As a professional fashion photographer, I often travel for work and pleasure. But there are times when I myself am unable to if I am traveling for business or pleasure. As most of my vacations end up as a business trip. This is only because I am passionate about my work, and photography does not just work for me. It is my hobby, something that helps me get out of bed each morning.
Yes, I am a lucky man who is living his dream, which is why it does not matter if it’s business or pleasure. As I find pleasure in my work, which allows me to cover more. Traveling to a new city is always exciting, and it brings forward endless possibilities. Which is why I never travel without my camera, and basic equipment. As I will be using them either way, so if I get the opportunity to turn my vacation into a business trip, I would be ready.
I generally never go anywhere without my camera, as you never know what possible situation or place you wish to cover. Having my camera by my side helps assure me that I have all that I need. Which is why I usually question photographers who travel without their camera. At one occasion I was extremely happy to have realized that I do not see my work as something stressful. When a fellow photographer pointed out that the only reason he does not have a camera with him, is because he is on a vacation.
Vacation or no vacation, there is no need to leave your camera back home, as you can easily get local assignments. As they are usually on the lookout for foreign photographers who can offer them something different than their traditional styled photography. Which is why you should never leave your home without a camera.
So the next time you are heading out of town or the country for pleasure, take your basic equipment with you, and you will be able to experience the city in a new way. As the vacation will turn into an interesting and amazing business opportunity, and you never know, you might even get to build a clientele. This is not something that can happen automatically, but when you start exploring your options, you will soon find that it is easier to find work abroad if you are the right fit for the job.
So on your free day check with local agents, and see if there is an interesting assignment that you might be interested in. Even if you are unable to get any assignments, you will be able to capture amazing images that can later be added to your portfolio. Making your pleasure trip a great opportunity, where you can enjoy, relax, and get some work done without any pressure.
I simply love to walk around with my camera, as it allows me to capture and explore the place as it was meant to be.
