Turn back the clock: Taking immersive pictures of historic places

Image source: lifepixel.com

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.

Image source: ephotozine.com

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.

Great Spots For Photography In Orange County

Orange County is home to hundreds of scenic and popular locales, from Disneyland and its California Adventure park to its variety of beaches and water sports venues. But it also houses many hidden gems for your photography pleasures. I’ve listed below some of the most picture-friendly areas in the O.C.

The LAB

A lot of long-time O.C. residents call this the “anti-mall” as it lies unobtrusively behind a grove tree, and you’ve to follow a shader path if you’re to enter the marketplace. Here you’ll find quaint restaurants, galleries, and boutiques. There are regular events and festivals devoted to poetry and the visual arts. If you’ve managed to find yourself in the LAB, take photos in the ARTery, which features artwork placed in shipping containers.

Image source: visitanaheim.org

Great Park Balloon

These hot balloons are awesome subjects for photography. They can individually hold two to three people at a time, and it’s simply amazing to see an entire fleet of them soaring into the sky. From the balloons themselves, you can take generous, 360-degree photos of the gorgeous landscape.

The Blind Rabbit

Located in Anaheim, this nondescript restaurant is famed for its speakeasy atmosphere. The service is great, and the toned-down ambiance is perfect for shots that capture that old-world and artistic allure. But make sure to reserve first, as it’s often only available for first come, first served seating between two and four in the afternoon.

Image source: losangeles.cbslocal.com

My name is Douglas Grady, and I’m an Orange County-based event planner. Though my job can get hectic at times, this is where my passion lies. Outside of work, I’m into travel and photography. Hit up this link for similar tips.

The Simple Guide To Becoming a Great Wedding Photographer

It’s hardly possible to imagine a wedding without a wedding photographer. This doesn’t mean that weddings would be meaningless without pictures. However, wedding photography has become a part of every nuptial, be it a civil or church wedding. The union of two individuals is captured and immortalized by talented photographers that give story to each frame. 

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Be clear with what you’re offering as a photographer. When a client asks for your services, let them know of your available equipment, your team (if you have any), and show them your previous work. If large family photos won’t be something you will be offering, provide alternatives like smaller group photos. Pre-plan your shoots so as to not miss important shots. Wedding photography isn’t spontaneous like street photography. Scout for locations, and if your clients have places in mind, check them and see how you’ll be able to work with the lighting and other conditions of the place. 

It’s important to ask the couple what they want their shoot to be like. Ask them who the VIPs are in their wedding. Make sure to capture moments with them. On the day of the wedding, make sure you know what will transpire. Know the ones involved in the program. 

While it’s great to capture spontaneous moments during the wedding and reception, don’t be afraid of directing your subjects. With a few directions here and there, you’ll be boosting the confidence of the subjects, allowing them to relax when being photographed. Follow the smiles. Knowing the most expressive guests will provide you with the best subjects. 

Image source: pexels.com

Douglas Grady, event and wedding planner at your service. My business is based in Orange County, California. I am passionate about travel and photography. Subscribe to my blog to get more photography tips.