As a travel photographer, my passion lies in capturing the essence of the destinations I visit. Born in Malaysia to Australian parents, my dad was in the air force, and we left when I was a baby with no memories except for my dad’s black and white photos. His photos of hubcaps in the sun sparked my interest in photography, and growing up, my interest in Asia continued to grow.

In 2010, I embarked on a journey to Borneo to capture the beauty of orangutans alongside the Centre for Orangutan Protection. However, what I witnessed was a heartbreaking sight of rainforest destruction. It was during this trip that I realised the power of conservation photography. Additionally,

I have had the privilege of traveling to India on numerous occasions with my good friend Siva Raj. Initially, we met through the wedding industry, but over time, I got to spend quality time with his family and friends in Chennai, and explored different regions of India through our lenses. Traveling and photographing southern India is an experience like no other. With its vibrant colors, rich cultural heritage, and stunning landscapes, southern India offers endless opportunities for photographers to capture unique and memorable moments. From the bustling streets of Chennai to the tranquil backwaters of Kerala, there is something for everyone. The diversity of the region is reflected in its architecture, cuisine, and people, making it a photographer’s paradise. Whether it’s capturing the intricate details of a temple, the colorful markets, or the stunning natural beauty of the landscape, southern India offers an abundance of subjects to explore and photograph. The experience of traveling through southern India is not just about the photos but also about the cultural immersion, meeting the friendly locals, and discovering the unique traditions and ways of life.

My career in photography began in 2009, when an old work friend saw my photos for sale in a gift shop and asked me to photograph her wedding. Wedding photography became my full-time job by 2012, and I won ABIA South Australian Wedding Photographer of the Year twice. Now, I specialise in micro weddings and elopements and find joy in capturing intimate moments between couples,

However, what many people may not know is that I have dyslexia and recently discovered that I have adult ADHD. Initially, these conditions were a struggle for me, and I struggled with low self-esteem and frustration, but now I see them as strengths that contribute to my unique perspective as a photographer. My dyslexia allows me to see the world differently and approach my photography with a fresh perspective. I am more observant of small details, and my heightened creativity results in unconventional and unique work. My ADHD also helps me in my work as a photographer. It allows me to hyperfocus on a particular subject or moment, which is invaluable when capturing intimate moments between couples or stunning landscapes. It also enables me to think quickly on my feet and adapt to changing circumstances, essential when traveling to different destinations or on a wedding day.

Although my conditions may present challenges, I have learned to embrace them as part of who I am and use them to my advantage. I am grateful for the opportunities that my dyslexia and ADHD have given me, and I hope that my story can inspire others who may be struggling with similar challenges.

As life takes me through its ups and downs, I find myself with an opportunity to travel again. This year, my son turns 18, and I am taking this opportunity to spend time with him before he starts his own adventures. Our planned trip with friends has now turned into a father and son trip to explore a part of Bali we have not seen before, Gili Meno. After Bali, we will travel to India to reunite with Siva and his family, whom we have not seen since before the pandemic. Our journey will start in the Himalayas, a destination that has long been on my bucket list. Japan is on the radar for next year.

As I prepare for these trips, I have decided to prioritize cultural immersion and authentic experiences over materialistic possessions and lavish accommodations. I believe that travel is about the destination and experience, not the accommodation. I want to see the culture, smell the local food, meet the people, and experience life in a whole new perspective. I plan to travel light and keep to my philosophy of the KISS Principle – keep it simple, stupid.

Thanks for taking the time to read my blog! If you’re looking for more excitement and adventure, you’ve come to the right place. I plan on diving deeper into the topics I’ve mentioned above and sharing even more of my wild escapades. So stay tuned and keep coming back for more crazy stories and ridiculous photos. Cheers, Glenn

Glenn Alderson

Photographer | Adelaide, South Australia