(Well, a few of them!)
As a photographer, the world is my studio, and over the years, I've been lucky enough to travel to some pretty special places. From rugged landscapes to tranquil seascapes, every destination brings its own magic, and it’s the moments behind the lens that often stick with me long after the trip ends. So, come along on a little journey through my favorite travel photography moments—from the windswept Shetland Islands to the lush forests of Japan.
Shetland
First things first, the locals drop the "Islands" it is just 'Shetland' - an incredible outpost reached either by a committed ferry crossing or a short flight from Aberdeen.
It's windswept isolation along with the chance to encounter puffins and otters is enough to make me want to make the trek to get there.
Shetland, off the coast of Scotland was recently made popular through the television series of the same name. I'm pleased to say that on my two visits there haven't been any heinous crimes to be solved, the only mystery being where is the best place to spot otter.
Shetland is a dream for anyone who loves photographing dramatic landscapes and rugged coastlines. There’s a certain rawness here that’s impossible to ignore—jagged cliffs plunge into the roaring North Sea, and the light shifts faster than you can adjust your camera settings. One minute you’re bathed in golden sunlight, the next you’re dodging a squall. To be honest, I have been absolutely drenched, but loved every minute of it.
Some would argue that the real stars of Shetland are the puffins. These quirky little birds are the unofficial mascots of the islands, and watching them waddle around with their brightly colored beaks is endlessly charming. Getting close enough to capture their personalities without disturbing them is tricky, but worth every second. I have so many photographs and memories of the adorable little birds. But, like chocolate, you can never have too many puffin photos!
Myanmar offered a completely different experience. It's important to say that my travel to Myanmar was when the world was on the brink of the global pandemic and a cruel military coup was on the cusp of erupting in Myanmar. I consider my opportunity to go there in January 2020 an incredible privilege.
The ancient temples of Bagan are unlike anything I’ve ever seen—thousands of pagodas rising from the plains, shrouded in mist, with the sun rising behind them in a golden glow. One of my favorite photography moments happened at sunrise as we took a strategic spot - seeing the landscape unfold in front of my eyes, framing the temples and forest was quite something. I remember framing a shot with the iconic Ananda Temple in the foreground and the vast plain of stupas stretching beyond. The sheer majesty of it all left me breathless, not just from the height but from the beauty of this ancient landscape frozen in time. But Myanmar wasn’t just about landscapes. It was about people, too—capturing portraits of monks in saffron robes, walking quietly among the temples, or children playing. Even then Myanmar had a desperate edge to it, yet despite extreme poverty and hardship the people were welcoming and friendly (although, a little nervous of Westerners).
Before I went to Myanmar I researched ethical tourism in that country. I will write more on this at another time but I was saddened when traveling to hear of the exploitive antics of other tourism operators. I was pleased I'd spent hours working out my travel plans.
New Zealand's SubAntarctic Islands.
While I love exploring other cultures and meeting other people I think my real passion is wildlife and wild landscapes. There are plenty of opportunities for capturing these at home in New Zealand but the real treasure lies in the wild places, particularly the Subantarctic Islands, where I've captured some of my favorite images of native wildlife. These islands feel like stepping into a world that time forgot.
From incredible sunsets on the back of the boat to capturing a soaring Light Mantled Sooty Albatross - a bird that his hard to capture not because of its movement but because it's colouring is so subtle, the SubAntarctic Islands are an incredibly humbling place to visit. They are also a great reminder, as if we need another one, of why we need to work to improve conservation efforts. The privilege of walking in amongst mega-herbs to find a Southern Royal Albatross nesting only a few metres from the track, or having to wait while a belligerent takes up guard position between you and the zodiac, are incredible reminders that in this remote part of the world nature is in charge.
The Journey Continues
Every destination brings its own magic, and every photograph tells a story of that place and time. From the subantarctic winds of New Zealand’s islands to the temples of Myanmar, my camera has been my constant companion, capturing fleeting moments that will last a lifetime. And where is my next favourite travel photography place (as if there would only be one!)? As long as there’s light, there will always be another shot waiting to be taken. Here’s to the next adventure—wherever it may be!
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