If you’re a seasoned traveler or photography pro, you likely already know how to capture photos, but for those of us just getting our feet wet, it’s helpful to have some tricks up our sleeves. Below are a few tips that will guide you when taking travel photos you can be proud to share on social media and beyond.
Find Your Light
Any photographer will tell you lighting is the key to a great photo. When you’re traveling, try waking up to catch the sunrise and staying out late to watch the sunset, those are the best times of day to take photos, and you’ll also likely beat the crowds to all the hotspots.
Tell A Story
Selfies and #ootd photos make great additions to your Insta grid, but telling a story by taking photos of the locals and their daily backdrop are what make travel photos stand out. We all need that money shot of our new outfit but instead of standing and posing, try interacting with the people around you. You’ll end up with an awesome photo that conveys the feeling and emotion of the moment.
Talk To The Locals
Talking to the locals may seem a bit daunting, especially if you’re not a native speaker of the language, but you can create memories, make a new friend, and even ask to take their photo (you should always ask permission). Some might say no, while others might ask for money (a common practice in some places), but if it’s you think its worth a shot — pay up. You could also get lucky and get someone that is more than happy to have you take their photo.
Learn To Adjust The Settings On Your Camera
Learning to work the setting on a new camera can be fun but if you’re new to photography, it might not be simple for you the first time around, and that’s okay. The most important setting to learn to navigate are ISO, aperture, and shutter speed. It will take some trial and error to learn how these all work together, but once you do you’ll have more control over getting your photo just right.
Remember One Of The Basic Rule Photography
The composition is vital when taking a perfect travel photo and the Rule of Thirds will help you get there. The Rule of Thirds helps you break down your image into a grid (two horizontal lines and vertical lines). When placing or taking a photo of a subject in the grid, its best to set them (or move yourself) to one side to balance the composition. If you need guidance, some cameras have a setting which overlays a grid onto your photo (iPhones have this option), and this will make lining things up easier until your eye is trained.
Move That Body
Don’t be afraid to get low or go high to capture a photograph. Trying out different vantage point can set you up to capture an amazing shot.
Wander
Sometimes the best photo will come to you when you’re not looking for it. Wander the streets of the city you’re visiting and allow yourself to be present, so that when you see an authentic moment happening, you catch it.