There are many ways to maximize the travel photographs from the cameras we own, even if we only own a simple pocket camera. There are probably many of you who have learned and applied these tips that I’m about to give, but I’m sure there are also plenty of you who still shoot at whims without any preparations or distinct goals that will support a great end result.
Here I present some general tips on travel photography that will help you in getting satisfying results:
1. Determine your destination.
2. Research as much information as you can about your chosen destinations. These info includes information on accommodation, historical sties, local attractions, art events, weather, and so on. Jot down any useful info as a guide.
3. Learn the local custom and traditions, especially when planning to visit religious sites. Also note the dress codes. Do not hesitate to get involved in traditional and cultural events.
4. Blend into the atmosphere and the local community. The first impression we get when in a crowd will give a spark of creativity in how we photograph. It also wouldn’t hurt to take notes of our first impression of the people, style of dress, weather, and other things that made an impression on you. These notes will be useful later on.
5. Make sure that the camera is always ready to use.
6. Prepare an “all-around” zoom lens, like the 18-200mm or 24-120mm, to ease operations when we’re trying to capture fleeting moments. It’s not actually a really big problem if you wan to use a fixed 50mm, 85mm, or 200mm lens, but these are usually less flexible in capturing those fleeting moments.
7. If you have some extra time, explore and look for places that would be interesting to photograph. Do not be afraid of getting lost. If necessary, remember the routes and come back to spots you deem interesting to shoot.
8. Make a clear schedule of when and where you have to shoot. Schedule your time according to all the events you want to attend that day.
9. Choose the right times to shoot, especially when shooting landscapes. The “Golden Hours” of photography is in the morning between 5:00 to 8:00 AM and evening between 3:00 and 6:00 PM. This doesn’t mean afternoons are off limits though. When shooting in the afternoon, choose times when the skies are blue with little clouds.
10. Get up earlier and sleep later. That way, we will get more time to capture the moments we want.
11. For locations around town that are accessible by foot, it’s better to walk than using a vehicle. This will grant us more time to be more intimate when photographing your objects and moments.
12. Mind your stamina. Do not skip any meals, consume vitamins or supplements if you need, and do not forget to pack any necessary medicine.
13. Take as much photos as possible of objects you find interesting.
14. Have fun!
