Preparation
- You may not be able to repeat a photo again on your travels, so it’s wise to get to know your camera well before setting out.
- Remember to bring enough film and/or batteries as it may be difficult to obtain more whilst on the road.
- On flights keep your camera with you, not in the main luggage.
- Before photographing people, make sure that they do not object. Not only is it polite, it often results in better photos.
- Respect other cultures - try to blend in as much as possible.
- Try learning a bit of the language. Even a few phrases may go a long way - in many countries people do not expect foreigners to do so, but are pleasantly surprised as this shows that you really take an interest.
- Research your destination. If you are keen on taking some great travel photographs use websites and forums to get some first-hand information and tips on some scenic spots that may not be mentioned in major guide books.
Ideas & Inspiration
- The great thing about travel is you never know what you might see next, whether you are backpacking or enjoying a luxury cruise something can always catch you eye. Some of the best photos are of random defining moments – the shadow on a car window, a sleeping animal or kind face.
- To add humour to your shots try to keep a running theme in each photo.
- Travel and holiday snaps are not just limited to scenery and suntans – include photos of the cuisine, transport, local stores and unusual décor.
- Use your imagination! Try unusual cropping, angles and vantage points.
- Find out how your fellow members have been getting on and check out our Members Photo Gallery for more ideas and inspiration.
Equipment
- A tripod is very useful for low-light situations and when you want to be in a shot yourself!
- Mini-tripods are a convenient alternative and provide good stability. They come as small as 6 inches, weigh just a few ounces, and can be rested on vertical as well as horizontal surfaces to steady the camera.
- A flash can be more helpful in broad daylight (as fill flash) than at night. Remember that the inbuilt camera flash will have a range of only a few meters.
- When using filters, always take an unfiltered version of the picture as well (except for UV or daylight filters).
- A good lens is more important than a camera with many features.
- Keep your camera safe, dry and protected in an appropriate case, and carry a cleaning cloth as you travel.
Taking your shot
- Try to choose the best light for your picture, or at least make the best use of the light you have.
- You don’t have to position your subject in the centre, break the rules and experiment with space and angles.
- Eliminate unnecessary clutter and get your horizon straight.
- Be safe when photographing animals – keep your distance, use slow movements and take plenty of pictures. To capture movement use a fast shutter speed.
- Not everything has to be sharp in a picture. Try to concentrate on the main elements by reducing depth of field, especially if you have an interesting subject in the foreground
- Wide-angle lenses are often used for landscapes.
- Taking a portrait? Get close. The face is the most important part and will be more impressive and personal if taken close-up. Showing the whole body is rarely necessary.
- If you are ever in doubt take several shots with and without flash, close up and from different angles to ensure you get an image you want.
- In less perfect weather conditions, you may find subjects that look actually more interesting - rain, fog, harsh light and overcast skies can create very unusual and dramatic scenes.
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