Let's face it, in one way or another, we all think that we are excellent photographers, whether we stay glued to our smartphones or pack along the latest, greatest camera meant for pros.
Here's the thing though; anybody can take top-notch travel photography, whether they think they are the best, are the best, or are just beginning!
Here are 10 Tips for Top Notch Travel Photography that will make your next trip full of perfectly captured moments!
- Look Local - While you may be inclined to go directly to the biggest attraction in the area you are visiting, it is always best to look local more often than not! Getting candid shots of the people who live here, how they live, and what daily life is outside of tourism. Trust us, this will tell a story of your trip much better when you return home. (Be sure to ask if it is okay to take photos of locals beforehand, be considerate).
Local Village Shot Credit Danielle Breshears Profreshionally Simple
- Go Streetside - Going with the motif of staying local, it is always best to take a walk (safely) around the streets of your visited location. From street vendors cooking local delicacies to children walking with their parents, there is something really special about capturing daily business within the city.
Common Streetside Site in Downtown Albuquerque. Roasting Green Chilis Credit Danielle Breshears Profreshionally Simple
- All about Perspective - One huge thing I have learned in my travels is that taking that perfect shot is all about perspective. If you don't like the outlook where you are, go somewhere higher. Get closer. Back away. There is always a way to make the shot work if you take your time and find your angle. A good thing to keep in mind: always try the rule of thirds.
A different perspective of the Windy City Credit Danielle Breshears Profreshionally Simple
Rock City Falls Tennessee Rule of Thirds Credit Danielle Breshears Profreshionally Simple
- ALWAYS Bring your Camera - This may seem like a no-brainer, but there are going to be several times where you are rushed to get somewhere, too excited to grab everything you need, or just simply unprepared. If you are going for travel photography, ALWAYS bring your camera when you head out for the day, you never know what you are going to encounter along the way!
This is a super simple shot a passerby caught for us, thank goodness we brought our camera to this village! Credit Danielle Breshears Profreshionally Simple
- Gear Up - If you are more than just the smartphone photo guru, and you have a professional camera you are using, be sure to bring all the gear you will need! Tripod, lenses, bag...these will all be essential when capturing that perfect moment!
A simple change of lens helped us catch this spectacular moment at Disney. Orlando, Florida Credit Danielle Breshears Profreshionally Simple
- Learn your Style - For myself, personally, my style is always focused on the natural things around me, and it is always from a unique perspective. Perhaps your own style is focused on architecture, black and white, people, etc. This one is all about you, just put your unique spin on your photos!
Not your Typical Beach shot. Try a unique perspective! Cancun, Mexico Credit Danielle Breshears Profreshionally Simple
- Go Natural - Instead of trying to set up the perfect lighting for that grand shot, go natural! Natural lighting is always the best when it comes to travel photography, plus it is easier and involves less editing when the time comes!
Chicago, Naturally. Credit Danielle Breshears Profreshionally Simple
Natural Lighting on Chichen Itza Credit Danielle Breshears Profreshionally Simple
- Take Your Time - Hey, sometimes that perfect shot is going to take a while, be it timing the wind, light, people around you, or movement of the attraction in general. It's okay, take your time, get that shot just the way you want it!
Capturing Adventure Smoky Mountain Ziplining Credit Danielle Breshears Profreshionally Simple
- Know when to Drop the Camera - Of course, it is always really hard to know when to capture the perfect moment while traveling, or when to simply drop the camera and immerse yourself into your surroundings. Just remember, there won't be any fond memories to think of when you look back at your photography if you only looked through the lens.
Enjoy the Moment!! Credit Danielle Breshears Profreshionally Simple
