- Restaurant review: Late Summer Afternoon Tea at King Street Townhouse, Manchester - 8 August, 2023
- Meet our cover star: Lady Bushra - 28 January, 2023
- Film review: My Best Friend’s Exorcism (Amazon Studios, 2022) - 30 September, 2022
Featured image: Ian Weldon for Hampton by Hilton. Republished with permission.
Time is up on your social media, #BestLife Insta snaps and Facebook posts. Apparently, as a nation Brits have fallen out of love with fake perfect images and want to see the reality of where they’re headed – but photographer Ian Weldon is taking a stance with his ‘This Is Real Travel’ project.
According to OnePoll, 29 per cent of those surveyed in a study of 2,000 adults said they’d prefer ‘authentic’ photos rather than picture-perfect ones. Travellers are apparently seven times more likely to visit a destination after seeing a picture posted on social media when that picture is realistic.
As a result of the research, Hampton by Hilton has appointed documentary photographer Ian Weldon to reveal the ‘real’ side of British holidays with a new series titled, ‘This Is Real Travel’. Over three days in a busy hotel, Ian captured a series of candid photographs showcasing the warmth, fun and human connection of travellers.
Images by Ian Weldon for Hampton by Hilton. Republished with permission.The images range from Morris dancers in full regalia getting to grips with a waffle maker, to football fans having a post-match pint and the flurry of girlfriends getting ready for a night out. They all star genuine hotel guests in action and will be used by Hampton by Hilton to celebrate the real travel moments that take place at its hotels.
Images by Ian Weldon for Hampton by Hilton. Republished with permission.Ian said, ‘This series is all about celebrating those heart-warming and often humorous connections that happen when we travel. I hope it shines a light on the fun and friendliness that can be found in every single type of trip.
‘The images bring to life the real side of travel by celebrating the connections that make travelling experiences so special but often don’t make the photo album.’
Vice president of Hampton by Hilton EMEA Tal Shefer said, ‘With nearly 20 per cent of Brits admitting they would like to see people using no filters for travel photography in 2020, we couldn’t be happier to partner with Ian Weldon to launch our ‘This Is Real Travel’ campaign.
‘When it comes to trips, Hampton keeps it real. Whenever you stay with us, you can count on our free hot breakfast, waffles included, and Wi-Fi as standard, along with happiness guaranteed.’
To view the full ‘This Is Real Travel’ series and for a look behind the scenes of the shoot visit the ‘This Is Realistic Travel’ minisite.
