Travel the World Through Photography
by Kruger de Klerk
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Dear Kruger, First, thank you for accepting our invite for this interview. How do you like your work to be characterized? I characterize my work as Landscape, Travel, Long Exposure and Night Photography. What impression would you like your photography to have on your audience? |
Photo: courtesy of the artist |
When people see my landscape and nature photography I would like them to be reminded of how beautiful our Planet is. For most of us these days we live in a day-to-day routine that is far removed from the natural world.
We forget that we are still very much a part of nature and I think it is our responsibility to ensure that we protect what is left of our natural environment as much as possible. Our forests, rivers, oceans, wildlife and habits need to be protected.
For my photography that is more urban, I hope that people see the familiar scenes that they see in their daily lives, and feel a sense of comfort and pride, that only a hometown can bring. At the same time, I hope they are able to view these familiar scenes in a new light or with a new perspective that will allow them to appreciate their surroundings a bit more.
You say that moving to the US from South Africa shaped the way you viewed the world. Could you please elaborate on this a little bit more?
As you can imagine, moving from one continent to another is a life changing event for any person. The drastic change allowed me to notice both small and large differences as well as similarities between countries and people. Of course, traditions, culture, languages, and landscape all vary dramatically, but the thing that unites people across the globe is beauty, art, a smile, and emotions.
In this way, the move to the US really sparked my intense love for travel. I became curious about the world and wanted to see new landscapes, new cities, new cultures. Once you start traveling you realize just how much is out there that you didn’t even know, you hadn’t experienced.
Where are the locations that have a dizzying effect for all the right reasons?
There have been a few places that I distinctly remember and stand out for me. These are places where I not only got amazing photos but also had an incredible experience of just being there and seeing it first-hand. These places had a few factors in common: 1) they were breathtaking spots that represented their environment perfectly in one frame. Usually with a “wow” factor. 2) The timing was just right (the lighting was either perfect or I came back at a later time to have the light just right). These memories are in places that range from extremely remote wilderness areas to dense cities. It’s all about finding that one spot where a single photo captures the essence of the place that you’re photographing. Here are some of the places that come to mind:
- Sunrise at Quoddy Head State Park lighthouse in Maine. This is the eastern-most point in the US (aka the first place to see the sunrise in the US) and the park’s landscape is truly special.
- 2:00am viewing the Milky Way above the Snake River in Grand Teton National Park, Wyoming. It was so serene and quiet. All I could hear were some elk screams in the distance and beavers swimming in the river. The stars were remarkably clear and bright.
- Sunset at Spitzkoppe in Namibia. I would compare this landscape to Arches National Park but without the crowds.
- Hiking Angel’s Landing in Zion National Park, Utah.
What place would you pick as your best getaway at any time?
Hands down, Namibia. It may not be the most accessible place, which is part of what makes it such a great getaway. You can get the very best of nature in Namibia - no crowds, no light pollution and a very unique landscape.
We forget that we are still very much a part of nature and I think it is our responsibility to ensure that we protect what is left of our natural environment as much as possible. Our forests, rivers, oceans, wildlife and habits need to be protected.
For my photography that is more urban, I hope that people see the familiar scenes that they see in their daily lives, and feel a sense of comfort and pride, that only a hometown can bring. At the same time, I hope they are able to view these familiar scenes in a new light or with a new perspective that will allow them to appreciate their surroundings a bit more.
You say that moving to the US from South Africa shaped the way you viewed the world. Could you please elaborate on this a little bit more?
As you can imagine, moving from one continent to another is a life changing event for any person. The drastic change allowed me to notice both small and large differences as well as similarities between countries and people. Of course, traditions, culture, languages, and landscape all vary dramatically, but the thing that unites people across the globe is beauty, art, a smile, and emotions.
In this way, the move to the US really sparked my intense love for travel. I became curious about the world and wanted to see new landscapes, new cities, new cultures. Once you start traveling you realize just how much is out there that you didn’t even know, you hadn’t experienced.
Where are the locations that have a dizzying effect for all the right reasons?
There have been a few places that I distinctly remember and stand out for me. These are places where I not only got amazing photos but also had an incredible experience of just being there and seeing it first-hand. These places had a few factors in common: 1) they were breathtaking spots that represented their environment perfectly in one frame. Usually with a “wow” factor. 2) The timing was just right (the lighting was either perfect or I came back at a later time to have the light just right). These memories are in places that range from extremely remote wilderness areas to dense cities. It’s all about finding that one spot where a single photo captures the essence of the place that you’re photographing. Here are some of the places that come to mind:
- Sunrise at Quoddy Head State Park lighthouse in Maine. This is the eastern-most point in the US (aka the first place to see the sunrise in the US) and the park’s landscape is truly special.
- 2:00am viewing the Milky Way above the Snake River in Grand Teton National Park, Wyoming. It was so serene and quiet. All I could hear were some elk screams in the distance and beavers swimming in the river. The stars were remarkably clear and bright.
- Sunset at Spitzkoppe in Namibia. I would compare this landscape to Arches National Park but without the crowds.
- Hiking Angel’s Landing in Zion National Park, Utah.
What place would you pick as your best getaway at any time?
Hands down, Namibia. It may not be the most accessible place, which is part of what makes it such a great getaway. You can get the very best of nature in Namibia - no crowds, no light pollution and a very unique landscape.
Your portfolio is rich with pictures of landscape, people, architecture, in color and black & white. How do you decide on the subjects and frames you capture with your camera?
I usually approach my shooting sessions by trying to submerge myself in the scene or landscape. I prepare for a shoot by simply exploring. I do this by going for long hikes, driving around or just simply walking through a city to get to know the feel, the mood, the lay-out etc. I usually carry my equipment with me while I’m exploring in case I see something that grabs my attention, but more often than not, I end up earmarking locations that I want to come back to at a later time for a specific photo (i.e. sunset/sunrise or to get the milky way at night).
The composition of photos come pretty naturally for me. I find it hard to put into words what it is about a specific view or scene that makes me want to capture it. But I usually know when I see it. Basically, if a single photo can capture the atmosphere and feeling of a place, that’s the photo I want! As far as choosing between black & white vs color — it depends on the time of day and how much color is naturally present in the scene.
How did you make the leap from listing photography as a hobby to making it your profession?
It was really a culmination of many things. I think it’s safe to say that making a living through photography would be a dream job for a lot of people. This is definitely true for me, but I didn’t make this decision on a whim. About 2.5 years ago, the idea of doing photography as a full-time job started crossing my mind. At the time, I was in my mid-twenties, I was working too much, and life felt like it was speeding by. I had gained some weight, and my health was suffering after only 4 years of being out of college due to poor work-life balance. All of this led me to question a lot of things about life and how I wanted to spend my youth. Once I started thinking about these things more seriously, I couldn’t shake the idea of pursuing this dream. I think the realization was mostly a result of growing older and recognizing that I am not going to be young forever.
I don’t want to be 70 years old one day and regret that I never chased this dream. After all, isn’t your twenties the time in your life that you should be taking risks and chances? This whole thought process, which developed over the past few years, is what led me to fully committing to photography about a year ago.
Why was it worthwhile to leave a secure job, source of income, for work that is your passion although maybe not as a reliable way of making a living?
In 2012, I graduated with a B.S. degree in Construction Science and Management from Clemson University. I worked for a well-respected commercial construction company and I truly enjoyed the work and was paid well. I was successful, but I wasn’t sure I was happy. On the other hand, photography is a passion and like most passions, it comes naturally for me.
The way I see it, chasing your dream is always worth a shot, especially for someone in my age group. I mean, if photography does not work out for me, I still have 35+ years that I can work in the corporate world. If I don’t try to live out my dream, I will spend 40 years wondering what could have been. When I framed it like that, the choice appeared to be obvious.
To answer your question frankly, I feared regret over not living out my dream way more than I fear the possibility of not making a true living with photography.
Can you tell us something about the workshops that you offer? Who can attend? Are there any requirements?
The only requirement for my workshops is the love of photography. It might sound cheesy, but my workshops are truly for anyone who wants to get better and learn new skills. If my photos inspire you to become a better photographer or learn more about photography, then you would benefit from my workshops. Workshops are typically 2.5 to 3 hour sessions in Atlanta GA, Charleston SC or Greenville SC. Sessions are private and personalized to your needs. Topics range from learning the basics (Photography 101) to specialized sessions that focus on particular topics or techniques (think Long Exposure or Landscape photography).
Can you share with us the most important event you are looking forward to in the days and months ahead?
The most important event in my near future…sharing my love of photography via my Photography Workshops. I just came back from a 2.5-month photography trip in Utah, Arizona, Wyoming and Montana. Since I got back I’ve been working on launching my workshops. I am excited to start sharing the joy and love I have for photography with others face to face.
For more information follow Kruger on: twitter, instagram, facebook, linkedin
I usually approach my shooting sessions by trying to submerge myself in the scene or landscape. I prepare for a shoot by simply exploring. I do this by going for long hikes, driving around or just simply walking through a city to get to know the feel, the mood, the lay-out etc. I usually carry my equipment with me while I’m exploring in case I see something that grabs my attention, but more often than not, I end up earmarking locations that I want to come back to at a later time for a specific photo (i.e. sunset/sunrise or to get the milky way at night).
The composition of photos come pretty naturally for me. I find it hard to put into words what it is about a specific view or scene that makes me want to capture it. But I usually know when I see it. Basically, if a single photo can capture the atmosphere and feeling of a place, that’s the photo I want! As far as choosing between black & white vs color — it depends on the time of day and how much color is naturally present in the scene.
How did you make the leap from listing photography as a hobby to making it your profession?
It was really a culmination of many things. I think it’s safe to say that making a living through photography would be a dream job for a lot of people. This is definitely true for me, but I didn’t make this decision on a whim. About 2.5 years ago, the idea of doing photography as a full-time job started crossing my mind. At the time, I was in my mid-twenties, I was working too much, and life felt like it was speeding by. I had gained some weight, and my health was suffering after only 4 years of being out of college due to poor work-life balance. All of this led me to question a lot of things about life and how I wanted to spend my youth. Once I started thinking about these things more seriously, I couldn’t shake the idea of pursuing this dream. I think the realization was mostly a result of growing older and recognizing that I am not going to be young forever.
I don’t want to be 70 years old one day and regret that I never chased this dream. After all, isn’t your twenties the time in your life that you should be taking risks and chances? This whole thought process, which developed over the past few years, is what led me to fully committing to photography about a year ago.
Why was it worthwhile to leave a secure job, source of income, for work that is your passion although maybe not as a reliable way of making a living?
In 2012, I graduated with a B.S. degree in Construction Science and Management from Clemson University. I worked for a well-respected commercial construction company and I truly enjoyed the work and was paid well. I was successful, but I wasn’t sure I was happy. On the other hand, photography is a passion and like most passions, it comes naturally for me.
The way I see it, chasing your dream is always worth a shot, especially for someone in my age group. I mean, if photography does not work out for me, I still have 35+ years that I can work in the corporate world. If I don’t try to live out my dream, I will spend 40 years wondering what could have been. When I framed it like that, the choice appeared to be obvious.
To answer your question frankly, I feared regret over not living out my dream way more than I fear the possibility of not making a true living with photography.
Can you tell us something about the workshops that you offer? Who can attend? Are there any requirements?
The only requirement for my workshops is the love of photography. It might sound cheesy, but my workshops are truly for anyone who wants to get better and learn new skills. If my photos inspire you to become a better photographer or learn more about photography, then you would benefit from my workshops. Workshops are typically 2.5 to 3 hour sessions in Atlanta GA, Charleston SC or Greenville SC. Sessions are private and personalized to your needs. Topics range from learning the basics (Photography 101) to specialized sessions that focus on particular topics or techniques (think Long Exposure or Landscape photography).
Can you share with us the most important event you are looking forward to in the days and months ahead?
The most important event in my near future…sharing my love of photography via my Photography Workshops. I just came back from a 2.5-month photography trip in Utah, Arizona, Wyoming and Montana. Since I got back I’ve been working on launching my workshops. I am excited to start sharing the joy and love I have for photography with others face to face.
For more information follow Kruger on: twitter, instagram, facebook, linkedin