Woman standing in a desert landscape with red rock formations in the background, the image is reflected in the water in front of her

Travel & Documentary Photography

Leica cameras are a favourite tool for travel and documentary photography. The Masters in these genres are well aware of this fact: legends such as Steve McCurry and Sebastião Salgado know exactly how to make optimal use of their camera in every situation, and their Leica pictures have made it into the annals of photographic history. Their pictures are not only visual works of art; they also deliver powerful messages that are deeply touching and thought-provoking.

If you want to explore the world through photography, you need a camera that is both dependable and versatile. Leica models like the M11-P, D-Lux 8 and SL3 fulfil these requirements to perfection. They offer great mobility, excellent picture quality, and are robust enough to be used in any imaginable setting. The Leica M11-P is convincing for its discretion; the D-Lux 8 for its compactness; and the SL3 for its elaborate features. Whether you are working on a reportage in a pulsing metropolis, or discovering remote natural landscapes – Leica cameras are the ideal companion on any adventure.

Decisive for photographic narration: the right framing at the right time.

Travel and documentary photography are all about telling stories, awakening emotions and capturing authentic scenarios. This requires a good sense for the right moment and the ability to compose scenes that stir the viewer's curiosity and interest. In practice, it is a question of being able to adapt quickly in a diversity of circumstances: the photographer has to be prepared for changing weather and tough lighting conditions: it is important to be able to quickly adopt the right camera settings to achieve optimal results. Consequently, an understanding of lighting, aperture and ISO settings is indispensable.

It is also important not to undervalue the ability of working discreetly. In particular, when documenting people in their living situations, you need to act as circumspectly as possible to ensure uncontrived images. This implies a respect and sensitivity towards those being photographed. Thus, empathy and the capacity to build trust are very useful, in order to capture authentic moments for posterity.

How photographers use Leica products
Image
Two people on a boat

Mainei Kinimaka

‘O HAWAIʻI MĀKOU

Let our videos inspire you

Our Leica Community