Photographer Adrian Vila has embraced an unconventional lifestyle that has transformed his landscape photography. By living out of his car, Vila gains the flexibility to pursue the perfect shot, allowing him to adapt to changing weather and light conditions. His recent journey, which includes stops at locations such as Devils Tower and the Badlands, showcases how this approach enhances his creative opportunities.
Vila’s car serves as a mobile base camp, equipped to meet his needs during long stretches on the road. He demonstrates that with careful planning and minimal gear, it is possible to sustain extended travel while maintaining a focus on photography. A portable battery pack ensures that his cameras remain charged, even during cold nights filled with long exposure shots of the moon.
While challenges arise, such as his camera unexpectedly halting during the night, Vila embraces these setbacks. These moments highlight the importance of adaptability, especially when conditions do not align with expectations. As he navigates through various landscapes, the realities of extended road travel become apparent. His vehicle doubles as a bedroom, kitchen, and office, with a newly added roof box providing additional storage for a journey that could last months.
Meals during these travels are simple, often consisting of oatmeal and coffee, emphasizing a lifestyle focused on being prepared for spontaneous shooting opportunities. Despite less-than-ideal weather at Devils Tower, Vila finds ways to create compelling images, utilizing black and white photography to express mood in flat light conditions.
Along the way, unexpected subjects, like prairie dogs, offer unique photographic opportunities, reinforcing the value of remaining open to the landscape. The trip spans from Lake Michigan through various states, including Wyoming, Utah, and Nevada. Decisions on where to stop are influenced by weather patterns and the chance to capture striking imagery.
Adverse conditions, such as storms or highway delays, contribute to the rhythm of Vila’s travel. Living in his car allows him to transition quickly, whether chasing a sunrise at the Salt Flats or seeking foggy weather along the California coast instead of enduring the heat inland.
Vila’s experiences illustrate the practical advantages of this lifestyle, such as the tranquility of empty highways and the convenience of resting at roadside stops. His journey emphasizes the freedom that comes with living on the road, enabling photographers to capture moments that might otherwise be missed.
For a detailed look at Vila’s journey and insights into his process, the video documenting his travels is available for viewing. In addition to photography, Alex Cooke, a Cleveland-based photographer and meteorologist, provides commentary on the experience, blending his love for music and time spent with animals into a comprehensive perspective.
