Photo tour in Azores, Portugal
Join us in the Azores for a unique photo tour, where you’ll elevate your creative skills with expert guidance from Ronald Soethje, Bruno Ázera, and Nomadict.
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
Forest Kai (@forest1kai): Photographer based in the US
In this article, Forest shares how years of chasing scale, silence, and raw landscapes shaped his approach to photography, from the deserts of Kazakhstan to the volcanic ridges of Iceland. He talks about how he uses light, texture, and vast negative space to create images that feel both intimate and overwhelming.
Simon Hechtbauer (@roamwithsimon): Best of the Week 32 at #nomadict
Simon shares the journey behind his photography, from early inspirations to field techniques, editing, and the story of the winning shot that shaped his path.
Miroslav Maršík (@miromarsik): Photographer based in Czech Republic
In this article, Miro shares how his love for cinematic music evolved into a deep passion for photography and how he uses light, color, and atmosphere to turn the streets of Prague into living film scenes.
Aurora photography panorama workflow: A guide to camera settings, editing, and color
In this article, Stefanie reveals how her background in physics sparked her passion for astrophotography and how she blends science with creativity to capture the beauty of the night sky. Readers will discover her approach to color, contrast, and editing, as well as her aurora photography workflow.
Yhabril (@yhabril): Best of the Week 33 at #nomadict
Spanish photographer Yhabril captures the profound connection between humans and the mountains that shaped him. Growing up in the Pyrenees, his work bridges outdoor sports, landscapes, and celestial scenes — often blending athletes, moonlight, and wilderness into striking visual stories.
Ariane Totzke (@besondersschwierig): Photographer based in Switzerland
In this article, Ariane shares how photography helped her navigate personal challenges, connect authentically with people and animals, and develop a philosophy rooted in empathy and artistic freedom. Readers will also discover her ethical approach to wildlife photography and her trusted equipment for both camouflage techniques and cameras.
How to photograph Dutch tulip fields: A guide to light, gear, composition, and colors
Discover how to photograph Dutch tulip fields in their most magical light. From choosing the right gear and lenses to mastering composition, color, and aerial perspectives, this guide shares creative techniques to capture the beauty of the Netherlands’ tulips. Learn how light, color grading, and proportion bring emotion into every frame.
