These are photos from my recent Windstar Pride adventure—an unforgettable journey from Edinburgh to Reykjavik. The itinerary took us through Kirkwall, Lerwick, Bergen, Geiranger, Alesund, Molde, the Faroe Islands, and finally, Reykjavik. Each stop was a photographer’s dream, filled with stunning landscapes, rich history, and the kind of light that makes you want to shoot from dawn to dusk.
Toward the end of the trip, we had some rough weather and even missed a port. But welcome to cruising and welcome to the unexpected
For those unfamiliar, Windstar Pride is one of Windstar’s sleek, small luxury cruise ships. She’s a sister ship to Windstar Legend, designed to provide an intimate and immersive cruising experience. The Pride is a motor yacht that carries just 343 passengers, offering an upscale yet relaxed atmosphere with personalized service. What makes her special is the ability to navigate smaller ports and hidden gems that larger cruise ships simply can’t reach. The result? Unparalleled access to places brimming with photographic opportunities.
Jim Richardson, the legendary National Geographic photographer, once said, “If you want to be a better photographer, stand in front of more interesting stuff.” There’s a lot of wisdom packed into that one simple line. What Jim was getting at is that compelling photography isn’t just about technical skill or having the best camera. It’s about positioning yourself—both physically and mentally—where the magic happens. Travel photography, in particular, thrives on curiosity and exploration. The more unique, dynamic, and visually arresting your surroundings, the more potential you have to create remarkable images.
As a travel photographer, I’ve always loved this quote because it cuts to the very core of photographic intention. If you want to capture stunning images, you have to go where stunning things happen. Simple as that. The truth is, most of our daily lives are visually pretty plain, predictable, and, let’s be honest—boring. We drive the same routes, visit the same shops, eat at the same places, hang out with the same people, watch the same shows,, and wear the same clothes. It’s a cycle of sameness.
To break out of sameness, we need a sense of boldness—a willingness to seek out the extraordinary. Photography isn’t just about waiting for a great shot to appear in front of you. It’s about actively going to the places where the interesting stuff lives. It’s about putting yourself in the right place at the right time and then letting your instincts and creativity take over.
That’s why travel—and in this case, cruising—is one of the best ways to stand in front of more interesting stuff. A cruise like this isn’t just about relaxation; it’s a photographic expedition. Each new port is an opportunity to explore a different culture, capture a different light, and compose a different story. Whether it’s the dramatic fjords of Norway, the rugged cliffs of the Faroe Islands, or the historic streets of Bergen, each destination offers something visually compelling that you wouldn’t find in your daily routine.
It is interesting stuff.
Rather than just take photos, a journey like this encourages you to make photos. To compose. To wait for the right light. To frame the moment with intention. And ultimately, to create something more than just a snapshot—but a true photograph that tells a story.
So, if you’re looking for a way to elevate your photography, to get out of your visual rut, and to stand in front of more interesting stuff—there’s no better way than setting sail on an adventure like this.
Click.
Jack.
