I love to travel. Seeing the world, meeting different people, experiencing different cultures – it’s all something I want to hang onto in my memory. One of my biggest regrets is not having my actual camera with me when my husband and I traveled to Thailand in 2005. Ever since, I have made a point to carry gear with me wherever I go. And, over the years, I’ve learned exactly what I need, what I don’t, and how to make the most of my travel images. So, whether you’re traveling for business or pleasure, I hope these travel photography tips will be a reminder to bring a camera with you and record your adventures!
1. Gear essentials for travel photography (Keep it simple. Keep it light)
You know the saying “less is more?” Yeah, well, it’s the truth when it comes to photography gear and traveling. I love having the options of all my lenses, but what I love even more is feeling unencumbered when I travel. Cameras & lenses add up in weight really quickly, so it’s important for me to keep the load as light as possible so that it doesn’t slow me down. And, also, there’s something creatively challenging (in a good way) about figuring out how to use the one or two things available to make compelling images.
The Travel Gear List – what to take with you
- Camera =
1 camera body. If you’ve looked anywhere else on my site, you know I’m fully committed to Sony. But, grab your lightest camera body & go. Not your favorite, your lightest – every ounce counts.
- Lenses =
1 compact zoom lens OR 2 compact primes in opposing focal lengths. I really like to travel with my Sony 28 f/2 and Sony 85 f/1.8. They’re both light, sharp, and fast! I’ve avoided bringing any of my zooms previously because they’re just big & heavy. But, Sony’s newest release is a great little lightweight option with fixed aperture, and is perfectly paired for my a7c ii.
- Charging & Storage =
2 Extra batteries & 4 extra memory cards. I’m a fan of the Lexar Pro sd cards, but just make sure to get good memory cards with the fastest read & write speeds that fit your budget.
- 1 Lenspen =
I prefer Lenspens over cleaning cloths because they’re portable and entirely contained. One end has a microfiber wiping tip, the other has a brush for any dust. But, it’s up to you. As long as you have something gentle to clean off a dirty lens, that is all that’s important.
- 1 plastic bag =
This might sound silly, but it’s saved my bacon more times than I’d like to admit. If you don’t have a rain sleeve for your camera, just grab an extra plastic bag (the kind we used to get at the grocery store) and shove it in your purse/backpack. In the event of inclement weather, you’ll be prepared and will still be able to use your camera!
- BONUS:
If you know you will be in and around a lot of water, bring a GoPro. They’re tiny, lightweight, and can capture pretty killer video in addition to stills. The most recent editions also have better image resolution and the ability to shoot in RAW, which is important if your lighting isn’t ideal.
2. When traveling with photography gear, CARRY IT ON!
Never, ever, ever…I repeat, NEVER…put camera gear in checked luggage! This might seem unnecessary to include in a list of travel photography tips, but I’ve known several people who have made this mistake. Not only will it get tossed around unceremoniously by baggage handlers, stowing gear in checked luggage is also almost asking for thievery. My favorite carryon has dedicated compartments that I can slide my gear into with ease. I also always use a padded insert for protective cushioning.
3. Use your self-timer for “selfies”
I’m as guilty as the next gal but, folks, let’s put down the phones/cameras and really get in there…Your unnaturally elongated arm doesn’t do anything for your images. Whether it’s your phone or actual camera, there are built-in timer mechanisms in all of them. Place it on a stable surface, set it for 10 seconds and get your behind actually in front of the camera (with or without others).
4. Save your neck & buy a Comfortable camera strap
It might feel light at first but after carrying it around all day, that small camera will start to feel like a lead weight. I avoid leather straps for travel, as they tend to dig into my neck/shoulders, so I much prefer a nylon camera strap that is soft and flexible. My favorite travel strap is also long enough to be worn crossbody.
5. Add Visual Interest in your travel photography:
We want to take your images from snapshots to great shots, so don’t just point and shoot. You’re on an adventure; there are some easy ways to document it beautifully. Is this the most important part of my travel photography tips? You betcha! No list would be complete without ideas for adding interest to your imagery! Think of your images as if they are an outfit you are putting together – build layers and attend to detail.
- Framing
The easiest way to add layers and interest is to use elements in the foreground to frame your subject. Even though you’re adding in additional elements, those objects are just helping to draw the viewer in to your focus.
- Composition
Composition refers to how we lay out our image and position our subjects within the frame. While there are many different ways to compose an image, the easiest to consider is a Rule of Thirds. Imagine that you’re dividing your frame into 3 horizontal and 3 vertical rows. Placing your subject at any one of those imaginary intersecting points, or on one of the imaginary dividing lines, will automatically lead your viewer’s eye directly to what you want to emphasize. Avoid just plopping your subject in the center of the frame, as that can be visually boring. Remember: we want to take your images from snapshots to great shots.
- Leading Lines
These are lines in your frame (think railings, pathways, railroad tracks, etc) that you can use to direct your viewer’s eye to a specific point in your image. They tend to be very graphic, but powerful, directors for your audience.
- Reflections
Reflections are a fantastic way to add visual interest to your imagery. They can amplify colors and light, while also helping to reinforce your focus. Reflections are best captured with a wide angle lens so that more of your scene is in the frame and contributing to your story.
- Light & Color
Last, but most certainly not least, always attend to lighting and color in your imagery. Photography is very literally nothing without light; it is your photograph’s most essential element. Whether you are placing your light source in your image for backlighting, using the harsh light of midday to amplify saturated colors, or using the directional light of a window; be aware that light helps to tell a visual story.
Bonus:
Use a small crossbody bag to store your daily essentials along with your camera. This little bag packs a punch with room for my camera & lens, passport wallet, mobile phone, gum, and chapstick (gloss is not my thing). It came with two additional straps, which are wider nylon webbing and super comfortable! I can’t recommend it enough.
No matter where your travels take you, I hope these travel photography tips will help you to bring images of your adventures to life! And, if you’re looking for some gear recommendations, take a peak at some of my faves and tell me what you think!
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