Photography is often associated with travels to distant lands, capturing the exotic landscapes and cultures. For many, including myself, it is also a great excuse to book the ticket to a new place (I can feel it coming…).

Yet, some of the most compelling images can emerge from the familiar scenes right outside your doors.

Yes, you can get amazing, portfolio worthy pictures by shooting locally. Yes, a huge part of the images in my portfolio has been made in my neighborhood.

Spending time out in your local area allows you to observe how light, seasons, and weather transform familiar scenes. This knowledge enables you to capture moments on your terms, in a low-pressure setting. Without the allure of exotic destinations, you challenge yourself to find unique angles and compositions in the familiar.

This builds a deeper appreciation and romantic connection with your environment.

Shoot locally like there’s no tomorrow

Things become clearer when you realize that what’s so familiar to you, can be very exotic to someone who lives in the different part of the world.

And just think about it: no one else across the globe has an access to those scenes which you see every day and which you can master until the end of time.

My favourite playground is The North Sea coast. As I happen to live not far from the beach, I can be by the sea almost any time of day or year. And even though I know the nearest beaches like the back of my hand - I keep coming back to them. And every walk on a local beach brings something new. I always return home with a fresh set of frames.

Get away every now and then

At the same time, I have a strong need to discover and experience new places - even if they’re only a few dozen kilometers away. Stepping away from my usual surroundings offers new perspectives and gives my creativity a boost.

Traveling, even to nearby places, exposes you to different views and inspire fresh ideas. It challenge you as it puts you in the front of different circumstances and scenarios.

And it doesn’t really cost a fortune, to be away once a while. No matter if we’re talking cheap flights, or local commute, your own car, or a bike - it is all within reach and the distance depending on your budget, fantasy and personal need.

But I like to think about travel - also in terms of photography - as a way of coming home, not escaping.

Wherever you go, there you are.