Travel photography not only encompasses a close view of individuals and their activities, but also includes the relationship between people and their environment; the way they use it, assimilate themselves into it, or ignore it. Mankind's relationships with natural and man-made environments are apparent in villages, towns and cities, as they are the very reflection of the way different human societies function.
The modern urban-industrial landscape is the most intensely developed form of human societies. Sometimes this landscape is deliberately planned as a purpose-built habitat to suit a particular human activity or style of life. More often than not, however, it has simply evolved.
In one sense, cityscapes can be treated in a manner similar to landscapes, but the human element makes a substantial difference. The graphic possibilities are normally abundant, but these elements can also be used to describe or comment on the way people live. To one photographer, an industrial town might seem ugly and depressing, but another photographer might focus on its productivity, as a place where things are being created.
Urban environments are always a rich source of detail. Stay alert to the possibilities of close-ups, (i.e., signs, symbols and graffiti). They can be representative or idiosyncratic, and may offer the opportunity to make an oblique comment through highlighting one small detail.
