Parades are a unique celebration of culture, creativity, and individuality. Whether it’s Mardi Gras in New Orleans or the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade in New York City, parades are a spectacle that brings people together. But what makes a parade truly special are the eccentric ones - the ones that are filled with quirky floats, larger-than-life costumes, and unexpected surprises. In this blog, we’ll explore the art of finding and photographing these eccentric parades.

Find Your Parade 🎉

Finding an eccentric parade might seem daunting, but it’s easier than you might think. Social media platforms such as Instagram and Twitter can be great resources to discover upcoming parades in your area. Additionally, local newspapers and event calendars can also be valuable sources of information. Another great idea is to check out tourism websites for different cities; they usually have information about events happening in the area, including parades.

A colorful image of parade floats with various characters and designs standing out

Research the Parade 📝

Once you’ve found a parade that interests you, it’s important to do some research about the parade itself. Knowing the parade’s history, theme, and route can help you plan your photoshoot, and give you insights into what to expect. Take some time to look at photos from previous years to get a sense of the parade’s aesthetics, mood, and style. Understanding these elements can help you create a vision for your shoot, including what type of gear you’ll need.

Plan Your Shot 📷

Before heading to the parade, it’s important to plan your shots. Knowing the location, time of day, and lighting conditions can all affect your photos. If possible, try to get to the parade early to scout out the best locations to shoot from. Along with planning the shots, make sure to pack the right gear. Parades can be a bit chaotic, so it’s important to have the right lenses and equipment to capture the action, such as a telephoto lens to zoom in on individual floats, and a tripod to keep your shots steady.

A photo of a parade float with a group of performers in colorful costumes dancing and smiling

Get Creative 🎨

One of the best things about eccentric parades is that they allow for a lot of creativity in your photography. Get creative with your angles and framing; experiment with different perspectives, compositions, and lighting. Don’t be afraid to try something new and unique that you haven’t tried before. Also, keep in mind that parades are inherently filled with movement, so try to capture that motion in your shots. This can be done with techniques such as panning, long exposure, and burst mode on your camera.

Capture the Details 📸

Eccentric parades are filled with quirky and unusual details that can make for some amazing photos. Keep an eye out for small details that might be easily missed, such as the expressions on performers’ faces, intricate costumes, and unique float designs. These details can provide a lot of character and depth to your photos.

A photo of a group of performers in vibrant pink costumes with elaborate headpieces

Have Fun! 🤩

Last but not least, the most important thing when photographing eccentric parades is to have fun! Parades are a celebration, so don’t forget to enjoy the moment and take in the energy around you. Be open to trying new things, meeting new people, and getting lost in the experience. Remember, the photos you capture are a reflection of that joy and excitement.

A photo of people in colorful costumes dancing and laughing, with confetti in the air

In conclusion, finding and photographing eccentric parades requires some planning, research, and creativity. But with the right approach, you can capture the essence and spirit of these unique events. So grab your camera, head to a parade, and let your imagination run wild.

A collage of various parade photos, showcasing the different colors, costumes, and characters that make up an eccentric parade