Q&A with Argen Elezi

What inspired you to combine your love for travel with photography?

As a kid, I always had a sketchbook or a camera in hand, long before social media existed. As I got older and started travelling more, photography became a way for me to share some of the things I found visually interesting with friends and family. But it goes beyond just capturing a pretty picture. I’m drawn to truly experiencing a place, and to me, that means connecting with the culture and trying to learn the language of the places I plan to visit. There’s something about communicating with people in their native tongue that unlocks a whole new level of understanding, connection, and awareness.

How do you choose the destinations you photograph, and what draws you to a particular location?

Sometimes the destination chooses me! A particular landscape might call to me, like the rugged coastlines of Atlantic Canada, or the dramatic landscapes of the Italian Dolomites. I’m also fascinated by architecture, especially places with a sense of history and charm. And of course, I love exploring local cuisine, which is a huge part of the travel experience for me. Then there are those times when a project or collaboration takes me somewhere unexpected, and that’s always exciting!

What’s the most challenging shot you’ve ever captured, and what made it so difficult? 

Photography often pushes you out of your comfort zone, and I’ve learned that preparation and planning are key. For example, shooting in Canada during winter can be particularly challenging. The freezing temperatures mean I have to bundle up in layers, pack extra batteries (which tend to drain quickly in the cold), and bring hand warmers and ice cleats. Standing outside in the cold, waiting for the perfect sunrise, or trying to spot wildlife requires patience. Another challenge has been overcoming my fear of heights. Shooting at the Grand Canyon, for instance, was initially quite intimidating. But over the years, photography has helped me become more comfortable with that, while still being safe.

How do you balance enjoying the moment with the technical aspects of capturing it perfectly? 

It’s always a bit of a balancing act! It’s important to be present and truly experience the places you’re visiting while being respectful. Sometimes that means putting the camera down, engaging in conversation with the locals, or just quietly enjoying a beautiful sunset. With time, I’ve trained myself to work more efficiently, so I can capture the shot without missing out on the experience. Where possible, I always try to add a few extra days to my trips where I have no agenda, no shoots planned, just time to wander and explore. That helps me recharge and truly appreciate the destination beyond the lens.

What’s one place or moment you’ve photographed that completely transformed how you see the world?

I think every place I visit leaves a unique mark and helps shape my perspective of the world while making new friends along the way – whether I’m hiking through the beautiful Canadian Rockies, wandering the streets of Porto, or exploring an ancient castle town in Albania. It’s like adding pieces to a puzzle. I used to think travel was about ticking off a list of must-see places, but I’ve come to value quality over quantity. I think the real magic happens when we have the chance to slow down and appreciate the moment. It’s about capturing not just an image, but a feeling, a story, or an everyday moment that often goes unnoticed.