Explore the Elements Through Travel Photography

Written By: The Planet D

As a travel photographer I spend a lot of time looking at travel photos as well as taking them. I am constantly learning from other photographers, honing my skills, and always striving to reach that next level.

Over the past few months I have been sidelined at home because I broke my back in Peru earlier this year.

This has given me a chance to go through photos from past travels that have never really gotten the proper attention.

As I look through my catalogue of all these different destinations I am always looking for a way to bring a group of photos together in some sort of theme.

5 Elements Through Photography

Earth:

  • Represents the hard, solid objects of the earth
  • Associated with stubbornness, collectiveness, physicality, and gravity
explore the elements ireland

I chose this photo of the Giants Causeway in Ireland, not only for the beauty of the destination and how the Basalt columns are one of the best examples of the uniqueness of what Mother Nature can do but also because of the story behind them. Whether you believe the tale of Finn McCool or not it certainly leaves you wondering how these were created in perfect symmetrical hexagons.

Fire:

  • Represents the energetic, forceful, moving things in the world
  • Associated with security, motivation, desire, intention, and an outgoing spirit
explore the elements greenland

I am sure when you think of Fire, the last thing that would come to mind is Greenland. But I thought this image really represented the energetic, forceful, moving things of the world. These glaciers are always shifting and you can feel the energy as they calf and crash into the water below.

Water:

  • Represents the fluid, flowing, formless things in the world
  • Associated with emotion, defensiveness, adaptability, flexibility, suppleness, and magnetism
explore the elements iceland

I chose this waterfall from Iceland for water but really could have chosen any waterfall from this country. To me Seljalandsfoss really captures the beauty of the landscape but also does a great job of representing the fluid, flowing, formless things in the world. This was the first waterfall we came across in Iceland I will never forget how my jaw dropped as we approached it.

Air:

  • Represents things that grow, expand, and enjoy freedom of movement
  • Associated with will, elusiveness, evasiveness, benevolence, compassion, and wisdom
explore the elements ontario

I chose this image of the Milky Way for Air because I remember standing there looking up and thinking how the universe around us is constantly changing and in flux. The sheer expanse of our galaxy seems like something that will elude us forever.

Now Time to Nominate: Over the years I have had the pleasure of witnessing some stunning photography from my fellow travel bloggers and there are always more and more that stand out every year.

So I wanted to nominate some of my favourites to explore the elements as well. Not only because I love their work but because they are great people as well.

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Need more help planning your trip? Make sure to check out our Resources Page where we highlight all the great companies that we trust when we are traveling.

About The Planet D

Dave Bouskill and Debra Corbeil are the owners and founders of The Planet D. After traveling to 115 countries, on all 7 continents over the past 13 years they have become one of the foremost experts in travel. Being recognized as top travel bloggers and influencers by the likes of Forbes Magazine, the Society of American Travel Writers and USA Today has allowed them to become leaders in their field.

Leave a Comment

10 thoughts on “Explore the Elements Through Travel Photography”

  1. What a great idea! I got nominated to take part by a fellow blogger earlier today so I’ve found this post really helpful in knowing where to get started! Some categories, I’ve already got lots of ideas for, others are proving a bit more of a head-scratcher! What a great idea for a competition 🙂

    Reply
  2. What a nice idea to organize this contest. Is there a language requirements for the post with photos that will apply for an awards? Shall it be in English?

    Reply
    • It doesn’t matter about the language. We’ll be judging on photos. Good luck and thanks for asking that question for clarification. Cheers!

      Reply
  3. this is a very interesting contest..I will see if I can find some photos of these elements in my albums..thanks for sharing and indeed a great blog!

    Reply