Taking interesting photos in nondescript locations can be a challenge, but it’s also an essential skill for anyone taking photography seriously. It’s easy to find inspiration in bustling cities or picturesque landscapes, but what about when you’re in a quiet village or a nondescript suburb? The ability to see the potential in these seemingly dull environments is what can set you apart as a photographer.
Coming to you from Mike ChudleyThis insightful video addresses the common concern of finding inspiration in boring places. Chudley begins by addressing a common comment he gets: “London is easy for you, but what about my boring village?” It’s a valid point, but Chudley argues that photography isn’t just about location, it’s about how you see the world around you. Even in the most mundane of places, there are opportunities to capture something unique. He gives the example of a morning walk in a quiet English village, where he stumbled upon an interesting photo of a fallen tree. The lesson here is simple: always have your camera ready, because you never know when an interesting moment will arise.
In the video, Chudley continues to explore how he approached photographing the Humber Bridge, not in the usual postcard style, but by finding unique angles and elements that make the image more interesting. He points out that it’s easy to fall into the trap of thinking that there’s nothing worth photographing in certain locations, but often it’s enough to simply change your perspective. Chudley demonstrates this with a photo he took of a graffiti-covered building near the bridge. By creatively incorporating the surroundings, he captured something that was not only visually interesting, but also told a story about the location.
As Chudley continues his exploration, he emphasizes that the true value of photography lies in the process of discovery. He talks about the satisfaction of finding small details or unexpected compositions in places where you might initially think there is nothing to see. For example, he highlights a composition that includes a bench and a building, with a bridge perfectly aligned in the background. This isn’t a photo that would normally grab someone’s attention, but by taking the time to look for these subtle details, Chudley demonstrates how you can create something beautiful even in an uninteresting environment.
Another important point Chudley makes is the importance of letting go of expectations. When you’re out with your camera, especially in a place that doesn’t seem like a great place to take a photo, it’s easy to get discouraged if you don’t find something worth capturing right away. Chudley suggests letting go of that pressure and just enjoying the act of observing. He believes that if you keep your eyes open and your expectations low, you’ll often be surprised by what you find. Check out the video above for Chudley’s full recap.
