How To Take Great Photos In Cities Such As Krakow

Article by David McGirr.

To help you capture the magic of cities, here are a few tips on photography in general and more specific tips on photographing Krakow in particular.

Also, take a look at my guide to this year's Krakow Photomonth Festival and my Krakow photography ideas and suggestions article.

1. Tripods

In some locations, tripods are prohibited. Instead, rest the camera against something solid, and use the self-timer function or invest in a smaller support such as a tabletop tripod or pocket support.

2. Photo Tickets

Some of the tourist sites, notably Mariacki church and Wieliczka salt mine insist that an additional Photo/Video ticket is purchased, (10zl), this is usually a sticker which should be worn in a conspicuous place to fend off over zealous security staff.

3. No Flash

Flash photography is often banned in museums or places of worship. Use a high iso and a slow shutter speed. Take more than one photo in succession as often the 2nd or 3rd shot will be more steady.

4. Safety

Krakow is a very safe city, indeed it could be considered to be safer and less prone to street crime than many other European cities. The usual common sense precautions should be applied such as never leaving your kit unattended and whilst it is easy to get caught up in the moment when looking through the camera you should always be aware of your surroundings if venturing out at night in less busy areas,

5. Photographing The Locals

Be polite and respectful. Don’t be the pushy tourist with a camera. Some people, usually the older generation are less keen at being photographed.

6. Tell A Story

Take an interest in the person and what they do, that way they are more likely to look beyond the camera and be more open to being photographed, giving you a more relaxed and natural subject.

7. Explore

Krakow is a wonderfully evocative city. Stray off the beaten track, wander down alley’s into passageways and hidden courtyards which often reveal a rewarding surprise.

8. Weather

Don’t be afraid of bad weather, the light reflecting off rain soaked cobbled streets can look wonderful.

9. Get In Close And Look Up

Capture the detail in the architecture, the old glass street numbers, ornate portals and stonework.

See what competitions and other exciting content Manfrotto have on their website:

Find out what promotions Manfrotto are running on their website

Check out the Gitzo Scrappage Promotion

Visit Manfrotto's School Of Xcellence

Follow Manfrotto on Facebook, Twitter, Youtube, Vimeo and Flickr

Find out more about Manfrotto's new range of video rigs for HDSLRs and camcorders

Sign up for free webinars with Manfrotto and leading photographers

See why Manfrotto has won two 2012 Red Dot Design Awards