The island of Lanzarote, located in the Canary Islands of Spain, is known for its beautiful beaches, scenic landscapes, and vibrant culture. However, with the outbreak of COVID-19, the island has experienced a drastic change – the absence of tourists.
As a photographer, I found this change to be a unique opportunity to capture the island in a different light. My photographic project focuses on the impact of the pandemic on the island and how the absence of tourists has affected the daily life of locals.
One of the most striking changes I have noticed is the emptiness of the beaches. Normally bustling with tourists, the beaches are now deserted, with the crystal-clear waters and white sands left untouched. This emptiness is both eerie and peaceful, and it’s a stark contrast to the usual hustle and bustle of the island.
I also captured the impact on local businesses. Many of them, who rely heavily on tourism, have been forced to shut down or scale back operations. The streets that were once filled with souvenir shops and restaurants are now quiet and empty, a reminder of the economic impact of the pandemic.
The absence of tourists has also given me the chance to explore the island in a new way. I have had the opportunity to photograph hidden gems and off-the-beaten-path locations that are often overlooked by tourists. It has been a privilege to capture the natural beauty of the island without the interference of crowds and tourism.
This project is a reminder that while the pandemic has brought much hardship and suffering, it has also given us a chance to see the world in a new way. It has allowed me to capture the essence of Lanzarote, and the resilience of its people, in a way that would not have been possible before.
June 2021
