A wonderfully timed and captured moment. The perspective plays with the perception of size giving the sail-like cloth a grand look. The gesture of the person, and the white cloth blowing in the wind, add to the feel of exploration in this image, conceptually hitting the brief and making for an interesting travel photo.
Any photo that leaves you thinking is a great photo. The contrast between the person in traditional attire and the pair of backpackers, as well as the gap between them, is symbolic of the contrast between tourist and local the world over. The image shows the respectful nature mindful travellers show while visiting a foreign country by giving a wide berth of what is likely a resident of the area.
Great composition and timing! Nothing says adventure like hiking across glaciers. Backpacking and travelling is a balance of risk and reward. Usually the more risk you take, the more reward you get back. Braving the elements and environments depicted in this photo are definitely a risk to match the rewards. The image not only captures the landscape, but gives the viewer the sense of solitude and special preparation that comes with taking on an expedition such as this.
A great photo showing the contrast between backpackers and locals. A busy street, both with people and signage, can't hide the tourist exploring the city. We often feel like we stand out when visiting a new part of the world, and this photo shows just how much that is evident. No matter how much we try and fit in, there is no hiding a giant backpack or two in a crowd. The exposure and composition work really well here too.
Brief
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A twenty-something rite of passage for many, a lifelong pursuit for others. Packing a rucksack and hitting the road, staying in hostels, maybe a tent, maybe out under the stars on a distant beach, and seeing the world very much on your own terms. Images entered into the contest might be of backpackers, and the backpacker life, or of some of the sights that are popular with backpackers.
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Although this shot might not have the technical aspects that constitute an award worthy photo, it meets the brief wonderfully with the cheery, enthusiastic expressions on the two backpackers. The youthful excitement to explore the world is beaming on their faces and the hand made sign gives the viewer a starting point for the memorable journey about to take place.
There is a beautiful tranquillity to this image. It demonstrates the peace and solitude of travelling alone and reconnecting with nature. The long exposure look to the water adds to the feel of an extended moment of contemplation. The panoramic format gives a sense of space and allows the viewer to explore this wonderful scene.
Travelling can be exhausting. Travelling by pedal power even more so. Sometimes you just have take any moment you can to rest and recharge. This is a wonderful story telling image of a someone resting in a place that could only be comfortable to a weary traveller. A great shot that leaves the viewer wanting to hear about this adventure.
I love the perspective of this photo and no matter which way I tilt my head I can't seem to orientate which way is exactly down. Backpacking is almost by definition being out of your comfort zone. Sometimes things may seem dangerous and risks are always being taken. And sometimes you can feel disorientated and not know which way is up and which is down. This photo captures that essence of the risk and disorientation of backpacking perfectly.
