Perfect Travel and Landscape Photography by Brian Jannsen

Brian Jannsen is a professional photographer specializing in Travel and Landscape Photography. His work has been widely published in books, calendars and magazines throughout the world, and a browse through his portfolio quickly confirms Brian’s natural gifting.  His eye for perspective, attention to detail, and ability to make time stand still in a breathtaking moment, all align flawlessly in his work.

“Artistically, I feel like I'm taking God’s creation and trying my best to capture little snippets of it that can hopefully convey some of its amazing beauty,” Brian Jannsen.

The shots selected by the photographer  featured below  are mightily inspiring, so don't hesitate to check them among the amazing interview. His invaluable suggestions  will probably make you think about the future photographic journey.

Tell us about something about Brian Jannsen Photography?

I was born in Oregon near the west coast of America and spent a number of years watching my brother painstakingly set up his landscape shots in the Cascade Mountains. But rather than pursue photography at that time, I went into a career in music production and spent 20 years on the road as a touring sound engineer. Being able to see other cultures and witness first-hand social systems that have been thriving for centuries was a huge education for me. I picked up a camera and decided to make a career change intending to find a way to make our world a little smaller. Currently I combine travel and landscape photography with an eye on presenting a view of the world that will inspire others to want to visit and experience more of it for themselves. By increasing our awareness of other cultures and making more friends maybe we can be making less enemies.

What’s your creative process like?

Once a location or concept floats its way to the top of the list, the studying begins. Research is vital. Since most of my work is outdoors I need to be aware of seasonal changes, vegetation, local farming habits, weather, angle of sunrise, sunset – and much more. I will make a list of the shots that I’m most interested in and research how best to capture each one. Then it’s a matter of connecting the dots and planning out each day of shooting – always adding extra time for things that might go wrong. One rule of thumb for me is that I will stay in an area a minimum of 3 days. Less than that, and you can’t really get a ‘feel’ for it. Each day will start with a sunrise shoot capturing as many shots as I can before the sun gets too high and contrast becomes a little too strong. I will use the middle part of the day to scout the next location or spend time in the local villages or markets developing a sense of the cultural life in the area always looking for possible candid shots. Evening shots are almost always specific and planned out. Often mother nature decides to make it difficult and I have to extend my time in an area – even setting up the same scene numerous times and waiting for the perfect light. Somehow you just ‘know’ when it finally comes together. Then you move on.

Where do you find inspiration and why you like photography?

Inspiration? Nearly everywhere – literally. Books, magazines, television, movies, internet - even hearing a certain accent in a person’s voice may be enough to pique an interest. Nearly every time I meet someone from a different corner of the world, I will look it up online to get a glimpse of the surroundings that they have come from. This can easily lead to my next photographic journey.

My photography is about sharing a small slice of the world through my eyes. The aim is to transport each person viewing my work to the actual locations. It’s easy to take a factual photo of an area, but much tougher to capture one that conveys the sense and feeling of truly being there. I love that challenge.

What are some tips you could give to people that really like your work?

Research an area thoroughly. Plan your attack, leaving enough time in case something goes wrong. Pre-visualize your shots, thinking through how you want the finished images to look. Don’t get caught up in the latest technology – it doesn’t make a better photographer. Instead, learn to use the tools at your disposal to improve your vision and ability to capture what you see and feel. No amount of technology can do that on its own.

Can you name one great photographer that inspires you with his works?

David Noton

If you have something else to add (a video/about your next project/etc.) just tell us.

In addition to ongoing workshops in Italy, France and USA, I have two upcoming projects on my desk right now. One in the Piedmont region of Northern Italy and one encompassing the island country of Ireland. Both are planned as coffee table books.

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Thank you Mr.  Brian Jannsen for all your help and contribution in order to create this interview. We love the result. We admire the pictures, and all the great suggestions. Good luck with your future photographic expeditions.