Global warming is indeed a serious topic, and through photography we can be witness to the ways in which the earth changes. The photographer has the ability to make people aware of our planet’s evolution and can help send out positive messages. We have only One Home; we must take care of the planet and preserve nature.
This Face the Current Travel Feature is published in Issue 25 Sept/Oct 2019 Edition. Order PRINT here, SUBSCRIBE to digital membership for unlimited access, or continue reading this article below.
FtC: When you started to shoot with a drone, did anything change for you as you began to see a new perspective on this place we call home?
Savin Scherer: Yes, drones open up so many new opportunities for photography. With drones, the photographer finds new compositions, new angles, and new colors.
FtC: You captured a unique bird’s-eye view look at the immensity of one of earth’s massive “beauty marks”— a red-toned Icelandic volcano crater. What did you take away from capturing this scene that looks like something out of this world?
SS: When I discovered this volcano, I already had in mind a possible shot from the sky. The composition from the sky makes the volcano much bigger and increases the contrast of the black volcanic stones with the black sand. It’s really a perfect textural contrast! This perspective makes me feel so small and so vulnerable in front of nature.
FtC: BBC recently aired a short thought experiment that looked at the apocalyptic scenario of what would happen if all our oceans vanished in an instant. It was a fascinating breakdown that explains the extreme series of events that would follow, ultimately making the planet uninhabitable. The video resolves that “although we know our oceans won’t disappear anytime soon, as our impact upon them becomes more apparent, understanding the complex cycles they support is vital.” What are some of your most impressionable ocean scenes that you have showcased, and how do see your potential as a photographer to inspire people to have a greater connection with one of our planet’s most vital life support systems?
SS: Global warming is indeed a serious topic, and through photography we can be witness to the ways in which the earth changes. I think that the photographer has the ability to make people aware of our planet’s evolution and can send out positive messages. We have only One Home; we must take care of the planet and preserve nature.
FtC: The Avatar Mountains in Zhangjiajie, China is a protected zone that encompasses thousands of jagged quartzite sandstone columns, many rising over 200 meters. It is a region replete with caves of stalactites and stalagmites and is also home to many endangered plant and animal species. Can you share what you experienced at this place including your recommendations for the best things for visitors to see and do? Is there anything you’d love to go back and do that you missed the first time?
SS: ZhangJiaJie is one of my favorite places in China. These mountains are completely unique, and I can feel such a mysterious atmosphere there. It’s a must-do for travelers and backpackers. If you like wild forests, I recommend the south of China such as Guilin. If you are more into desert, I recommend the east and the XinJiang province.
FtC: From Turpan Zhan to The Great Wall of China, you’ve shared some fresh perspectives on many of China’s beautiful sites. Can you share a bit about your travel story through China, and what you were seeking to experience on this journey?
SS: My journey in China started in 2016. I was always attracted to the Chinese culture and dynasties, including The Great Wall in Hebei, the Forbidden City in Beijing, and the Terra Cotta Warriors in Xian—they are impressive places to visit. I would like to go back to the south of China and visit the Hunan and Sichuan provinces, famous for their sacred mountains and mysterious forests.
FtC: As you are based in France, what would you recommend as the top three places to visit in the country from your “local’s perspective”?
SS: France is an interesting country to visit and all the regions have a strong and unique culture. The most famous places are Etretat and Mont Saint Michel in Normandy. However, I’m from the south of France and I love this region. I recommend the Basque Country at the border with Spain to experience the wilderness of the Atlantic Ocean and the beauty of Pyrenees Mountains.
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Instagram: @savinscherer