Travel Photography Tips

The warmer months are rolling in, which means it is time to bring out the camera for your next vacation. Travel photography is a great way to preserve memories while on a trip. The problem is, how can you make sure that your equipment is safe? Here’s how to travel with your camera and take advantage of picture-perfect moments during your adventure.

Protecting Your Equipment

Invest in a padded case. Even if you put your camera in your carry-on, it is still exposed to bumps and potential spills. This can damage your camera and destroy sensitive sensors. A padded case will not only protect your investment but can also be a statement piece. A flimsy, poor-quality bag will not protect your camera from the dings of traveling. Padded camera cases are the way to go.

Take advantage of clothing. If, for whatever reason, you have to put your camera into your luggage, then use your clothes to protect it. Padded camera bags are usually adequate to protect your camera, but increased movement calls for more protection. You can create sufficient padding with the help of your clothing, especially if you have a camera with large detachable parts. Wrap the body of your camera with a couple of shirts, and do the same thing for your lenses. Place all these items in the middle of your luggage. The luggage casing and the surrounding clothing will offer adequate protection.

Taking the Perfect Summer Photo

It’s about being aware of opportunities and being conscious when documenting your journey. Take the time to capture the small details that make your vacation unique—visiting an exotic beach with white sands? Take pictures of the fantastic scenery. Are you visiting a mountain range? Your photos will benefit from the shrubbery and wildlife. Well-lit pictures of food, drinks, paths, and even lodging are a bit of a faux pas but make for exciting travel documentation.

Learn about composition. The rule of thirds is a helpful way of putting a focus on a particular aspect of your photo. By mentally dividing the picture into three sections and ensuring the subject of your photo lies in one of these partitioning lines, your photographs will have a more organizational focus.

More Tips

Don’t be afraid to include people in your shots. If appropriate by local customs, do not be scared of asking to take casual photographs of individuals. Instead, try to capture local cultures by snapping pictures of people in their everyday life. Action photos of people crossing the street, buying an item at a store, or chatting away with a friend add an almost intimate feel to your photos.

Pick a theme for the day. If you are particularly indecisive or need inspiration to jumpstart your collage, choose a theme for the day. The theme could be anything – pictures of items in a particular color, action shots, nature shots, or even images that convey a certain mood. Picking a theme will allow you to stay focused and be alert for opportunities.

Suggested books:

The Traveling Photographer: A Guide to Great Travel Photography
Travel Photography: The Leading Guide To Travel And Location Photography (Footprint – Lifestyle Guides)
World’s Best Travel Experiences: 400 Extraordinary Places
Photography: The Ultimate Guide To Travel Photography: For Fun And Profit