Photo and Video Workshop in Madeira, Portugal
Join us in Madeira for an unforgettable workshop, where you’ll elevate your creative skills with expert guidance from Ronald Soethje, Bruno Ázera, and Nomadict.
© 2020 Nomadict. All rights reserved.
Danial Paymard
@daaaniiaaal
Best of the week 20 at #nomadict 2024
Based in Iran, photographer Danial shares some thoughts behind his winning shot of Nomadict’s Best of the Week contest in this short story. He also gives away a few lessons that helped him improve his shots, and live life with joy.
My passion for travel and photography comes from a deep-seated desire to record everything around me and show how I see my surroundings. Growing up, I was always fascinated by the world and wanted to capture its beauty through my lens. Every trip I’ve taken has influenced my photography and even my vision. The nature, culture, and people of the regions I travel to shape my approach to photography, and I am deeply satisfied with how these experiences impact my work.
Throughout my journey, I’ve learned several valuable lessons. First, I’ve discovered the importance of patience in photography. Second, my social connections with people have significantly improved, allowing me to capture more authentic moments. Third, I’ve learned to enjoy every moment of life, finding joy in the little things. Finally, I’ve realized the importance of not being afraid to try new experiences, as they often lead to unexpected and rewarding opportunities.
Winner
Best of the Week 20
The photo that won “Best of the Week” holds a special meaning for me, representing a surreal space and the wonder of nature. It symbolizes women who have shed blood for their country’s freedom, with one person standing as a witness to their hard-earned liberty. I chose this composition to simultaneously capture the essence of nature and the aesthetic of fine arts, aiming to convey a powerful emotional message.
When editing this photo, I focused on maintaining its natural essence while giving it a soul. I believe the core of a photo should remain largely unchanged to preserve its authenticity. The most vital steps in my editing process included properly adjusting light and color to enhance the photo’s impact without making it look artificial. I also edited the sky to add depth and ensured the human subjects harmonized with their environment in terms of light and color.
One of the most significant projects I’ve worked on was creating a video for Apple, which they posted on their Instagram. This accomplishment filled me with pride and happiness, marking a pivotal moment in my career. The experience taught me the value of hard work and the impact of showcasing my skills on a global platform.
Looking ahead, I envision myself in ten years as a more advanced photographer, working with prestigious brands and hosting my own exhibitions. I dream of selling all my photos, driven by a sense of progress and recognition in the field. To achieve these goals, I plan to continue refining my craft, building strong industry connections, and seeking out opportunities that challenge and inspire me.
THE LATEST STORIES
WRITEN WITH PASSION TO INSPIRE YOU
Henry Chow (@jujushots): Creator based in Australia
Photographer Henry Chow is renowned for capturing the soul of travel destinations, and his latest journey through Japan is no exception. From vibrant cityscapes to serene nature, he highlights ten iconic photography spots, sharing expert insights, creative process, and practical tips to inspire photographers seeking to elevate their work.
Magnus Berggren (@mankeyfoto): Best of the week 4 at #nomadict 2025
Magnus is a wildlife photographer known for his moody and artistic approach to capturing animals in their natural habitat. His primary passion is bird photography, and his image of a Ural owl chick won Best of Week 4, 2025.
Brad Flowerdew (@bradflowerss): Best of the week 5 at #nomadict 2025
In this article, Brad shares his journey from hobbyist to professional, highlighting key moments like landing his first client collaboration. He also discusses the importance of connecting with others in the industry and the shot that won the Best of the Week 5, 2025.
Natascha Klein (@tashi_ka): Best of the week 3 at #nomadict 2025
Natascha is a passionate photographer and media designer whose love for capturing the world around her began at an early age. Her journey into professional photography was shaped by her deep appreciation for aesthetics and storytelling, which she honed while studying media design.
Jay Blatti (@jayblatti): Best of the week 46 at #nomadict 2024
Jay is a passionate traveler and photographer whose curiosity drives him to explore both faraway landscapes and hidden gems in his own country. In this article, he shares how travel and photography intertwine as journeys of discovery, growth, and creativity. Jay shares insights into his process, the lessons he’s learned, and the story behind the photograph that won the Best of the Week 46, 2024.
Photo and Video Workshop in the Lofoten Islands, Norway
Join us in the Lofoten Islands for an unforgettable workshop under the Northern Lights, where you’ll elevate your creative skills with expert guidance from Ronald Soethje and Nomadict.
Carina & Max (@buerklestories): Best of the week 1 at #nomadict 2025
Max and Carina are passionate photographers who transform every journey into a discovery of nature’s unique moods and moments. Their work captures the interplay of light and shadow, and through a deep understanding of key elements, they create images that tell a story and evoke emotion.
