by Editor Miro Susta 
Edited and published by Yvette Depaepe, the 27th of September 2024

Not only Europe, but also Asia, the Americas and Africa offer wonderful historical Sites, Buildings and Monuments. There are many beautiful and charming historical places in the world that can take visitors' breath away. Some of them have been standing for thousands of years, others have remained hidden from the world until today.

'The Holy Rocks' by Konstantinos Lagos

In this article, I have selected some great photos from the 1x photo gallery to illustrate this theme, as well as some useful tips and ideas on photography techniques and choosing the right subject.

Some places are naturally breathtaking due to their location or construction, such as Machu Picchu in Peru, while others need an inventive photographer who is willing to take extra time to capture them properly.

'Machu Picchu' by Adhemar Duro

For example, the colours of natural stones are best brought out in flat light early in the morning or late in the afternoon.

'The Pyramids of Giza' by Jennifer Chen

It is essential to identify the best possible vantage point from which the historic site can be seen and photographed preferably from a higher altitude.

'Early Spring in Mutianyu' by C.S. Tjandra

In such photos, the old structures or their remains should be captured in order to draw the viewer's attention to the most important points of the location. The mood of the chosen historical site or structure can be enhanced when there are no people around. Visiting a site in the early morning or late afternoon before sunset could be a reasonable solution.

Kilchurn' by Bartolome Lopez

But that is not always the rule, some pictures need people who add life and scale to the chosen scene. It is up to the photographer to decide what is most attractive and more appropriate to the chosen situation.

'Sadhus enjoying the Maha Shivatri Festival' by Yvette Depaepe

Natural framing can significantly optimise the design and overall appearance of a photo. The point of view, the framing and the centre of interest are of vital importance.

'San Marco' by Antoni Figueras

The time of day and therefore the availability of good light are crucial for the best photos of buildings and structures taken from the ground, as in this case the camera is pointing upwards/against the sky. Too much light in the sky, where the camera takes its measurements, can significantly affect the photo quality. It is therefore advisable to visit such historic building and structures when the sun is on strike.

'Within A Place of a Stone Circle' by David Scarbrough

Dramatic and wonderful images of historical sites can also be taken at night when the site and all objects are bathed in artificial light.

'Roma 1.' by Juan Pablo de Miguel

A very favoured method to improve the quality and visual appeal of the photographed object(s) is to capture its/their reflection in quiet water.

'Castel S. Angelo at twilight' by Mattia Bertaina

There is always a lot of noise and colours around Hindu and Buddhist temples, and it is usually a bustling place where worshippers, priests and pilgrims mix together. Low light and smoke are just some of the obstacles that need to be overcome when taking photos. In particular, the burning of offerings, oil lamps and incense produces smoke that can obscure the view.

'Colourful Life' by Shaibal Nandi

The flash-light is no significant help in such smoke-filled conditions; longer exposure times and the use of a tripod would be useful. These are some of the most difficult conditions for a photo that a photographer can find at a historical site, but the result can be unforgettable under a given circumstance.

Monasteries of all faiths are very often situated in remote but stunning mountain regions, making them a valuable object for photographers.

'Monastery on Rocks - Meteora Greece' by Cindy Liu

For example, Greek Meteora, with its towering cliffs and unique rock formations, offers an excellent opportunity for dramatic and creative compositions, a landscape that seems to be painted by the gods.

'Meteora' by Veselin Atanasov

When photographing historical sites, structures and buildings, it is also worth looking around to find out if there is anything special that can be included in the photo. This adds depth to the scene and makes it more interesting and livelier than a simple shot of the object. Trees, plants and even people work well for this, but other objects can also make an impact.

Istanbul' by Albena Markova

In the next article, some selected historical sites, buildings, and other structures will be presented in word and pictures.

mrsphoto.net
[email protected]