Of all the shoots you’ve been involved with, which do you look back on with the most pride?
I’m always the proudest of my book, Iron Rails of the Orient, about train rides from Bangkok to Lhasa, Tibet. The best bit was the China chapter, the ride on the highest rails in the world, the train from Beijing to Tibet across the Himalayas. It was one of the most spectacular landscapes I’d ever seen, and one of the most memorable assignments I have ever done.
Every artist has his favourite set of tools. Is there a particular camera you are never without?
I miss my Leica film cameras. They were the best pieces of photographic equipment ever produced, along with Velvia film. However, now that I’m completely digital, I like to try different equipment. I’ve worked with Canon, Sony and Nikon digital cameras. Right now I’m partial to the Canon 5DmII. It provides photos that look like film, and the video is fun to work with too.
You’re running this course at Desert Islands Resort & Spa by Anantara on Sir Bani Yas Island. Is it a place you’ve photographed much in the past?
I have never been to the UAE. I’m looking forward to working there and teaching this class. I hear it has some of the most spectacular landscapes in the Middle East.
What makes Sir Bani Yas Island a special location?
It’s special because it’s a rare combination of a wildlife preserve and spectacular locale for landscapes. I’m sure the participants will have a great time making their own special shots and seeing Sir Bani Yas Island through the lens.
What do you expect attendees to get out of the course?
In the end, a better understanding of photography, and what it takes to get certain shots. Many people think you just go out, find a spot, take some pictures and, voila – you have nice photography. This will open the eyes of many of the participants to the basics of photography; patience, luck and skill.
What will you be looking for from the participants? Do you expect to learn much yourself?
The most important thing is to have fun with photography. It’s important to have passion and to make the best out of this experience. It’ll be a very special experience for all and I am sure we will capture some spectacular images of the natural surroundings.
The Desert Islands Digital Memories photography course takes place between March 18-21. Course prices start at Dhs6,550, inclusive of costs, hotel room, breakfast, lunch and dinner at Palm Restaurant. Participants must bring their own digital SLR and laptop and editing equipment. Book at desertislands.antara.com.
Tips from the top
Not everyone will be able to afford the trip to Sir Bani Yas, so we asked Kris to give us a few hints on achieving snap happiness.
1. The most important feature to any photography is the ability to ‘see’ pictures. Most skilled photographers have spent so much time seeing the world as a still photographer, that they know when a good picture is presenting itself.
2. Take the time to learn your camera and its functions. Too many digital photographers these days don’t have a basic understanding of the relationship between shutter speed, ‘F stop’, ISO settings and how to control the camera. Back in the old days of film, if you bought a high-end SLR, you had to understand photography because the film was expensive and the cameras were far less ‘smart’.
3. One of the most basic elements in landscape photography is shooting when you have the best light. Don’t shoot in the middle of the day, or when the sun is at its highest. Often the best landscapes are seen in low light, or when the sun is going down. Be patient and wait for the light to be right and you’ll get some nice landscapes.
4. Many amateur photographers think that if you just shoot a pretty sunset, or a great view, you have done what is necessary to make a nice picture. A professional photographer would present a good subject – a beautiful tree, a person, an animal – within the landscape that becomes the subject. All landscape shots are made better with the addition of a strong subject.
5. Take chances with your photography. I don’t mean be dangerous, I mean break the rules! Don’t rely on the ‘rule of thirds’ or basic composition. Experiment and push yourself when taking pictures. Try new angles, new ways to see subjects and, most importantly, have fun.
