CARACAS MODERN

Dear reader, if this entry or my other blog entries don't answer your specific photography questions, you can call me on the phone anytime for advice by clicking here.

Although not an expert, I am a big fan of mid-century modernist design, architecture, and art. A recent trip to Caracas, Venezuela was beneficial for me in many ways, especially as I was able to document modern design via still cameras and video. Caracas went through a modernization period in the 1950's that removed much of the Spanish Colonial style that is throughout Central and South America. While a trip to Caracas can easily be depressing to those who do not appreciate mid-century design, for those who are inclined, the city is quite valuable.

The Humboldt Hotel is a great example; it was opened in 1957 by Perez Jiminez, but closed in 1970 due to shifting politics. Re-opened in 2002, the interior and exterior make for great photo opportunities. While the interior furnishings are new, I assume they are commensurate with what the hotel used to look like during its grand opening.

The photo lesson for today is an encouragement to always seek photo opportunities in places that you would normally consider unattractive. If you do your homework prior to departing for another country, you may be surprised by a newfound appreciation of the location's architecture, art and design history.

Mark's photographic prints for your wall can be purchased at www.markhemmings.com
Mark can be hired as a photographer or filmmaker via www.hemmingshouse.com

TRAVEL PHOTOGRAPHY GEAR

Dear reader, if this entry or my other blog entries don't answer your specific photography questions, you can call me on the phone anytime for advice by clicking here.

A few days ago I arrived home from filming a television documentary on the Venezuelan Youth Orchestra. We stayed for a week in Caracas, Venezuela, going to different neighborhoods doing interviews and photo sessions with the youth. 

Traveling to dangerous cities such as Caracas can be a challenge due to the high possibility of camera theft. I remember on past trips, especially to Japan, I would take a pro body such as the Nikon D2x, with a Nikon D70 as a back-up, with a 70-200 f2.8 pro lens, an 85mm, 50mm, and 12-24mm zoom. This made for a massive backpack, extremely heavy and uncomfortable.

Lately I have been traveling professionally with the least gear possible. I am not well versed with Canon equipment, but a Nikon D90 with an 18-200mm zoom has served me very well when on the road. I have always relied on the excellent quality of prime lenses, but zooms seem to be getting better each year. The D90 and 18-200 combination is adequate for almost all magazine work, and most stock agencies will except images from this equipment. And if it does get stolen or lost, it is a much easier pill to swallow than replacing a $10,000 professional Nikon body and lens!

While I haven't tried the new Nikon D5000, it might be an even better option for frequent travelers. It is small, light, can do decent travel videos, and is priced very well for its excellent image quality (based on my knowledge of the similar D90 CMOS sensor).

Mark's photographic prints for your wall can be purchased at www.markhemmings.com
Mark can be hired as a photographer or filmmaker via www.hemmingshouse.com