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If you’re a regular reader, you know: Iconic photos sell. Yes, cultural icons and recognizable landmarks sell well as stock. But you can — and should — photograph them in creative ways. Set yourself apart. Add your own twist. Since our BSC Thailand Expedition is almost full, I’m starting to think about the travel stock photos I’d like to take over there. Whether or not you’re coming with us (and here’s why you should), before you embark on your next vacation, here are five simple ways to spice up your iconic travel photos: Shoot from Above 
The “from above” perspective is popular in magazines and on websites right now. Before you dig into your afternoon meal, stand up and get a shot from directly above. Try the same for crafts, games, and activities, too. Crop Halfway 
This Buddha statue is so iconic that you know exactly what it is without seeing the whole face. If you try this technique, make sure that the background is a nice, even color. In this case, the dark, even background helps the subject stand out. Go for Monochrome 
Try filling the entire frame with a pattern that’s made up of one or two colors. Notice how the shape and color of these succulents fill the frame, with nothing else distracting our eye. Play with Foreground Blur 
Our eye is immediately drawn to whatever is in focus in a photo. This photographer blurred out objects in the foreground to frame the one object that’s in focus behind them. This is a fun technique, especially when you have a repeating pattern, as we do with these statues. Take Colors to the Edge 
Look for colorful patterns and detail shots where you can get in close and crop out the edges…. leaving only the patterns, color, and just enough detail to retain an iconic quality. Keep these five little tricks in your pocket for your next trip, or try them on a photo walk near your home this weekend. What’s your favorite way to add your own “personal twist” to your photos? Tell us about it on the Breakfast StockClub Facebook Page. — Bonnie Bonnie Caton Creator, Breakfast Stock Club P.S. I love small-group photo expeditions like the one we’re doing in Thailand, because we can take time to try out techniques like these, and more… then share our photos at the end of the day! This once-in-a-lifetime expedition is nearly sold out — and the price goes up at midnight tonight. Grab one of the last seats and save $300 on tuition, here. Get these Breakfast Stock Club issues in your in-box once a week for free, here.
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