A New World of Travel: How Moving to Austria Changed My Perspective as a Hotel Photographer
Steven Graffham
Splitting my time between Europe, USA, and the Caribbean, I specialize in photographing luxury hotels and resorts. I serve long-term US clients and I travel globally. Marriott Approved Photographer.
May?9?2023?by?Steven?Leave a Comment?(Edit)
Taking the big step
Moving from Florida to?Austria?with my family has been one of the most life-changing experiences for me, not only personally but also professionally. As a hotel photographer, I’ve had the opportunity to capture the essence of some of the most luxurious and captivating hotels in the world. Previously, I traveled extensively throughout the US and the Caribbean, but moving to Austria has opened up a whole new world of travel and international photography opportunities for me.
Getting a foot in the door
As a newly Marriott approved photographer for Europe, Middle East, and Africa, I now have the chance to explore and experience different parts of the world. What’s even more interesting is that I’ve found myself traveling to more of the USA than when I was living in Florida. With the additional costs of international flights, I’ve had to plan my trips more strategically. I make sure I have multiple shoots lined up on one trip to make the most of my time and money.
Putting the pieces together
When organizing my photo shoots, I fit them together like a jigsaw puzzle, picking a good entry point into the US and a good exit point based on the last shoot on the schedule. This has allowed me to explore more of different states such as California, Texas, Utah, Maryland, Virginia, Georgia, Kentucky, New Jersey, New York, and Alabama to name a few. All of these experiences in the USA, Caribbean and Europe and the Middle East have broadened my horizons, exposed me to new cultures, and provided me with diverse photographic opportunities.
One of the benefits of traveling to new places is that it enhances my creativity as a visual artist. I am always on the lookout for new and interesting angles and perspectives to capture the essence of a place or a hotel. Each new experience adds to my repertoire of skills and inspires me to push the boundaries of my craft.
New Horizons
Recently, I had the opportunity to shoot hotels in Paris?(Click here to read Paris Blog)?and Kuwait City?(Click here to read Kuwait City Blog). These were completely different experiences from each other, but they both had their own unique charm and beauty. Paris as a destination was all about the romance, the food, and the culture. The architecture was stunning, and every corner had something beautiful to offer. The hotel I photographed was in the heart of the city, and I even had the chance to incorporate the Eiffel Tower as a part of the view from the window of Fitness room as part of the shoot.
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Kuwait City, on the other hand, was all about the modern, urban vibe. The hotel I photographed was a modern hotel perched on top of a luxury shopping center in the city center, and I had the chance to capture the breathtaking views of the skyline from its hotel rooms and from the drone with special permission to fly from the government. Kuwait City was a completely different experience from Paris, but it was just as fascinating and captivating.
As a British born international photographer based in Austria, I have had the chance to experience different cultures and learn about different ways of life. These experiences have not only enhanced my photographic skills but also enriched my life in countless ways. The diverse experiences have allowed me to see the world from a different perspective, and I’m grateful for every opportunity I get to travel and explore new places.
A new outlook on life
In conclusion, my move from Florida to Austria has not only opened up new travel opportunities for me as a hotel photographer, but it has also broadened my horizons and enriched my life in countless ways. The ability to experience new cultures and explore different parts of the world has enhanced my creativity and provided me with new perspectives on my craft.
Have you ever wondered how things could change if you took a leap and moved somewhere different? How might it affect you? What new things could it bring into your life. Yes there are certain risks, but I think the biggest yet most exciting thing was the unknown. We are still evolving with our decision to move, but so far the pros far outweigh the cons.
As I continue to expand my portfolio and explore new regions, I am excited for the opportunities and experiences that lie ahead.
Sr. Trade Marketing Representative for Universal Orlando Resort and Universal Studios Hollywood
1 年Sounds like you’re doing fantastic! Happy to see you’re enjoying life and still capturing amazing images.
Founder & CEO, CENTRICIA
1 年Wait, you left Florida?!? Austria ???? is awesome - my husband and I want to visit there! He’s a professional musician and Austria is his dream to learn about Mozart.
Fidalgo Eyewear Group LLC
1 年Congratulations my friend! Love it!!
Director of Sales - North America at Paraty Tech
1 年Great read, Steven!