To travel like a photographer, you need to do more than take photos.
These five tips aren’t about how you shoot your photos. They’re about the practical actions you can take to make your photography trip go smoothly and elevate your experience. They also touch on mindset and flexibility.
Travel photography allows you to capture the essence of your journeys and share moments with the world. Whether you’re exploring bustling cities, serene landscapes, or hidden gems, knowing how to take compelling photos can make your travel memories even more special. But don’t forget the daily prep!
1. Download and Backup Your Photos Daily
Avoid Losing Shots when you travel like a photographer
Traveling often involves unpredictable situations. To avoid losing your precious photos, make it a habit to download and back them up at the end of each day. This simple routine can save you from the heartbreak of losing irreplaceable memories. Plus, you’ll immediately see if you’ve mistakenly left a random setting turned on on your camera.
When we lived in Seoul, South Korea, and only one of our children was living in the States, we decided to spend a tropical Christmas in Guam. I owned my first DSLR and mistakenly left the ISO set to 400.
Then, I compounded the problem by not downloading my photos! On the Canon 40D, an ISO of 400 was full of digital noise and affected the quality of all of our family photos. I would have seen the problem immediately if I’d downloaded the photos. Learn from my mistake!!! 🥺
Use Cloud Storage
Consider using cloud storage services like Google Drive, Dropbox, or Backblaze(my favorite.) Cloud storage ensures that you have access to your images even if something happens to your gear or you accidentally erase your photos in the Photos app on an Apple device.
2. Check Your Gear Daily to Travel Like a Photographer
Maintenance is Key
Dust, dirt, and unintentional setting changes can ruin your shots. Each morning, spend a few minutes checking your gear. Clean your lenses, ensure your settings are correct, and verify that your batteries are charged. This includes cleaning your smartphone lenses if you’re using your phone for photography.
Since my iPhone spends a lot of time in my pocket or handbag, I’ve invested in a Moment Cineclear Snap-on Protection Filter for my iPhone 15 Pro Max. I’ll include a link below. Be sure to order the proper size for your iPhone model! It’s one way that I travel like a photographer.
And remember to check your settings! There’s nothing worse than missing a shot because you had Exposure Compensation set from the day before. Or you’ve left your camera in Manual mode and set for a light trail shot, and you’re now trying to capture a moment quickly in the mid-morning.
3. Go Over Your Shot List and Plan When to Get the Shots
Strategic Planning to Travel Like a Photographer
Review your shot list daily and plan when and where to capture each image. Take into account the time of day, light conditions, and the expected activity or event you want to photograph. Strategic planning can make a significant difference in the quality of your shots. If you’re not sure what a shot list is, I’ll include a link to a post I wrote about it.
Scout Locations
If possible, visit your planned spots ahead of time to get a feel for the best angles and compositions. Use apps like LightTrac to check sunrise and sunset times and plan your shots accordingly to make the most of the golden hour.
Be Flexible
While having a shot list is essential, remain flexible. Sometimes, the most unexpected moments make for the best photos, so be ready to adapt and capture spontaneous scenes, like this photo of an elegant woman who walked into a scene I was shooting in Paris. Isn’t she the best photo bomber ever?
And always remember that you may not be in charge! On our Viking cruise this summer, we had almost no input on timing. But being up before dawn was our secret weapon. The dawn shots we got as we cruised toward a destination were fabulous! Like the one at the top of this post. It’s the Inchkeith Lighthouse on Inchkeith Island in the Firth of Forth.
4. Stay Safe to Travel Like a Photographer
Prioritize Safety
Your safety is paramount. Avoid risky situations and always be aware of your surroundings. Carrying expensive gear can make you a target, so stay vigilant and use discretion when photographing in crowded or unfamiliar areas.
A BlackRapid strap is handy for keeping your camera secure. It holds your camera by your side, and you can wear it under a sweater or polar fleece for added protection. Since it doesn’t have the camera brand boldly printed on it, it’s less likely to attract attention. I also use my purple Kipling backpack with a camera insert and plain black cross-body bag in cities.
Research Common Street Crime Before Your Trip
Years ago, I was robbed in Quito, Ecuador, on the first day of a two-week photography trip. It was a set-up, and I now Google common street crimes before I travel. Since it ended well, I wish someone had taken video of it happening.
As Skip and I were walking down a charming city street, my right shoulder was suddenly hit by what felt like pigeon poop. 😎 An elegant man in a business suit quickly stood up at his table in a lovely sidewalk cafe and offered to help wipe it off. He slipped the camera off my neck and handed it off to another man as he chatted and wiped.
Luckily, Skip saw him do it and took off after the man, shouting as he went. Since Skip was easily a foot taller, he quickly gained on the thief, who suddenly stopped, turned, shoved the camera into Skip’s stomach and sped off down a narrow alley. My hero!!! 😍
Blend In
Try to blend in with the locals to avoid drawing unnecessary attention. This not only keeps you safe but also allows for more authentic candid shots. And be aware of local warnings, like this sign in Covent Garden in London.
5. Shoot Intentionally
Experiment with Perspectives
You may not be able to plan your day, but you can use your imagination as you shoot. Don’t just stick to eye-level shots. Try different perspectives and angles to add variety and interest to your photos. Shoot from above, below, or through objects to create unique compositions. Also, instead of carrying a full tripod, consider using a Platypod and shoot from ground level. Or you can always lie on the boardwalk like my friend Laura in Deauville, France.
Play with Timing
Keep your shot list in mind as you view a scene. Early mornings and late afternoons often provide the best light, while night photography can offer dramatic results. If you can’t arrange the time, look around for reflections. And reflections can also come in handy if you arrange for the best time but the weather doesn’t cooperate.
Now It’s Your Turn:
Ready to take your travel photography to the next level?
Discover how my online Camera Mechanics Workshop can take the mystery out of your camera and make you feel like a pro!
You can find the Moment filter for iPhone lenses HERE.
For more about shot lists and trip prep, be sure to read THIS POST.
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