
ultimately benefiting the animals?

I’ll let that up to the experts to decide. After my report on their work, they have been invited to do the opening speech at the TEDx conference in Copenhagen on Sept. 26th 2013, so I look forward to hearing the reactions. Honestly though, I can say that the level of engagement and care these guys show the animals and the environment is astonishing. They’ve given up and devoted their entire lives to live in harmony with the Kalahari.

Photograph by Nicolai Frederik Bonnén Rossen

If you could hop on a plane anywhere in the world tomorrow,
all expenses paid, where would you go (personally)?

Antarctica and the south pole – only continent I haven’t set foot on.

Photograph by Nicolai Frederik Bonnén Rossen

What story would you really like to
cover or explore (professionally)?

I’d really like to meet Fidel Castro in a one-on-one before he passes on, that’s been a dream of mine for long.

Photograph by Nicolai Frederik Bonnén Rossen

Do you have any advice for aspiring photojournalists?

I’m just a curious guy with a pen and a camera. But I can tell you this much: My mom’s one of the most accomplished and renowned portrait photographers in my home country. She hadn’t held a camera before she turned 35, now she’s 65 and on top of her game. It’s never too late to begin. Also: light is everything, ask Rembrandt.

Photograph by Nicolai Frederik Bonnén Rossen

Photograph of Nicolai Frederik Bonnén Rossen

Nicolai Frederik Bonnén Rossen Self-Portrait with Broekn Hand

Any Upcoming Projects?

Currently doing a story on a good friend of mine from the Georgian oligarchy, whom I recently spent six days with in Tbilisi accompanied by a small army of AK47-carrying bodyguards. Definitely one of the most intense trips I’ve ever been on. Probably the most generous and hospitable people I have ever encountered.

Also going to Chile in December and NYC in January, so if anyone has tips for a truly unique story that could be awesome to document in both pictures and words, I’m all ears.

Photograph by Nicolai Frederik Bonnén Rossen

See More from Nicolai at nfbr.tumblr.com!

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An Urban Exploration Journey with Chris Luckhardt

Nara Dreamland, Japan | Photograph by Chris Luckhardt. Prints available at www.chrisluckhardt.com

Wikipedia defines Urban Exploration (often shortened as urbex or UE) as:

The exploration of man-made structures, usually abandoned ruins or not usually seen components of the man-made environment. Photography and historical interest/documentation are heavily featured in the hobby.

In the latest installment of our interview series, we chat with photographer and seasoned urban explorer Chris Luckhardt, who has not only shared his incredible photography, but also taken the time to answer questions about himself and his urbex experiences.

Chris Luckhardt: Website | Twitter | Flickr | Facebook | Instagram

Sattler Theater – Buffalo, New York

Photograph by Chris Luckhardt | Prints available at www.chrisluckhardt.com

Can you give the readers a short bio Chris?

My life can be easily summarized with two words: creative exploration. As an entrepreneur, I divide my time between building websites with the Drupal content management system, running my Motionblur Media podcast network and being a semi-professional photographer. During my free time I like to travel, do urban exploration and play lots of guitar.

Zydeco Zinger – Six Flags New Orleans Amusement Park

Photograph by Chris Luckhardt | Prints available at www.chrisluckhardt.com

Where are you from/currently living?

Toronto

Where was the last place you traveled to?

I recently spent 6 amazing weeks in Japan!

Redford High School (demolished 09/12) – Detroit, Michigan

Photograph by Chris Luckhardt | Prints available at www.chrisluckhardt.com

What was the last book you read?

Tough Sh*t: Life Advice from a Fat, Lazy Slob Who Did Good, by Kevin Smith

What album are you currently enjoying? (doesn’t have to be new)

I’ve been doing a lot of web programming lately and my favourite background music for that is the Blade Runner Trilogy [25th Anniversary Edition]. A recent release I’ve been enjoying is Steve Vai’s concept album The Story of Light.

Martyrs of Uganda Parish – Detroit, Michigan

Photograph by Chris Luckhardt | Prints available at www.chrisluckhardt.com

How long have you been shooting for?

I’ve considered myself to be a serious photographer for approximately 7 years. However, I purchased my first digital camera 10 years ago. Even as a kid, I was especially fascinated with our family’s budget Kodak Instamatic X30 and Disc 4100 cameras.

Calgary Tower – Calgary, Alberta

Photograph by Chris Luckhardt | Prints available at www.chrisluckhardt.com

Do you have a favourite type of photography?

Capturing star trails has always been my favourite photographic pursuit. It’s a less practiced form of photography, making the photos somewhat unique in a sea of worldwide photos being uploaded every second. I enjoy the locations; doing this kind of photograph properly puts you in dark, desolate landscapes where it’s just you and nature – isolated from most of humanity. Often, I’ll shoot star trails with close friends and fellow photographers, making for great conversation and a chance to learn more about the craft of photography.

Ferris Wheel Star Trails – Six Flags New Orleans

Photograph by Chris Luckhardt | Prints available at www.chrisluckhardt.com

If you could hop on a plane tomorrow, all expenses paid,
where would you go?

After seeing the Long Way Round documentary, I’ve been inspired to do extensive urban exploration and travel throughout eastern Russia.

Phoenix Trotting Park – Goodyear, Arizona

Photograph by Chris Luckhardt | Prints available at www.chrisluckhardt.com

Do you have any favourite photographers?

Current favourites include: Emma Katka, Jeff Bierk, Ed Serecky, Ikumi Nakamura and Christina Laing. They’ve reached a level of storytelling through photography that I aspire to achieve.

Bethlehem Steel North Office – Lackawanna, New York

Photograph by Chris Luckhardt | Prints available at www.chrisluckhardt.com

If you were to suggest one album, movie, tv series and book to someone, what would they be?

Album: Robert Johnson – The Complete Recordings
Movie: Metropolis
TV series: Star Trek: The Next Generation
Book: On the Beach

Michigan Central Station – Detroit, Michigan

Photograph by Chris Luckhardt | Prints available at www.chrisluckhardt.com

Any advice for hobbyists and aspiring photographers getting more serious about their photography?

They should experience the art of slow photography.

Mega Zeph Roller Coaster – Six Flags New Orelans

Photograph by Chris Luckhardt | Prints available at www.chrisluckhardt.com

Where’s the sketchiest place you’ve been?

New Orleans was by far the most dangerous location I’ve explored. We were staying in the Lower 9th Ward (where the worst Hurricane Katrina flooding occurred). Our group was directed to not go outside alone during the day and to not go outside at all during the night. The French Quarter is certainly safe, but the rest of New Orleans was described to us as being like the lawless wild west. Incidentally, the abandoned Six Flags New Orleans theme park was much safer (at least from crime) due to its relative distance from the downtown core.

Michigan Central Station – Detroit, Michigan

Photograph by Chris Luckhardt | Prints available at www.chrisluckhardt.com

Is there a city/building that you’re yearning to see?

I would love to explore Michigan Central Station again. It’s my all-time favourite abandoned building, but recently it’s become difficult to gain entry. The owner is doing superficial renovations as a political move to maintain his monopoly on border crossing revenues between Canada and the United States.

Hashima Island – Nagasaki, Japan

Photograph by Chris Luckhardt | Prints available at www.chrisluckhardt.com

I read your post about ‘adventures in Japan’; I would love to know more about your experience getting to Hashima Island. Any thoughts, emotions, anything about this journey would be great!

The journey to Hashima Island actually began as I exited Six Flags New Orleans on the final day of our three-day exploration. A guy in our crew asked if I’d heard about an abandoned island off the coast of Japan. I had known about the island for a few years and happened to know a Japanese urban explorer (via Twitter) named Ikumi who had previously acted as a guide to the island for foreigners.

Photograph by Chris Luckhardt | Prints available at www.chrisluckhardt.com

I contacted Ikumi and six months later (after intense negotiations and numerous translation hiccups) I was sailing to Hashima Island. My exploration of the island was arranged through a network of people, starting with Ikumi and ending with a fisherman who is, on rare occasions, willing to risk taking explorers to the island for a sizable amount of cash. This exploration was precedent setting – we were allotted a record 8 consecutive hours on the island. Other explorers are limited to 2 hours over 2 days. It’s still a mystery why we were given the extended time, but I was very thankful for the opportunity!

Photograph by Chris Luckhardt | Prints available at www.chrisluckhardt.com

The 15km passage to Hashima Island was intricate and carefully choreographed amongst a number of other, smaller islands. Once we sailed up to Hashima island’s sea wall, we had to quickly climb over a set of ladders and run for cover to avoid being spotted by the patrol ships watching the island.

Photograph by Chris Luckhardt | Prints available at www.chrisluckhardt.com

Exploring the island was incredible; I was awestruck for the entire 8 hours (while also staying out of sight of the patrol ships). My words and photos will never be able to properly describe the experience. I can remember every second of every minute of my time on the island. Experiencing silence where over 5,000 people once lived (mostly in cramped, harsh conditions) is like nothing else on this planet. Imagining the life experiences lost to the ocean air is an indescribable feeling. Yet, there is a peacefulness in knowing that you’re stepping inside history. Perhaps one day I’ll have the language to properly describe the sensory overload I experienced that day.

Photograph by Chris Luckhardt | Prints available at www.chrisluckhardt.com

Getting off the island was equally as choreographed as getting onto the island. We received the call from the fisherman and waited on a small landing platform of the sea wall for his arrival. Just as he was approaching, one of the patrol ships sailed around the southern end of the island and headed in our direction. However, for no apparent reason to us, it turned around and headed in the opposite direction. Indeed, it was a close call! We quickly hopped on the fisherman’s boat, ducked for cover, and sailed back to shore (while getting heavily splashed from the sea water).

Photograph by Chris Luckhardt | Prints available at www.chrisluckhardt.com

Exploring Hashima Island was an incredible experience. I’m planning to publish a detailed version of the adventure (including video) this year. Stay tuned!

Photograph by Chris Luckhardt | Prints available at www.chrisluckhardt.com

Any other thoughts about your Urban Exploration experiences?

I’ve been fortunate to do hundreds of urban explorations across Canada, the United States and Japan. Whenever I set foot in a location, I’ve always done so with the utmost respect for the structure and the memories that became part of its history. I never take items from locations; only on a rare occasion will I even move an object to capture a more aesthetically pleasing photograph. I leave the locations as they were when I arrived.

Sattler Theater – Buffalo, New York

Photograph by Chris Luckhardt | Prints available at www.chrisluckhardt.com

Urban exploration for me is as much about the abandonments as it is about the inner exploration. The silence of the abandonments gives me time to reflect; urban exploration often becomes a meditative state. Seeing the decay of the past allows me to reflect on the possibilities of the future.

Nara Dreamland – Nara, Japan

Photograph by Chris Luckhardt | Prints available at www.chrisluckhardt.com

I’ve made some incredible friends while doing urban exploration. Ultimately, those relationships stand as a testament to the adventures we’ve experienced together. We have a good time, document the abandonments, create some art, keep each other safe (regardless of any language barriers) and bring home a few interesting stories to tell our family and friends.

Don Valley Brick Works – Toronto, Ontario

Photograph by Chris Luckhardt | Prints available at www.chrisluckhardt.com

To quote the final frame of Calvin & Hobbes, “Let’s go exploring!”

Chris Luckhardt: Website | Twitter | Flickr | Facebook | Instagram

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An Incredible Photo Tour of Norway

Photographer Zbigniew Wantuch recently shared his portfolio of amazing work with the Sifter and it is through his lens that we get to experience the natural beauty of Norway. Currently working as a photojournalist for the local newspaper, Zbigniew lives in one of the northernmost cities in the world, Hammerfest, Norway.

Below you will find an interview I did with the budding photographer as we learn more about his travels and experience. Enjoy the photo tour of Norway below and be sure to check out Zbigniew’s official site at zbigniewwantuch.com for more fantastic work!

1. Norwegian Book Town – Fjærland, Norway

Photograph by Zbigniew Wantuch

The Norwegian Book Town in Fjærland started out very modestly in 1995, and now stocks about 2.5 miles of shelving, filled with books, in a variety of abandoned buildings – from ferry waiting rooms, stables and local banks to post office and grocery shop. Besides taking care of books, the idea here was also to preserve the old buildings, this makes some of the shops rather exceptional and characteristic.

You here find small, specialised shops, some of them in connection with other trades like the two hotels and the arts & crafts shop, and quite large shops selling only second-hand books: Straumsvågs Antikvariat and Den norske bokbyen A/S.

The shops in The Norwegian Book Town are open 10am-6pm every day from May to September, every day from 10 am to 6 pm. Requests by e-mail, post, fax or telephone are served all through the year, and the book town enjoys a lively postal order business.

For more information visit: http://bokbyen.no/en/

2. Aurora Borealis – Hammerfest, Norway

Photograph by Zbigniew Wantuch

Tell us a bit about yourself

I’m originally from Poland. While living there I was working in advertising as a copywriter but about 1.5 years ago I decided to move to Norway, mostly because of the dramatic landscape and nature. Right now I live in northernmost city in the world (at least that’s what they say in the city hall!) – Hammerfest in Finnmark province and work as a photojournalist for local newspaper Hammerfestingen.

Because tittle “northern most in the world” is quiet controversial I just want to explain that: yes, there are people living further north then we here (f.ex. on Svalbard) but we are the farthest north among places that are under Norwegian law that can be called a “city”. Don’t believe people from Honningsvåg – they will say something completely different 🙂 [You can read more about the dispute on Wikipedia]

I have been making a living by taking pictures for a year now, but I have been interested in photography more or less since I was 17. Before that I was focused on becoming NBA player. It didn’t go that well.

3. Godøy Island, Norway

Photograph by Zbigniew Wantuch

Godøy is an island in the municipality of Giske in Møre og Romsdal county, Norway. The island is famous for its beautiful nature, dominated by the 497-metre (1,631 ft) tall mountain Storhornet and the large lake Alnesvatnet.

Most of the population lives on the southeastern side of the island in Godøy and Leitebakk, although the small fishing village of Alnes, with its old lighthouse, is located on the north side of the island about 3 kilometres (1.9 mi) away via a tunnel through the 436-metre (1,430 ft) tall mountain Sloktinden. [Source: Wikipedia]

4. Sunnmøre, Norway

Photograph by Zbigniew Wantuch

What gear do you usually use for your landscape photographs?

For landscapes I mostly use a Canon 5D mark II and Canon 16-35 2.8L lens. I use density filters (not always because of strong vignetting from filters mount at 16mm) and polarizing filters. Funnily enough most of the pictures you see under this article were taken before I went “pro”. Back then I could only afford Canon 550D with kit 18-50 3.5-5.6f lens (with polarizing filter). In my opinion it proves 2 things:

1: it’s not the camera that is most important
2: shoot in RAW and take your time post-processing – this is when you can hide your gear’s weaknesses. Apart from that, for northern lights pictures I use a tripod and a lot of coffee.

5. Trollstigen – Rauma, Norway

Photograph by Zbigniew Wantuch

Trollstigen is a serpentine mountain road in Rauma, Norway, part of Norwegian National Road 63 connecting Åndalsnes in Rauma and Valldal in Norddal. It is a popular tourist attraction due to its steep incline of 9% and eleven hairpin bends up a steep mountain side.

Trollstigen is closed during autumn and winter. A normal opening season stretches from mid-May to October, but may sometimes be shorter or longer due to changes in the weather conditions. Vehicles over 12.4 meters are prohibited from driving on the road. [Source: Wikipedia]

6. Godøy Island, Norway
(taken from the top of Ålesund)

Photograph by Zbigniew Wantuch

What are some challenges about shooting
the Norwegian landscape?

Most people think it’s the cold. I would say that it’s more wet then cold. Of course during winter in inland Finnmark you will get -25*C but then you can just put one extra sweater on and you’ll be fine. Most of the gear also can cope with this kind of temperatures – my camera never froze, screen was working fine, only batteries dies faster then normal. If you can survive, so can the gear.

First real challenge is rain and/or wind. Most typical pictures you see from Norway were taken during a few sunny moments in the summer. For the rest of the year it rains quiet often and suddenly, so it’s hard to plan anything in advance. When wind blows so hard that you can’t stand, it’s also hard to hold the camera steady. Waterproof bags and clothes are quite useful.

Second challenge is distance. If you are looking for interesting angels or perspectives you will need to walk/climb for a while. My advice, don’t take too much gear with you. If it’s heavy you will hate it before you get to your destination.

Third challenge is light. In a huge part of the world you expect to get the best landscape shots around sunrise and sunset (around 6 in the morning and 8 in the evening). It’s also true here in Finnmark, with a small twist: in the summer, the sun doesn’t set for 2 months and in the winter you don’t see it at all. In the southern part of Norway you get absolutely amazing light for 2 hours around sunrise (around 0400 in the morning) and sunset (around 2300 in the evening) if the sky is not covered with clouds.

In Finnmark, in the summer, you get the best pictures at night (from 2300 to 0500 in the morning). In the winter you just shoot northern lights. When I’m hunting northern lights I check two pages: yr.no for weather and http://www.gi.alaska.edu/AuroraForecast/Europe for solar activity.

7. Aurora Borealis – Hammerfest, Norway

Photograph by Zbigniew Wantuch

8. Aurora Borealis – Hammerfest, Norway

Photograph by Zbigniew Wantuch

Do you have a favourite place in Norway?

Norway is full of beautiful places and every part of the country has it’s unique charm. You have all the small cozy cities of the south, fjords and glaciers on the western shore and no-mans-land up north. But if you only have a week to spend in Norway than you should visit the Møre og Romsdal region. This part of the country (south-west from Trondheim) is packed with attractions (Geiranger fjord, Alesund city, Trolstigen, glaciers and all the mountains around) and if you are into landscapes this is where you will fill your memory card on the first day.

Most of my the pictures with green grass and trees on them were taken there (there is not much green stuff and almost no trees where I live now). Check out this 360 tour for a taste: http://www.visitnorway.com/360/geiranger/#/knivsfla

9. The Highest Road in Northern Europe
Juvasshytta, Norway

Photograph by Zbigniew Wantuch

Juvasshytta is a mountain tourist station with restaurant and accommodation, located in Jotunheimen, in Lom municipality, Norway. It is located at an altitude of 1841 meters, and is accessible by road, the highest road in Northern Europe.

There is a public bus connection from Lom. Juvasshytta is used as a base station for walks to the summit of Galdhøpiggen, at 2469 meters altitude, the highest mountain in Northern Europe. The area and the road is usually open from May to September, and closed down the rest of the year. [Source: Wikipedia]

10. Kjendalsbreen Glacier – near Loen, Norway

Photograph by Zbigniew Wantuch

If you could travel anywhere in the world for free, no costs!
Where would you go?

The Moon.

11. Firefighters – Hammerfest, Norway

Photograph by Zbigniew Wantuch

12. Firefighters – Hammerfest, Norway

Photograph by Zbigniew Wantuch

You have moved to photojournalism. How is it different?
What’s challenging and what do you enjoy most about it?

It’s totally different. In my opinion photojournalism is about the stories. This is the main challenge – ‘how do I tell this story in a (preferably single) picture?’. You mostly work with people and this is a huge challenge itself. You need to gain their trust and you need to understand what the story is about. Then you need to make yourself invisible – you’re just registering the story, you’re not part of it. Subjects need to stop noticing you. Time is limited – often you only have 1-2 hours in a location, so it’s not possible to wait for better light or weather – you need to make the best of what you get. People are talking, moving, interacting and experiencing things – you only have a split-second to catch it.

In photojournalism the story is the key. In landscape most of the stories are quiet frankly boring: ‘there was a beautiful sunset’, ‘the mountain was standing there in the clouds’, ‘the tree was lightened by a beam of light’, ‘this was a really high cliff’. Landscape photography is playing on other emotions – it’s taking you to places and making you want go out and explore the world. Good photojournalism is bringing the world to you and forcing you to think about or experience it.

13. Trollstigen – Rauma, Norway

Photograph by Zbigniew Wantuch

14. Sunnmøre Alps
Taken from Ålesund, Norway

Photograph by Zbigniew Wantuch

Are there any current photographers that you really admire?

There are two polish photographers I haven’t had the opportunity to meet but I greatly respect: Tomasz Lazar and Tomasz Gudzowaty. They are both World Press Photo winners and extremely inspiring artists focusing on black and white photojournalism with a modern twist.

15. Storfjell – Hammerfest, Norway

Photograph by Zbigniew Wantuch

16. Aurora Borealis – Finnmark, Norway

Photograph by Zbigniew Wantuch

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Incredible Architecture Photography by Dave Wilson

We’ve already featured the incredible work of Dave Wilson before (here and here) and we are honoured to showcase his amazing architecture photography in a standalone post.

Dave was also kind enough to do an interview for the Sifter, discussing his thoughts on travel and photography. Please enjoy this curated selection along with snippets from our interview scattered throughout. Be sure to visit Dave’s site as he keeps an active blog of his work and process: http://davewilsonphotography.com

1. Chevron Building, Houston, TX

2. Texas State Capitol, Austin

Can you give an overview of your gear and go-to setup?

“I have a full gear list on my Flickr profile page so it’s probably best to look there if you want the whole thing. My go-to setup is a Nikon D700 with either 24-70mm or 14-24mm lens, Manfrotto tripod and RRS ballhead. I also have a D90 as a second body and an infrared converted D5000 which I’m enjoying a lot these days (though I’m strictly a beginner at IR photography and still learning the ropes).

I am lucky enough to own Nikon professional lenses and they are absolutely fabulous but I would not consider myself a gear junkie. My 3 most popular pictures to date were shot on a point and shoot and a cheap DSLR with kit lens!”

3. St. Patrick’s Cathedral, New York City

“I shot this from a rather unstable Gorillapod teetering on the back of a pew after I had removed the battery pack from the camera and fitted as light a lens as I could get away with. Given the circumstances, I’m pretty happy with the way the shot turned out!”

4. Falkirk Wheel In Motion, Scotland

“This image is a a 5 shot composite using exposures taken while the wheel was turning.”

5. Erwin Center, UT Austin

What’s your favourite type of photography?

“I love a wide variety of photography though my favourite subjects tend to be architectural. I’ve been doing a lot more with off-camera flash recently and have been shooting more portraits over the last couple of years. HDR has been a mainstay for me for the last 5 years or so.”

6. Corner of Smith & Bell, Houston, Texas

7. “Partners”, Walt Disney World, Florida

If you could hop on a plane tomorrow, all expenses paid, where would you go?

“Straight back to India! I’ve visited the country a couple of times and found it absolutely fascinating. I would love an opportunity to spend a couple of weeks shooting historic buildings there. On my previous trip to the Taj Mahal, I fell and damaged my DSLR on the night before we arrived there so it would be great to reshoot it with something better than a $100 point-and-shoot :)”

8. Embarcadero Stairs, San Francisco

9. Rings – Texas State Capitol

Do you have a favourite city/country you’ve traveled?

“This is a tricky question since I love travel and love so many cities. If I have to pick one, I would probably have to go with Paris. It offers such an amazing diversity of architecture in such a relatively small area. I love spending whole days just wandering the streets of Paris and the fact that it’s full of great restaurants is a bonus too.”

10. Reflection Abstract of City Center, Las Vegas

11. Fort Davis National Historic Site, Texas

Fort Davis National Historic Site in west Texas offers a fascinating look inside a 19th century military outpost. The fort was founded in 1854 to protect travellers on the San Antonio to El Paso road. After being abandoned for a few years during the Civil War, it was reopened in 1867 and continued in operation until 1891.

12. Aqua Building by Night, Chicago

Do you have any favourite buildings/architects?

“I’m an enormous fan of Frank Gehry – his organic, fluid designs are fascinating. I would love an opportunity to shoot the Disney Concert Hall in Los Angeles but so far, I’ve not managed to get out there with a camera.”

13. Capitol Extension Rotunda

14. Wells Fargo Tower, Houston, Texas

Do you have any favourite photographers?

“I could fall back on Ansel Adams but everyone loves his work. Most of the photographers that inspire me (aside from Adams) are contemporary photobloggers. I think Joe McNally does an amazing job, both with his images and his writing – I encourage everyone to read “The Moment It Clicks” which is an enormously excellent book as far as I’m concerned. I also love the work of Arthur Meyerson – we share a love for somewhat minimalist, geometric images but he does it so much better than I ever could!”

15. Millennium Park, Chicago

16. New Mexico Space History Museum

Any advice for hobbyists and aspiring photographers getting more serious about their craft?

“One of the best lessons I’ve learned is that to get a great picture, you have to take a whole lot of bad ones. In the days when every click cost you a quarter, this was a problem but individual shots are essentially free in today’s digital world so people shouldn’t worry about taking many, many pictures and editing down to the best ones. Another way to look at this is practice, practice, practice – shoot a lot, learn a lot.

Another piece of advice I would give is to get involved in a group that contains some photographers who are a lot better than you are. The “great photo!” culture on Flickr and Facebook is wonderful but seek out genuine critique and learn from the negative comments you get. These are a lot more valuable than the positive ones, really!”

17. Carnival Thrill, Rodeo Austin

18. Downtown Houston, Texas

Is photography an art form?

“Absolutely – no question about it at all.”

19. Spaceship Earth, EPCOT

20. San Francisco by Night

Dave Wilson Online

– Official Site: http://davewilsonphotography.com/
– Canvas Prints: http://www.alteredperspectives.us/
– 500px: http://500px.com/davewilsonphotography
– Flickr: http://www.flickr.com/photos/dawilson/
– Twitter: https://twitter.com/dawilson
– Google+: https://plus.google.com/114860393629170534951/posts
– Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/DaveWilsonPhotography

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1. Masai Mara, Kenya

2. Kolmanskop, Namibia

3. Iceland

You’ve visited over 70 countries, what is it about travel that is so compelling to you?

4. Hofsos, Iceland

5. Vermont, USA

6. Uganda

What is your favorite place/country you’ve visited to date and why?

7. Iceland

8. Iceland

9. Iceland

Do you ever feel torn between experiencing and capturing ‘the moment’ or are they one in the same for you?

10. Brooklyn Bridge, New York City, USA

11. Page, Arizona, USA

12. Mule Canyon, Utah, USA

What are some of the biggest challenges in travel photography?

13. Namibia

14. Kolmanskop, Namibia

What advice would you give to photographers who are just starting out?

15. Ngorongoro Crater, Tanzania

16. Northern Territory, Namibia

17. Dead Flei, Namibia

If you could go anywhere in the world, where’s the first place you would go?

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Bulgaria – Buzludzha

Latvia

Estonia

Germany

Hungary

U-475 Black Widow Submarine

Russia

Ukraine – Pripyat/Chernobyl

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Haikyo / Urban Exploration

Statues and Temples

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2. Paul McCartney

3. B.B. King

4. Adele

5. Freddie Mercury

6. Lou Reed

7. Moby

8. Johnny Cash

9. Stevie Wonder

10. Frank Zappa

11. George Clinton

12. Amy Winehouse

13. Bob Dylan

14. Roger Waters

15. Eric Clapton

16. Ray Charles

17. Bruce Springsteen

18. Jerry Garcia

19. Alice Cooper

20. Jimi Hendrix

21. Jim Morrison

22. Sid Vicious

23. John Lennon

24. Gene Simmons

25. Charlie Parker

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What made you decide to go to Botswana and document this story?

How was living in the ‘bush’? How long was the assignment?

The MODISA Wildlife Project

Okay, so what happened to your hand?

What were some photography challenges on this assignment?

Were you scared to be so close to the lions? Valentin and Mikkel seem to have earned the lions trust but what about you?

What gear did you bring for such a shoot?

What do you think of the merits of the MODISA project? Is their active involvement in caring for these lions ultimately benefiting the animals?

If you could hop on a plane anywhere in the world tomorrow, all expenses paid, where would you go (personally)?

What story would you really like to cover or explore (professionally)?

Do you have any advice for aspiring photojournalists?

You’ve visited over 70 countries,
what is it about travel that is so compelling to you?

Do you ever feel torn between experiencing
and capturing ‘the moment’ or are they one in the same for you?

If you could go anywhere in the world,
where’s the first place you would go?

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What made you decide to go to Botswana
and document this story?

How was living in the ‘bush’?
How long was the assignment?

What were some photography challenges
on this assignment?

Were you scared to be so close to the lions?
Valentin and Mikkel seem to have earned the lions trust
but what about you?

What do you think of the merits of the MODISA project?
Is their active involvement in caring for these lions
ultimately benefiting the animals?

If you could hop on a plane anywhere in the world tomorrow,
all expenses paid, where would you go (personally)?

What story would you really like to
cover or explore (professionally)?

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If you could hop on a plane tomorrow, all expenses paid,
where would you go?

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6. Godøy Island, Norway
(taken from the top of Ålesund)

What are some challenges about shooting
the Norwegian landscape?

9. The Highest Road in Northern Europe
Juvasshytta, Norway

If you could travel anywhere in the world for free, no costs!
Where would you go?

You have moved to photojournalism. How is it different?
What’s challenging and what do you enjoy most about it?

14. Sunnmøre Alps
Taken from Ålesund, Norway

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