Mastering IELTS Speaking: How to Describe a Place You’ve Photographed Multiple Times

The topic of describing a place where you have taken photos multiple times is a common theme in IELTS Speaking tests. It allows examiners to assess your ability to describe locations, express personal experiences, and use appropriate vocabulary related to photography and places. This topic has appeared frequently in past exams and is likely to continue being a popular choice for future tests.

Describe a photo or picture you have kept that makes you feel happy is a related topic that you may also encounter in your IELTS Speaking test. Being prepared for both topics will give you an advantage in the exam.

Part 1: Introduction and Interview

In this section, the examiner may ask you some general questions about photography and places. Here are some common questions you might encounter:

1. Do you enjoy taking photographs?
2. How often do you take photos?
3. What type of photos do you usually take?
4. Do you prefer taking photos of people or places?
5. Have you ever taken a photography course?

Let’s look at a sample answer for question 1:

Examiner: Do you enjoy taking photographs?

Candidate (Band 7-8 answer): Absolutely! I’m quite passionate about photography. It’s not just a hobby for me, but a way to capture memories and express my creativity. I particularly enjoy experimenting with different angles and lighting to create unique images. Photography allows me to see the world from a different perspective, which I find incredibly rewarding.

Part 2: Long Turn

Here’s a sample cue card related to the topic:

Describe A Place Where You Have Taken Photos Multiple Times.
You should say:

• Where this place is
• When you usually go there
• Why you like to take photos there
• And explain why you have taken photos there multiple times

Sample answer (Band 6-7):

The place I’d like to talk about is a local park near my home. It’s a beautiful green space in the heart of my city, with a small lake, walking trails, and plenty of trees and flowers. I usually visit this park on weekends, especially during spring and autumn when the scenery is particularly stunning.

I enjoy taking photos there because the park offers a variety of natural settings that change with the seasons. In spring, the cherry blossoms create a picturesque scene, while in autumn, the colorful foliage provides a beautiful backdrop for my photos. The lake also reflects the sky and surrounding trees, offering great opportunities for landscape shots.

I’ve taken photos there multiple times because each visit presents new photographic opportunities. The changing light throughout the day, different weather conditions, and the various activities of people in the park all contribute to unique images. Moreover, as I’ve improved my photography skills, I’ve been able to capture the same scenes in new and interesting ways.

Sample answer (Band 8-9):

I’m delighted to share with you a place that has become my photographic muse over the years – a breathtaking coastal cliff located about an hour’s drive from my hometown. This majestic natural wonder stretches for miles along the shoreline, offering panoramic views of the ocean and the rugged landscape.

I make it a point to visit this location at least once every season, but I’m particularly drawn there during the golden hours of sunrise and sunset. These times of day bathe the cliffs in a warm, ethereal light that’s simply irresistible to any photography enthusiast.

The allure of this spot for photography lies in its ever-changing nature. The interplay of light, weather, and tides creates a dynamic canvas that’s never quite the same twice. From dramatic storm clouds rolling in over the sea to the gentle mist that sometimes shrouds the cliffs in mystery, there’s always something new to capture.

What truly captivates me about photographing this location repeatedly is the opportunity it provides to hone my craft. Each visit challenges me to find fresh perspectives and experiment with different techniques. I’ve used long exposures to create silky smooth water effects, played with various filters to enhance the sky’s drama, and even ventured into astrophotography, capturing the Milky Way arching over the cliffs on clear nights.

Moreover, this place holds a special significance for me. It’s where I first fell in love with landscape photography, and returning time and again allows me to chart my growth as a photographer. Each photograph I take here is not just an image, but a milestone in my artistic journey.

Coastal cliff bathed in golden hour light

Follow-up questions:

1. How has your photography of this place evolved over time?
2. What challenges do you face when photographing this location?
3. Have you shared these photos with others? What was their reaction?

Sample answer for question 1 (Band 8-9):

Over the years, my approach to photographing this coastal cliff has undergone a significant transformation. Initially, I was captivated by the sheer grandeur of the landscape and focused on capturing wide-angle shots that showcased the entire scene. However, as I’ve matured as a photographer, I’ve learned to appreciate the subtler details and nuances of the location.

Now, I find myself drawn to the interplay of light and shadow on the cliff face, the textures of the rock formations, and the patterns created by the waves below. I’ve experimented with various techniques, such as using neutral density filters for long exposures to create a ethereal effect on the water and clouds. Additionally, I’ve begun to incorporate human elements into my compositions, occasionally including silhouettes of people to provide a sense of scale and add a storytelling aspect to the images.

Perhaps the most significant evolution has been in my post-processing skills. While I initially relied heavily on saturated colors and high contrast to create impact, I’ve since adopted a more subtle and realistic editing style that aims to convey the emotional experience of being present at the location. This shift has allowed me to create images that not only showcase the beauty of the place but also evoke the sense of awe and tranquility I feel when I’m there.

Part 3: Two-way Discussion

In this section, the examiner will ask more abstract questions related to the topic. Here are some possible questions and sample answers:

Examiner: How has digital photography changed the way people take photos?

Candidate (Band 7-8 answer): Digital photography has revolutionized the way people approach taking photos in several ways. Firstly, it has made photography more accessible to the masses, as digital cameras and smartphones have become ubiquitous. This has led to a significant increase in the number of photos taken on a daily basis.

Secondly, digital technology has removed the cost barrier associated with film photography. People can now take hundreds of shots without worrying about the expense of film and development. This has encouraged more experimentation and learning through trial and error.

Moreover, the instant feedback provided by digital cameras has allowed photographers to immediately review and adjust their shots, leading to improved results. Post-processing software has also opened up new creative possibilities, enabling photographers to enhance and manipulate their images in ways that were previously impossible or extremely difficult with film.

However, this ease of use has also led to some downsides. The sheer volume of photos taken can make it harder to curate and appreciate individual images. Additionally, there’s a risk of over-relying on post-processing to fix mistakes rather than developing good photography skills in-camera.

Examiner: Do you think photography can be considered an art form? Why or why not?

Candidate (Band 8-9 answer): I firmly believe that photography can indeed be considered a legitimate and powerful art form. Like other visual arts, photography requires a keen eye for composition, an understanding of light and color, and the ability to convey emotions and narratives through images.

What sets photography apart as an art form is its unique ability to capture fleeting moments in time. A skilled photographer can freeze a split second of reality, transforming it into a lasting work of art that resonates with viewers. This ability to preserve and present reality in an artistic way is something that traditional art forms like painting or sculpture can’t quite replicate.

Moreover, the artistic nature of photography is evident in the myriad of creative decisions a photographer must make. From choosing the subject and framing the shot, to selecting the appropriate aperture, shutter speed, and ISO, to post-processing techniques – each decision contributes to the final artistic vision.

Great photographs, like other forms of art, have the power to provoke thought, evoke emotions, and challenge perceptions. Think of iconic images that have shaped our understanding of historical events or portraits that have captured the essence of a person’s character. These photographs transcend mere documentation and enter the realm of art through their ability to communicate complex ideas and feelings.

That being said, it’s important to acknowledge that not all photographs are necessarily art. Just as not every painting is a masterpiece, not every snapshot can be considered artistic. The distinction lies in the intention, skill, and vision of the photographer, as well as the impact the image has on its audience.

Artistic photography exhibition showcasing diverse styles

Key Vocabulary and Phrases for High Scores

To achieve a high score in your IELTS Speaking test, it’s crucial to use a range of advanced vocabulary and expressions. Here are some key terms and phrases related to photography and describing places:

1. Composition /ˌkɒmpəˈzɪʃən/ (noun): The arrangement of elements in a photograph.
   Example: “I spent time carefully considering the composition to create a balanced image.”

2. Exposure /ɪkˈspəʊʒə(r)/ (noun): The amount of light allowed to reach the camera sensor.
   Example: “I experimented with different exposures to capture the mood of the sunset.”

3. Perspective /pəˈspektɪv/ (noun): The angle or point of view from which a photograph is taken.
   Example: “Changing my perspective by lying on the ground gave the photo a unique look.”

4. Vivid /ˈvɪvɪd/ (adjective): Producing powerful feelings or strong, clear images in the mind.
   Example: “The vivid colors of the autumn leaves made for stunning photographs.”

5. Captivating /ˈkæptɪveɪtɪŋ/ (adjective): Very attractive or fascinating.
   Example: “The lighthouse against the stormy sky created a captivating scene.”

6. To evoke /ɪˈvəʊk/ (verb): To bring a feeling, memory, or image into the mind.
   Example: “My goal was to take photos that would evoke a sense of nostalgia.”

7. Ethereal /ɪˈθɪəriəl/ (adjective): Extremely delicate and light in a way that seems not to be of this world.
   Example: “The morning mist gave the landscape an ethereal quality.”

8. Juxtaposition /ˌdʒʌkstəpəˈzɪʃn/ (noun): The fact of two things being seen or placed close together with contrasting effect.
   Example: “I loved the juxtaposition of the old church against the modern city skyline.”

Using these terms and phrases appropriately in your responses can demonstrate a high level of English proficiency and a good understanding of photography concepts.

Examiner’s Advice

To achieve a high score in the IELTS Speaking test, particularly when describing a place you’ve photographed multiple times, consider the following advice:

1. Use rich, descriptive language: Don’t just say a place is “nice” or “beautiful”. Use specific adjectives and provide details that paint a vivid picture in the listener’s mind.

2. Show enthusiasm: Your tone and expression should convey your passion for photography and the place you’re describing. This enthusiasm can make your speech more engaging and natural.

3. Structure your answer: In Part 2, use the cue card points to organize your response. In Part 3, use linking words to connect your ideas logically.

4. Expand on your answers: Particularly in Part 3, don’t just give short, simple responses. Develop your ideas with explanations, examples, or personal experiences.

5. Use a range of tenses: When describing your experiences, use past, present, and perfect tenses appropriately to add complexity to your language.

6. Practice regularly: Familiarize yourself with photography-related vocabulary and practice describing different types of places and photos.

7. Listen carefully: Make sure you understand the questions fully before answering. It’s okay to ask for clarification if needed.

Remember, the key to success in the IELTS Speaking test is to communicate clearly and confidently while showcasing your English language skills. Good luck with your preparation!

Describe a place you have taken photographs more than once can be a challenging topic, but with proper preparation and practice, you can excel in this part of the IELTS Speaking test.