Capturing the essence of a city during a momentous occasion presents a unique challenge for photographers. You need to go beyond the obvious celebratory visuals and find images that tell a deeper story, conveying the emotions and atmosphere of the event. This is especially true when documenting a significant historical milestone, like the 1,000-year anniversary of Hanoi, Vietnam.
Coming to you from Justin Mott, this insightful video takes you behind the scenes of his experience photographing this historic event for The New York Times. Mott, a seasoned professional photographer, shares his approach to capturing the spirit of Hanoi during its millennial celebration. He emphasizes the importance of going beyond the official ceremonies and parades, opting instead to explore the city's streets and capture candid moments that reveal the true essence of the occasion. His focus on "street photography with a theme" offers a valuable lesson for photographers of all levels, encouraging you to seek out unique perspectives and capture the often-overlooked details that contribute to the larger narrative.
Mott's commentary on his past work is both honest and insightful. He openly discusses his stylistic choices, including his tendency to tilt the horizon in his images, acknowledging that it might not have been the best approach. This self-awareness and willingness to learn from past experiences is a valuable trait for any photographer. He also emphasizes the importance of preparation and understanding the flow of events, highlighting the benefits of attending rehearsals to gain a better sense of where to position yourself for optimal shots. His dedication to capturing the "moments after" – the often-unseen aftermath of major events – serves as a reminder to look beyond the obvious and seek out the unique perspectives that set your work apart.
One of the key takeaways from Mott's video is the importance of creating your own assignments. He encourages you to challenge yourself by setting themes and exploring your surroundings with a specific goal in mind. This practice not only helps you improve your photography skills but also allows you to develop your own unique style and perspective. By actively seeking out opportunities to document the world around you, you can transform everyday experiences into compelling visual stories. Check out the video above for the full rundown from Mott.
