Hong Kong is where I’m from, and I’ve returned many times since I left. As a photographer, that creates a tension. The city is so distinctive that every turn offers a great shot. But I know it so well that I can easily stop seeing it. So how do I keep Hong Kong interesting on my next trip?
1. Set a goal before you go
I start by deciding what I want to photograph. It might be a brand-new project or a continuation of an existing one. Either way, having a goal keeps me focused when I only have a free hour or two to shoot.
2. Mine your old photos for ideas
I go back through my earlier Hong Kong photos and look for themes worth exploring further. Even though I mostly shoot for projects, I still take plenty of photos simply because the subject is great. And even within a project, a photo often contains an element that could anchor a different one. When I spot one, I ask myself how I could build a project around it.
3. Look for inspiration on social media
Hong Kong is incredibly photogenic, so there is no shortage of great work to browse. I search for photos taken in the city and ask two questions. Would I like to make my own version of this? And could some aspect of it grow into a full project?
Plan before you board
Before the flight, I decide what I want to accomplish on the trip. That way, when free time appears, I’m shooting with purpose instead of defaulting to the same familiar views.
What’s your trick for seeing a familiar place with fresh eyes? Share it in the comments.