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Image source: lifepixel.com
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A well-preserved historical district is a delight for both the photographer and amateur historian. Sometimes, looking at historic buildings and streets from just the right angles can feel transported to a very different time. There are ways to capture this feeling in your photographs (and let’s face it, you don’t just go to a historical district and not take as many photographs as you can).
Creative cropping is your best friend when it comes to capturing that vintage feel in your photos. Sometimes, all it takes to bring you back to the past is to look away from the sights of modernity. This will be less necessary if the district happens to take its historical authenticity seriously.
Many city’s historic districts have amazingly preserved buildings with beautiful details. While you might be tempted to capture majestic structures in wide angle lenses, don’t be afraid to zoom in. Getting real close can let you savor these aesthetic flourishes that will do your subjects justice.
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Image source: ephotozine.com
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Choose the right time and place for your photoshoots. Take your camera out as early as you can to capture the beauty of these time capsules of yesterday in the beauty of golden hour. But why stop there? Treat yourself a little and visit the place multiple times in different parts of the day: the beauty of history may change from sunrise to sundown.
Avoiding peak hours can also help you focus on bringing the historic landmarks to life by making it easier for you to avoid other tourists and keep them out of frame. Having the places largely to yourself can make your time displaced cityscapes feel all the more authentic.
I’m Douglas Grady, Orange County wedding planner, traveler, and amateur photographer. Catch me on Twitter for more on my thoughts on travel and photography.
