Seeing Charleston: A Field Guide to Photographing a World-Class City

Seeing Charleston, by Ron Rocz

I’m fortunate to live and work in Charleston, South Carolina.  It’s one of America’s most beautiful and historic cities, and in recent years has won many awards from travel magazines as a top destination.  So, if you’re planning to visit, wouldn’t you like to be able to take back some great photographs to document your visit?
Ron Rocz is a long-time Charleston photographer, and his 2007 book (published by JogglingBoardPress) is a fantastic way to plan your photographic excursions around Charleston.  I’ve known Ron for years, and we’ve taught workshops together, so I’m familiar with both the quality of his work, and his insight into the special things about Charleston that you may want to photograph.
Some sections of his book include:

  • Heart of the Historic District, focusing on the main historic areas of the city
  • Focusing Closer Up, discusses how best to photograph details like ironwork, cobblestone streets, and fountains
  • The African-American Experience, focusing on areas of historic significance given Charleston’s history as a port for the slave trade
  • Seasonal Subject Matter, which discusses the times of years that various gardens and crops are in full bloom
  • The Holy City, that focuses on the many beautiful and historic churches
  • Short Travel Adventures, which discusses day trips out to nearby beaches, plantations, and gardens

Each section includes some of Ron’s own photographs, and well thought out suggestions of approaches to take, times of day to shoot, and other useful considerations to help you get the most out of your trip.
The book is a convenient size; it will fit in some pockets, and fits easily in most camera bags. Beautifully printed and soft bound, it’s a handy and helpful guide that should be in the bag of every photographer who plans a visit to Charleston!