To learn more about our affiliates policy, click here.
I was super excited when Ellen and Justin from The Time Crunched Traveler tagged me to participate in the Seven Super Shots series started by Hostelbookers.
The Question
If you had to sum up your most amazing travel experiences in just seven photos, could you do it?
The Answer
I dunno, but I’m always up for a challenge so I’m going to try.
Although, GULP! Do you know how many thousands of photos I have?!?!
This was no an easy task. But to use The Time Crunched Traveler’s sentiment, “I’m going to give it my best shot.”
The Result
1.) A photo that takes my breath away
This one literally did take my breath away. First when I spotted the chateau from our ship. Then when we got up close to it, because we opted to climb the stairs from Le Basse-Ville to Le Haute-Ville instead of riding the funicular.
2.) A shot that makes me laugh or smile
There were strays all over Istanbul, both dogs and cats. We took a day cruise on the Bosphorous and one of the stops was at a tiny little village called Anadolu Kavagi. The dogs and cats at this stop in particular were quite comical. (The other pic I was tempted to go with for this answer was of a cat talking to me here. Funny animulies!)
3.) A shot that makes me dream
It is impossible for me not to dream of the sultans who lived in this palace and the lives that were led there. Especially after visiting the Harem and learning of the politics that were played amongst the women who all vied for the sultan’s eye. There were special privileges to be had for whoever mothered the next sultan.
4.) A shot that makes me think
When I read this sign that one song from Sesame Street played in my mind. Something about “Which of these things is not like the other?”
5.) A shot that makes my mouth water
I’m shocked I didn’t pick something sweet, but this lamb we had in Istanbul still makes my mouth water to think of it.
6.) A shot that tells a story
Are they old friends who meet every day, the one bringing the other a treat? Or was this a one-time chance encounter? I tend to think the squirrel knows the Peanut Man and has developed not only an affinity for his goodies, but trust for his human friend as well. I like to think this shot tells the powerful story of bonds and friendships and how beautiful even the most unlikely can be.
7.) A shot that I’m most proud of (aka my worthy of National Geographic shot)
There is no way this is worthy of National Geographic, but I’m proud of it because how exciting it was to hear the pilot announce we could see Greenland out of our windows as we passed over. I may never get that close again. I made sure to snap a photographic momento.
Tag! You’re It!
Here’s who I tag to share their 7 Super Shots next:
Julie from Above the Norm
Debbie from European Travelista
Red from Amazing Australian Adventures
Rori from Rori Travels Florida
Ruth from Tanama Tales
Courtney Mroch is a globe-trotting restless spirit who’s both possessed by wanderlust and the spirit of adventure, and obsessed with true crime, horror, the paranormal, and weird days. Perhaps it has something to do with her genes? She is related to occult royalty, after all. Marie Laveau, the famous Voodoo practitioner of New Orleans, is one of her ancestors. (Yes, really! As explained here.) That could also explain her infatuation with skeletons.
Speaking of mystical, to learn how Courtney channeled her battle with cancer to conjure up this site, check out HJ’s Origin Story.
Nice photo’s…:)
wow, I love the Topkapi Palace shot. The tower in that photo looks very suspicious to me o_O (is there a princess with long hair?)
I have yet to see a black squirrel with my own eyes….only matter of time!
Whoa — these are awesome! Love the one of the patient dog, and the one with the man and squirrel is precious. And I agree, the Greenland image is fabulous. Were you landing there, or was it just that clear that you could see it from the air? Nice job on this 😉
Thanks, Luciana!
Annie, OMG! When I 1st spied the tower I felt the same way!!!!! Where’s the trapped princess with her long hair??!!! Great minds think alike. 😉
I didn’t even know black squirrels existed until that trip. And all I could think of was how much our dog would like to chase them!
Ellen, thanks so much for tagging me for this fun challenge. I am always insecure about my photos because I don’t seem to have that knack for capturing great shots like so many others I know. (Including you and Justin!) My husband does, but he doesn’t have the patience to carry the camera. But when he uses it…wow. He gets neat shots! But these are all mine and it was fun to see I could come up with something for each category! THANK YOU so much again for thinking to tag me!!!
You’re really lucky to see Greenland! I love the photos with animals, those are always my favorite.
THX for the comment, Scott. I love animals too so I’m always trying to get pics of them. And Greenland…I’m still pinching myself we got to see it. Not land there, but flying over it was almost better anyway!
Ha! I’m not sure whether to say thank you or ARRRGGGHHHH!!! Seriously – thanx for the tag! I’m going to take forever to narrow down my 7 shots … but I LOVE the idea! Your Greenland shot is awesome – I would be chuffed to think I’d got that close!!
I love these photos, Courtney. Perfect for each category.The Chateau Frontenac is so gorgeous and you captured it with the flags, sky and statue so well.
Oh, Cathy, THANK YOU! Coming from someone who’s photos I admire so much, this is a BIG compliment! You made my weekend!!!!
Um…sorry Red! That’s what happens when you’re popular and take so many amazing photos. I’m just thrilled you hadn’t been tagged yet! And Greenland…that was too awesome. Nice surprise we got to see it like that.
You have got to have the most curious pictures. I LOVE the one of the dog thinking about what to order! 😀
Oh! THANK YOU so much, Christina! I really appreciate the comment. And that dog just cracked me up. I know the guys at the restaurant thought I was nuts for taking a pic. (They were watching me take pics of the little cat that followed us all around too. THey were probably thinking, “What a nutty tourist taking picture of the strays instead of our village.”) But how often do you see something like that? Not much!
These are a great collection of photos! I think you’re underestimating yourself with photography. I love the animal shots! I wonder who won the staring contest between the dog and the guy =)
I’m from Alaska…the Lake Hood sign brings back memories. I’m headed home in May and can’t wait.
Oh wow, Mary! I never in a million years expected anyone to leave a comment that any picture I ever took would jog their memory. So glad you took the time to say something! And I hope you have a blast when you get back home.
Mary, what an amazing comment. I GREATLY appreciate you taking a moment to leave it. =]