Nino is our favorite photographer in Dubrovnik. He is a true local and is happy to share some insider tips for your stay in this beautiful Dalmatian city. Oh, and be prepared to be blown away by some fabulous photos of Dubrovnik and its surroundings that Nino shared with us.
QUESTION #1: The medieval charm of Dubrovnik is well known not only in Croatia but in the whole Europe. What is it like to wake up in Dubrovnik every day and experience its beauties over and over again? Do you think local people enjoy it as much as tourists?
“It feels like you are living in a dream and never waking up. I’m sure that people living here are enjoying it quite a lot. I also think that we get used to it and sometimes don’t experience it as people visiting for the first time. But this beauty never fades. You may leave Dubrovnik, but it never leaves you.”
QUESTION #2: When do you think is the best time for experiencing everything that Dubrovnik offers?
“I would say that each of the four seasons brings something different that tourists can experience. But summer is definitely the best time to visit cause then you can see it in its fullest.”
QUESTION #3: What are the popular places in Dubrovnik you consider the most captivating?
“Old Town – where almost all monuments and museums are. If you are looking for a place to escape from crowds then Island of Lokrum and Park Gradac.”
QUESTION #4: Would you reveal some of the secret corners of Dubrovnik that local people love but tourists aren’t familiar with?
“Since I’m a big nature lover, I would say that forest park Petka is my personal favorite. It’s located in a part of town called Lapad and it’s a beautiful place where you can walk, run, cycle and even hike a bit. Lots of breathtaking views. I’m there whenever I grab a chance. I think it’s pretty much undiscovered by tourists.”
QUESTION #5: Can you recommend some places near Dubrovnik that would be ideal for day trips?
“Of course. Island of Lokrum (as I mentioned before), Konavle, Elaphiti Islands – Kolocep, Lopud and Sipan. Island of Mljet – great for nature lovers, cycling, hiking… Peljesac peninsula – great destination for wine aficionados. The Island of Korcula, Trsteno Arboretum and Dubrovnik littoral.”
QUESTION #6: Having in mind you’re experienced in vacation photography, how do you feel when you realize people from all around the world come to see the beauties of Dubrovnik and spend their vacation moments there?
“I’m more than happy to see how much people from around the world are coming to visit Dubrovnik and are amazed by its scenery. I never forget the smiles of clients when I take them to a spot that they don’t know about and where are small chances that they would come by themselves. They just get struck by beauty.”
QUESTION #7: Where did your favorite clients come from and have you ever had some unusual requests from your clients during the photo shoots in Dubrovnik?
“I had clients coming from all parts of the world and I can’t really tell which are my favorite because every one of them, be it couples, families or solo travelers, have their own story to be told”, says Nino.
“I have to mention one Armenian couple from USA. It was a secret proposal photo shoot with Localgrapher. We had to find the perfect place for him to propose and make sure that the girl doesn’t notice anything strange going on. I felt like a secret agent waiting for the couple to arrive and staying incognito. I started following them and waited for the proposal to happen. It was a moment I will remember for my whole life! He went on one of his knees, took out the ring and proposed. Oh my god, the girl was in shock. She started crying and laughing at the same time. It really was a surprise for her.”
QUESTION #8: What parts of Dubrovnik tourists usually choose as the obligatory spots for the photo shoots?
“Dubrovnik Old Town. It’s where almost all the monuments and attractions are.”
QUESTION #9: How long have you been a photographer and how would you describe your style?
“The first time I used a camera was as five years old. I pressed the shutter and it felt like magic and it still does. It was my father’s Agfamatic 100 and I still have it. Since then, I always had a camera. But professionally, I’m in photography for 15 years now. I would describe my style as mostly freestyle with a touch of direction.”
QUESTION #10: At the end, where would you like to have someone take photos of you?
“I would like someone to take photos of me and my family on the shores of Ireland, near some castle on cliff-side.”
This was our local photographer in Dubrovnik, Nino. If you enjoyed the interview with him and cannot wait to visit Dubrovnik, don’t forget to check out his portfolio or the portfolios of other local photographers in this beautiful Dalmatian city. We’re ready to join you on your next travel adventure anywhere at any time!
