Lens Flare #28 - The City of Arts and Sciences
Valencia's Photography Playground
My Goto Location
I believe that good photos can be made anywhere. However, some locations just make things easier than others. The City of Arts and Sciences in Valencia is such a place. Being local to me, it is a spot I visit often, and, I usually, bring home a few presentable images.
The complex is a collection of buildings designed by Santiago Calatrava, the Valencia-born architect who also designed New York’s Oculus, amongst other famous structures. It contains an IMAX cinema, a concert hall, museums, and an aquarium. Controversial with some Valencians due to excessive cost, design flaws, and accusations of corruption, it is a popular attraction for locals and tourists alike.
In addition, it is one of these places that lend themselves to photography. First of all, the number of tourists means that a photographer with a camera will not stand out. Street photographers can find interesting subjects amongst the mix of locals rushing to work or having a walk and visitors from any corner of the world. Wedding or portrait photographers can find excellent backdrops. And, of course, there is a lot of architecture for, well … architecture photographers.
Good light with interesting shadows can be found on sunny days, which in Valencia means most days. However, there are plenty of covered and shaded spots with more diffused light. Ponds and fountains provide good reflections, and even on overcast or rainy days, strong contrasts can be found in covered ramps, staircases, and alleyways.
Some Images
Zine
The City of Arts and Sciences features amongst other sites from Valencia in my Zine, Contrasts Vol. I - Valencia. The zine can be previewed for free online and purchased on Blurb.