Winterthur-based travel photographer Corrado Filipponi takes you travelling with him in his lectures. He shows you the beauty of the world!
Corrado has already produced a total of 15 multivision photo reportages and presented them in over 1000 appearances. Part of his recipe for success may well be his confidence, his optimism and his openness to new things. He meets strangers with sensitivity and respect, so that doors are open to him all over the world.
We had the pleasure of interviewing him on the subject of travel photography and hope that he has a few tips and tricks for you too. He will also soon be presenting his new show about the Azores.
We hope you enjoy reading it!
How did you get into photography?
I got into photography through my partner at the time. In 1992, we organised our first multivision show about New Zealand together. She took the pictures back then and we travelled to New Zealand together. It was through her that I discovered my passion for photography and continued to live it.
Which destinations or places have impressed you the most and why?
I’ve been to over 90 countries and it’s not an easy question to answer! My favourites definitely include Northern Europe, but also Southern Africa and, more recently, the Azores. I was very impressed by the Azores! Link to the show: dia.ch
Is there a particular experience that has changed your view of photography?
The switch from analogue to digital made a lot of things easier for me. No more rolls of film in my luggage, less cumbersome and of course I’m much more flexible as a result.
What equipment do you use for your photos?
I have an Olympus, new OM system. I always have 3-5 different lenses with me. I always recommend taking a wide range of lenses with you. Not only the powerful zoom is important, don’t forget the wide-angle lens!
«Good light and lighting moods are certainly a major challenge.»
What challenges do you face when photographing in different parts of the world and how do you deal with them?
Good light and lighting moods are certainly a big challenge. Sometimes you have to go to the same place again and again until the light is good enough. I’ve learnt a lot of perseverance.
What tips do you have for aspiring travel photographers who want to improve their skills?
- Things don’t always turn out the way you expect or want them to. You have to be flexible and patient.
- Preparation is half the battle! What highlights do I want to photograph? Who can help me with this (Internet, Google Earth, weather apps, webcams, etc.)? Of course, spontaneous encounters and events are the best, but planning is important. Respect your fellow human beings and the environment!
- Respect for other cultures, other photographers, guidelines and the environment is the be-all and end-all.
How do you convey emotions in your shows?
I bring people’s stories into my shows. This provides a contrast to the beautiful nature that you can discover in each country. For example, I was in a rehab clinic in Namibia. I have encountered people on a cold retreat. Blows of fate. I have not only experienced beautiful things. I also went to an Icelandic horse farm and helped out there. I want to experience the country, the culture, the people and pass them on.
What future projects or goals will you be tackling next?
My first show was about New Zealand. I will be returning to New Zealand in March. It’s finally possible again! The trip had to be interrupted because Corona came in between. There will be a new show about New Zealand in 2025.
«The Azores really impressed me!»
Do you have any other tips and tricks for photography and post-processing?
- Make sure you leave enough space around the image! You can show the guide lines in the camera and then you can see what the image would look like in 16:9, for example.
- It is better to underexpose slightly than to photograph too brightly. Lightening is better than the other way round.
- Filing and folder structure are very important. Otherwise I would never be able to organise my photos.
- Always have enough batteries, memory cards and lenses with you. If possible, a second body as a camera back-up, you never know…
From 7 January 2024, people can visit your new show “Ein Hoch auf die Azoren”. What can we expect?
A lot of unexpected things, because I was surprised myself at how much I like these island worlds in the middle of the Atlantic. Lots of unspoilt nature and plenty of variety. My shows are more intense than documentaries on TV because they are told live and you are really there in the room on the big screen. Discover a new, exotic travel destination with me. To the show: dia.ch
Corrado Filipponi
Would you like to find out more about Corrado Filipponi? Find out more here.
dia.ch
