Eye Spay...

Legendary photographer Steve McCurry is celebrating unreleased images, several of which were taken during voyages with Silversea Cruises. His book, In Search of Elsewhere, takes readers across the globe with him, revealing the diversity of human life. From India, Myanmar and Cuba, to Togo, Ethiopia, Macedonia and the monasteries of Tibet, McCurry offers a new perspective on dynamic destinations.

Photo Credit: Steve McCurry

Silversea Cruises’ valued, long-term ambassador, McCurry writes about the project, “My collaboration with Silversea has been one of the most fruitful of my career. I’ve been able to photograph such remote, far-flung communities. The respect that they have shown me and my work and the freedom to take pictures in my own way has been a gift.” Below are a few highlights from McCurry’s book and his interview on Silversea’s blog, Discover.
What are your hopes for the future of photography? And, more generally, for the future of our planet and its people?
As humans, we have a responsibility to preserve our natural world for future generations. I believe the future of our planet is at stake. It is my hope that through my work people will see animals as intelligent beings, and nature as a sacred place, both deserving of our respect and awareness.
How did your love affair with photography begin?
I studied filmmaking in college and while on that program I took a photography class. I just fell in love with the camera, the possibilities of wandering around and taking pictures and observations of life. I decided this would be a great vehicle to travel, explore and see the world that we live in.
What is one lesson that you’ve learned from your career?
I’ve learned that there’s a commonality among people, whatever their country or nationality — and people wherever they are in the world want to be respected. And if you can respect people, it’s a wonderful world, and doors open up and everything’s fine. When people are disrespected, then things get ugly, you can see that in the world’s conflicts.
What is one thing about photography that a lot of people get wrong?
It’s not as romantic as it looks. You don’t need to have a crazy itinerary to get all the best shots; you need to allow yourself time to immerse yourself in the culture and wonder. Sometimes, the more remote places leave the best memories because they challenge you to leave your comfort zone.

Click here to see some of Steve McCurry incredible images!