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How to Take Travel Photos: A Complete Guide

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Who doesn’t love visiting gorgeous places? When we travel, it is natural to want to capture those special moments. So why not explore this niche?

With the right skills and some practice, you could make your travel photography hobby into a full-time job. In this article, we have organised our knowledge base on travel photography.

Read on to find out how to become a travel photographer.

What Is Travel Photography?

Travel photography is the act of photographing while travelling. The goal is to capture the locations you visit and the adventures you experience.

It is a combination of different genres. It includes landscape , street , portrait , environmental portrait and even architecture photography.

You can take landscape images of the places you visit, portraits of the people you meet or architecture photos of the buildings you see.

You can even master your self-photography skills by taking selfies everywhere you go.

How to Start Travel Photography

Getting started with travel photography: beginner’s guide.

Travel photography is a genre that requires a lot of pre-photoshoot preparation.

You need to be able to find suitable locations, handle different weather conditions, and choose the best equipment for each trip.

Practising and learning how you like travelling the basis of the whole process. You should also find out which type of travel photography suits you the most.

Read our beginner’s guide to learn more about how to get started with travel photography.

How to Plan for Road Trip Photography

Everyone’s idea of travel is different. Some go away for the weekend, and others plan a whirlwind trip covering dozens of countries in a concise period of time.

If you are the road trip kind, this article is for you.

Firstly, you’ll need to figure out how to get around. Will it be your car, a rental or even hitch-hiking? Next is the route.

You need to take care of how you can stay connected to the internet. Or how you’ll have access to electricity, and how you’ll back up your photos .

The Travel Photographer’s Packing Checklist

Travelling requires a few more items than your keys, wallet, and passport. It requires planning and making sure you have every necessary item with you.

The easiest way to remember everything is by writing a list.

Think about where you are going and if the location has the things you might need to buy? Don’t forget to update your list after each trip.

Prepare for bad weather, hot summer days and everything you can predict. Take a look at our list so you surely won’t miss anything!

Photographing With Minimal Gear: Why You Don’t Need as Much as You Think

As a travel photographer, you’ll constantly be moving around. A heavy backpack full of equipment gets tiring very fast.

Learning how to capture travel photography with minimal equipment is a blessing. That way, you’ll enjoy your journey much more.

Think about your lenses. Perhaps one or two zoom lenses are much better than five fixed (prime) alternatives. And don’t take anything you might not use. It is a waste of space.

The Best Packing Hacks for the Travel Photographer

As a travel photographer, you need to organise both your camera gear and your clothes. It can be a hard task. All you need to find is balance.

Start by creating a photography shot list in advance. Lay out your gear and then cut it all down.

Choosing the right bags is also essential. With our space-saving packing hacks, you are going to be able to organise everything cleverly.

An important thing to keep in mind is that you will need to reach your gear easily. If you don’t have comfortable access to them, you will get frustrated soon.

How to Make the Most of Your Travel Photography With a Shot List

The best travel photos are the results of hours of planning and research.

A shot list is a helpful reminder to ensure you get a wide range of images. No matter where you go, you will have the same or a similar list.

You won’t miss anything if you need what kind of shots you need. Also, a list can guide your attention and make you spot the scenes worth photographing.

How to Choose the Best Travel Tripod

A tripod helps you capture long exposures and stops movement in low light conditions. It also allows your arms a little rest while keeping your camera safe.

I know they can be heavy and a burden when you don’t need them. Yet, there are lightweight carry-on choices that can fit in your bag.

You have to use a tripod that matches your camera. Heavier gadgets will need sturdy and stable ones. Also, windy weather requires more robust tripods.

Read here for more information on tripod choices for all your travel photography needs.

The Most Useful Travel Photography Accessories

As a travel photographer, you will encounter a lot of different situations. Not only do you have to be ready for them, but your gear has to as well.

There are some basic accessories you should always carry with you. A lens pen is the perfect pocket-tool for cleaning your lenses on the go. But others, like a drone,  are for more creative photography.

Start with the basics. Choose a comfortable neck strap or buy memory card holders . Extra batteries and power banks are also practical and necessary items, based on how long and where you are shooting.

Travel Photography Settings for Every Scenario: From Portraits to Landscapes

Travel photographers have to deal with changing lights and scenes. Also, it’s a mixture of genres, so even the type of photography determines the settings.

Pay attention to white balance, focus, and the pillars of the exposure triangle .

You can find basic settings for portraits, environmental portraits, landscapes, sunsets, or buildings in our article above. Food, wildlife, action or night photography are not missing from the list either.

Start with these settings and tweak them if needed.

Photography Style: What Is It and How Can You Find Your Own

Your photography style separates you from every other travel photographer. Believe me. There are thousands in this category.

Finding your style will take time and practice. It isn’t something you can develop overnight.

Keep experimenting. You can focus on a particular mood or atmosphere. Or concentrate on the same colour range. Or even take stunning portraits .

Famous photographers have recognizable styles. If someone recognizes your images without seeing your name on them, you’re on the right path.

Top 12 Rules For Amazing Travel Photography

Travel photography is not about your camera. It isn’t even about where you are.

It is about the stories you tell with your captured images. The way you take these stunning images is through research and observation.

Researching your location will let you know what is available to photograph. And the best time to capture it.

Preparing your gear and writing travel notes are also something you should do.

Read our article for all the 12 rules of travel photography.

How to Avoid These 15 Common Travel Photography Mistakes 

You can first ruin your travel photography but not planning it enough. Not having a shot list is a part of this mistake.

Also, make sure to have enough time for what you would like to reach. This is important when you would like to have blue hour shots of a certain place, and you are still far from there at sunset.

Don’t pack too much gear, and try not to be too shy. Telling stories with your images is always a great idea.

Follow our tips to avoid the most common mistakes!

Best Ways to Backup Your Photos While Travelling

Utilizing an external hard drive is the most important way to safely store your images once they are out of your camera.

Backing up in the field means that you need to find a solution to keep your images safe without a computer.

Having a system that will copy your images from your memory cards means not buying more of them.

Check our article above to find the best solution.

Tips For Travelling Safely With Your Camera

Travelling safely with your camera leys you enjoy yourself and keep photographing.

Having an item or camera stolen can dent your experience and budget. Travel insurance is a smart investment to make.

By covering up your cameras’ brand and model, you can really deter thieves looking to take your gear. This is best done using black tape.

Use padded cases so that your camera and lenses are protected against all knocks they will encounter.

This is a great way to keep your lenses in and out of your bag for extra protection. You can also use them separately on a strap or belt.

Travel Safety Tips Every Photographer Should Know

Staying safe while travelling should be the most important priority of your photography.

This is how you ensure that you enjoy the place you’re in for the time that you are.

Start with taking your camera on board if you are flying. Also, respect local customs to avoid conflict. Knowing your surroundings and not leaving your gear unattended are the very basics of staying safe as a travel photographer.

Read our article here for the most important travel tips to keep you safe.

Tips for Better Vacation and Holiday Photography

You can, of course, be a travel photographer without fancy locations and a huge kit bag. It’s a well deserved holiday where you decide to capture a few shots.

Even then, your photography could use a few tips. Choosing the right spot to photograph first is the number one tip.

You might also find it a game-changer to wake up and shoot before the crowd gathers.

Try avoiding clichés and find a balance between portrait and landscapes. Include your family in your images, but also make sure to capture the local culture.

Tips for Breathtaking Cityscape Photography

If you’re headed toward the city, then this article is for you. You’ll find great tips for short trips or extended stays.

Find the right location and check the forecast to check the available light. Take images from a distance and also zoom in to capture details.

Preparing your gear and thinking about your settings in advance are also essential here. Blue and golden hours might be the best time for these images. Experiment a lot, and go back if you are not satisfied and you have time. To dig deep, check out our tips on cityscape photography.

Where To Find Travel Photography Inspiration

Best travel photography blogs to follow.

Travel photography blogs serve as great inspiration for us photographers out there.

You can get great tips and ideas by looking at other photographers’ images. Also, reading their stories and descriptions help you prepare for the shooting sessions.

You can find the best locations and events by reading quality blogs.

Take a look at the 16 best travel photography blogs to follow!

Top 10 Travel Photography Destinations

You can go anywhere in the world and take photographs. And if you use a few basic compositional rules , you are halfway there.

Our article offers different places you should visit, from all around the globe. From Thailand to the USA and even to New Zealand, you can find popular photography destinations!

It’s always a good idea to get information before you start planning your travel.

The Most Iconic Places in the World to Photograph

There are some places in the world that everyone recognises. These are usually historical sites or buildings, but some of them are the wonders of nature.

If you visit these places, you must take photos of them. But try to be unique! Get creative, and bring a new perspective.

Take a look at our list and plan to visit one of them on your next trip. It can be the Eiffel Tower or Central Park, and you have great opportunities.

The Best Architecture Photography Locations in the World

Some places are known for their architecture . You can find unique buildings everywhere, sometimes even stories that blow your mind.

While you are travelling, make sure to do a bit of research, and don’t miss any interesting spot!

For the ten best locations, read our article, then start packing!

The Most Beautiful Cities in Europe to Photograph

In Europe, there are so many diverse landscapes and architecture at such small distances.

The same can be said about nature. Without these venues, cities wouldn’t be the same. Natural landscapes also play a vital role in shaping the atmosphere.

Read our list, and if you have the chance, try visiting more of them during one trip!

How to take Unique Photos of Famous Places

People travel from all around the world to see and photograph these delights. Because they are so famous, it’s hard to capture them in a unique way.

If you follow our 9 tips, you can get closer to this goal.

Start with doing research and plan what you would like to see in your images. Arriving early is a great idea to avoid the crowd. If the place is already crowded, you can even use this to show the atmosphere.

Top 20 Places to Take Pictures in LA

There’s the old and classic Los Angeles. And, there are the newer, more happening spots that offer you brand new photo ideas.

Take a tour around LA with our list of the best 20 places!

The Best Places to Take Pictures in NYC

New York is an ever-changing city, with a rich history and cityscape.

Go through our 10 recommendations and imagine how you will photograph them in your own unique way.

You can include New Yorkers in your images as the crowd belongs to the atmosphere.

Beautiful Pictures of Japan to Inspire Your Travel Photography

Japan has a lot of historical, cultural and natural wonders you can capture.

For some travel photographers, Japan sits on a pedestal because of it’s natural and built heritage. It is also full of interesting food and neon-lit streets.

Our 20 images of Japan give enough inspiration to book a flight to Japan!

The Best Photography Locations in Tokyo

The capital of Japan is an incredible place to photograph. Whatever style of photography  you enjoy, Tokyo will have you covered.

You should visit the most popular places and buildings. The architecture is amazing, and you can also find quirky settings like cosplay events.

Guide To Photography Etiquette in Japan

Like anywhere else on the planet, Japan has a photography etiquette that should be followed when capturing images.

Some of them are common sense, such as asking for permission if photographing people up-close. Others are specific to locations. In Japan, some areas have banned selfie sticks, for example.

Read through our list to make sure you are doing everything you can to stick to these guidelines.

The Best Spots For Photography in London

London is a crowded place, and not only because of people. By walking on the streets, you bump into landmark buildings or parks on every corner.

Take a look at our list and make sure to include everything when you are planning your route.

The 10 Best Photography Locations in Paris

When someone says Paris, the Eiffel Tower appears in everyone’s mind. In reality, the opportunities for photography in the many arrondissements are endless. And Parisians light up every frame.

We collected 10 of the most famous ones. Make sure to visit them if you have the chance.

Best Tips and Locations for Taking Great Pictures in Venice

Venice has a nostalgic and romantic atmosphere. Due to its unique location and breathtaking canals, everyone can immediately recognise photos taken here.

This article not only summarises the best locations, but it gives tips on when to visit them. A lot depends on the lighting. You can spice up the most basic images if you are there at the right time.

The Best Photography Spots in Rome

All roads lead to Rome; who can deny that? This city is full of history, culture, architecture, and food.

We collected our favourite photo spots and added some tips on how and when to photograph there. Plan your visit in advance to make sure you don’t miss anything!

The Best Photography Spots in Barcelona

Barcelona is full of tourists due to its stunning sights. You can find famous, one of a kind buildings from Gaudí, beautiful parks and streets.

Our lA Barcelona-based photographer wrote our list of 10 photography spots you will find under-the-radar nooks only the locals know!

The Best Amsterdam Photography Locations

Amsterdam is a compact, pedestrian-friendly, and cultural city. The streets themselves are worth photographing, but obviously, you can find famous venues.

Our list is going to guide you through Amsterdam and show you the places you must visit.

The Best Photography Spots in Budapest

Budapest is a photogenic city where you can bump into different subjects that worth capturing. From famous streets to buildings and thermal baths aplenty, there’s so much to photograph.

It has a beautiful river, the Danube, which allows you to take breathtaking images and offers many opportunities. Let us guide you, and see why you should visit this city.

Best Spots for New Zealand Landscape Photography

New Zealand has beautiful places to visit. It’s like you were standing in a painting or in a scene out of a famous trilogy.

Follow our ideas to find the best spots, and take surreally beautiful images. You should include cities, lakes, waterfalls and the countryside in your collection.

Best Iceland Photography Spots and Tips

Iceland is becoming more and more popular among tourists. It’s no wonder this place offers venues that are beyond comparison.

Get to know the locals, and travel to more isolated and secret places. Besides giving you useful advice, we collected the best spots you should visit!

Best Photography Spots in Yosemite National Park

Yosemite National Park is one of California’s most beautiful places. It’s full of ancient redwoods, so this is the perfect destination for wildlife photographers.

It’s hard to say which spot is the best, but we tried to collect 10 of them. Explore Yosemite and get beautiful memories printed and framed on your walls!

Casey Kiernan’s Iceland Photography Workshop Review

Casey Kiernan is an award-winning photographer and cinematographer. He is best known for his stunning time-lapse and images that can be seen all over the place.

In this review, we run through his Iceland Photography workshop. Unlike traditional photography workshops, this one took place with the use of campervans.

For all the ins and outs of why this workshop is highly recommended, read our review above.

Creative Travel Photography Ideas

Tips for carnival photography.

From Brazil and Mexico to Venice and Thailand, street carnivals are a fiasco of colour and costumes.

Each one is slightly different in size, magnitude or duration. They also have different concepts.

Read our tips to arrive prepared. Practise taking what you need, scout the location, and try isolating your subject. These and our other ideas will hopefully help you a lot.

How to Take Great Travel Photos of Yourself

There will be times where you want to record yourself while travelling. Either for memories or social media proof.

What to do if you were on your own? How do you manage to capture yourself in a scene?

Luckily there are a few ways you can do this. You can ask other tourists or locals to take your picture. Another way would be to use a tripod and a 10-second delay.

For other tips and techniques, read our article here!

Creative Photography Composition Techniques to Improve Your Travel Photos

Compositional rules exist to help create interest in your images.

These can be layered for maximum effect, turning a somewhat dull image into something awe-inspiring. Using reflections is a great place to start.

These repetitive images are great for the viewer as they add depth and dimension to your subject.

Black and White Travel Photography: How to Make the Most of It

Shooting in black and white eliminates the distractions caused by colours. By using black and white, you look at your subject and scene in a different way.

Here, your focus is on the contrast of a scene. The textures and shapes are more prominent.

Read our article on why you should look at the city or nature in black and white.

Street Photography: How to Take Pictures of Strangers

Photographing people on your travels adds story elements to a scene. It also adds a sense of scale to large or difficult to gauge subjects.

Having people in a scene can change the atmosphere of the scene easily. But for this, you need to prepare and learn how to stay invisible. Or how to communicate with your subjects.

Our article runs through how you can capture pictures of strangers.

Documenting Places and People: What You Need to Know

As a travel photographer, you are documenting the people and places you visit. Each new location brings forth new moods, feelings, light, people and visual elements.

With most areas of photography, research is key. This lets you know what you can expect in each new area.

Knowing what to expect means you can change your camera and personal gear accordingly. This gets you one step ahead of other photographers.

Try telling stories, photograph strangers and spot the unique scenes.

How to Crop Your Travel Photos for Better Results

Knowing a little about cropping can really help to boost your travel photography. What you leave in is just as important as what you leave out.

It’s better to concentrate on your subjects than missing great moments while you are trying to reach the best composition. You can crop the image later.

In our article above, we have summarised the basics of cropping and rotating your travel photos.

How to Use an ND Filter to Remove People from Long Exposure Shots

An ND filter is an essential piece of equipment. It allows you to capture long exposure shots in the harshest sun.

Not only is it easy to assemble, but they are quick and easy to use. They can incorporate well into time-lapse projects too.

The biggest benefit is their ability to make people disappear. This can be especially helpful in very tourist-heavy locations and sites.

Documentary Photography – Tips For Starting Out

If you are into travel photography, why not try a small documentary project? It could boost your creativity.

Documentary projects are typically long-term projects rather than one-time photo sessions. Photograph what you see. Visualise the atmosphere, the people and the locations around you.

You are going to learn about our world, and about your creativity too.

How to Photograph the Northern Lights

The Northern Lights attract a lot of tourists and travel photographers from all around the world.

However, they are not so easy to photograph. You have to be prepared, have a tripod and a proper camera for it.

Also, you have to be patient because they are not always visible and their intensity changes too.

Set your camera and take delight in this beautiful phenomena!

How to Take Stunning Panoramic Pictures

Panoramic images are a great way to show the landscapes you encounter. The advantage is that you are not restricted to one single perspective or view.

After capturing many images on a horizontal plane, they are then stitched together. Our article covers everything you need to know about stunning panoramic pictures.

Tips for Beautiful Beach Photography

On your travels, you are likely to come across beaches, strands, and banks. They are great areas to show sunsets, sunrises, and possibly, stories in your work.

Beach photography needs a little consideration to capture perfectly. Our list here will give you all the tips you’ll need.

After a little research, you will capture them with interesting compositions, perspectives, and exposures. Try avoiding crowds, but sometimes you can include people in your images. Details, golden hours, and silhouettes are also great ideas to capture.

Ethical Travel Photography

Travel photography ethics: when you shouldn’t take that picture.

A camera is a powerful tool. It’s a device you can use to record the world around you.

Sometimes you have to consider whether you should photograph someone or something or not. Poverty, self-promotion or stereotyping are controversial topics.

Ask permission first, to avoid questionable situations. Don’t invade anyone’s personal space.

Tipping for Photos: Should You Do It?

Tipping is the act of giving someone money in exchange for a photograph of them. Usually, it is a local person in the native environment who adds something to the image.

It makes the image possible. But you might find these locals will ask for something, usually money, to be in your image.

This is something that many travel photographs will face numerous times.

Find a Fixer: Using a Local to Improve Your Travel Photography

A fixer is basically a local person who can help with many tasks.

They speak the language, know the contacts and can show off the hidden highlights of a place.

They can be expensive, based on their experience and the lack of competition, but are incredibly useful.

How to Start a Travel Photography Business

How to get paid for travel photography.

There is a lot of money in the travel industry, which means the demand for anything tourism-related is strong.

Of course, you have to make sure if travel photography is right for you. Make a website, a blog, be active on social media and have the proper gear.

Get Paid to Travel – 10 Hot Tips From Paid Travel Photographers

A travel photographer provides imagery for the global tourism industry.

This might be for magazines, newspapers, and books aimed at marketing, information or documenting cultures and events.

Being a professional travel photographer means making money from your images. There are multiple avenues to do this.

One way is to sell your prints. Be present on social media, sell your images on stock sites and enter competitions. And these are only a few of our tips!

How To Sell Your Travel Photography

Of course, you have to start with having great photos. Then you have a lot of options, like selling them on stock sites or as prints.

You can even sell the images directly to clients, not as stock photos. You can even sell your stories, accompanying your photos.

How do you promote yourself efficiently? Read our article above for smart tips.

How to Post-Process Travel Images

How to optimise your travel photography editing workflow.

Travel photography can result in a lot of images. Sometimes it seems to be impossible to go through them.

You should back up everything and organise your images. One way to keep track of your photographs is to create a different Lightroom catalogue for each journey.

For other great workflow tips, read our article above.

Post-Processing Tips for Better Travel Images

Travel photography can require post-processing. You should start by choosing the best editing software.

Then go through the different stages of editing, from cropping to sharpening, noise reduction and adjusting contrast, highlights and shadows. You can even remove unwanted elements.

For the 10 best post-processing tips, take a look at our article here.

Simple Lightroom Tips for a Better Travel Photography Workflow

Lightroom is a popular software for post-processing. It hosts a great library system for effective image storing.

After importing your images, you can make use of the built-in map. It makes it easier to find the shots you are looking for.

Lightroom presets are also going to make your workflow faster. And you can even use Lightroom on your smartphone, to edit images on the go.

Photo Editing Tips for Travel Photography

Photographing in RAW will make editing your images more efficient and you’ll have better quality.

In the editing stage, adjust the colour temperature, the exposure, and add a bit of contrast. Adjust whites and blacks as well. Cropping and strengthening are also important.

The last step can be the removal of unwanted elements.

Best Free Lightroom Presets to Use

Adobe Lightroom presets are a great way to edit your photographs fast. You upload them to your Lightroom preset folder, and then use them as you wish.

They adjust your image at the click of a button. Exposure values, shadows, and highlights are a few modifications that could change due to the preset.

Others are more extensive, changing the tone and colours of an image to have a certain atmosphere.

Here are a few free presets for you to work with to get more from your images. If you need some help installing these presets, read our article above.

We are confident that this article provides you with all the education you need to become a professional travel photographer!

As you can see, travel photography is a versatile genre. It needs planning, research, organising skills, patience and knowing the ethics. Be aware of your surroundings and capture everything, but also make sure to enjoy your travels!

It may start as a hobby but you can make a lucrative career out of it. So, keep travelling and clicking!

Want to reach the world with your stunning travel photographs? Get organised. Check our ebook Organic Marketing for Photographers for time-tested smart tips on building a website, SEO, lead generation, pricing, sales, etc.

The Complete Guide to Travel Photography

By Megan Spurrell

As travelers, our cameras can feel like a fifth limb—an essential tool with which to move through the world and absorb new experiences. They make it possible to document the people we meet. They provide tangible memories of the remarkable beauty we travel so far to see. Ultimately, they help us communicate what words cannot.

In the digital era, the tie between travel and photography feels more innate than ever. Photography has become more accessible and affordable to dabble in (who even needs a real camera with phones these days? ). On the flip side, it can feel as if documenting and sharing our travel experiences has become half of the seeing itself. In her essay on pushing herself to take a photo-free trip , Allie Jones asks a question we can all relate to: “If you visit a trendy upstate New York museum and don’t take any photos, were you ever really there?”

As the routine of snapping and sharing becomes as habitual as rinse and repeat, others urge us to become more thoughtful with our travel photography. Just because we can photograph and share everything, in a matter of seconds, doesn’t mean we need to. In his feature, Tyler Moss explores the #nogeotag movement , and looks at just how our photo sharing can drastically alter a destination—and decide who gets to experience it. For professional photographers Gray Malin and Alex Strohl , the “how” of nailing their iconic travel photographs has relied more on patience, and analog techniques like driving massive props cross-country, or waiting for the perfect shot in sub-zero temps, than on any new developments.

And, just in case you were starting to let your Instagram feed convince you that you’ve seen it all, we’ve pulled in photo studies from photographers whose work we can’t help but ogle. Jessica Sarkodie shares a refreshing look at the unspoiled beaches of her native Ghana. Cedric Angeles flew to Mongolia for a peek inside the lives of the country’s famous eagle hunters (and yes, there are photos of the eagles in their hunting caps ahead). For Sandy Noto , photographing harvest season in the Dolomites while off-duty yielded gorgeous slices of life.

Of course, if you’re ready to step up your own game, we’ve also got the gear you need—from underwater cameras to camera bags that don’t look like camera bags. And, we’ve rounded up our favorite photographers to follow right now, because as much as we want to cut the social media umbilical cord, there is so much to admire there. You just need to know where to look.

Through the lens

Think before you shoot

Behind the scenes

The gear you need

Everything else you need to know

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Photography Explained Podcast

What is travel photography.

Hi, everybody. Welcome to Episode 38 of the Photography Explained Podcast. In this episode, what is travel photography?

I’m your host, Rick, and each week I will try to explain one photographic thing to you in plain English in less than 10 minutes without the irrelevant details. My aim is to explain things in just enough detail to help you and me with our photography, and no more.

I’m a professionally qualified photographer based in England with a lifetime of photographic experience, which I share with you on my podcast.

Yes, I’m on episode 38. And I’m still having to read that out. Anyway, this is a good one. One of my favourite things.

What is travel photography?

Travel photography is the art of capturing all aspects of a place to inspire others to go there. Travel photography captures and conveys the physical location, landscape, people, and culture. Travel photography educates people not able to visit a location by providing interesting and informative photographs that convey what a place is really like.

Travel photography should make you want to be in that place. This is what travel photography is to me. Okay, all my own words there.

I did have a look on Google to see how people define travel photography, and mine’s better, even if I do say so myself.

Anyway, travel photography is one of my favourite genres of photography. So I’m excited to talk about this in my podcast.

You can listen to the episode here

Or keep on reading. or do both. entirely up to you, 1 what is travel photography used for.

As with landscape photography, all sorts of publications and websites use travel photography – it is potentially anywhere you look. I mean, any photo you’ve seen on any holiday brochure, any travel magazine, or anything about travel really.

That’s travel photography.

Travel photography images are also used a lot in stock where there is a big, big demand these days for travel images. And if you go on Instagram, places like that, spoiler alert, I’ll get on to that later, you will see endless, wonderful examples of travel photography.

2 What is the difference between landscape photography, and travel photography

Now then, this is one of those things I had to think about for a bit. Landscape photography is about capturing the physical environment of a place. I’m using the word place because there are lots of other words you can use, but I’m trying to keep it simple and to the point, so place works for me.

Landscape photography is about capturing the physical environment of a place.

Travel photography is about capturing that plus the whole essence of a place. Travel photography is about capturing the physical environment, and also the soul and heart of a place.

As I said before, excellent travel photography makes you want to be there. That is the difference for me.

3 Why do I love travel photography?

It’s not a good enough answer. Of course, it’s not. Well, travel photography combines two of my favourite things which are travel and photography.

One of my favourite things to do on holiday is to get up early and photograph and video the sunrise. I do this on every holiday, not every morning but a couple of mornings in a two-week holiday is fine.

And what this has done, it’s got me out and I witness things that others do not. Quite often there’s nobody else there. It’s just me watching that sunrise.

Now if I wasn’t into my photography, I wouldn’t see these things. So it’s given me things to see on holiday that others don’t see. It also gets me out into less obvious places, rather than going to the obvious tourist locations.

I hire a car, drive off into the middle of nowhere, park up somewhere and go and wander. Very rarely do I see other people on my own travels.

No, I’m not a loner. I’m comfortable with my own space. So travel photography gives me freedom and exploration and a reason to do it.

4 Who do I take travel photos for?

Not strictly true. I have some other websites. Yes, more websites. More on this later.

5 Can you make a living from travel photography?

You can. And you could probably make a very good living from travel photography. But I would imagine it’s a very, very competitive space. It’s such a broad space, so many people doing it. As you’ll see on Instagram, the endless endless scrolling of amazing travel photographs is quite incredible.

6 Do you need specialist knowledge?

No, you do not. Anyone can do this. knowledge will help you, knowledge of taking photos, processing, the outdoors, and travel locations.

But more importantly, in my book, the determination to find new places as in, get off the beaten track, find new things, and photograph new things.

7 Do you need specialist gear?

No, you do not. Anyone can do this, I would recommend a lightweight camera, I use a Micro Four Thirds camera for my travel photography. And it’s fantastic. It’s an Olympus EM5 Mk 2. No, I’m not being paid to say that. I bought it. And I love it.

And that’s what I use to travel.

Another thing I would say is you don’t need specialist gear necessarily, but the right camera bag will make a massive difference. I use a backpack for my camera stuff, which I also use for hand luggage, funnily enough.

Again, not being paid to say this is – it is a Peak Design Everyday Backpack – had it for a few years and love it.

8 How’d you process travel photos?

With freedom and creativity. Do what you want to do. That’s something I love doing, having the freedom. Like I’ve said before, I love doing my commercial photography work. But when I get the chance to just process photos for myself in Lightroom I just love it.

It’s just great. It’s liberating it’s freedom. Do what you want. I’m sure I’ve said this before, but I’ll say it again no harm in it. I get a technically correct photo of something first. And then I, well, I might not always, but sometimes I will go and do something different something a bit funkier have a play, enjoy. But I get the good photo first.

9 How do I start as a travel photographer?

Go out and take photos. It can be where you live as well. Now when we think about travel photography, or maybe it’s just me, I think about that as being me being abroad.

But if you think about it, if I took some photos on my local beach, that’s travel photography, because not everybody lives where I do.

So why not? Travel photography can include where you are nothing wrong with that.

Okay. But as I said before, try to take different things. Don’t do the same as everybody else. Find your own little techniques, and compositions, and photograph things from different viewpoints.

And also share them everywhere. Get yourself and your photos out there in that mad world of Instagram, Pinterest, and all the other social media places of inspiration.

10 Do I need to be qualified?

Or do you need to be qualified? Depending on how you look at this? No, you do not.

11 A word from me about my travel photography.

Well, as it happens, I have two travel photography websites. One of them is called Photos of Santorini , which is quite literally a travel photography website where I write about the photos I took on this wonderful Greek island.

I also have Paxos Travel Guide (not pack sauce travel guide.com as the transcript heard it!) this is more of a travel guide than a photography guide. And I haven’t even managed to add on the photos, yet which is a shame, another job on my list.

But there you go.

That’s two travel websites I have already created. So as you can see, this is something that well, I don’t just love doing it. I have done it and done it a lot. And I also have lots of photos from lots of other fantastic locations which I’m very grateful for

Okay, a quick recap

My one-line summary. Great travel photography makes you want to be there. That is it for me.

So, what do I want you to do now?

1 Do this one thing.

Go out and take some travel photos. Try to convey the meaning of a place in one photo.

2 Let me know how you get on

On Twitter @rickphoto. Share a photo if you want. I’d love to see them.

3 Subscribe to my podcast.

If you enjoyed this episode. This helps me.

4 Rate and review my podcast.

Again, only if you enjoyed this episode. This also helps me.

5 Tell someone you know about my podcast. This also helps me very much.

Okay, next episode..

I’m going to learn to speak before the next episode where I’m going to try to do street photography. Now, I don’t know much about street photography, I don’t really know what it means – I tend to dismiss it, wrongly.

So I’m going to do some work on this one, which I’m going to do right after I finish recording this and then we’ll see what I find out and learn, which I’m looking forward to sharing with you.

Photography Explained Podcast Episode 39 – What Is Street Photography?

Thank you very much for listening to my small but perfectly formed podcast. Check out my website Rick McEvoy Photography where you can find out all about me and my architectural and construction photography work as well as my weekly blog .

And check out my other websites Photos of Santorini and Paxos Travel Guide . You can also check out the Photography Explained Podcast website where you can find out how to ask me a question, find a list of episodes, and also things I’m going to explain in future episodes.

Over time so badly

This episode was brought to you by a very nice cheese and pickle sandwich and a bag of cheese and onion crisps.

I’ve been Rick McEvoy. Thanks again very much for listening to me and for giving me 12 minutes of your valuable time. I’ll see you in the next episode.

Cheers from me Rick (not Eric as the transcript thinks!)

OK – that was the podcast episode.

Want to know more?

Head over to the Start page on the Photography Explained Podcast website to find out more.

And here is the list of episodes published to date – you can listen to any episode straight from this page which is nice.

Let me know if there is a photography thing that you want me to explain and I will add it to my list. Just head over to the This is my list of things to explain page of this website to see what is on there already.

Let me send you stuff

I send out a weekly email to my subscribers. It is my take on one photography thing, plus what I have been writing and talking about. Just fill in the box and you can get my weekly photographic musings straight to your inbox. Which is nice.

And finally a little bit about me

Finally, yes this paragraph is all about me – check out my Rick McEvoy Photography website to find out more about me and my architectural, construction, real estate and travel photography work. I also write about general photography stuff, all in plain English without the irrelevant detail.

Thanks for listening to my podcast (if you did) and reading this blog post (which I assume you have done as you are reading this).

Cheers from me Rick

Rick McEvoy

I am the creator of the Photography Explained podcast. I am a photographer, podcaster and blogger. I am professionally qualified in both photography and construction. I have over 30 years of photography expereience and specialise in architectural photography and construction photography.

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What is Travel Photography and Why is it Important?

What is Travel Photography?

When you think of travel photography, what comes to mind? Perhaps it’s the iconic shot of a lone traveler standing on the edge of a cliff, gazing out at a breathtaking view. Or maybe it’s the candid photo of a family laughing and playing in the surf. Whatever it is, travel photography is a genre of photography that captures the essence of travel – the people, the places, and the experiences that make travel so special.

In this article, we’ll explore what travel photography is, why it’s so popular, and how you can get started taking your own amazing travel photos. We’ll also provide tips on how to improve your travel photography skills, and share some of our favorite travel photography examples. So whether you’re a seasoned traveler or you’re just starting to plan your next trip, read on for everything you need to know about travel photography!

Travel photography is a genre of photography that captures the people, places, and cultures of the world. It is a way to document and share travel experiences with others, and it can also be a form of artistic expression.

Travel photography has a long and rich history, dating back to the early days of photography. In the 19th century, photographers such as William Henry Fox Talbot and Julia Margaret Cameron traveled the world, capturing images of the people and places they encountered. In the 20th century, travel photography became increasingly popular, as more and more people began to travel for pleasure.

Today, travel photography is a major part of the photography industry. There are many travel photography competitions and magazines, and there are also a number of online resources dedicated to the genre.

History of Travel Photography

The origins of travel photography can be traced back to the early days of photography. In the 1830s, William Henry Fox Talbot invented the calotype process, which made it possible to produce multiple copies of a photograph. This made photography more accessible and affordable, and it led to a surge in interest in travel photography.

In the 19th century, photographers such as William Henry Fox Talbot and Julia Margaret Cameron traveled the world, capturing images of the people and places they encountered. These images were often used to document the cultures and customs of far-off lands.

In the 20th century, travel photography became increasingly popular, as more and more people began to travel for pleasure. In the early days of air travel, photographers would often document their journeys by taking photographs of the people and places they visited.

In the 1950s and 1960s, travel photography became increasingly artistic. Photographers such as Henri Cartier-Bresson and Robert Frank used travel photography to explore the human condition and to document the social and political changes of the time.

In the 1970s and 1980s, travel photography became more commercial. Photographers began to work for travel magazines and tourism boards, and they produced images that were designed to promote travel destinations.

In the 1990s and 2000s, travel photography became increasingly digital. With the advent of digital cameras, photographers were able to take high-quality photographs without the need for bulky film cameras and darkrooms. This made travel photography more accessible than ever before, and it led to a surge in the popularity of the genre.

Development of Travel Photography in the 20th Century

The 20th century saw a dramatic increase in the popularity of travel photography. This was due to a number of factors, including the rise of mass tourism, the development of new photographic technologies, and the increasing importance of visual media in society.

The rise of mass tourism

In the early 20th century, travel became increasingly affordable and accessible for people from all walks of life. This led to a boom in the travel industry, and it also led to a surge in the popularity of travel photography.

The development of new photographic technologies

The development of new photographic technologies also played a role in the increasing popularity of travel photography. In the early days of photography, cameras were bulky and expensive, and they required a lot of technical knowledge to use. However, by the mid-20th century, cameras had become much smaller and more affordable, and they were easier to use. This made it possible for more people to take photographs of their travels, and it also led to a new level of creativity in travel photography.

The increasing importance of visual media in society

The increasing importance of visual media in society also played a role in the increasing popularity of travel photography. In the early 20th century, photography was still a relatively new medium, but by the mid-century it had become an essential part of journalism, advertising, and entertainment. This meant that there was a growing demand for travel photographs, and it also led to a new level of awareness of the power of photography to communicate ideas and emotions.

The rise of digital travel photography

The 21st century has seen the rise of digital travel photography. Digital cameras have revolutionized the way that photographs are taken, processed, and shared. This has made it possible for anyone to take high-quality photographs, and it has also made it easier to share photographs with others.

Digital travel photography has also led to a new level of creativity in the genre. Photographers are now able to experiment with different techniques and styles, and they are able to share their work with a wider audience than ever before.

**Elements of Travel Photography

What Is Travel Photography?

Travel photography is a genre of photography that captures the people, places, and experiences of travel. It can be used to document a journey, share a story, or simply capture a moment in time.

Travel photography can be done anywhere in the world, and it can be as simple or as complex as you want it to be. Whether you’re taking photos of iconic landmarks, local street scenes, or the people you meet along the way, travel photography is a great way to capture the beauty and wonder of the world.

Types of Travel Photography

There are many different types of travel photography, and the type of photography you choose to do will depend on your interests and goals. Some of the most popular types of travel photography include:

• Landscape photography: This type of photography focuses on capturing the natural beauty of a location. Landscape photographers often use wide-angle lenses to capture sweeping vistas and dramatic landscapes.
• Street photography: This type of photography captures the everyday life of people in a particular location. Street photographers often use candid photography to capture moments that are both spontaneous and revealing.
• Portrait photography: This type of photography focuses on capturing the likeness of a person or group of people. Portrait photographers often use studio lighting and flattering poses to create images that are both stylish and memorable.
• Documentary photography: This type of photography documents a particular event or journey. Documentary photographers often use a photojournalistic approach to capture images that are both informative and engaging.

Techniques for Travel Photography

There are a number of techniques that can be used to improve your travel photography. Some of the most important techniques include:

• Using a tripod: A tripod can help you to take sharp photos in low-light conditions and avoid camera shake.
• Using a wide-angle lens: A wide-angle lens can help you to capture sweeping vistas and dramatic landscapes.
• Using a telephoto lens: A telephoto lens can help you to isolate subjects and create a sense of depth.
• Using a flash: A flash can help you to illuminate subjects in low-light conditions.

Tips for Travel Photography

In addition to the techniques listed above, there are a few other tips that can help you to improve your travel photography:

• Plan your trip: Before you leave on your trip, do some research to identify the places you want to photograph. This will help you to make the most of your time and ensure that you don’t miss any of the best photo opportunities.
• Be prepared for anything: When you’re traveling, you never know what’s going to happen. Be prepared for anything, from changing weather conditions to unexpected delays. This will help you to stay calm and focused, even when things don’t go according to plan.
• Get up early and stay late: The best light for photography is often early in the morning and late in the evening. If you’re willing to get up before the sun rises and stay out after it sets, you’ll be rewarded with some of the most stunning photos of your trip.
• Talk to locals: One of the best ways to learn about a new place is to talk to the locals. They can tell you about the hidden gems, the best places to eat, and the best times to visit. They can also give you some great tips on photography.
• Share your photos: Once you’ve taken some great photos, share them with the world! Post them on social media, share them with your friends and family, or submit them to a photography contest. Sharing your photos is a great way to connect with other photographers and inspire others to travel.

In addition to the tips listed above, there are a number of specific techniques that can be used to improve your travel photography. Some of the most important techniques include:

• Using a tripod: A tripod can help you to take sharp photos in low-light conditions and avoid camera shake. When using a tripod, make sure that it is stable and level. You may also want to use a remote shutter release to avoid camera shake.
• Using a wide-angle lens: A wide-angle lens can help you to capture sweeping vistas and dramatic landscapes. When using a wide-angle lens, be careful not to let your foreground elements overwhelm your subject. You may also want to use a polarizing filter to reduce glare and improve contrast.
• Using a telephoto lens: A telephoto lens can help you to isolate subjects and create a sense of depth. When using a telephoto lens, be careful not to let your subject become too small in the frame. You may also want to use a tripod to avoid camera shake.

Travel photography is the art of capturing the beauty and wonder of travel experiences through photographs. It can be a way to document your own journeys, share your experiences with others, or simply create beautiful images that can be enjoyed for years to come.

What are the different types of travel photography?

There are many different types of travel photography, each with its own unique set of challenges and rewards. Some of the most popular types of travel photography include:

• Landscape photography: Capturing the beauty of natural landscapes is a popular type of travel photography. This can involve photographing mountains, forests, beaches, deserts, and other natural wonders.
• Cityscape photography: Capturing the sights and sounds of a city is another popular type of travel photography. This can involve photographing city streets, landmarks, and other urban features.
• Street photography: Capturing candid moments of everyday life is a type of travel photography that can be both challenging and rewarding. This can involve photographing people, animals, and other everyday scenes.
• Cultural photography: Capturing the unique cultures of different countries and regions is a type of travel photography that can help to promote understanding and appreciation between cultures. This can involve photographing people, traditions, and other cultural aspects.

What are the essential elements of good travel photography?

There are a few essential elements that all good travel photography should have:

• Composition: The composition of a photograph is the arrangement of the elements within the frame. A well-composed photograph will have a strong sense of balance and visual interest.
• Lighting: The lighting in a photograph can make or break the image. Good lighting can help to create a sense of atmosphere and mood, and can also help to highlight the subject matter.
• Focus: The focus of a photograph is the area of the image that is sharpest. A well-focused photograph will have a clear and sharp subject, while the rest of the image will be blurred.
• Exposure: The exposure of a photograph is the amount of light that is recorded by the camera sensor. A well-exposed photograph will have a good balance between highlights and shadows, and will not be too dark or too light.
• Post-processing: Post-processing is the process of editing and enhancing a photograph after it has been taken. This can involve cropping, adjusting the exposure and white balance, adding filters, and other effects.

What are some tips for taking great travel photographs?

Here are a few tips for taking great travel photographs:

• Plan your shots in advance. Before you set out on your trip, take some time to think about the types of photographs you want to take. This will help you to focus your efforts and make the most of your time.
• Be aware of your surroundings. When you’re out taking photographs, be aware of the people, animals, and other elements in your surroundings. This will help you to avoid taking photos that are cluttered or distracting.
• Experiment with different perspectives. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different perspectives when taking photographs. This can involve shooting from different angles, using different lenses, and getting close to your subject matter.
• Take your time. Don’t rush through taking your photographs. Take your time to compose your shots and make sure that you’re happy with the results.
• Have fun! The most important thing is to have fun taking your photographs. If you’re enjoying yourself, your photos will be more likely to turn out great.

What are some common mistakes to avoid when taking travel photographs?

Here are a few common mistakes to avoid when taking travel photographs:

• Taking too many photos. It’s easy to get carried away when taking photographs on vacation, but it’s important to remember that quality is more important than quantity. Don’t take so many photos that you end up with a lot of blurry, poorly composed images.
• Using the wrong settings. Make sure that you understand the settings on your camera before you start taking pictures. This will help you to avoid taking photos that are too dark, too light, or out of focus.
• Not paying attention to the background. The background of your photographs can be just as important as the subject matter. Make sure that the background is clean and uncluttered, and that it doesn’t distract from the subject of your photograph.
• Not editing your photos. Post-processing is an important part of the photography process. Take some time to edit your photos after you’ve taken them to improve the quality and make them more visually appealing.

Where can I learn more about travel photography?

There are many

travel photography is a genre of photography that captures the essence of a place and its people. It can be used to document a journey, share a story, or simply evoke a sense of wanderlust. Whether you’re a professional photographer or just an amateur with a camera, travel photography is a great way to explore the world and share your experiences with others.

Here are some key takeaways from the article:

• Travel photography is about more than just taking pictures. It’s about capturing the essence of a place and its people.
• There are many different ways to approach travel photography. You can document your journey, share a story, or simply evoke a sense of wanderlust.
• No matter how you approach it, travel photography is a great way to explore the world and share your experiences with others.

So next time you’re planning a trip, don’t forget to bring your camera! You might just capture some amazing images that will last a lifetime.

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TRAVEL PHOTOGRAPHY A Journey Into The Realm of Light

There’s nothing we cherish more than our travels and if we had only one thing to say about travel photography it would be this: travel photography is the best way to capture our wanderful moments to eternity and use these memories to warm up our hearts even in the darkest of times.

Although Maria is our website’s main writer, photography-related pages and posts are researched, drafted and revised by Katerina . All Maria does is edit and proofread the copy before it goes live.

Some of the links on this page are affiliate ones. This means that if you click through them to make a purchase, we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Learn more .

What Is Travel Photography

Photography (Φωτογραφία in Greek) is a compound of the Greek words φως (light) and γράφω (write or draw). Wikipedia defines photography as the art, application, and practice of creating durable images by recording light . It’s crazy to think that all we see when we look at photos is light. Crazy yet fascinating.

If we tried to give a definition of travel photography, it would be something along these lines: travel photography is the documentation of all those components that make up any given destination. These include the landscape, both natural and human-made, the people, the culture, the food, and, ultimately, the very history of this place.

Of course, tourism photography is part of the travel photography genre, too. It focuses on shooting hotels, resorts, restaurants, and any other businesses in the tourism industry.

“Photography is a form of time travel.” — Neil deGrasse Tyson

About Travel Photography As a Genre

Travel photography is the broadest photography genre in terms of all the different subjects it covers. It encompasses numerous other areas of photography, such as street, landscape, or architecture photography. This is why it takes a lot more than mere photographic knowledge to excel as a travel photographer.

A good travel photographer must be flexible, well-organised and outgoing. Flexible to adapt to time-related challenges (e.g. waking up early, staying up late). Well-organised to plan photographic trips to the last detail. Outgoing because, well, you can go a long way with a smile if you plan to, say, take portraits of total strangers in faraway lands. Learning a foreign language or three wouldn’t hurt either.

However, there’s something unique about travel photography that makes it stand out from all other photography genres. The purpose of travel photography goes beyond just shooting a spectacular image. Travel photography is a means to tell a story, to inspire, and, above all, to educate people on the diversity of our beautiful world.

Top 5 Travel Photography Tips

In the last decades, many factors have conduced to travel being accessible to more and more people. As a result, travel photography isn’t appealing to professional photographers alone. Pretty much everyone who suffers from wanderlust is keen to perfect their skills in travel photography. Here’s a handful of simple tips on travel photography to help you up your photography game.

1. Research Your Location

Your photographic trips should begin well before you even reach your destination. No matter if you are an amateur or a professional photographer, researching your location is vital if you want to snap those epic shots you’ve always dreamt of. Either you are on holidays or specifically travel for photography, a brilliant idea to help you keep track of all the places you want to visit is to create a personal map (e.g. with Google Maps ) with all the points of interest you want to shoot.

Equally important is to know in advance the best time to visit the photography locations on your list. For example, some places are best enjoyed at sunset, while others should be visited at dawn to avoid the crowds. Do your homework and adjust your day-to-day schedule accordingly.

2. Choose Your Gear Wisely & Learn How To Use It

Even if you’ve decided that you want to invest time and money in travel photography, you shouldn’t buy the most expensive gear right from the start. That’s because you may eventually realise that travel photography isn’t for you after all. Furthermore, it will be easier for you to master the basics of shooting while using entry-level equipment.

Start with an entry-level DSLR or mirrorless camera and keep practising until you’re confident with using the manual mode. Let’s be honest here. There’s no reason why you should spend so much money on a camera if you’re planning to use the Auto settings alone. You’d be better off with a good smartphone if that’s the case. Moreover, always shoot RAW, as it allows you to edit your images afterwards.

Once you know your camera well, start flirting with the various lenses you can buy to achieve diverse results. For instance, with a wide-angle lens, you will be amazed at how an entire village can be squeezed in a single frame. Or, perhaps, you’d like to experiment with a telephoto lens, especially if you are into wildlife photography. The possibilities are endless. It all comes down to your preferences and budget.

If after a certain time you’re still hooked on travel photography, you can start buying other accessories, too. These may include tripods, extra batteries, a flash, or even a drone. At some point, you will know that it’s time to upgrade your camera, too.

3. Keep Practising & Be Patient

If there’s one thing about travel photography that you must always remember, it’s this: you need to practise, practise and then practise a bit more.

Don’t wait until next time you travel to test your camera and its functions. Go on a photography trip around your neighbourhood and start shooting. Shoot indoors and shoot outdoors. Shoot in bright sunlight, shoot in low light, and shoot at night. Hold your camera and shoot, use your tripod and shoot. In a nutshell, play around with all of your camera’s settings and functions (on manual mode, don’t cheat).

Once you come to terms with the importance of practice, it’s time to embrace patience, too. You can’t expect to learn everything in one go. You must invest a lot of time to finally be able to shoot superb travel images.

Furthermore, photography can be a waiting game. Very often, you will find yourselves waiting for the right time to take the perfect shot. It may be the exact moment when the sun dives into the sea or when the high tide comes. Also, bear in mind that weather conditions won’t always be in your favour while waiting. So, it takes a lot of determination, but most of all, patience to make it as travel photographers.

4. Always Carry Your Camera With You

You’ve spent an entire day out shooting and now you feel it’s time you left your camera at the hotel room to go have dinner and maybe enjoy a drink or three. You’re right about the food and drinks part but think twice before you leave your camera behind. Why not experiment with night photography while taking your (probably much-needed) post-dinner stroll?

No matter how well you’ve planned your trip, you never know when an exceptional opportunity arises for a shot you won’t want to miss. It’s better to carry your camera and never take it out of your bag than to leave it behind and regret not capturing that perfect moment in time that unfolded before your eyes and then vanished for ever.

5. Respect Locals & Wildlife

Whether you’re travelling within your country or abroad, you should always respect the locals. Under no circumstances should you make anyone feel uncomfortable for the sake of snapping the perfect shot. Not even a one-billion shot is worth making another person feel uneasy. If you’re dying to take a close-up of locals (and, especially, their children) or shoot during a local event, always ask for permission first.

Similarly, you should be mindful of animals and their well-being at all times. If you’re planning to shoot wildlife, you must always keep a safe distance and avoid any noises or movements that may disturb the animals. This is when a telephoto lens comes handy. On a lighter note, you can get as close as you want to super cuddly kittens or puppies who are willing to pose for you. Just make sure you reward them with a hug and/or a treat after the photoshoot.

From Hobby To Dream Job: How To Become a Professional Travel Photographer

Making a living out of your passion is certainly the dream. That holds for many travel photography enthusiasts who pursue a career in this field. There are several factors in play when it comes to becoming a professional travel photographer. Here’s a list of the five most important steps to take if you’re after a career in travel photography:

• Understand that professional travel photography is all about commitment and hard work. Therefore, make sure you are genuinely passionate about it before taking any further steps in this direction.
• Learn photography. Attend travel photography courses, classes, and workshops. Watch tutorials, read travel photography books, and practise a lot.
• Create a portfolio to showcase your work to potential clients.
• Network and collaborate with photographers around the world and other content creators. Attend conferences and similar events to get in touch with travel brands and tourism boards.
• Remember that competition is hard. Be ready to step out of your comfort zone when pitching yourself for travel photography jobs.

“I love photography, I love food, and I love traveling, and to put those three things together would just be the ultimate dream.” — Jamie Chung

My Journey As a Professional Travel Photographer

Now a professional travel photographer, I started like any other traveller who wanted a few photos as keepsakes from our travels. I always liked photography but I needed a purpose to take it more seriously. When we started this website back in 2018, I found my purpose.

As our travels became more frequent and our website grew into a business, it was time we invested in good travel photography gear. It was then that I took the plunge and bought my first DSLR camera. From that point onwards, there was no looking back. I had found my true calling and I was hooked for life.

At first, I was into landscape travel photography alone, but I soon discovered the endless possibilities of travel photography. I studied a lot. From reading books and registering for online courses to watching video tutorials, attending photography classes and joining photography clubs, I never stopped expanding my photography skills and knowledge.

I patiently learnt the techniques of travel photography and I practised a lot. I still do. Learning about travel photography is an ongoing process. One that never fails to excite those who’ve chosen to be initiated to its secrets.

At some point, I inevitably started exploring the magical world of video, too. During the 2020 lockdowns, I found myself with a bit of extra time in my hands. Therefore, I dedicated most of it to learn the secrets of video-making and YouTube. After that, the sky was the limit. Or not? Soon, aerial photography won me over and I added a drone to my travel photography equipment.

I now work as a professional travel photographer, but it’s not just a job for me. Travel photography still is and always will be my life’s passion.

“Photographing is an emotional thing, a graceful thing. Photography allows me to wander with a purpose.” — Leonard Freed

Essential Travel Photography Gear: What’s in My Camera Bag

• Main Camera Body: Sony α7 III with 35-mm Full-Frame Image Sensor After months of tormenting thoughts and endless sleepless nights watching YouTube reviews and tutorials, I finally gave an end to two of the most haunting dilemmas I ever faced: 1. DSLR or Mirrorless? At first, I hated the idea of turning my back to DSLR cameras and entering the world of mirrorless technology. In the end, I saw the benefits of mirrorless cameras for travel photography. They’re way lighter and more compact than DSLR cameras. 2. Nikon or Sony? Once I decided to upgrade to a full-frame mirrorless camera, another dilemma started messing with my head. As a purist, I couldn’t imagine investing in any other camera brand than Nikon . However, after much thought, I succumbed to the siren call of the dark side and went for a Sony instead. I’m happy I did so and never looked back ever since. Featuring 4K video, fantastic focusing and impressive battery-life, the Sony α7 III is the camera I chose for being one of the best travel photography cameras in my budget for both photography and video.
• Camera Lens: Tamron 28-75mm f/2.8 Di III RXD Sony E-mount This all-in-one zoom lens has the ideal focal length range for travel photography, it’s lightweight and, most of all, quite affordable.
• Lens Filters: 1. Hoya UV Filter 67mm for protection. 2. Hoya Variable ND Filter 67mm for cinematic video and long exposure shots.
• Backup Camera For Video: DJI Osmo Pocket That’s hands down the best handheld camera for travel video out there. With exceptional 4K video and offering the simplest way to shoot motion lapse and time lapse, the DJI Osmo Pocket is a fantastic video camera that literally fits in your pocket. Most of all, it’s very easy to use. It’s the only piece of my travel photography equipment that Maria is allowed (and often assigned) to use.
• Drone: DJI Mini 2 Fly More Combo When I decided to buy a drone, I went for the DJI Mini 2 instead of a fancier one for two reasons. First, I considered it prudent to test my flying skills on a drone that wouldn’t cost a fortune. Secondly, I wanted to make sure I genuinely liked aerial photography before investing in one of the most expensive drones for travel photography. With 4K video and the option to shoot RAW, the DJI Mini 2 is great value for money. Especially if you buy the combo, which comes with two extra batteries, a stylish bag and lots of other goodies. I enjoy flying the DJI Mini 2 immensely. That’s probably because my feet never stop touching the ground. At last, I can admire spectacular views from above without all the negative emotions I get from my fear of flying when travelling by plane.
• Travel Camera Backpack: Thule Aspect DSLR Backpack I had been looking for a while for a travel backpack that would fit all my travel photography gear, my laptop and my personal items. While I researched, finding travel photography bags to love was the easy part. Finding one that wouldn’t break the bank was the hard part. The Thule Aspect ticks all my boxes and comes at a very reasonable price for what it offers.
• Small Camera Backpack: Benro Swift 100 That’s actually my first-ever travel photography backpack and it’s still my number one choice when I don’t need to carry all my equipment around.
• Travel Tripods: 1. Manfrotto Befree Advanced Alpha Travel Tripod This reliable travel tripod that features maximum stability and easy set-up is the best travel photography tripod you can buy without spending a fortune. 2. Manfrotto Pixi Mini Tripod Fitting literally in my pocket, I’m happy to carry this super lightweight tripod with me at all times. 3. Xiaomi Mi Selfie Stick Tripod This was bought as a mere selfie stick but it comes really handy when shooting a time lapse or motion lapse with the DJI Osmo Pocket.
• External Microphone: Rode VideoMicro When I was just starting with video, I needed an affordable and compact camera microphone to minimise noise interference when used outdoors. The Rode VideoMicro does the job just fine.
• Cleaning Kit : Trivial though it may sound, a cleaning kit for your camera lenses is of the utmost importance and it’s a purchase you should make right from the start. When it comes to cleaning kits, the sky’s the limit. I make sure the cleaning kits I buy include microfibre cleaning cloths, a cleaning pen and an air blower.
• Memory Cards : Shooting RAW and video means that I always carry several fast memory cards with me.
• Portable Hard Drives : I use fast SSD hard drives to store my images and video footage.
• Spare Batteries: There’s nothing I fear more than running out of battery in the middle of a photo shoot. That’s why I’m obsessed with having spare batteries for my camera and drone handy at all times. Fun fact: When I went to the camera store to buy the Sony α7 III, the guy at the counter told me that I wouldn’t need to buy a second battery for it. I ignored him and bought a spare battery anyway. Soon I realised that he was right. However, I have no regrets. It turns out that peace of mind can be bought after all.

Check out our minimalist photography gear list here!

What’s So Important About Travel Photography

As one of the most famous travel quotes goes, travel is the only thing you buy that makes you richer . Therefore, who’d want to let these precious memories go to waste? The importance of travel photography lies in its superpower to revoke those memories long after the smells, sounds and tastes that accompany them have worn off.

However, travel photography isn’t just about helping travellers keep the memories of their past trips alive. It’s about showing the world to people who haven’t travelled as far and wide as they’d like.

Not everyone has the privilege to travel as much as their heart desires. Travel photography has the noble mission of communicating the most exotic feelings to these people, making them travel with their minds and souls and inspiring them to roam the world if and when their circumstances allow it.

Last but certainly not least, the absolutely most significant thing about travel photography is that it’s the next most powerful tool in the fight against intolerance, second only to travel itself.

As a means to get a glimpse of cultures and people in faraway lands, this superior form of art can bridge the imaginary gaps that exist between people. It can provide proof that our world is a stunningly diverse wonder. Ultimately, it can teach people that there’s nothing wrong with being different. From North to South and from East to West, travel photography captures fleeting – yet meant to become timeless – moments in the lives of people from all four corners of the globe.

At the end of the day, it makes no difference if the light that goes through our camera’s shutter records joyful or sorrowful scenes. What matters is that it takes but a look at these travel photos to know that the light shines as bright on all of us, regardless of skin colour, age, or gender. And this is what we love about travel photography the most.

“Photography can light up darkness and expose ignorance.” — Lewis Hine

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Have a passion for travel photography but not sure how to take it further? This post covers careers, what gear is best, and tips for improving!

Learn | Photography Guides | By Ashley Darrow

Travel photography is one of the most exciting styles of photography, but it can also be one of the most intimidating to get started with.

I’m at my most inspired as a photographer when I’m on the road.

Even when I’m not headed to an exciting new location, I’ve started to think about all of my photography from the standpoint of travel.

This guide is going to give you everything you need to know to get started with travel photography.

I’ll be covering everything from the basics, to the equipment you need, to 20 travel photography tips that will improve how you approach taking photos.

When you’re ready to hit the road, we’ll start our adventure with some travel photography 101.

Table of Contents

What Is Travel Photography?

Defining travel photography can be a little bit challenging as this is one of the most open and free categories of photography.

In general, travel photography involves documenting people, landscapes, and cultures anywhere in the world.

Your travel photography counts whether you have to hike for thousands of miles or you took a 10-minute bus ride from your home.

Travel photography can be done by career professionals working for major magazines like National Geographic or it can be done as part-time freelance work.

Many travel photographers make their money by taking contract work from tourism departments or brands looking for product photography shot on location.

Travel photographers often find themselves working in challenging conditions. There’s a good chance that you’re going to be snapping pics in low light conditions , rough weather, or even half a world away from the comfort of your own bed.

•  Related: 77 useful travel tips for photographers

What Does Travel Photography Include?

Image Credit: Sam Forson

Travel photography incorporates countless different styles.

Travel photographers often take landscape photographs, architectural photographs , as well as street photography. It’s also common to see food photography and documentary work being done by travel photographers.

As a travel photographer, your goal is to capture and express the story of a particular time and place. You’ll be giving people a taste of what’s happening in the moment while you’re in a particular location.

How Much Do Travel Photographers Make?

Travel photography is made up of a wide range of styles, but it’s also made up of a wide range of pay rates.

If you’re lucky enough to land a staff photography job with a major magazine, you could wind up with a six-figure salary. However, freelance travel photographers can make as little as around $18,000 a year.

Beginner travel photographers often make even less than that as they start to piece together their career.

Part of your pay as a travel photographer will come in the form of comped travel expenses. It’s pretty common for travel photographers to take a job with a tourism department that includes free transportation and lodging as part of their payment.

Is travel photography in demand?

Travel photography is in high demand.

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This demand is being driven by tourism departments, brands looking for more engaged lifestyle photography , and the rise of social media making travel photography a viable path for a content creator.

There are more people taking travel photos than ever before which means that you’re also going to have a lot more competition despite there being more job openings.

How Do I Become a Travel Photographer?

Image Credit: Kamaji Ogino

Becoming a travel photographer is pretty similar to how you would start up almost any photography career.

If you’re a total beginner, you want to start by mastering the craft of working behind the camera. This means learning how to stay in control of your exposure, frame captivating shots, and just get comfortable taking pictures wherever you go.

Here’s a basic outline of the steps you’ll take to start your travel photography career.

• Learn your photography basics
• Identify your travel photography niches
• Build your portfolio
• Grow a social media presence
• Begin reaching out to clients
• Publish your photography
• Grow your business by reaching out to bigger clients
• Continue to promote your work
• Have fun traveling!

I should note that plenty of travel photographers also crowdfund parts of their career.

Building a presence on social media sites like YouTube and connecting that to your crowdfunding platform of choice is a great way to bring in some additional money.

What Equipment is Needed for Travel Photography?

Image Credit: Hiren Lad

In all my years of photography, the one thing I’ve learned is that if there’s anything photographers love nearly as much as taking pictures, it’s talking about their gear.

Whether you see this equipment as the tools of your trade or the raw materials of your art, you’re going to need some equipment to get started with travel photography.

I’m going to cover the standard gear that most travel photographers will gravitate towards, but I’ll also be talking about different setups for film photographers and mobile photography.

I’m going to kick things off with the absolute must: a camera.

You’re not going to get very far in your career as a Travel Photographer without a camera. I’m being a little silly here, but it’s not just as simple as picking up any random mirrorless camera for travel blogging .

So, what camera is best for travel photography?

The absolute best cameras for travel photography are going to be, no surprises here, the latest mirrorless releases from the big-name brands like Sony, Camera, and Nikon.

Those cameras are packed full of the latest features and offer some of the best image quality.

You can also get amazing results, and save money, by picking up older cameras. My Sony a7s II is still my main camera body and my Canon 5D Classic, which was released way back in 2005, still takes pictures that get people asking me “How did you do that?”

You don’t need to spend a lot of money on your travel photography camera. A skilled photographer will be able to take amazing pictures using a point and shoot digital camera from the 90s. It’s craft that makes the photographer, not gear.

Travel photography can also be done with your smartphone. There are plenty of professional photographers out there primarily shooting on smartphones.

I also want to highlight film cameras. Film is the historic origin of our art form. Any film camera from a toy lomography camera to a professional large format camera can help us see our travels in a new way.

With all of that said, there are a few important features that you should look for in a travel photography camera.

• Weather sealed designs are much more important when you’re trekking through unknown territory than when you’re at home in the studio
• Your camera should also be ready for the road. Just like your car, you should take your camera in for a tune-up before a long trip
• Double-check for the specs that matter most to you. For me, that’s low-light performance and color science

Your camera is only half the equation which means we need to take a look at the lenses that will be going on this journey with you.

• Related: How to choose a camera and what is the best camera for travel photography?

I bet you’re wondering which lens is best for travel photography? You don’t need to worry, I’ll walk you through my top pics for a travel lens whether you’re shooting on a brand-new Sony mirrorless camera or you plan on taking a Canon 5D Classic on the road.

The first place you need to start is by asking yourself the most essential question in photography: What types of pictures do I plan on taking?

Here’s a quick breakdown of my recommendations for travel photography lenses based on my experience for a variety of photographic styles and budgets.

• Standard Zoom Lens —A standard zoom lens like the classic 24 to 70mm is the go-to travel lens for so many photographers I know. This lens easily handles street photographs, landscapes, and portraits. Pick this to make a flexible one-lens kit
• Wide Angle Zoom Lens —Wide angle zooms are better suited for photographers who know they’ll be shooting landscapes and architecture. If your wide angle zoom goes up to 35mm, then you can even get away with using that as your every-day lens
• Wide to Telephoto—These lenses have focal length ranges like 24 to 105mm. They are usually affordable alternatives to pro-level lenses that can still capture stunning images. You’ll want this lens if your main concerns are budget and stylistic flexibility 
• Telephoto Zoom Lenses —These massive lenses typically top out at 200mm or 400mm focal lengths and are ideal for wildlife, bird, and sports photography. Their size, weight, and cost make them less flexible than other options, but these lenses are a must-have for photographers interested in the styles I just mentioned
• Pancakes and Nifty Fifties —Pancakes lenses have such a small profile they double as a body cap while the iconic Nifty Fifty is a budget 50mm with a huge fanbase. These lenses are perfect for photogs who want to stay ultralight or for anyone who wants an emergency backup lens.
• THAT lens —We all have a lens that, despite never getting much use, we just can’t seem to leave at home. Mine is the Helios 44-2. I take that lens on pretty much every trip even if it doesn’t get much use. Allow yourself a little room for that “fun” lens and you might be surprised by how much use it gets over time

I always have at least two lenses on me when I’m traveling—just in case.

I once dropped an expensive prime lens and watched it roll off the edge of a mountain in the desert. Luckily, I had a pancake lens in my bag so the photography trip wasn’t a total loss.

Ever since then, not only do I treat each of my lenses with the utmost care, but I also make sure but I’ve got backup options on hand.

• Related: How to choose a camera lens

Travel Photography Bag

Just like with lenses and camera bodies, you have a few options to consider when it comes to picking the right travel bag for your next adventure.

Before I get too far into talking about camera bags, here’s the five things I always consider when I’m packing a bag for my next trip.

• Camera Bag Size —Size is one of the most important things to look at when shopping for a new travel photography bag. You want to find a bag that’s going to comfortably fit all of your equipment without causing too much strain on your back. Sling bags are great for days out in the city with light gear, but you should look for a comfortable backpack if you plan on covering some serious distance with your gear
• Pack Weight —Here’s a quick piece of advice I picked up from hiking. Your maximum pack weight should only ever be 20% of your total body weight. This means that if you weigh 200 lb, the heaviest your camera bag should ever be is 40 lb. The lighter, the better
• Features —There are some features that I consider an absolute must have in any of my travel camera bags including rugged build quality, plenty of padding and protection for my gear, and easy access to at least my main camera body and lens so I can shoot on the fly
• Style —You could buy the most technically perfect travel camera bag, but if you don’t actually like the way it looks you’re never going to take it on a trip. I definitely believe that form should be second to function when it comes to camera bags, but I’d also be lying if I said it wasn’t a huge factor in my camera bag purchasing decisions
• Your Gear —Your gear is actually going to dictate the type of bag that you’ll be looking for. A travel photographer shooting on a Leica Q2 can get away with a much smaller bag than a photographer shooting with a Canon 1DX

I also typically bring a packable backpack with me as part of my kit. This could be a really lightweight sling bag or something like the Lowepro Runabout.

This lets me leave the bulk of my gear at my hotel when I just want to have a quick trip around a new city taking pictures.

• Related: How to choose a camera bag

Tripods for Travel Photography 

Tripods are an interesting—and somewhat contested—piece of the travel photography puzzle. I never used to take a tripod with me while traveling and that’s because most of my photography was shot street style which means lightweight and handheld.

However, the more I get into film photography and more interesting exposures, the more I find myself relying on my travel tripod.

My absolute number one pick for an adventure tripod would have to be the Peak Design Travel Tripod . It’s fairly lightweight, intelligently designed, and packs down small enough to fit in most of my bags.

Depending on the type of photography you’re looking to capture, you can also use tripods like a gorilla pod or even just take the tripod you have—even though it might be a little larger and heavier than would be ideal for travel.

This roundup of the 7 best travel tripods is a great place to get started if you’re shopping for something designed for the road.

Do I Need a Tripod for Travel Photography?

I’m going to dig into this mild controversy for just a moment. The question of whether or not you need a travel tripod to begin with is the source of some debate for photographers.

Honestly, the answer is maybe. It really depends on the type of pictures that you’re hoping to capture and your personal style as a photographer.

If you like to run and gun while capturing slices of life on busy city streets, you probably don’t need to bring a tripod with you.

Styles of photography that are highly mobile and rely on fast composition changes typically ditch the added stabilization that a tripod brings because it just slows them down too much.

Tripods might also not work for certain events and organizations. Trying to set up a tripod during a rock concert is a recipe for disaster and some museums won’t even let you bring in a tripod unless you pay their professional photography fees.

Then again, there are a few types of photography that absolutely need a tripod in order to work. Long exposures, shooting in dimly lit situations, and using some telephoto zoom lenses pretty much mandate shooting on a tripod.

The long and short of this is that owning a tripod and learning how to use it will make you a better photographer, but it’s not quite a mandatory piece of your travel photography kit.

The Camera Accessories I Always Forget for Travel Photography!

There are so many small accessories that are vital for digital photography that I find myself constantly forgetting. Far from being little odds and ends, these are essential parts of my kit that I’ve started to just leave in my travel bag so I never have to worry about packing them.

I’m talking about SD cards , microfiber cloths, sensor cleaning kits, and all those other little things that you might not miss until you’re in the field and you’ve got a speck of sand on your sensor ruining your shots.

I’ve started making a checklist that contains all these little items before I pack out. There’s nothing more defeating than being in some beautiful destination and realizing you only have enough space on your memory card for a few dozen more shots.

This is the checklist that I use for your average trip. Feel free to adjust things based on the gear that you use.

• Sensor cleaning swab x 2
• Lens cleaning Spray
• Microfiber cloth
• Spare camera batteries for each camera
• Memory cards—one in each camera, extra in the bag
• External SSD if I’ll need to backup files while traveling
• iPad for editing, emailing, and posting pics on socials
• Camera strap
• Camera body cap and rear lens cap
• Remote shutter release
• Chargers and cables

Lighting for Travel Photography 

Lighting is a bit of an interesting topic when it comes to travel photography. We don’t often associate this incredibly mobile genre of photography with the piece of equipment that defines studio work, but there’s some great reasons to take some lights with you on your next trip.

Photographers like Briscoe Park are doing incredible work mixing bold, almost giallo, lighting styles with travel photography. There’s also a wealth of photographers using the dark nights of remote locations as canvases for their light paintings.

I started taking a few small lights with me when I hit the road and it’s definitely pushing my abilities behind the camera.

Lights like the Aputure MC and MC Pro are great for adding lights to portraits, throwing splashes of color into images, or creating other-worldly scenes. The Infinibar or MT Pro, also from Aputure, are solid choices for light painting .

Even something small like the Lume Cube can help gain control over lighting while away from the studio. Just don’t try to haul around your old tungsten lights on your next trip!

Mobile Travel Photography Gear

Before you start thinking travel photography requires a mountain of expensive equipment, you might be reading this article on the only device you need to get started with travel photography.

That’s right, smartphone cameras have come a long way and they are perfectly capable of being your main camera body for traveling adventure photography .

Even though your smartphone is essentially a pocket camera that can surf the internet and make phone calls, you still might want to add some extra gear to make the most out of being a mobile travel photographer.

My biggest recommendation would be to pick up a Moment smartphone case and a few Moment lenses.

These lenses will dramatically change your composition and help make your images look a bit more professional and a bit less like a quick shot on a smartphone.

A lightweight Gorillapod, a photo editing app like Lightroom mobile, and a power bank to keep you charged are a few must-haves.

This might sound a little unconventional, but my smartphone is one of the cameras I use the most. It’s lightweight, can take high quality pictures, and it can be a great budget alternative to expensive cameras because you probably already own one.

I almost never leave the house without throwing one or two Moment lenses in my bag. This is true whether I’m going on a 10-minute walk to the store or I’m about to hop on a 10-hour flight.

Travel Film Photography Gear

Is there any sound more relaxing than the shutter of a film camera when you’re deep in the woods or on top of a mountain ridgeline?

I don’t think so and that’s one of the reasons why I tend to travel with film photography equipment.

Film photography is almost a completely different animal than digital photography. You have to be much more engaged with your subject, composition, and exposure since you only have a few frames before your roll is spent.

Here’s a quick list of the film photography gear that I travel with. Just as a quick note, I’m leaving out things like tripods and camera bags that overlap with digital photography.

• Gallon zip-top bag to store film
• Permanent marker to jot notes on the side of a film canister
• Light meter
• Film (I always try to bring one more roll than I think I’ll need—just in case)

Read our guide to film photography for more tips.

20 Tips to Help You Improve Your Travel Photography

Want to improve your travel photography? I’ve put together 20 travel photography tips to help you up your game the next time you take your camera on vacation.

These tips are going to cover everything from advice for total beginners to some really interesting things that caught me by surprise while I’ve been on tour with my camera.

Tip 1—Get Comfortable With Your Gear Before You Travel 

Image Credit: Amar Preciado

This is my number one tip for travel photography because it applies to experienced photographers as well as beginners. Before you head out on your big trip, take some time to get comfortable with your equipment.

This means packing your camera bag just like you’re going to for your travel photography trip and wearing it around your home city or just walking around your neighborhood.

There’s nothing worse than being hundreds, or thousands, of miles from home only to find out that you actually don’t like that brand new camera bag you bought.

Giving all of your gear a comfortable trial run ahead of time ensures that you don’t run into any sudden surprises while you’re traveling.

I’ve started doing this with all of my travel photography gear and it’s hard to express just how much it’s helped me. Most of the time I’m just adjusting my backpack to make sure it’s got a comfortable fit for a long day of hiking, but there have also been times where I realized that piece of my equipment just wasn’t right for me.

This will also help make things easier when you’re out there taking pictures.

It can be a little stressful to try and line up the right composition in a busy downtown neighborhood of a foreign city. Knowing your gear inside and out will give you a huge confidence boost when you need it the most.

Tip 2—Set Your Travel Photography Intentions 

This might seem like a silly question to ask, but why do you want to do travel photography?

Setting some intentions and being aware of your goals ahead of time is going to help improve your career as a photographer.

If you need some inspiration for your goals, here’s a few that I’ve used in the past.

• Have at least 5 new pictures that I can turn into prints once I’m home
• Spend two days on location, day one focuses on lifestyle photography while day two is all about landscapes
• Get out of my comfort zone and network with other travel photographers shooting the same location

Remember that goals are a lot like onions. They have layers.

Your ultimate goal might be to become a world famous travel photographer with National Geographic calling you every day, but you’ve got to start somewhere.

Let’s say that your goal is to start getting freelance travel photography contracts with tourism departments. You can start from scratch by pretending that you’re on contract to take photos of a particular location.

This will help you with your future goals as well as allow you to build your portfolio in the now.

Tip 3—Always Bring (Your) Camera 

Image Credit: Ketut Subiyanto

Everything starts with the ABCs and for travel photographers this means to Always Bring (your) Camera and always be taking pictures.

You really never know when the right moment is going to strike for your photography. There have been countless moments where I wish I would have had a camera on me to capture a moment that was either beautiful or could have even been historic.

Whether you’re carrying your main camera body, a pocket camera, or even your smartphone, you should always have a camera on you when you’re traveling. Be ready to start snapping pics at a moment’s notice if you spot something that catches your eye.

Worst case scenario, you’ve got another few hundred pictures to sort through when you get home. Best case scenario, you’ve caught the once-in-a-lifetime shot that you might have otherwise missed.

Tip 4—Be Patient with Your Shots

Here’s something that’s happened to me nearly every single time I’ve gone on a travel photography trip.

I’ll be at a historic ruin or in a national park with the perfect shot framed only for there to be dozens of other tourists cluttering up my shot.

When I first started with photography, I didn’t have enough patience just to wait it out. I thought that I would have to spend hours standing at a particular spot waiting for people to disperse.

As it turns out, the longest I’ve really ever had to wait for a shot to clear up has been about a half hour. If you’ve got someone to talk to or a book to read, that’s no time at all.

Don’t pass up on the shots that you want to capture just because there’s something cluttering your frame. Patients will reward photographers every single time.

Pro travel photography tip: Using an ND filter on your camera can let you lower your shutter speed which will cause fast-moving cars and people to “vanish” from your shots!

Tip 5—Learn How to Photograph People 

This travel photography tip can be one of the most challenging to incorporate. Getting comfortable cold approaching strangers takes a lot of social energy.

I know extroverted photographers that have a dozen model release forms printed and ready to go in their backpack. They have no problem chatting up strangers, but it took me some time to build up that confidence.

Here’s a quick template that you can use for approaching strangers for portraits.

Be cheerful and open about being a photographer. You can say something like “I’m a photographer taking portraits today in [Location] and I’d love to take your picture.”

If you’re on a freelance contract or working for a client, feel free to name drop them to give yourself some added credibility.

After snapping their pic, I like to give people my business card, email, or Instagram handle so they can contact me later if they’d like a copy of their photo.

If they say no photos, that’s just business.

It also really helps if you can speak just a little bit of the local language. You’ll be shocked how much more accommodating people can be if you can handle a few lines of the local tongue.

Tip 6—Study Local Laws and Customs 

Photography laws and customs are different the world over. As a travel photographer, you’re going to need to familiarize yourself with local laws and customs—especially when you’re traveling abroad.

Remember that the letter of the law and the local customs might not necessarily be a one-to-one match.

I’m based in the United States and here it’s perfectly legal to take pictures of strangers as long as you’re in a public location. However, social customs dictate that it’s considered rude to take someone’s picture without asking their permission first.

When in doubt, always default to asking permission first. This means asking someone’s permission before taking their portrait or asking permission before taking pictures at a historic site or museum.

Tip 7—Get in Frame 

Image Credit: Dominika Roseclay

This is something I’m still working on becoming more comfortable with.

When I’m in the studio, I’ve got no problem hopping in front of the lens and doing some self-portraiture. However, once I’m out in the field I’m a little bit reluctant to stand in as my own model.

Travel photography is about telling your story. This means that you’re going to need to get in frame for some of your photographs.

Even if it’s just a few shots of you setting up, traveling to your destination, or getting dinner after a long day of shooting, people want to see the photographer behind the camera.

If you’re traveling with other photographers, why not consider making this a game? Challenge each other to see who can take the most interesting photos of your fellow photographers.

You can even take some quick selfies on location to contrast your professional photography. This will make your self-portraiture a little more intimate and warm while your travel photos show off your full talent.

Tip 8—Scout Travel Photography Locations with Your Smartphone

A great way to dramatically improve your travel photography is to scout your locations ahead of time. Before you haul all of your gear on a quest for the perfect photo, go out there with just a day pack and walk around soaking up the scenery.

Location scouting gives you a strong understanding of what speaks to you as a photographer about this location before you even start pressing the shutter button.

I recommend carrying your smartphone or a point-and-shoot camera when you’re out scouting locations.

This lets you take some test shots of a travel location before bringing all your gear out.

Tip 9—How to Always Pack the Right Lenses

I used to be so worried about not bringing the right lenses on a trip, but it’s been years since I’ve felt like I picked the wrong lens for the job.

Part of this is knowing your lenses inside and out. You should learn the basics of your lenses like aperture, how their focal length compresses an image, and which focal lengths are ideal for different styles of photography.

Lenses like the Sony FE 24-70mm f/2.8  make a great choice for travel. The focal length options on that lens easily handle majestic landscape panoramas and street photography portraiture.

I also recommend taking at least two lenses with you for most travel photography trips. I’ll take one primary lens with me that I plan on doing most of my shooting with and a secondary lens for those “just in case” moments.

Tip 10—Staying Safe While Traveling with Camera Gear 

Being a tourist always carries some risk when it comes to crime. Being a tourist that happens to be carrying $3,000 in photography equipment carries a little bit more risk.

Here’s a few tips that I stick with when it comes to staying safe while shooting with expensive camera equipment.

If you can, try to do your travel photography with a group. Even if you have one other person traveling with you, that company is usually more than enough to deter most would-be thieves.

This might seem a little obvious, but you always want to keep your gear in sight. Unless I know I’m alone in the wilderness, my camera bag is never further than an arm’s reach away.

I’ve got a tip for you that I don’t see a lot of people talking about when it comes to traveling safely with your camera equipment. I like to stay discreet when I’m traveling with my camera gear.

This means I leave the branded Sony strap at home and opt for a much more neutral Peak Design strap . I also throw a velcro patch over things like the LowePro logo on my backpack that might otherwise announce that there’s some expensive camera equipment in there.

If you stay smart and aware of your surroundings, your odds of having an unfortunate encounter while carrying camera equipment will be greatly reduced.

Tip 11—Shoot Some Short Format Video  

We’re all photographers here. This means I can be a little honest with you about shooting short form video.

It might not be your main stay, but social media platforms are putting a lot of emphasis on TikTok style videos. If you can incorporate a little short form videography into your travel photography routine, you’ll have that much better performance online.

There are countless ways that you can build short form video production into your photography routine. You could record a 60 second video demonstrating your setup for the shot or even just an interesting voice over on top of a still image.

Shooting short videos can also be fun. Building this into your photography routine is a great way to improve your skill set while you’re also increasing your social media following.

Tip 12—Find Your Voice by Getting Lost 

Some of the best travel photography stories happen because you get lost. Getting turned around is a great way to change your perspective on things and improve you or travel photography.

This is easily one of the most underrated travel photography tips. Best of all, you can do this from the comfort of your hometown.

Try getting lost on purpose by walking through a neighborhood you don’t usually go to or checking out a city that you might have otherwise overlooked.

While all the other travel photographers are gathered at the tourist traps we’ve all seen a thousand times on Instagram, you’ll be exploring something new while catching refreshing pictures of your travels.

Tip 13—How to Fly With Film 

If you plan on doing some film photography while you’re traveling, you’re going to need to know how to transport your film while traversing through airports safely.

The x-rays used in airport security scanners can damage undeveloped photographic film. The more x-rays undeveloped film is exposed to, the more haze and distortion starts to pop up on the final image.

Film with an ISO 800 and above can be damaged by any airport X-ray machine. Expired and experimental films can also be damaged by x-ray equipment.

Some airports now use more powerful CT scanners. These are often used for checked baggage, but they can also be used for carry-on as well.

CT scanners put out enough x-ray radiation to damage film of any ISO. You should always bring your film with your carry-on luggage in its own zip-top bag.

When you’re traveling through security at an airport, you can ask the security personnel for a hand examination of your photographic film. In my experience, they almost always say yes no matter how busy the airport is.

However, it is at the discretion of airport security and I have had them turn down a hand examination of my film. One trip through an X-ray scanner won’t damage your film, but multiple trips will.

This is why I recommend buying film on location if possible. You can also have film mailed to your hotel or to a friend’s address who lives near where you’re traveling.

Tip 14—Become a Traveler at Home 

Traveling is expensive and it’s not always available for us. However, this doesn’t mean that you have to stop your travel photography plans.

If you’re looking for the true zero-budget way of starting a travel photography career, you have to start in your home city.

While this might not seem exciting at first, keep in mind that the city that you live in is an exotic travel destination for someone else.

Try using all of the  travel photography tips and tricks I’ve talked about in this article while taking pictures of your home city. Even if you live in a sleepy little town, there are compelling stories that you can tell by documenting the life and history of the place you live.

Tip 15—How to Find Travel Photography Inspiration 

No matter what style of photography you’re in, it’s easy to get stuck in a rut. What should you do if you’re running out of inspiration before your next big travel photography trip?

Here are five quick ways I stay inspired and motivated as a photographer.

• Start following more photographers on social media to see what other people are doing
• Research historic photographers and get inspired by how they were shooting when our medium was still new
• Check out international photographers to see how people are shooting across the world
• Get experimental by looking into the weirder side of photography with things like film soup or databending
• When I’m heading to a new location, I like to look at the history, upcoming events, and what photographers are shooting for that local

Tip 16—Turn Regular Trips into Travel Photography Trips 

If you’ve always got your camera with you, and you’re always shooting, every trip you go on is a travel photography trip.

A great way to stay active as a travel photographer who has yet to break into the full-time business is to transform every trip you go on into an opportunity for travel photography.

Whether you’re heading across town for a family dinner or going on a work trip, you’ve got an opportunity to do some trouble photography.

Not everything has to be a grand adventure. You could use that trip across town as an excuse to work on catching shots of yourself in transit, for example.

Tip 17—Becoming a Better Photographer 

Every photographer has an area that they can improve on. Whether you’ve always wanted to be one of those photographers who only ever shoots on full manual mode or you’ve been hoping to add sports photography to your travel routine, now’s the time to start working on those skills.

Skills building exercises can be a great activity during your travel photography downtime. You’re not always going to be on the road to an exotic destination and that time in between trips is vital to your success.

Even if you’ve been a professional photographer for decades, there’s still countless things about this art form that you can learn.

Tip 18—Get Your Photos Seen

Now that you’ve got a portfolio of travel photography images, how do you get people to see them?

As with most freelancing gigs, the name of the game is networking. Here’s a few tips for getting your pics in front of more eyes.

• Be more consistent with social media by posting regularly and using hashtags strategically
• Enter into photography competitions
• Ask local shops if you can display your work
• Get your photos published
• Reach out to travel agencies, tourism boards, and parks departments for freelance work or partnerships
• Network with other photographers

As the old saying goes: It’s not what you know, it’s who you know.

Tip 19— Travel Photographer Tips for The Business Side of Things 

Making it as a working travel photographer has gotten harder in recent years, but it’s not out of reach. Here’s a few business tips to help you stay on top of your budding photography career.

Always try reaching out to new clients. Keep in mind that bigger clients are harder to land, but there are plenty of smaller travel destinations that are ideal for a beginner photographer.

You should create a budget for your travel photography work. If you’re just starting out, you don’t need a fancy app. A simple spreadsheet is more than enough for you to stay on top of your money.

You can also try becoming a content creator while you’re working on landing clients. Building up a social media following and generating some income through a site like Patreon can help you stay on the road longer.

Tip 20—How to Tell Your Travel Photography Story 

Image Credit: Ena Marinkovic

You’ve reached the end of my travel photography tips. The last tip, and the most important one, that I’m going to give you is some advice on how you can tell your story.

Travel photography is all about storytelling. This means documenting your journey, engaging your audience, and finding your voice.

Taking captivating pictures without context isn’t enough. Your travel photography needs to speak to people on a deeper level and communicate something yet untold about the experiences behind your journeys.

It’s going to take time to figure out how you want to represent your adventures. The best thing you can do is get started today.

Even if you’re just taking travel photos a few blocks from your home, you’ll be breaking the ice and taking those important steps in finding your voice as a storyteller.

What is the purpose of travel photography?

The purpose of travel photography is to share your journey with the world. Travel photographers help to tell the story of not only their adventures, but also the people and places they encounter whether they are traveling around the world or within a few miles of where they grew up.

Is travel photography a good career?

Travel photography can be an amazing career that is rewarding and potentially very lucrative. It can be challenging to get started, but there are countless photographers who do travel photography as both their main job as well as a side gig.

What is the single best lens for travel photography?

The single best lens for travel photography is the wide angle to telephoto zoom like the Sony FE 24-105mm f/4 G OSS Lens. This lens allows you to capture everything from sweeping landscape panoramas to sports and wildlife photography .

Is travel photography a job?

Travel photography can absolutely be a job. You can make money as a travel photographer by freelancing for clients, photographing destination weddings , or working as a photojournalist.

Is GoPro good for travel photography?

A GoPro can be great for travel photography especially if you’re interested in capturing video and using stills from that footage for your photography.

Even though a GoPro is a good choice for travel photography, you’re probably going to be better served by a dedicated camera if your main goal is photo rather than video.

Final Words

I hope this guide gives you everything you need to hit the ground running with travel photography. If you’re an experienced travel photographer, I hope you’ve picked up a few new tricks that can help improve your next adventure.

I’ve tried to cover travel photography from nose to tail in this blog, but I’m sure I left a few things out.

I want to hear your travel photography tips, tricks, and experiences in the comments. If you like this article, make sure to check out my other photography blogs .

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Ashley is a photographer, writer, and film critic. When Ashley’s not writing essays on photography, cinema, and theory, he’s out taking pictures with retro film cameras.

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• Photography Composition And Concepts

Travel Photography: What, When, Why And How To Take Images

Mixing different types of photography with travel can give us a lot of opportunities for experimenting and taking our passion to levels that could only exist, due to traveling. Many people who have started to take Photography seriously, have eventually stumbled into one huge dilemma. The eternal inquiry that is simple to ask, but pretty difficult to answer and reduces itself to defining the inner voice, or the personal style.

We as photographers start to shoot everything we find, and by experimenting and watching others’ work, we start to introduce ourselves in the styles of photography we feel keener to. These types of photography define the gear requirements you’ll need to get the minimum valuable photographs you are willing to capture, and when it comes to traveling, gear is always a huge concern due to space and backbone limitations.

Architectural Photography

Traveling offers an extensive buffet of architecture that feels always unique and interesting because it represents the culture of the places we are visiting. It doesn’t matter if you are not interested in the technical stuff around architecture, being able to appreciate its beauty is part of the photographers’ sensitivity.

Study light and color while wandering ancient or modern architecture. Give deep attention to the way shadows play with the shapes and forms of the architectures, be aware of the textures around the walls. Doing this will and it will make you a better photographer as well.

Landscape Photography

The best discipline of photography to cope with an exploring soul. Many landscape photographers enjoy traveling to the lonely places of the earth to get closer not just to nature, but also to themselves. Practicing landscape photography at any level from amateur to professional is an amazing compliment of traveling, in fact, many travels happen due to landscapes watching, seeing and even discovering.

Street Photography

Just as Landscape, street photography and traveling is almost a match made in heaven. Wandering the foreign streets is always a pleasure of traveling, and having a camera always with you for capturing the meaningful unseen stories of the streets, is the best traveling experience I can offer to anybody. Just remember to always keep yourselves inconspicuous and respectful when traveling to different cultures from your own.

Aerial Photography

No other points of view beets what aerial tools can offer. Airplane, helicopter, hot air balloon or even drone; getting a view from above is always an amazing way of doing achieving such images. When traveling try to look for tourist packages that are off the menu and offer this fantastic way of sightseeing from above.

Astrophotography

Astrophotography is done best when the skies are light pollution and clouds free. Thanks to our extensive urbanizations, getting light free ambiances is getting more and more complex as time goes by. Explore deserts and arctic venues for capturing the skies in the most breathtaking ways possible.

Documentary Photography

Traveling to different cultures is definitely a great way to do short term or almost flash projects. Stick to a concept or a statement, and go for it. We are curious creatures the human beings, and we tend to do things differently from others. Try documenting specific things of society with photo essays or narrative photography.

Food As The Reflection Of Different Cultures

Cultures express themselves through dishes and recipes. Such culinary artifacts are in most cases treasured like gold. Explore different cultures through their food, and document the colors, and the sizzling vibe surrounding it. Many cultures bloom with pride about their street local foods, capture those flavors, capture that national pride.

Sports Photography

Stadiums and other sports-related arenas often attract tourists. Many matches celebrate at global scales, inviting people to travel in order to get closer to them. Capturing decent images will require zoom lenses or telephoto, so this is something to consider when packing your bag.

Wildlife Photography

Wildlife photography is the perfect type of photography for those interested in documenting wildlife in its natural habitat. It is considered as a very demanding style of imagery, and there are some things that you need to consider besides your passport. First, you’ll need a lot of patience, so having plenty of time on your trip is crucial.

Wildlife photography suggests to always keep distance to interfere the least possible with the habitats, and also for your own safety when capturing images of big wild animals. From safaris to natural reservations, gearwise, it is very useful to have a capable zoom or telephoto lens. Now, you’ll have to keep this fact in mind when packing your gear, because putting good thinking in which gear to take and which one to leave, will be the key asset for your trip.

Defining a style can be difficult, and in many cases, we as authors or photographers are not the ones entitled to define it but our audience. Not everything is empowered to the viewers in terms of defining a style of photography. We as photographers are responsible for some of the percentage of its scope. At our hands lays the responsibility of choosing the roads to endure in order to perfect that inner voice and creative style.

“a great tip for any traveling photographer, invest in a lightweight tripod.”

It all reduces to the fact that photography style goes hand in hand with defining a personal style or the inner voice. But, choosing one type of photography or various ones is not something you’ll be married to for the rest of your lives; you have the right to change your mind with time. It will only be part of your photographic history, and it must be ruled by the passion you feel.

Don’t feel guilty for appreciating other styles that exceed your scope. It is a huge mistake to get distant from other types of photography just because you are not capable of creating, or are not even interested in making. Keep this concept in mind always; appreciation is crucial for growing as photographers.

originally posted on phototraces.com

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Travel Photography Explained

A Personal Perspective from Travel Photographer: Clint Burkinshaw

Importance of travel photography, the photographer, proactive and reactive photography, travel photography gear, quick access bag, lighter weight camera body, lens choice, travel tripod, safety and security, travel photography tips for beginners, tip #1. know your gear, tip #2. reduce complexity and keep things simple, tip #3. noise is better than a blurry image, tip #4. get lost, tip #5. respect local customs, tip #6. mix up your shots, tip #7. take the time to post process your photos, tip #8. maintain your gear, tip #9. backup your photos.

Travel photography differs from other subcategories of photography. It is a genre that has few limitations to its image qualifiers, but will also test the photographer to great lengths due to the abundance of challenges faced. Within the travel photography genre, one can expect to see a vast range of images aimed to capture anything from the combination of landscapes , portrait, street, culture, food, underwater scenes and more.

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However, the unique component at the heart of travel photography, is that the images from the vast range of subcategories are aimed to capture and share moments in time from different cultures, an alternate way of life, and varied geographical locations from around the globe.

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5-day summer photo tour | black sand beaches, waterfalls & glacier lagoons, 8 day summer photography workshop in iceland, 3 day photo workshop in the icelandic highlands.

Travel photography goes further than just capturing a great image. It’s there to tell a story, educate and inspire.

So what exactly is travel photography? In this article, I'll share with you my own perspective as a travel photographer, why travel photography is important, what you'll need to get started and above all, how to stay safe on your travels.

To me, travel photography transcends just “landscape” or “portrait” photography. It’s about capturing and documenting that distant place in a single frame, pulling the viewer into the shot and making them wish that they were there.

A good travel photo will be more than just a slice of time captured in a rectangle. It will tell a story and convey emotion. Travel photography is a source of inspiration and driver to see and experience the best our world has to offer. Subsequently, it brings out the best in me.

• See also:    Tips for Planning a Photography Trip to Iceland

Travel photography is all about bringing the world to people and exposing to them what else is out there. It’s about educating people about the customs of other cultures, showing them how they differ from their own.

The world is far grander and more exquisite with beautiful differences than just the area that surrounds us. Bringing nature's majesty to the people, inspires and promotes the diversity of this planet and helps encourage others to explore and see the great outdoors.

• See also:    25 Useful Tips to Quickly Improve Your Landscape Photography

Anyone can do a bit of travel photography, just as anyone can do landscape or portrait photography, regardless of what the definition of “professional” is.

There are essentially two main groups of people engaging in travel photography. One group consists of those who travel for the purpose of photography, and the other group consists of people who travel for the sake of travel and take photos to compliment their travels.

While there is no reason to promote one group over another, it is still a good idea to prioritise your intended scope prior to planning your trip, as the experience will be somewhat different.

• See also:    How to Become a Professional Landscape Photographer

There are two main categories for which one needs to focus their skill development and preparation within. These consist of proactive and reactive photography.

Reactive photography becomes significantly evident when engaging in street, cultural or wildlife shoots. These unpredictable and dynamic scenes tend to present golden opportunities, which seem to come and go in the blink of an eye. Photographers need to be incredibly quick and demonstrate the skills to make the most of these opportunities and capture the images in an efficient and effective manner.

Proactive photography in essence is being “proactive” about your next photo shoot, by doing things in preparation (like researching your upcoming location) prior to arriving.

Of course, no matter where a photographer goes and what he shoots, being proactive is always encouraged. However, there are more prevalent and anticipated situations where proactive photography will be much more beneficial.

Landscape photography is a great example of this, as the success of such photos can heavily depend on the preparation gone into the shoot. Additionally, these scenes also require quite a bit of reactive photography when on site, in areas such as lighting and newly discovered composition opportunities.

• See also:    How to Start Taking Landscape Photos with a Smartphone

When it comes to what equipment to take, travel photography has its own unique considerations in contrast to other photography categories. What to pack will also depend on the trip itself. As a travel photographer, if I could give one imperative tip; it would be to ‘go light’!

As mentioned previously, much of travel photography is reactive. This means, being in the right place at the right time, and NOT missing that golden opportunity. For this, being ready with equipment that is not going to slow you down, is vital.

First of all, you'll need a bag that’s going to allow you to get your gear in and out quickly. When that opportunity presents itself, you need to be able to access your camera extremely fast.

For this, I recommend a day pack with a side access pocket which can be undone in a single zip, giving you access to your camera body with an appropriately attached lens. Also, if the voyage is a long one, quick access will help you keep your sanity with the hundreds (if not thousands) of times you’ll be grabbing your camera. Hybrid camera bags are good for this, and also allows you to take additional non-photography related belongings.

When I previously mentioned “going light” is the key for successful travel photography, I very much meant it. If you’re going to be walking for hours on end each day, or going on regular hikes, lighter weight equipment is going to help you out with your photography much more than you think.

A lighter body with fewer lenses than normal, gives you the opportunity to go further with ease and allows you to get your camera out more often than not, especially in those times when you might think twice. So shelf that hefty camera body, and take something much lighter.

Thankfully, full frame sensors are fitting into smaller and smaller bodies these days, and the choice has grown substantially.

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The type of lenses you take is also key to getting great photographs. While taking enough lenses to cater for all situations, going overboard with too much lenses only works against the photographer. I recommend taking nomore than four lenses for short trips, and no more than 3 lenses for longer trips.

For landscape lovers, an ultra-wide angle lens is an absolute necessity.

A nice standard zoom for a walk around street photography lens is very useful, combined with a fast prime for nice low depth of field shots to really enhance favourite subjects.

Telephotos aren’t generally required for standard travel photography (depending on the trip), but is something to be considered based on photographic intentions.

• See also:    The Best Lenses for Landscape Photography in Iceland

One good thing about going light with your camera body and lenses is the fact that it’s now possible to downsize the tripod. A smaller smaller (or lighter) body and lens combination means a lighter weight tripod and all of this together will cut down the weight required to carry on the shoulders. It’s also quite helpful to have a tripod that folds up small to fit in your day bag. This means one with 4 leg sections.

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Caring for both you and your equipment is paramount when it comes to travelling in a foreign environment. Depending on the location visited, there may be areas which should not be ventured into.

Walking around at night, or even walking around with your expensive equipment during the day, may put you and your possessions in danger. Always seek local advice for do’s and don’ts in the area, and take them seriously.

Having strong familiarity with your equipment is one very important aspect of travel photography. Walking busy streets will often throw all kinds of lighting conditions at you, and within these hectic, constantly changing conditions, golden opportunities come and go within a matter of seconds.

Being able to act quickly with the right lens and appropriate camera settings, is an absolute necessity to capturing these magic moments.

Another crucial aspect is to not over complicate your setup. If you’ve got an inappropriate number of lens (because you just “need” the best of the best for each situation) and organised in a fashion that makes you scramble each time you want to change things up. You’re doing it wrong.

Have a nice high quality lens that’s capable of a broader spectrum, with a simple setup, that’ll allow you to snap photos with ease. The more complicated and burdensome things get, the less photographs you’ll take.

You can always work with an image that's slightly noisier than you’d prefer, but you can never work with an image that's blurry. If lighting conditions are ever a question, and you’re doing a whole bunch of that reactive photography talked about earlier, then always bump up the ISO a bit to be on the safe side.

• See also:    Understanding Image Noise in Your Landscape Photography of Iceland

In the kindest way possible, of course! Taking the time out to spend a day wandering the streets, is one of the best things that could be done for street photography. You’ll discover places you never would have had normally. Getting off the tourist trail is also a great way to get authentic and interesting culture shots.

A major part of travel photography is being sensitive to foreign customs and cultures. It’s very common for other cultures to find it rude (or an insult) to be photographed. Especially without permission. This needs to be heavily be considered when in a foreign place photographing people and cultural scenes. Do your research, respect customs, and ask people before taking a photo. A simple kind gesture will go a long way in terms of getting what you want and doing the right thing.

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Instead of sticking to just one genre of photography (e.g. street shots), mix it up and shoot a range of different subjects. Photograph everything from food, people, to landscapes and wildlife. After all, it’s about capturing as much as you can about that distant location.

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Instead of waiting till the trip is over to start processing your photos, take some time out along the trip and process as you go. This could mean spending a few hours a couple of times a week, in a cafe, with your laptop. Even an extra drink or two after dinner at a local restaurant will go a long way when it comes to progressing your photos.

Also, use the time to catalogue, label and rate your photographs, as it will save you a huge task later on. If you plan on writing about your trip in a blog or article later on, take as much notes as possible. Some things you just don’t remember once you get home.

• See also:    5 Simple Lightroom Post Processing Tips for Landscape Photography

A dirty lens or a flat battery are two things easily avoided, but could very much be responsible for missing those golden opportunities. Keeping your spare batteries charged and lens clean will give you a big head start in making sure you catch that magic moment around the next corner.

There’s nothing worse than losing your camera, and coming to the realisation that all the photographs you’ve taken of your trip, are now gone. Backup as often as possible onto a USB hard drive and store it in a separate bag to your camera.

About the author:  Clint Burkinshaw is a travel photographer based in Australia. You can find more of his work on his  website  or by following him on Instagram .

There's no better way to get started in travel photography than to get out and about! Join one of our photography workshops and tours and you can begin taking your photography skills to the next level!

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What is travel photography?

What is a good travel photo, aspects of travel photography, travel photography, a popular genre, travel photography is underestimated, travel photography explained, receive photography and travel tips, travel photography.

Travel photography is a form of photography that for example involves photography of landscapes, historical buildings, cultures, and people in a specific place and destination to document a certain place and make others make to wish they were there.

With a collection of travel photographs of amazing landscapes, wildlife, breathtaking nature, cultures, and people, you will have the possibility to showcase a place, country, or even the world through photos. Travel Photography goes further than just capturing an awesome image.

A good travel photo tells a story, inspires the viewer about other beautiful places in this big world, and educates them about a place or culture by showing them how they differ from their own.

There are travel photographers that specialize in a specific aspect of photography , for example, landscapes or travel portraits but I basically shoot all aspects of travel and I combine that with photographing properties, such as hotels and lodges. When I travel to a certain place or country I try to showcase that place at its very best using a variety of images including landscapes, nature, wildlife, and people from different cultures.

Travel Photography became popular through magazines like National Geographic Magazine . Since more people travel, more people photograph while traveling. Therefore, it's a popular genre among travel and photography lovers.

Travel photography is an underestimated photography genre . To shoot high-quality travel photos you have to do a lot of research on the subject you want to photograph, but you still can't control all shooting conditions. You have to deal with different conditions that affect the final result, such as low light, unpredictable weather conditions, and unexpected moments that sometimes make an ordinary photo a spectacular photo. Something, I experienced myself while photographing wildlife, where you come across moments that rarely recur.

I hope you got a better understanding of the travel photography genre, one of the many types of photography .

Check out the Travel Photography Guide to learn more about travel photography, including many useful travel photography tips to improve your travel images and learn how to make money with your images.

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Travel photography tips for near or far.

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Types of travel photography

Top tips for travel photography

Turn travel photography into a career

A 10,000-foot view of travel photography

• Travel photography can be pictures of  landscapes, cities, architecture, or people on the street.
• You don’t have to go far to start practicing — photograph interesting places close to where you live.
•  To make a career of it, build an online portfolio of your best work.

Types of travel photography.

Travel photography can stretch across genres because you can take any type of photo when you travel. Depending on where you go and what you do, you can touch on everything from astrophotography to wildlife photography . As you travel, consider which aspects of your journey you want to focus on. 

Landscape photography.

The world is dotted with picturesque, compelling, and breathtaking sights. When you’re on a walk and you want to capture the feeling of the scenery you find, you can focus on landscape photography. Make sure to do your research before you go, be intentional about the time of day you want to shoot, and be sure to bring gear to protect yourself from the elements. 

City photography.

Capture the cityscape . From vast skylines to everyday life on the street, cities present wonderful subjects for experiments with perspective, texture, light, and color. Play with framing and vantage points, from the tops of buildings down to street level and below.

Architecture photography.

With architecture photography , you can explore the universal features and specific quirks of human-made structures wherever you go. Study a still subject like a building or a bridge to highlight the effects of weather or time of day, or to play with different vantage points. 

Street photography.

Once you’re on the street, you can focus less on the architecture and more on the people moving through the city. Capturing life on the ground is the goal of street photography — a style of visual storytelling that shows off and communicates the experience of everyday life. It’s vibrant and spontaneous, and you have to work with whatever light is available. Catch people as they move about their day to immerse yourself in the experience of a new city.

Top tips for travel photography.

Finding your way in the world of travel photography doesn’t have to be overwhelming or onerous. Discover how you can get started with these tips.

1. Follow your wanderlust.

No matter where your interest lies, if you travel for the shoot, it counts as travel photography. Like documentary photography , travel photography expresses some truth about the particular scene it captures. “For me, it’s just one way to share my perspective on the world,” says professional travel photographer Tiffany Nguyen. “I travel to different places, see the world through my lens, and tell stories through photography.”

2. Start where you are.

You don’t need to quit your day job and sell all your possessions to make travel photography. “I would just start in your own backyard,” Nguyen says. “I started small, doing short, weekend trips, and then when I got more comfortable traveling and better at photography, I wanted to take it to the next level and do more international locations.” Begin with a list of places nearby that might be interesting to shoot. Find locations you can get to in an afternoon. 

3. Research the location.

You can save yourself time and effort, and get better pictures, if you plan ahead. “Having the right inspiration before you get there is really key,” says travel photographer Forrest Smith. “Before I go, I like to build a moodboard to try to find the exact shot that I want.”

Nguyen does a lot of internet research, looking at blogs, Google Earth, and Google images. She scouts Instagram for different angles and perspectives. “I also find that social media is a huge resource, especially using hashtags on Instagram,” she says. “They’re really helpful for finding live conditions at a certain location. For example, if I go to a waterfall, I don’t really want to waste my time trying to get water photos if the waterfall is dry. So I’ll search the hashtag of the waterfall name to get an idea of the water level.”

In addition to weather conditions, your internet research can tell you how popular the location is, how to get there, and what times might be the least crowded. “I’m looking for the length of the hike, the elevation gain, any obstacles or challenges that are going to come my way,” says Nguyen.

4. Bring the right equipment.

Make a checklist so you don’t forget anything as you pack your camera bag. Include things like extra batteries, an extra memory card, a headlamp, emergency snacks, rain gear, protective cover for your photographic equipment, and extra lenses . (If you know you’ll do a lot of walking, make sure you really want that telephoto lens before you bring it.)

“For me it’s important to have compact, lightweight equipment,” says Nguyen, who uses a mirrorless Sony camera. Unlike DSLR cameras , mirrorless cameras have no mirror to reflect the image to the optical viewfinder. “Their bodies and lenses are much smaller than the DSLR cameras, but they’re still super-high quality, super-high resolution,” Nguyen says. She uses several lenses, including a 24–70mm f/2.8 lens and a 16–35mm f/2.8 lens for wide-angle shots. She’ll bring a prime lens (a lens of fixed focal length ) for astrophotography or low-light photography, and a lightweight carbon-fiber tripod. If she’s going to be close to her car, she’ll bring a 70–200mm f/2.8 telephoto lens.

Both Nguyen and Smith will bring drones for aerial shots if they know they’re going somewhere drones are allowed to fly. (Drones are not allowed in US national parks.) The best camera for his work, Smith says, is a Canon 5D Mark IV DSLR. Like Nguyen, he uses a 24–70mm f/2.8 lens. “If I’m going out for the day, I like to have something wide and something more cropped, so I’ll bring my 24mm prime or my 100mm prime,” Smith says. He’ll also bring neutral density filters . “They’re really great to have if you’re photographing water.”

5. Get the timing right.

Part of your research should include finding the best times of day to shoot and factoring in travel time. “I like to take advantage of the light, so I like to shoot at golden hour or sunset,” Nguyen says. “I try to avoid shooting at midday because the harsh lighting doesn’t look good for photos and there are more people out.” If you want to shoot an empty landscape in a typically busy place like a national park, you may want to get to the location before sunrise.

Always be on the lookout for great shots that you haven’t planned. “You have to be in the right place at the right time with the right attitude,” says Smith. “Keep an eye out because there are always stories to be told. Whether you’re in the heart of New York City or the middle of nowhere in Utah, there are always things happening that, if you’re attentive to them, you can use to tell an incredible story.”

Smith recommends keeping a camera with you at all times, even if it’s just a Polaroid or the camera on your smartphone, and using it to develop your creative eye. “Whether you’re at an iconic location or you’re just walking around your neighborhood, look for compositions and good lighting. Those off-the-hip, spur-of-the-moment photographs often tell a more incredible narrative than the super-planned shots do,” he says.

6. Accept uncertainty.

Travel is all about unpredictability. You might stumble upon a once-in-a-lifetime shot, or you might get fogged in and rained on. Try to roll with the punches when you encounter frustrating weather, find a road closed, or miss a train.

It helps to have backup plans and even backup plans for your backup plans. That way, you’re never at a complete loss for what to do if things go wrong. “Be realistic with your expectations and with things that you can’t control; it’s just a lot easier to be flexible and try to find a different plan,” Nguyen says.

7. Focus on telling stories.

Every travel photograph has a story to tell about a time and place. “Being able to bring people along for your journey through your images is the most important part of travel photography for me,” says Smith. “You want to be able to not just show the location but breathe life into it and find those authentic moments.”

Don’t be afraid to tread the beaten path. Even if you travel to places that have been photographed by hundreds or thousands of people, your photos and your stories will be unique. “You can have ten different photographers go to the same location, but you’ll come back with ten completely different images, ten different edits, and ten different stories, because everyone sees the locations differently,” says Nguyen.

8. International travel photography tips.

International travel involves a lot of planning because you want to make the most of your time. But it’s also important to accept that you can’t plan every moment. “Part of the experience that’s so fun and rewarding is how spontaneous it can be,” says Nguyen. “You never know where you’ll run into things you just can’t plan out or predict, so you just have to just go with the flow and work with what you find around you.”

Approach local people and their customs with an open mind and heart, and try to participate in their culture instead of just observing it from outside. “The people make the big difference. They have their own stories to tell, and you can learn a lot from them,” says Nguyen.

Remember to always be respectful. If you want to take a photo of someone, talk to them. Get to know them a bit, and then ask for permission. “A majority of the time, they’re more than happy for you to take their photo and maybe talk, too,” Nguyen says. “People think it’s fun because it’s not something that happens every day.” 

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9. Family travel photography tips.

You can apply all the tips above to the family photos you take on your travels. Just remember to be patient, do your best to cultivate patience in your family members, and be sure to pack a tripod and remote so you can capture the whole group at once.

If you have specific staged shots in mind, communicate your ideas ahead of time. It might help to share some inspirational photos from Pinterest or Instagram to get buy-in from every member of the family. If you have young children (or teenagers) be prepared to bribe them to cooperate.

Otherwise, focus on taking candid shots of your family members. Like people, candid photography can be unpredictable. You have to read the room, adapt, and give up control, but you might perfectly capture the experience of family travel with a mix of shots that cover everything from excitement to exhaustion, unfettered joy to unequivocal irritation.

10. Practice.

The best way to get better at travel photography is to keep going places and taking photos. “Put in the time and effort, show up and shoot as much as you can,” Nguyen says. Keep building your portfolio, and when you’re ready to look for work in the photography business, be selective about the photos you share. Be sure that you know why you’re including each photo and what skills you want to showcase with it.

11. Make the right moves in post-processing.

With Adobe Photoshop Lightroom photo editing software, you can take your photos from good to great. If a photo just needs a nudge toward the rule of thirds , or your horizon needs leveling, you can easily make those changes in Lightroom. You can also apply presets for fast fixes to urban photos and nature photos or follow step-by-step tutorials to learn how to do everything from image sharpening to removing unwanted objects.

Wherever you go with your camera, remember to embrace the adventure and the uncertainty that goes along with it. Be patient with yourself and your surroundings. With every photo you take, you’re practicing your photography skills and adding to your story.   

Turn travel photography into a career.

To turn your passion for travel photos into a career, start by taking a lot of photos and collecting your best work. If you’re committed and willing to think outside the box, you can start your own photography business .

• Pay attention to costs. You may already have camera gear and a computer, but you’ll also have to spend money on photo editing software and travel.
• Create a portfolio. Clients have to see your work before booking, so create a portfolio specific to your audience and your niche.
• Market yourself. One key part of turning your photography into a business is paying attention to marketing and branding . Establish an aesthetic and a point of view, so potential clients can have a sense of what they’re getting when they work with you.
• Think unconventionally. Many tropical paradises are oversaturated with people who want to travel and take photos of picturesque landscapes. A great place to start is by contacting bed and breakfasts, smaller hotels, and other businesses trying to attract visitors. Link them to your portfolio and see if they’re interested in providing lodging or a small per diem to photograph their resort.
• Treat every trip as an opportunity. If you’re interested in travel photography, you've likely already been bitten by the travel bug. Whenever you take a trip, take some time to build your portfolio. Professional photography can be a nomadic lifestyle with inconsistent income, so embrace a mindset of working wherever you are and being open to new opportunities. 

Finally, remember that careers are not made overnight, and every small step you take as a travel photographer is moving you closer to the goal of adopting it as your career. Good luck, and happy trails. 

Contributors

Tiffany Nguyen ,  Forrest Smith

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What Is Travel Photography?

December 6, 2021

While it’s true that all you really need is your camera in a new place, travel photography takes much more into account. You’ll get the best photos if you plan ahead and learn about where you’re headed so that you can capture a new place and its residents accurately and respectfully. 

Travel photography is photography without geographical limitations, portraying a sense of place and time, a country and its citizens, as well as their customs. It’s about documenting a rich cultural history or celebrating a uniquely breathtaking landscape. 

Travel photography is the pinnacle of many photographers’ professional careers, offering a sense of freedom and movement. Travel photography has blossomed as an entire genre of photography thanks to global tourism, the internet, and the adaptability for aspiring photographers. 

Professional travel photographers often work alongside tour operators, providing photography courses to travel enthusiasts. The beauty is that once you leave your front door with your camera in a new place, anything you encounter can qualify as travel photography.

Capturing Travel Behind The Lens

Travel photography is captivating because there is far more to it than just sunsets and selfies. Doing some research before embarking on a journey to a foreign land gives you the chance to learn more about the culture of the people you are visiting and helps you to prepare a shot list of places you intend to visit. That way, you won’t be wasting precious time on your trip figuring out where to go and what to see. 

Setting your intentions will help you to better understand your mission, so journaling and jotting down your ideas before you leave is always a smart idea. 

Your senses are often overwhelmed when you travel. Everything you see, smell, taste, hear, and touch are different from what you are used to at home. Usually, it is your sense of sight and what you are looking at in the present moment that takes the front seat. Your task is to figure out how to use your lens to preserve the feelings you encounter when you travel.

Pursuing The Art Of Travel Photography

The most important thing when taking travel photos is to be respectful and sensitive to cultural norms. Depending on where you are, it may not be okay to take photos in public at all. In many places, it is not appropriate to photograph children, elderly people, or private and religious figures without the appropriate permission in advance. 

The challenge lies in trying to blend in. The travel photographer needs to look casual but remain eagle-eyed at all times. I find it best to linger for a few minutes. I’m always ready and happy to engage with a local by exchanging smiles and then a few words. Finding a human connection works wonders. 

Pursuing travel photography as a hobby or a career comes with its challenges. From the minute you land in a foreign country, your time becomes precious. Opportunity can strike at any moment and serendipity and synchronicity play huge roles in the somewhat accidental nature of travel photography. A lot of it comes down to luck.

Your taxi driver from the airport might know of the right areas or people that you are wishing to photograph and so conversation plays a big role in gaining local information that will lead you to secret photographic treasures.

One generally doesn’t have time to be hassling with memory cards and uncharged battery packs. Travel photographers need to be out and about, hunting down the moment that presents itself. 

One thing to make sure you plan out in advance is whether your battery or laptop is able to use the same plugs and voltage as the country you are visiting. Even if you have a plug adapter that will fit the outlet, you probably need a voltage adapter to keep electronics from getting fried. Appliances in the United States run on 110 volts, while many other countries use 220 volt outlets. Without planning ahead and getting voltage converters, you may not be able to safely charge your battery packs without damaging them. Be sure to check before you go!

All the spontaneity of travel photography requires ease of mobility, so I prefer a camera with a zoom lens that I can squeeze into a day pack rather than lugging lots of heavy gear around. 

I’ll start my morning by writing out a shot list of places I want to go during the day that I can easily go through and check off. This allows me to consider different gear, like packing filters and tripods, or extra batteries and memory cards. My camera remains at my side in a discreet bag and my hotel room is for downloading images and recharging batteries at night before bed. 

Travel photography requires a great deal of patience. Often one can make the mistake of snapping away immediately and being satisfied with the first shot in a crowded marketplace or a park. But if you wait a while longer and play with different angles and watch the flow of people as an observer, your photographs will get richer.

Cast your gaze around your new environment before you just ‘point and shoot’. Remember that you are a visitor. Take notice of a landmark and have a plan to find your way back to where you are staying, but then allow yourself to get lost along the way. Download offline maps to your phone so you can use GPS if you don’t have data while you’re abroad. Then, you’ll still be able to navigate back to your hotel if you get disoriented in a new place. Even if you’ll have data abroad, you never know where you’ll lose service, so better safe than sorry!

Postcards in airports or cafés will often highlight local tourist spots that may be worth seeing, and they will often have simple maps that will give an aerial overview. This will really help you to get a sense for the size of the place that you’re visiting. Look for a clock tower building or a high vantage point for a bird’s eye view during your visit. 

Weather and lighting and the usual rules of photography apply: a foreboding church will photograph well after a light drizzle; a countryside pasture will look resplendent in the evening light. Plan ahead to take pictures during “the golden hour” around sunrise and sunset to get softer lighting to add reds and yellows to your photos. 

The best advice is just to travel light , remain conscious of other people’s customs, and allow yourself to get a little lost along the way. 

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The Voyages Issue

What We See When We Look at Travel Photography

On the visual — and psychological — contradictions of pictures from the road.

“U.S.A. Long Island. East Hampton.” Henri Cartier-Bresson, 1967. Credit... Magnum Photos

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By Gideon Lewis-Kraus

• Sept. 22, 2016

T here is a vast gulf between how people tend to think of “tourism,” an agreeable pursuit for themselves and a great benefit to their local economy, and how people tend to think of other tourists, as interlopers, beholden to oafish appetites for packaged experience. Those of us who travel professionally, with a view to record for those at home our encounters on the road, try to bridge that perceptual divide. This can be uncomfortable. Tourists in bad faith, we are paid to elevate our naïve consumption (of city, museum, vista, ruin, breakfast) to the level of a vocation. The internal anxiety that this contradiction inspires in us often gets displaced, in an amusing way, onto others on the same circuit. Professional travelers like nothing better than the opportunity to point out the crumminess of other professional travelers.

The classic formulation is the opening salvo of the anthropologist Claude Lévi-­Strauss’s 1955 “Tristes Tropiques”: “Travel and travellers are two things I loathe — and yet here I am, all set to tell the story of my expeditions.” It has been 15 years, he continues, since he left the remote interior of Brazil, but the prospect of this book has been a source of shame. All he wants to offer is a humble contribution to the anthropological record, “an unpublished myth, a new marriage rule, or a complete list of names of clans.” But those delicacies of knowledge are so rare, the tribulations of their collection so great, that it has proved almost impossible to separate the wheat of anthropology from the chaff of adventure: “insipid details, incidents of no significance.” It is with great hesitation, then, that he takes up his pen “in order to rake over memory’s trash-cans.” He parodies a typical travel-­book sentence of his day: “And yet that sort of book enjoys a great, and, to me, inexplicable popularity. Amazonia, Africa, and Tibet have invaded all our bookstalls.”

Mark Twain pioneered this aggressive self-­defense in the 1860s, the early years of democratized and commodified guidebook travel. By the time Lévi-­Strauss took up the cudgel, photography was beginning to catch up with tourism, and since then travel writing and travel photography have come to seem, to the skeptical, like two sides of the same counterfeit token. Lévi-­Strauss continued: “Travel-­books, expeditionary records, and photograph-­albums abound. ... Mere mileage is the thing; and anyone who has been far enough, and collected the right number of pictures (still or moving, but for preference in colour), will be able to lecture to packed houses for several days running.”

The Voyages Issue: Remarkable Journeys With Six Photographers

Photo essays from around the world by Andrea Frazzetta, Joachim Ladefoged, David Maurice Smith, Kirsten Luce, Sebastián Liste and Raymond Meeks.

The travel writer, at least, had to sit down and actually bash it all out, which gave him or her some measure of self-­respect. The travel photographer had it worse. The right to call itself art rather than mere mechanism had been photography’s struggle since the medium was invented, but now practitioners had to differentiate their efforts from the unstudied shutter-­clicks of rank amateurs. The problem grew even more dire as travel photography transitioned from a hobby to perhaps the ultimate signifier of the inauthentic and the conformist. In his 1954 essay “The Loss of the Creature,” Walker Percy imagines a sightseer upon his first approach to the Grand Canyon: “Instead of looking at it, he photographs it. There is no confrontation at all. At the end of forty years of preformulation and with the Grand Canyon yawning at his feet, what does he do? He waives his right of seeing and knowing and records symbols for the next forty years.” In this case, the travel photographer has committed the original sin: His job is to create the ideal image against which the multitudes will inevitably find their own experiences wanting. The travel photographer is thereby caught in a bind. Either he is no better than the desultory tourist, or he is responsible for the fact that our experiences rarely resemble the advertisements or postcards.

By now, Percy’s contempt for this cliché — the traveler so busy with documentation that he misses out on some phantom called the “experience itself” — has itself become a cliché. But we are not much closer to resolving the fundamental paradox of travel, which is just one version of the fundamental paradox of late-­capitalist life. On the one hand, we have been encouraged to believe that we are no longer the sum of our products (as we were when we were still an industrial economy) but the sum of our experiences. On the other, we lack the ritual structures that once served to organize, integrate and preserve the stream of these experiences, so they inevitably feel both scattershot and evanescent. We worry that photographs or journal entries keep us at a remove from life, but we also worry that without an inventory of these documents — a collection of snow globes for the mantel — we’ll disintegrate. Furthermore, that inventory has to fulfill two slightly different functions: It must define us as at once part of a tribe (“people who go to Paris”) and independent of it (“people who go to Paris and don’t photograph the Eiffel Tower”).

Now that social media has given us a public forum, both theatrical stage and deposit institution, for this inventory, we have brought to this paradox increasingly elaborate methods of documentary performance. But the underlying strategies are nothing new. The most elementary strategy is the avoidance of the Grand Canyon/Eiffel Tower conundrum entirely, but this works only if you’re confident that you’ve identified a satisfying alternative. (As Paul Fussell put it in his 1979 book “Abroad,” “Avoiding Waikiki brings up the whole question of why one’s gone to Hawaii at all, but that’s exactly the problem.”) Another is to forefront our own inauthenticity as a disclaimer. In his 1987 book “The Songlines,” Bruce Chatwin described his lifelong attempt to write a book about nomads as a repudiation of his earlier involvement with art: “I quit my job in the ‘art world’ and went back to the dry places: alone, travelling light. The names of the tribes I travelled among are unimportant: Rguibat, Quashgai, Taimanni, Turkomen, Bororo, Tuareg — people whose journeys, unlike my own, had neither beginning nor end.” People, that is, who had a motive for travel that went well beyond the vanity of documentation.

Even if you understand and sympathize with obsessive documentary travel, summer can make anyone feel as uncharitable as Percy felt toward that poor sightseer at the lip of the Grand Canyon. More than one friend told me that their main vacation in August was a vacation from Instagram, because they’d endured more than enough ostentatious displays of wealth and leisure for one season. I know other people who deliberately switched to Snapchat, but then sent out reminders to that effect; they wanted a contemporaneous audience but felt uncomfortable going on the permanent record. For some reason, the real-time digital exhibitionism of excessive summer holidaying makes me feel generous; the more desperate a bid to be liked, the more enthusiastically I go ahead and like it. I have an acquaintance — someone I like but barely know — who spent what seemed to me to be an exorbitant amount of time doing absolutely nothing at all on the remote Italian island Pantelleria, photographing that nothing at all as though he were on sabbatical inside a Fellini film. I assiduously liked every single post. (I’m not perfect. I still categorically withhold my likes from some classes of image: photos of chefs in Copenhagen; photos of food in Copenhagen; photos of people who have recently eaten in Copenhagen.)

My favorite social-­media vacation of the summer, however, belonged to my friend David, who intermittently recorded a long cross-­country road trip. It was a solo undertaking, and the loneliness of much of the imagery made me feel as though it deserved special attention.

A week before David left, in mid-­August, he posted a brief prelude in the form of a diptych: an uneventful video of a street scene taken from his stoop in Brooklyn followed by a black-and-white shot, taken between Chelsea and Hell’s Kitchen, of a horseless buggy covered with a clear tarp; one of the new skyscrapers of the Hudson Yards development rises in the background. The two images in succession — the sentimentality of home, the gently self-­mocking irony of the black-and-white wagon — felt like a personal send-off in a minor key, an understated announcement that he was on his way.

His first road picture was geotagged “Chicago Downtown” but could have been anywhere: the battered steel door between the faux fluted pilasters of a down-at-heel industrial building, its cinder-­block facade unevenly repaired; above the door, someone had stenciled a simple, charming scene of white snowcapped mountains and a floating white moon. The image was lovely but nothing special, but it seemed to me instantly legible: I’m mooning around alone on this random block in Chicago, if anyone wants to hang out. If he’d posted a photo of the Sears Tower, say, it wouldn’t have played as invitation. The next series of images were taken from art museums, one from a permanent collection and the other from a show on view for only a short time. There was something reassuring about these posts, which seemed to me to advertise both the actual artworks depicted and the fact that he was doing a salutary job keeping himself company.

Over the course of the next week, there were some images I found inscrutable (audio CDs, stamped in red as RESTRICTED, of Bruce Dern doing a “Henry V” monologue at the Actors Studio), some readily intelligible as artifactual Americana (Smith & Wessons in the case of a Badlands pawnshop) and others that attempted sidelong glances at tourist landmarks (not Mount Rushmore itself but a shot of a family selfie in front of it; a photo of the Rocket Motel’s neon next to its own identical postcard). There were a few pretty sunsets — one in Minnesota, one in Wyoming — that spoke of a late-day solitary melancholy.

The best image of his trip was of a nighttime gas station. “What is it,” his caption asked, “about #gasstationsatdusk?” The picture got a lot of likes — more than his others tended to — and occasioned a number of passing remarks in the comments, especially from other artists and art critics. One contributor said something about Ed Ruscha and Matthew Barney. But the unmistakable reference, one art historian pointed out in the comments, was to Edward Hopper. Hopper was a painter, of course, but as Geoff Dyer points out in his book “The Ongoing Moment,” Hopper “could, with some justification, claim to be the most influential American photographer of the twentieth century — even though he didn’t take any photographs.” Dyer wrote that in 2005, long before Instagram existed, but the platform’s retro filters only deepen the likeness.

Hopper might remind Dyer of a photographer like Walker Evans, but the first thing a gas station at dusk recalls, for many travelers and travel writers who feel the need to justify their restlessness, is Elizabeth Bishop’s “Questions of Travel” and its “grease-­stained filling-­station floor.” Earlier in the poem, Bishop writes, “Think of the long trip home./Should we have stayed at home and thought of here?” The answer is familiar. We were right to go, but not because we got anywhere or achieved anything. It’s because of the small moments of incidental grace, the insipid bits Lévi-­Strauss disparaged (and subsequently indulged): “But surely it would have been a pity/not to have seen the trees along this road.”

It’s hard not to suspect that we’ve seen Bishop’s gas station before; it’s the same Hopper we recognize from David’s Instagram feed. At this point, given the layers of quotation and allusion, it seems silly to treat David’s image as if it were, as Percy might have had it, some flimsy representation standing between himself and an unmediated world, or a private snow-globe reminder of that stretch of Interstate. It wasn’t an act of representation at all, and it certainly wasn’t private. It was the expression of affect he wanted to communicate in that moment — something a little smart, and a little sad, and a little funny, and all in all very David. The image, an internet square of labyrinthine self-­referentiality — a photograph that recalled a painting that was at home in a poem — recalled for me a different line of Geoff Dyer’s, where he quotes John Berger on Paul Strand’s portraits: They arrested a moment “whose duration is measured not by seconds, but by its relation to a lifetime.”

One difference between a quest and a “road trip” — in the broadest sense of the term — is the degree to which the traveler knows what he or she wants. This is how we know to differentiate between the necessary and the incidental. Lévi-­Strauss set out for Brazil’s interior with a point, so it was obvious to him what was relevant (an unpublished myth, a new marriage rule) and what was dross (the logistics of transport). The appeal of the road trip, or the long through-­hike, or the pilgrimage, is that the “point” is so deliberately minimal — to arrive at, you know, the end — and the decisions involved so banal ( stop for gas now, or in a bit? ) that the distinction between signal and noise is blurred. When the question of significance is deferred, all moments are rendered equally significant.

The tourist caricature is in a funny position. The “point” of his or her vacation is not something discrete, like Lévi-­Strauss’s registration of a new marriage rule, but simply the accumulation of rarefied experience for its own sake, which means that every single moment must be optimally memorable — that is, photographable. Unlike the tourist, the traveler accepts that the point isn’t the intensity of the peak experiences but the way the journey itself sacralizes any given moment as a metonym for the whole. Feel free to photograph the gas station.

There’s a parallel in photography. The first time I looked at David’s gas station, I was at SFMoMA, where I’d just seen galleries of large-­format photographers, including Andreas Gursky and Thomas Struth. They document all the shipping containers in a southern Italian port, the controlled chaos of the Hong Kong Stock Exchange. Their painterly intensity and formal composition derive from Henri Cartier-­Bresson’s definition of photography as “the decisive moment,” the juncture of maximal effect and maximal information. In “Diana and Nikon,” her 1980 book on photography, Janet Malcolm expanded on the idea, remarking that “the arresting of time is photography’s unique capacity, and the decision of when to click the shutter is the photographer’s chief responsibility.” She contrasts the pictorialism of such photographers as Cartier-­Bresson, Steichen and Atget with the apparent vulgarity of subsequent generations of street photographers.

For Dyer, the road trip plays a crucial role in this midcentury photographic turn to the vernacular. It was Robert Frank, Dyer writes, who gave us the “ongoing” moment instead of the “decisive” one. He invented America as “a place to be seen from a car, a country that could be seen without stopping. If we do choose to linger it is often to try to work out why Frank took a particular picture (what’s so special about this?).” Garry Winogrand “pushed things a stage further, combining Frank’s ad hoc aesthetic with a pictorial appetite so voracious it bordered on the indiscriminate.” The point of a photograph of a trail, or some billboard half-seen out the window of a bus, is that it could easily be exchanged for the image taken immediately before or immediately afterward. The random sample communicates in one unpremeditated frame all the significance that particular person’s drive down that particular road could possibly contain.

This is the aspiration common to road-trip literature and road-trip photography: The moment at the gas station is held, insistently, to express as much about the total experience as the shot of the Eiffel Tower. But there remains, at least for me, a tension between the stories we tell about the road and the photographs we take along the way. When I’ve returned to things I’ve written about extended overland travel — whether a book, or travel articles, or just emails to friends — I feel settled, almost subdued, by my own accounts, by the way a succession of random gas-­station incidents has been given a form. Though in each case I tried to capture the miscellaneous experience of that particular interlude, the mood of each has inevitably been coerced into coherence. Yes , I think, this is how it happened, and this is what it meant, and what it will now continue to mean in retrospective perpetuity . These texts, over time, overwrote the memories from which they were drawn.

Revisiting my photographs from those same trips is dislocating in a different way. The difference may, of course, be a question of my own orientation: I’m habituated to the way a given experience is encoded in language. Writers love to repeat the truism that they need to see what they write to know what they think; seeing what you shot betrays the extent to which what you think is produced, and thereby constrained, by its method of thought. Always I find my photographs replete with remainders, pedestrian details that contradict and undermine the equally pedestrian account I committed to words. The colors are different. Drops of scarlet blood on a hard tarmac black as obsidian. An overturned brass samovar in a dingy brown train compartment. A bright alarum of pink cherry blossoms against a glass-flat cobalt sea. There is something about those moments, fugitively apprehended as they might have been, that seem to me now odd and decisive. They don’t at all seem like random samples of the ongoing. I never think, What was so special about this? I think instead, Yes, I remember now exactly what was so special about this. They mutely twitch with escaped significance. When we see what we saw, we are reminded of what was apprehended — and let go.

Gideon Lewis-Kraus is a writer at large for the magazine and a fellow at the New America Foundation. He last wrote about the coalition of progressives working to influence Hillary Clinton’s campaign.

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Why is Travel Photography Important? Let’s Talk About It

Table of Contents

Ever wondered why travel photography is important and holds such a unique charm? This art form, capturing the essence of diverse cultures and stunning landscapes in a single frame, has evolved significantly over the years. From simple holiday snaps to awe-inspiring shots that grace the pages of prestigious magazines and websites, travel photography encompasses various genres, each with its own allure.

According to Wikipedia , travel photography is “a genre of photography that may involve the documentation of an area’s landscape, people, cultures, customs, and history” .

But why is it so important? It’s all about perspective and creativity. Each photo tells a story, showcasing the world through the lens of the photographer. It’s not just about clicking at sight; it’s about how you perceive light, shadows, colors – all elements combining to create an unforgettable image.

So next time you shoot on your travels, remember that every photo is an opportunity to share your unique view of the world. Let’s explore this fascinating subject further.

Why is Travel Photography Important?

Travel photography is important because it captures the essence of diverse cultures, landscapes , and experiences, providing a visual record of one’s journeys. It also allows people to share and communicate their travel experiences, fostering global understanding and appreciation.

Travel Photography: The Journey and Passion

Role of passion in travel photography.

Passion is the lifeblood of travel photography. It fuels every frame, every shot, and every moment captured through the lens. A passionate travel photographer sees beyond the ordinary; they see stories waiting to be told, emotions longing to be encapsulated.

Imagine this: A single snapshot of a bustling city street, teeming with people and brimming with energy. This isn’t just a photograph; it’s an eloquent narrative that speaks volumes about the rhythm of urban life. It captures the essence of the city, its vibrant culture, and the unending hustle and bustle. The tall buildings, the crowded sidewalks, the colorful billboards – each element tells a story. It’s like a living, breathing testament to human civilization in its most dynamic form.

Travel photography is more than capturing pretty pictures; it’s about encapsulating experiences, emotions, stories that words often fail to express. It has the power to evoke strong feelings, stimulate thought and inspire wanderlust. It allows us to travel without moving, offering glimpses into corners of the world we may never get to see in person.

It’s passion that drives photographers to wake up at ungodly hours just to catch the sunrise or brave harsh weather conditions for that perfect shot. Without it, travel photos would merely be pictures – devoid of life and meaning.

Journey Influences Perspective

Travel photography is not just about capturing beautiful landscapes or exotic wildlife. It’s also about how travels shape the photographer’s perspective. Every trip brings new experiences which influence how photographers view their surroundings.

Travel photography is more than just taking nice pictures. It’s about recording our life’s journey and the world we live in. When we travel to busy cities, we learn to value peace and quiet. Seeing the simple lives of people in remote villages teaches us about happiness and contentment.

And when we see amazing natural sights, we’re reminded of our role in the environment. Travel photography helps us understand our place in the world and be grateful for what we have. It’s also about sharing these experiences to inspire others to explore.

These experiences don’t just affect what they choose to photograph but also how they do it – from their choice of angles to their use of light and shadow.

Impact of Personal Experiences on Photographic Style

Personal experiences greatly impact a photographer’s style in taking photographs during travels. They reflect personal emotions, beliefs, and values.

• A person who values human connection might focus on taking candid shots of locals.
• Someone with a love for adventure might gravitate towards dramatic landscapes or thrilling wildlife scenes.

These personal experiences bring uniqueness to each photo taken by different photographers even when shooting similar subjects or locations.

Emotional Connection Between Photographer and Work

Travel photography is often an emotional journey as much as a physical one. Photographers pour their heart and soul into their work, creating an intimate bond between them and their photos. This emotional connection is what makes travel photography so powerful and impactful.

For instance, when one views a photograph of a child’s innocent smile, it can evoke a sense of warmth. This is due to the ability of the photographer to not only capture the image itself, but also the emotion behind it.

Similarly, a picture of an old man’s wrinkled face is more than just an image.

It tells a story of life’s hardships and triumphs, giving the viewer a glimpse into the experiences that have marked his life. Both instances demonstrate the deep emotional connection that can exist between a photographer and their work.

Essential Equipment for Travel Photographers

Choosing the right camera for travel.

The camera body is the heart of your travel photography gear. It’s not just a tool; it’s an extension of your vision, a powerful ally in capturing the world around you. The right camera can make all the difference. Check out our comprehensive guide about the best cameras for travel for a detailed look at the options available.

For instance, consider a compact mirrorless camera like the Sony A7 IV , known for its high-resolution sensor and excellent low-light performance. Or perhaps you prefer DSLRs? Canon’s EOS 5D Mark IV is renowned for its robust build and exceptional image quality.

But remember, it’s not about having the most expensive camera body but one that fits your style and needs. Are you into street photography or landscapes? Do you need something lightweight or weather-sealed? Keep these factors in mind when choosing your ideal travel companion.

The Role of Lenses

Lenses are like different pairs of eyes – each one offers a unique perspective. For example, wide-angle lenses are great for capturing sweeping vistas while telephoto lenses allow you to zoom in on distant details.

A versatile mid-range zoom lens can cover most shooting scenarios from landscape to portrait photography. If wildlife photography is more your thing, then a telephoto lens might be what you’re looking for. For street photography , a 50mm equivalent prime lens is an excellent option.

Remember to pack light though – carrying too many lenses can weigh down your bag and slow down your journey.

Tripods: A Photographer’s Best Friend

Tripods might seem cumbersome but they’re essential pieces of equipment for any serious travel photographer. They provide stability during long exposures or time-lapses – crucial moments when even slight movement can ruin a shot.

Consider investing in sturdy yet lightweight tripods like Manfrotto Befree Advanced Travel Aluminum Tripod , perfect for capturing those breathtaking sunsets or starry night skies.

Backup Storage Devices: Don’t Lose Your Memories

Backup storage devices are often overlooked but they’re just as important as your camera and lenses. Imagine losing all your photos due to a memory card failure – it’s a travel photographer’s worst nightmare.

Portable hard drives like the WD My Passport Portable External Hard Drive or solid-state drives (SSDs) such as Samsung T5 Portable SSD can offer peace of mind. Regularly backing up your photos not only protects them from loss but also frees up space on your memory cards for more shooting.

Crafting Stories through Travel Photography

Composition: the art of storytelling.

Travel photography is more than just capturing images; it’s about making stories. A unique story can be woven into every frame, with each element contributing to the narrative. Take, for instance, a photo of villagers preparing food in an open-air market. The image is not merely about what they’re cooking but also about their way of life, community interaction, and cultural heritage.

Composition plays a crucial role in narrating these stories visually. It’s like arranging pieces of a puzzle in such a way that they form a coherent picture. In our example, the arrangement of villagers, their work stations, the food items on display all contribute to the overall story.

Consider another scenario: You’re using your drone to capture an aerial view of a place you’ve visited many times before. But this time, from high above, you see things differently – patterns emerge out of nothing and ordinary places transform into works of art.

Lighting: Setting Mood and Enhancing Narratives

Lighting wields tremendous power in influencing mood and enhancing narratives in travel photography. It’s akin to setting the stage for a theatrical performance – too much light washes out details while insufficient light leaves everything shrouded in mystery.

Imagine photographing an ancient monument at different times during the day. At sunrise or sunset (the golden hours), shadows cast by low-angle sunlight add depth and texture to the structure while soft warm hues create an ethereal atmosphere evoking feelings of nostalgia or reverence.

Conversely, under harsh midday sun or artificial lighting at night, colors may appear flat or overly saturated respectively thereby altering perception and viewer experience.

Colors: Conveying Emotions & Setting Tone

Colors are powerful tools for conveying emotions and setting tone in travel photography genre. They can make viewers feel happy or sad, calm or excited based on how they’re used within the image.

A vibrant market scene bursting with colors can evoke a sense of joy and excitement. On the other hand, a misty morning landscape in monochrome might stir feelings of serenity or melancholy. Thus, understanding color psychology can help photographers use this element effectively to enhance their storytelling.

Subjects: Bringing Life to Stories

Finally, subjects play an indispensable role in travel photography. They bring life to stories, making them relatable and engaging for viewers. Whether it’s people going about their daily chores or wildlife in its natural habitat or even inanimate objects like buildings and artifacts – every subject has a story to tell.

For instance, photographing villagers in their traditional attire against the backdrop of their rustic homes gives us a glimpse into their lifestyle and culture. Similarly, an image of a historical monument takes us back in time, making us wonder about its past glory and significance.

Developing Connections in Travel Photography

Rapport with locals: the key to authentic shots.

The role of a professional travel photographer extends beyond just capturing beautiful landscapes and iconic landmarks. It involves building meaningful connections with the local people, which can significantly enhance the quality of their work.

Engaging in a conversation with the locals can be a goldmine for photographers seeking to capture authentic shots.

This simple exchange can provide unique insights into the lives of the locals, which can be translated into compelling photographs that tell a story. This understanding and connection go beyond just taking a picture, it brings the subject to life, making the image more impactful and engaging.

Moreover, establishing a rapport with the locals can open doors to hidden locations that most tourists never get to see.

These off-the-beaten-path spots often offer stunning visual opportunities that can greatly enhance a photography portfolio.

By connecting with the locals, photographers not only get to capture the true essence of a place but also discover its hidden beauty, making their work stand out in the crowd.

Understanding Cultural Nuances: Adding Depth to Your Work

Before hitting the ground running with their cameras, it’s crucial for photographers to familiarize themselves with the cultural nuances of the place they’re visiting.

When photographers immerse themselves in the cultural nuances of their surroundings, they are able to develop a richer appreciation for the environment they are capturing.

This understanding allows them to represent their subjects in a way that is both respectful and accurate. This depth of knowledge is not merely beneficial for the aesthetic value of their work, but it also contributes to its authenticity and credibility.

Furthermore, being well-versed in cultural traditions and norms equips photographers with the ability to anticipate and capture unique moments or events.

This foresight can be invaluable, as it can lead to the creation of truly unique and impactful images. These images, infused with cultural understanding, not only capture a moment in time but also tell a story – a story that is deeply rooted in the culture it represents.

Networking: A Valuable Tool for Photographers

Networking is another essential aspect of travel photography that shouldn’t be overlooked.

Joining photography groups or communities is a beneficial move for photographers as it allows them to learn from the experiences of others and enhance their own skills.

The opportunity for collaborations is another advantage of networking; photographers can work together on projects, sharing resources and ideas.

Shared resources can include anything from equipment to location recommendations. This not only saves on costs but also introduces photographers to new shooting locations and techniques.

Emotional Connection: The Heart of Powerful Imagery

Last but not least, connecting emotionally with your surroundings is an integral part of creating powerful imagery as a travel photographer.

Photographers possess the unique ability to fully immerse themselves in their environment. They soak up the atmosphere, observe the light conditions at different times of day, and develop a deep emotional attachment to the place.

Their work is a reflection of this emotional connection. It resonates through every image they capture, creating a captivating visual narrative.

These images have the power to strike a chord with viewers. Each one is a testament to the photographer’s connection with their surroundings, inviting others to share in their experience.

Respectful Practices in Travel Photography

The art of asking permission.

The first rule of thumb in travel photography is obtaining permissions. It’s not just about snapping pictures; it’s about showing respect and understanding the value of consent. You might be thinking, “It’s just a photo .” But imagine someone taking your picture without asking. Feels weird, right? That’s why getting permission before photographing certain places or people is crucial.

• Ask politely.
• Explain your purpose.
• Show gratitude when granted permission.

These steps are simple yet powerful ways to show respect while doing what you love—capturing moments through your lens.

Ethical Boundaries in Focus

Travel photography isn’t just about capturing beautiful landscapes or vibrant cultures—it also involves understanding ethical boundaries . When we talk about ethics, we’re referring to the moral principles that govern a person’s behavior. In travel photography, this means being mindful of what you’re capturing and how it could potentially affect others.

Sensitive subjects can range from poverty-stricken areas to sacred religious sites. These topics require a delicate approach—a balance between telling a story and preserving dignity. Reactive photography—that spontaneous click of the shutter—can sometimes lead to crossing these boundaries unintentionally.

To avoid this:

• Do your research: Understand the context of what you’re shooting.
• Be empathetic: Put yourself in their shoes.
• Practice restraint: Not everything needs to be photographed.

Cultural Sensitivity Shuttered

Photographing different cultures is like stepping into another world—it’s exciting, enlightening, but also challenging. Respecting local customs, traditions, and privacy during shoots is paramount for any travel photographer wanting to capture cultures authentically and respectfully.

Every culture has its unique set of norms and values—what may be acceptable in one culture may not be so in another. For example:

• In some cultures, direct eye contact can be considered disrespectful.
• Certain communities may have specific rules about photographing women or children.
• Some religious sites may prohibit photography altogether.

Being aware of these nuances not only shows respect but also enriches your understanding of the world around you.

Responsible Tourism in Every Shot

Travel photography can be a powerful tool to promote responsible tourism. It’s more than just creating stunning images—it’s about capturing the essence of a place, its people, and their way of life. And doing so responsibly means respecting the environment, the local culture, and its people.

Here are some tips to promote responsible tourism through your travel photography:

• Highlight local businesses: Showcase that charming family-run restaurant or artisan shop in your photos.
• Advocate for nature: Use your platform to raise awareness about environmental issues.
• Respect wildlife: Keep a safe distance and don’t disturb animals just for a photo opportunity.

Remember, as a travel photographer, you have an important role in shaping perceptions about different cultures and places. Let’s make sure it’s done respectfully.

Overcoming Challenges in Travel Photography

Weather woes.

Travel photography often brings with it the challenge of unpredictable weather conditions. One moment, you could be basking in the golden opportunities of a sunny day, and the next, you could be wrestling with your camera gear in a sudden downpour.

• A sturdy waterproof case for your equipment can go a long way to prevent damage from unexpected rain showers.
• Investing in lens hoods or filters can help manage glare on overly sunny days.
• Using a tripod can stabilize your shots during windy conditions.

Despite these challenges, unpredictable weather often presents unique opportunities for stunning photographs that wouldn’t be possible under “ perfect ” conditions.

Equipment Emergencies

Handling equipment failure or damage while traveling is another hurdle travel photographers must overcome.

Embarking on a journey? Don’t forget the importance of regular maintenance checks! These can be your first line of defense against unexpected breakdowns, turning potential disasters into minor speed bumps.

The idea of carrying backup equipment might initially seem like an unnecessary hassle. However, when your primary gear fails, you’ll find it’s worth every ounce!

Mastering basic repair skills could be your secret superhero power. Imagine being stranded in a remote location without professional help in sight, but fear not, your repair skills are here to save the day!

Remember, overcoming these challenges adds resilience to your skillset and makes each successful shot even more rewarding.

Language Barriers and Cultural Differences

Coping strategies for language barriers and cultural differences are vital to ensure respectful interaction with locals and capture authentic images that respect their culture.

When you take the time to learn key phrases in the local language, it’s not just about aiding communication. It’s a powerful way to demonstrate respect for the culture you’re immersing yourself in, and that can be incredibly rewarding!

Before you even set foot in a new place, make sure you’ve done your homework on local customs. This will ensure you don’t accidentally offend anyone with your actions or the pictures you take, making your trip smoother and more enjoyable.

Don’t underestimate the value of engaging local guides on your journey. They can help you navigate language barriers with ease. More than that, they can offer invaluable insights into what elements of their culture to highlight in your photos, or what to avoid. It’s like having a cultural compass right in your pocket!

These efforts will not only improve your travel photography experience but also enrich personal growth through cultural immersion and understanding.

Logistics: Not Just Clicks

Managing logistics like transportation, accommodation, safety etc., while juggling photography demands can seem daunting.

Imagine this: you’re designing your travel itinerary, and you’re not just thinking about the sights you want to see. You’re also considering the perfect moments you want to capture on camera, balancing your sightseeing and photography sessions perfectly.

Now, picture this: you’re selecting your accommodations and you’re not just looking for comfort or amenities. You’re strategically choosing locations close to prime photography spots , saving you travel time and providing ample opportunities for capturing breathtaking sunrise or sunset shots.

Finally, think about this: you’re not just ensuring your personal safety but also of your precious photography equipment. This is crucial for a worry-free travel photography experience, allowing you to focus on capturing stunning images.

Tackling these logistical challenges head-on helps you focus on capturing the essence of your travels without unnecessary stress.

The Lasting Impact of Travel Photography

Travel photography isn’t just about snapping shots; it’s about capturing the essence of a place and its people. It’s an art that goes beyond mere sightseeing. It’s a way to preserve memories, share experiences, and tell stories that can inspire others to explore the world. So, grab your camera gear, hit the road, and let your lens reveal the beauty of our diverse planet.

Your travel photos serve as a bridge between cultures, fostering understanding and respect. They can also be a powerful tool for personal growth, pushing you out of your comfort zone and challenging you to see things from different perspectives. And remember, every challenge you face is an opportunity for a great shot! Now go on—get out there and capture those unforgettable moments!

What are some essential equipment for travel photography?

A good DSLR or mirrorless camera is crucial for high-quality images. A versatile zoom lens can cover most situations while tripods are useful for long exposures. Don’t forget extra batteries and memory cards!

How does travel photography help in storytelling?

Through composition, angles, lighting and subjects chosen in each frame, photographers craft narratives that convey the spirit of the places they visit.

How can I develop connections through travel photography?

Engaging with locals often leads to more authentic images. Also consider joining photography communities online where you can share your work and learn from others.

Why is respectful practice important in travel photography?

Respectful practices ensure we don’t offend local customs or invade privacy while photographing people or places.

What challenges might I face in travel photography?

Weather conditions, language barriers or unfamiliar customs could pose challenges but these also create opportunities for unique shots!

How does travel photography impact personal growth?

It pushes you out of your comfort zone encouraging adaptability, resilience and a broader worldview.

How can travel photography inspire others?

Your images can motivate others to explore new places, understand different cultures and appreciate the world’s diversity. To see for yourself, check out the Travel Photographer of the Year Awards !

I’m a professional travel photographer, and I’ve been living the digital nomad lifestyle since 2016. I make money by working on client assignments, selling stock photography and helping other photographers by sharing my experiences on this website. I move around at my own pace (I hate fast-paced travel) and like to spend a few months getting to know each place I base myself in.

My writing and photos have been featured on industry leading websites such as Digital Photography School , Atlas Obscura and the world’s leading underwater photography resource The Underwater Photography Guide . I authored an eBook called “ Breaking Into Travel Photography: The complete guide to carving out a career in travel photography ” that has been published on Amazon. My stock images have also appeared in ads promoting destinations and companies that sometimes has been a surprise, even to me. But I guess that’s the nature of stock photography, you never know who will license them!

I’m always happy to connect, so feel free to reach out!

Travel Photography - How to Blend Your Passion with Profession

Out of the different genres of photography, travel photography is the most appealing to many. A travel photographer gets a chance to experience places, people, and cultures while doing photography. And one tries to bring the viewer to the same experience through the photographs. It offers a fair share of the adrenaline rush, money, and accolades. However, choosing to combine a life of wanderlust with your profession has its own set of challenges. Like other career and business options, travel photography can offer you every bit of joy and learning experience that you want both from traveling the world and from the career of photography, provided that you can manage and scale things up, focus on brand building and market your work effectively.

Pro-tip: Remember that travel photography will require you to do the miles, most often on your own, and there will be serious expenses to be incurred and work to be done.

Before you respond to the call of adrenaline and decide to quit your nine to five to dedicate yourself to travel photography business, take cognizance of the pros and cons.

Travelling is a fantastic activity that rejuvenates the mind and soul to the hilt. Each destination comes with its unique charm and beauty, which you capture through the lenses (photography). You can cherish the travel memories for long and share the beauty of the places you travel to with the world.

Someone has aptly said that a picture paints a thousand words. No wonder travel photography is not only amazing but soul-stirring. And nowadays travel photography has also become an interesting and lucrative business. It is such a rewarding thing that you will grow creatively, and the joy that you will experience in your heart will be unparalleled.

What is Travel Photography? 

Travel photography is primarily about photographing places in all their glory. As a travel photographer, you will travel to lots of places and capture them through your camera. The places can be tourist attractions, natural landscapes, hotels and resorts, cultural experiences, and outdoor adventures. Most professional travel photography is in some way or the other linked with the tourism industry, generating imagery for magazines, brochures, advertising, merchandise, and online media.

Top reasons why you should become a travel photographer:

Develop your respect and love for this beautiful planet When you step out of the hustle-bustle and chaos of your fast-paced life in cities and see the natural beauty and abundance of this fascinating earth, you feel ardent love and need to save this planet. When you capture the enchanting beauty of the places, you feel grateful and happy. You understand the lessons which your parents and teachers taught you in school about being sensitive to our environment and the planet. Travel photography strengthens the bond with our planet and makes you value it more than ever.

Learn the virtues of flexibility and patience 

Travel photography helps you grow at a personal level. It changes you significantly. When you are sensitive to the planet, you become more flexible and develop patience. It is one of the best learnings from travel photography that Nature runs at its own sweet pace and yet accomplishes everything it aspires.

Similarly, you feel that you have become more patient with people, with circumstances. Success doesn’t always come fast; one needs to persevere and show some patience. Similarly, in photography, also you need lots of patience and perseverance. You have to wait for hours to capture that perfect and mind-boggling sunrise. And if you give it the time it deserves by being patient, then you will have some of the best shots in your portfolio. Flexibility is another great lesson you learn through travel photography. There have been times when you face undesirable circumstances such as flight cancellation, a flat tire, sudden change in weather conditions, etc., but you should never hold on to an itinerary and schedule and should show flexibility instead. You won’t regret it.

Make your life an adventure

You will never find any shortage of places to see and capture in your camera. Even your entire life is not enough to photograph our vast and beautiful planet. There are endless places you can shoot. Make a list of the places you will travel to and shoot. You will be spoilt for choice. There are endless options, and it is the most beautiful dilemma to choose which places to shortlist for travel photography. So don’t miss out on any opportunity and photograph as many places as you can and build a treasure of your photographs.

Feel and mingle with your environment

Let lose yourself in your environment, be natural, and absorb every bit of it. Even ask your co-travelers to do the same. Don’t get into posing and constantly smiling. Capture natural emotions as they will come out more beautifully in your pictures. For travelers, landscape photography is one preferred approach. Be it doing travel and street photography, animals, or inanimate objects, you will find a lot of choices in picking up a theme or subject for your next set of travel photography portfolio. It is important to note that external conditions such as the weather and lighting play an important role in getting that perfect shot. So, make sure to know the right time and right vantage point to click a memorable photograph and fulfill your wanderlust and engage in travel photography.

Revel in the opportunity to capture fascinating places and moments

Every time you travel, you come back with pictures of beautiful places and moments, some of which may leave you spell-bound, and some leave the effect of absolute tranquillity. You get to capture your dream destinations, the places which looked picture-perfect in a magazine/internet. You capture those moments which leave you in awe. One such place where you can click such pictures is Rajasthan. The picturesque beauty and history of Rajasthan make it a perfect destination for travel photography. Wherever you travel in Rajasthan, you will be inspired by the “Lands of Kings,” which is one of the best places in the entire world. Such is the charm of majestic Rajasthan.

Here are 4 top useful tips on how to get started in travel photography

Play around with angles and shots, capture emotions and moments, plan the travel photography shoot well, always be ready with your gears.

Wondering how to get into travel photography? First things first. You don’t have to be obsessive about your gear. You can start shooting with your smartphone, regular cameras, or DSLR. The best lens for travel photography is what you have. Since there are so many types of subjects, one type of lens would not be enough. Instead of focusing on the subjects which your lens is suitable for is the thing to do. What is essential is to start. Many photographers prove that it is not the equipment, but the creative vision that helps one to sift the best from the rest.

Similarly, there are no specific types of DSLR made for travel photography; even an entry-level DSLR can take some good photos. The best camera for travel photography is the one that can give you a wide scope of getting the best shots. Also, the best lenses for travel photography would depend on which type of shots you are looking to take. If you are looking for wide-angle shots, then a wide-angle zoom lens like a 16-35mm lens would help you take great shots. The more pictures you take, the more you will come to know about camera angles, subject/object interplay, lighting conditions, and post-processing. Thus, when you start, it’s best to start on a slow scale and then upgrade your travel photography gear as and when you feel you are ready to transcend the next level of photography expertise.

Take pictures from different angles, and maybe you can use wide-angle lenses to give more context to your images. Step out of your comfort zone and make silly poses and have a good time alone with good pictures. You will surely get some good shots which will be interesting. But first, you need to know some crucial terms like eye angle, Dutch, establishing shot, cut-in, cutaway, low angle, perspective, reverse shot, over the shoulder (for shots).

Similarly, in angles, you need to have some degree of proficiency in close up/ extreme, medium shot, worm’s eye view, bird’s eye view, longshot, or POV. The interplay of framing, angles, shots, and positions provide a different viewpoint, a different aspect of focus to the viewer, and convey varied emotions.

When you visit a lovely place with amazing landscapes, views, and the environment, apart from capturing these beautiful things to capture the feeling of being there. More than the aesthetics, it is about telling its own story to the viewers. This virtue can be enabled by allowing the subjects to be captured in their familiar environment or surroundings. The special bond of the familiar place can stir emotions and can be radiated into your shots.

Also, they need not be overwhelmed with elaborate directions. Just subtle guidance would be enough to keep the subjects at ease and bring out the natural pose without feeling self-conscious or uncomfortable. Another way to conjure emotion is to avoid having them standstill. Give them something to do, and see their involvement in the activity, bring out their genuine emotion.

It is always better to plan things before heading out for travel photography. Take ideas on how to capture emotions and the surroundings when you are on your travel photography trip. Spend some time to assess how you will be capturing the place in its full glory. Answer questions like,” How will I get there?” ‘Does the place have photographic potential,’ ‘Will the potential be affected by the time of the year or the time of the day?’, ‘How do I arrange for traveling around the different spots to get incredible shots?’.

An hour on Google can provide you both – the inspiration as well as the information to plan your travel photography trip well. While you plan on which places will be worth the shot, you also need to factor in unexpected issues like delay, seasonal changes, or poor lighting conditions.

For many photography enthusiasts, the sudden change in weather can be a blessing in disguise. It can present an unexpected enhancement to the subject (Think of a layer of snow covering the city landscapes, or sudden rainfall leading to lush greenery).

Wherever you travel, be prepared with your camera and the supporting gear . Be prepared to take advantage of an opportunity to click photographs. You never know you might click your masterpiece at a very humble place or in any other place where you had never thought you would.

To summarize, you can say that there is a vast difference between taking photos on your trip or traveling specifically to take photos. The proof of the difference will be in the quality of the images captured by your camera. These travel photography tips and techniques aptly showed why you need to explore travel photography as an option. These tips will factor in for elevating the overall photography experience to a new level of subtlety and sophistication.

Now that you know the benefits of travel photography, here are our top 9 travel photography tips for beginners on how to turn your travel photography passion into a business.

1. choose travel photography only if you love it deeply. it’s going to be tough..

Adventurous photography has many niche genres, like wildlife photography, industrial photography, landscape photography, etc. Learn about the types, the corresponding skill requirements, the temperament that is needed, the challenges involved, and of course, the monetization models involved. Make sure that you understand all the dynamics before making your final decision. Follow both your heart and mind. Once you have made up your mind on selecting travel photography as your specialty, you then need to focus and prioritize it and pursue it with all your passion. Half measures will not do.

2. Invest time, effort and money to learn the tricks of the trade

Falling in love with someone at first sight, is sensitivity at its highest. Planning to get married and start a family with that someone is sensibility at its highest. We are talking about marriage here. Marrying your passion and your expertise - technical, aesthetic, and commercial. Think like a pro. Start learning the tricks of the trade by interning for free as you take pictures with a second-hand camera or taking some travel photography courses. Interact with peers and seek travel photography tips by browsing good travel photography websites. Study books and magazines on travel photography. Learn from the masters. You can also attend travel photography workshops , seminars, and other training programs to learn from the best.

3. Clearly Describe your Travel Photography Service

Define your travel photography service in unambiguous terms. Enable your clients and prospects understand the quality of work that you deliver, prices that you charge, value-added services that you render, and the scale of projects that you work on. Define the mode of payment, and the terms and conditions for hourly rates, weekly commitments of time and project deadlines. Defining your service will help you to make money with photography while traveling.

4. Create your professional travel photography website

Even as you continue to learn and inculcate the skills of professional travel photography, you must not forget to market your work. Build a professional travel photography website to showcase your travel photography photos. Sort and curate your work and select the best travel photos of different genres that you have for your portfolio website. Regularly update your portfolio website and add new work from recent travels. Your website is your showcase window to the world and the first point of contact with potential clients and collaborators. Get inspired by these awe-inspiring photography portfolio websites created on Pixpa.

Here’s a great guide on how to create an online portfolio website.

Pixpa is an all-in-one platform to create a travel photography portfolio website easily without any coding knowledge. Take a free trial and start building your portfolio website now.

5. Use social media to generate exposure for your work

Travel photography gets a lot of attention and response to social media. People love to like and share beautiful, picturesque images of places they would love to visit. As a travel photographer, learn to leverage social media to your advantage. Choose one or at max two social media platforms and focus all your energies on sharing high-quality posts regularly. Interact with people who comment and share your work and build your fan following. Look through the metrics of likes, shares, and comments to understand the market trends , the quality of work, and areas for improvement.

Instagram has emerged as the preferred platform for photographers to share their work. Travel photography is especially popular on Instagram, with many hub pages promoting travel photography. Learn how to use photography hashtags on Instagram to get success as a travel photographer.

6. Start a Travel Photography Blog

Add a travel photography blog to your portfolio website. Starting telling visual stories, share travel photography tips, and behind-the-scenes insights of your travels. Create photo stories of the places you are visiting. Talk about the culture, experiences, and share your explorations through your blog posts. Your blog will gradually become a magnet for attracting admirers and potential clients alike.

Tip: You can add a blog to your portfolio website on Pixpa easily. Learn more.

7. Explore Ways to Earn Money through Travel Photography Passion

Here is the challenge. Capturing the best travel photos as you travel across the world is one thing and making money from them, quite another. Always be looking to sell your skills, brand your work, and get a better bargain. You may try publishing your work on some of the best travel photography platforms, online tourism platforms, and wildlife adventure photography and conservation platforms that offer a good amount of money. 

There are a lot of stock photography websites where you can sell your travel photography images. There are also many travel magazines that regularly post travel photography jobs. Build your relationships with travel magazines and understand their requirements. You can plan your travels wherein you are shooting images that a travel photography magazine or website would be interested in paying. 

Tip: Get an established photography agency to market and sell your travel photography work  

8. Network! Join a Travel Photography Group

How about socializing with buddy travel photographers at a cool theme restaurant on the weekend? You get to know each other, bond over shared interests in adventure photography, learn cutting-edge technical tricks, and, most importantly, get recommended to clients by senior professionals. Network, share positive vibes with your tribe, and get recognized within the community of travel photographers for your work.

There are also several online travel photography communities that you can join. Fellow travel photographers are more than happy to help each other out with insider tips on the places they have visited.

9. Build and Grow your Client Relationships

Travel photography is not just about the camera. It is about exploring people, places, cultures, geographies, and practically whatever the roads serve your way. Flag each place you visit with a bit of self-promotion. Associate with noble causes and look to attach yourself to social campaigns. For example, you can try your hand at wildlife photography to spread the word on endangered species and animals that are on the verge of extinction. Amidst all the frenzy of meeting people, new clients and new assignments will pop out of nowhere.

Keep the faith and have the resolve to overcome a few challenges that the trade might throw your way. If you love photography and the freedom of working while traveling places, travel photography is for you. Leap with preparation and trust that the net will appear.

So, what are you waiting for, when the lush vistas of unexplored terrains beckon your inner creative side? Don't think too hard about how to be a travel photographer. Simply pack your bag and camera, make note of the tips and tricks of the trade and embark on your travel photography journey today!

Create your travel photography website easily without any coding knowledge on Pixpa. Take a free trial and start building your portfolio website now.

Frequently Asked Questions

• How do I prepare to be a travel photographer? To prepare yourself to be a travel photographer, you need to first prepare yourself to be a good traveller. This includes being flexible and patient, planning well but being prepared for eventualities, and always being on the lookout for an opportunity to capture an interesting moment or place. Having a sense of adventure is important in travel photography.
• What makes for good travel photography? Good travel photography always tries to capture the emotion of the moment and the place in each photograph. Make sure to capture not just locations, buildings and monuments but also people, events and moments. Your travel photography should be able to visually narrate the story of your journeys and not just the destinations.
• How much money do travel photographers make? According to Glassdoor, the average annual salary of travel photographers in the United States was $44,193 for 2021.

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Travel Photography With a Different Perspective

Travel photography is perhaps one of the broadest genres of photography because of how it overlaps with almost every other kind. It encompasses a wide range of shooting styles and shooting scenarios to fulfill a simple goal, which is to illustrate and tell stories about a place. Because a particular place is always made up of various intersecting dimensions, there is no single approach or style that encapsulates travel photography.

Following a normal tendency to generalize and oversimplify, there are various definitions of travel photography that stem from common iconic photographs that unofficially represent the genre. These photographs and others similar have shaped how people normally perceive travel photography. Travel portraits and environmental portraits are perhaps the most popular because of how they begin to tell stories about people and the culture of a particular place. Street and documentary photographs talk about how people interact with their environment, whether rural or urban, and illustrate activities that embody and represent their culture. Landscape photographs are also commonly labelled as travel photography because of the obvious fact that most landscape photographers travel quite a distance to be able to shoot. It is also notable that a lot of people often mistake travel photography as a nicer term for vacation photos, typical of what we often see on social media.

The Essence of Travel Photography

Given all the above examples, most of which are valid, travel photography is obviously much greater and wider as a genre than what most people understand. The misguided definition of travel photography oversimplifies it into taking photos when one is traveling, which (in my opinion) does not give justice to the impact of travel photography in educating people about culture, history, and even social and environmental issues.

The true essence of travel photography is in the capability of a photograph (or a set of photographs) to tell stories, document, and even immortalize the culture and history of a place and the people who inhabit it. Whether you are photographing the most remote island inhabited by isolated people, or a busy city driven by commerce and innovation, the place, its people, and how they interact will always have an infinite amount of stories to tell.

Personalizing Your Travel Photography

Given how broad travel photography can be, there are various reasons why your approach should have a personal touch to it. This is especially true when doing travel photography as a hobby or if given significant artistic freedom on assignment. Most of the time we travel with barely enough time to see and experience everything about a place, which is why our output will often be limited as well. How much we are able to cover as many aspects of a place depends on our own strengths and limitations, as well as our personal interests and biases. If you generally lean towards taking portraits or capturing candid moments, then your edge will be within the same approach. Some photographers tend to stick to photographing landmarks and iconic places since it is what interests them among the multitude of subjects within the place. Similar to other photography endeavors, it is a good idea to start with aspects of the task where you can best perform.

Relevance of Architecture in Travel Photography

Following the aims of travel photography, there is a lot that photographing the architecture of a place contributes to illustrating and telling stories about its people, the culture, and their history altogether. Typically, even in the most well-developed and even futuristic cities, you will still be able to find preserved architecture from past generations that are relevant to the history of the place. Most commonly you can easily find older “remnant” architecture in government buildings such as city halls, post office buildings, or other related structures. Some places in the world also do a good job of preserving the traditional architecture of their residential spaces and have converted such houses into functional storefronts. These structures offer a good mix of the architectural history of the place as well as reflect the more modern use of such spaces.

Depending on the place that you are visiting, you can also definitely find a number of modern buildings that represent the state of development of a place. While Singapore is particularly known for rapid development and innovation, the abundance of such newer building definitely varies on where you are. In most cases, a great way to photograph the relevance of architecture in the culture of a place as well as give a good glimpse of how drastically the place has changed when it comes to modernization is by photographing the old and new together. The juxtaposition of structures, buildings, or other visual elements in photos that represent two or more different periods in time is a great way to characterize the place and tell stories about it.

An Approach to Exploring Architecture When Traveling

If you are someone who is fond of simply going around a place with your camera in your hand, this approach to travel photography may be familiar to you. Most of the time, a “photowalk” when traveling is done with the use of standard zoom or walk around zoom lenses. However, in hopes of photographing architecture and how people interact with these significant structures, I walked around with a wide-angle shift lens with me. In hopes of being mobile and able to adjust to the available spaces, I mounted the Laowa 15mm f/4.5 shift lens onto my Sony a7 IV . While I was quite equipped for a cityscape shoot later in the day, an agile yet flexible approach is by using quick exposure bracketing to maximize what I can later do to the raw files. I either shot single-framed sequences with the lens shifted to get the proper perspective and scale, or shot multiple bracket exposures while also shifting the lens to shoot shift panoramas. This non-ideal process for photographing architecture follows an ideal approach to photography while traveling.

Travel photography is often much larger and much wider than how most people understand it. A place is composed of so many different factors made up of people, places, activities, creations, and the interaction of each and everyone of them. Being flexible with your travel photography means being able to take the approach that best suits your interests and your strengths. Your goal is to tell stories, and the most crucial step in doing so is finding what you are interested in for you to understand the story that you aim to tell.

Nicco Valenzuela is a photographer from Quezon City, Philippines. Nicco shoots skyscrapers and cityscapes professionally as an architectural photographer and Landscape and travel photographs as a hobby.

I didn't realize that travel photography must include humans or manmade elements in the images. I thought it was just about "a place" that one travels to. What if I do tons of traveling, but always travel to places that are natural, wild places, that re not inhabited by humans? Does that mean that I can not participate in travel photography, because the places I travel to are not "humanized"?

In the second paragraph the author includes landscape images to be part of travel photography. So the answer to your question would be yes, you can participate.

Actually I don't need his or anyone else's permission to 'participate'. Also the author doesn't state his acceptance of Landscape per se to be a valid inclusion. His statement can even be taken as a denigration, or at best not an acceptance, when he says they are labelled as such just because photographers travel : "Landscape photographs are also commonly labelled as travel photography because of the obvious fact that most landscape photographers travel quite a distance to be able to shoot.".

Though of course the author is also just giving HIS perspective.

As primarily a travel and landscape photographer my own feeling on the terminology is that it should be representative of the location, which may or may not include landscapes, people, architecture, food or the lifestyle of the location being documented. However not every location lends itself to every genre listed - that doesn't mean that work taken there is therefore not valid or should not be labelled as 'travel'. Simply because the term 'travel' covers such a wide variety of subjects, as for example does the term 'architecture'. And to thoroughly document a region would take a massive body of work.

You definitely said it better than me. Travel covers a wide variety of subject and that definitely includes landscapes. Theses are genres that overlap so much. I didn’t think I had to, but please let me make it clear for everyone that the point of this article is to encourage personalizing your travel photography to focus on your strengths and interests if your time at a particular place is limited.

I don't know why it seemed that the first commenter felt as though I am excluding certain kinds of travel photography but what I am trying to say is that travel photography is vast and encompasses almost every other kind of photography.

The person I replied to asked the question. Based on the author's parameters, not yours, he included landscape as being part of travel photography.

I really like the images in the article. Quite different from the regular travel photography images that we always see.

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Travel Adventures – Part 4: Moscow

July 7, 2016 Travel

This beautiful woman lingered for a moment on the steps at one of the several churches in the Sergeiv Posad Monastery. I thought she was absolutely beautiful.

So far in this journey we have visited some wonderful cities … Helsinki, Finland, Tallinn, Estonia and St. Petersburg, Russia. We have traveled together along the waterways of Russia to such exotic sounding places as Mandrogy, Kitzy Island, Goritzy, Uglich, and Yaroslavl and seen the beauty of the countryside in between these towns. But our ship finally came to dock in Moscow, the capital of Russia and I really had no idea what to expect!

One advantage of travel tour is that you get a good general overview of an area. That’s the good news, of course. The bad news on most tours — and this tour certainly was no exception –was that you never did have a lot of time to explore on your own. The guides and the schedule kept you pretty busy all of the time. It was great for getting information and seeing a lot, but difficult for photographers who like to explore in more depth.

When we got to Moscow, we hopped on buses and were off to tour the city. Moscow is a huge city with so much traffic that I vowed never to complain about the traffic on Los Angeles freeways ever again. I couldn’t believe how tough you had to be to drive in this city. It played havoc with all schedules and timetables because what should have taken just 20 minutes to drive ended up taking an hour. One of the reasons is how they handle their traffic accidents. From what we understood and saw, cars involved in accidents were not allowed to move until both the police and the insurance adjuster came. So, a simple traffic accident could snarl things for hours. There is definitely a different viewpoint here than back home.

The traffic on every street no matter the hour seemed to be hectic.

The city of Moscow is upbeat with many shops, theaters, and restaurants and such. We saw shops with all of the latest and most expensive designers. All of the big brand names in clothing had shops. During this introductory tour, we were dropped off on a rather large street and told to walk through an arch into a huge open area. A large red brick/stone wall ran down one side and the most magnificent Russian Church we had seen so far was at the far end. The area was enormous and, of course, it was the famous Red Square. Behind the brick/stone wall was the Kremlin. I had to pause to take it all in, because never in my life would I have ever imagined myself standing there! The look on my sister and friend’s faces, told the same story that I was feeling … ABSOLUTE AWE!

We had some time to wander and walk by Lenin’s tomb before we had to return to the bus to continue the general tour of the city. 

From an overlook within the St. Basil Cathedral, you can get a fabulous overview of Red Square. The Kremlin wall is on the left side of the image; at the end of that wall is the Spasskaya Tower. The red building with two towers is the National Historical Museum, barely seen and tucked into the corner to the right of the Museum is Kazan Cathedral and along the right side is the turn of the century arcades of Gum’s department store.

Copyright © Stan Westfall

Along the wall that separates the Kremlin from Red Square is Lenin’s tomb. His body has been on public display there since the year he died in 1924.

A night tour took us past some of the brightly lit gambling casinos in Moscow. The bouncing bus, combined with the bright neon lighting, brought a few interesting photo opportunities. We attended a wonderful concert that featured many of the traditional musical instruments of Russia — another photo opportunity not normally available in a theater, but because the audience was from the various tours and ships that were in Moscow that particular evening, we could take photos — but of course, not with flash, which is always a disturbance to the performers. As we left the concert, the moon was just rising over one of the beautiful cathedral spires. My friend Anne caught the shot (3rd below/right). She is quick and steady and got a round of applause when she “nailed it!”

Driving through Moscow’s downtown area at night was fascinating. It was bright with colored lights. Many casinos and restaurants were lit up and looked very busy. It was a supercharged city that came alive at night.

Copyright © Anne Westfall

St. Basil’s in Red Square was beautiful during the day but at night it was a fairy tale. This is one of Russia’s most beautiful cathedrals.

Fabulously lit fountains switched colors to make an exciting night shot.

Square at night is spectacular with the Gums building in sparkling lights.

Leaving the theater one night we were just in time to see the moonrise near one of Moscow’s cathedrals. 

The next day we toured the park adjacent to the grounds of the beautiful Novodevichy Conventwhere many exiled or self-exiled royal wives, daughters and lovers “took the veil” (which means they chose to become a nun), to get out of their marriage, family or mistress arrangement, since divorce was not allowed. It is in this park where you will find the lovely bronze ducks, given as a gift by President George Walker Bush and Mrs. Barbara Bush. We visited the Kremlin and I was surprised to find out that there were 5 or 6 churches within its walls. In the Armory, the stunningly beautiful royal clothes, jewels and carriages were housed. It was amazing to see that even the carriages were embedded with jewels.

The Novodevichy Convent where many exiled or self-exiled royal family members “took the Veil”. The park like setting was one of the most beautiful we had seen.

We had the opportunity to go into their frightfully expensive, but stunningly wonderful GUM (pronounced we discovered like “goom” not “gum” as in chewing gum). Just wandering up and down this multilevel shopping extravaganza was a treat.

Gums is a large collection of shops on one side of Red Square. The three level, indoor mall features eating establishments, large walkways and bridges from one side to another. It is frequently used as a setting for newly wed brides.

The next morning, my friend Stan Westfall and I decided to take the tour to the Sergiev Posad Monastery. My sister, Sunny, and our friend Anne Westfall opted to visit the Pushkin Museum in the morning and the Tretyakov Gallery in the afternoon. Since we were going to have separate adventures to share that evening, I reminded them to take lots and lots of photographs so we could enjoy their day as well.

In the center of the Sergeiv Posad Monastery there is a beautiful Holy Water fountain where people come to drink, to bless and to carry home a small jar of Holy Water. 

CONTINUE WITH THE STORY AND SEE MORE PHOTOS…………

Be sure to join us next month as we visit Moscow.

Read Travel Adventures – Part 1: Finland and Estonia

Read Travel Adventures – Part 2: St. Petersburg, Russia

Read Travel Adventures – Part 3: Cruising the Russian Waterways

by Noella Ballenger

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Sunbathing in the Suburbs: Q&A with Alexander Gronsky

Feb 12 2014.

A landscape photographer explores the outskirts of Moscow in a new book called “Pastoral.”

Though many describe him as a winter landscape photographer, there’s not much snow in Alexander Gronsky’s first book. The Russian artist – who was born and grew up in Estonia – was always fascinated by his native country, where he shoots 90% of his work today. But sand and greenery replace his winter inclination in “ Pastoral ”, a four-year exploration into Moscow’s suburbs. Set against the infamous Soviet blocs that line the horizon, his photos portray unexpected and sometimes idyllic places stuck between the city and the countryside. He spoke to R&K from his home in Riga.

R&K:  You’ve lived in several countries in the area. Why did you pick Moscow for this project?

Gronsky:  Because I was living in Moscow at that point. I was so tired of these huge distances, huge trips, so for my next project I wanted to find a place that would be convenient. I could imagine shooting anywhere on Earth, except the places where I lived, actually, so yes it was my first experience in taking pictures where I live.

R&K:  But these places are actually not that close to the city center, right?

Gronsky:  Yes of course, they are somewhere between 10 to 20 kilometers from the center of the city. Moscow is quite huge and at that moment I had already lived three years there and I still never could imagine myself somewhere in the outskirts because it felt like a totally different country. You lose your orientation, nothing is familiar, and these are huge, unexplored areas.

R&K:  So how did you select these places?

Gronsky:  I was quite cautious. At first I walked around the last stops of the subway, then I moved a bit further and further. I heard that some areas were very special, some places I liked more than others, and it took me about two years to explore more or less all of the Moscow surroundings. Then I focused on the ones I found the most rewarding.

THESE PLACES CAN BE QUITE SHADY […] BUT IN THE SUMMER, THEY BECOME RESORT AREAS

R&K:  These photos are extremely different from what we would expect to see of Moscow. Was it important for you to show a different side of the city?

Gronsky:  Not really, because I expected Moscow suburbs to be like that. It’s a common sight of the post-Soviet periphery of a big town, so in Moscow like any city in Russia you get pretty much the same landscape. I think it was my tribute to that landscape because it’s the one of my childhood. When you’re a teenager, you go mostly to that periphery because you can do whatever you want there. The rules only function in cities.

Gronsky:  These places can be quite shady, you might see a car that was dismantled for car parts in the woods or something, but in the summer, they become resort areas. All these dirty creeks that have this dangerous feel in the winter or in spring or in autumn, during the summer people bathe in the rivers and lakes, they sunbathe… I really enjoyed these areas and I like looking at what happens there, how people inhabit the spaces.

R&K:  These places look so empty and desolate. Is that really the case or is it how you chose to portray them?

Gronsky:  It is the case. I was actually looking for people in the shots, so I think my pictures are actually more inhabited than reality.

‘PASTORAL’ REFERS TO THE SPACE AS SOME SORT OF SUBSTANCE TO BE DISCOVERED, SOMETHING THAT NEEDS TO BE FELT NOT ONLY WITH THE EYES

R&K:  But you still managed to shoot the pictures in quite a romanticized way.

Gronsky:  Yes, it’s a huge cliché to put some Romantic paintings of the 17th century in context of any photographic landscape but these landscapes have formed our idea of beautiful. So when you want to make something beautiful, you use the same practices that romanticist painters would use: early or late hours when the sun is low, when there is some dramatic light, etc. These paintings have developed a language and I of course refer to it.

R&K:  There’s not much snow in your pictures, as opposed to much of your other work. Why?

Gronsky:  The effect of the snow landscape somehow didn’t fit this project. I shoot a lot of winter landscapes but for some reason, there is something very different in terms of dimensions.

Gronsky:  There is this representation of space that I have with snow that is so unique that I excluded almost all winter pictures from “Pastoral”. They made it into the “ Edge ” series – they are the same outskirts of Moscow only in the winter, so they have such a different feel. I mean, these winter landscapes are very much about design, about lines and the flatness of the image. It brought something very graphic and abstract. “Pastoral” refers to the space as some sort of substance to be discovered, something that needs to be felt not only with the eyes.

R&K:  Yes, because it explores how people interact with nature and I imagine that with snow, that’s also very different…

Gronsky:  Yes exactly, with the snow, the interaction is quite boring. It’s also different on an emotional level. In the winter, the relation between human and landscape is more sterile, it’s cleaner, you don’t really touch the soil, you have this boundary between you and the landscape. You don’t really lie on the ground and take in the landscape.

R&K:  As opposed to the summer, when people are lying on the sand or bathing in the water.

Gronsky:  Exactly. You literally embrace the landscape.

You can pre-order “Pastoral”  here , or see more of Alexander Gronsky’s work  here .

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Does elevation mean up or down?

Exploring the Meaning of Elevation

As a travel photographer, I often find myself captivated by the breathtaking landscapes and dramatic vistas that high altitudes offer. Whether it’s the majestic peaks of the Himalayas or the awe-inspiring beauty of the Grand Canyon, elevation plays a crucial role in shaping the landscapes that I capture through my lens. But what exactly does elevation mean? Does it indicate an upward or downward movement? In this article, I aim to unravel the mysteries behind elevation and shed light on its significance in the world of travel and photography.

Elevation, in its simplest form, refers to a rise or the act of raising something. When we talk about mountains, elevation indicates their height above sea level. Similarly, our mood can also have an elevation, which signifies an increase in happiness or positivity. In geographical terms, elevation is a noun that quantifies the height of something above a surface or ground line. It can be measured in meters or feet and is often represented on maps by contour lines or numerical values.

Understanding the Relationship Between Elevation and Direction

One of the most common questions that arises is whether elevation means going up or down. The answer is not as straightforward as it may seem. Elevation can be used to describe both upward and downward movements, depending on the context. When we speak of elevation in relation to hiking, it refers to the height above sea level at the end point of a trail. On the other hand, when we consider the depth below sea level, elevation denotes the point’s distance from the surface.

The Impact of Elevation on Temperature

Another fascinating aspect of elevation is its influence on temperature. As we ascend to higher altitudes, the air pressure decreases, causing the air molecules to spread out. This expansion leads to a drop in temperature, making higher elevations significantly colder than lower ones. This phenomenon can be observed in various mountainous regions, where the temperature decreases as you climb.

Debunking Myths: Low Elevation and Extreme Temperatures

Contrary to popular belief, low elevation does not necessarily imply hotter temperatures. In fact, the temperature variation is more closely related to the surrounding environment and weather patterns than the actual elevation. For example, areas at lower elevations but closer to the equator may experience higher temperatures due to their geographical location, while regions at higher elevations but nearer to the poles might be colder.

FAQs About Elevation and its Impact

1. How does elevation affect photography? Elevation can dramatically influence the lighting conditions, atmospheric clarity, and overall mood of a photograph. The higher the elevation, the more unique and striking the perspective can be, creating captivating compositions.

2. Are there any health considerations when visiting high altitude destinations? Yes, traveling to high altitude regions can pose certain health risks, especially for individuals who are not acclimatized. Symptoms such as dizziness, shortness of breath, and headaches can occur due to the lower oxygen levels. It is important to take precautions and allow your body to adjust gradually to the altitude.

3. Can elevation impact the flora and fauna of an area? Absolutely! Elevation plays a vital role in determining the types of plant and animal species that can thrive in a particular region. Different elevations offer distinct ecosystems and habitats, supporting a diverse range of life forms.

4. What is the tallest mountain in the world and its elevation? Mount Everest, located in the Himalayas, holds the title of the world’s highest mountain with an elevation of approximately 29,000 feet above sea level.

5. How can I prepare for a hike at high elevations? Before embarking on a high elevation hike, it is essential to engage in regular physical activity and improve cardiovascular endurance. Additionally, staying hydrated, wearing appropriate clothing, and allowing for acclimatization are crucial factors to consider.

6. Do high elevations affect camera equipment? Extreme altitudes and low temperatures can impact the functionality of camera equipment. It is advisable to carry extra batteries, protect your gear from moisture, and be cautious of condensation when transitioning between temperature variations.

7. Are there any unique natural phenomena associated with high elevations? Yes, high elevations provide an opportunity to witness awe-inspiring natural phenomena such as alpine glow, where mountains are bathed in warm hues during sunrise and sunset, and cloud inversions, where clouds settle in valleys below, creating a surreal landscape.

8. Can elevation impact the quality of travel experiences? Absolutely! Higher elevations often offer unparalleled scenic beauty, unique cultural experiences, and adventure opportunities like mountaineering, skiing, and paragliding. Exploring destinations at different elevations can enrich your travel experiences in countless ways.

In conclusion, elevation is a multifaceted concept that holds great significance in the world of travel and photography. Its impact on temperature, scenery, and life forms make it a crucial factor to consider when embarking on an adventure. Whether capturing the grandeur of mountains or delving into the mysteries of low-lying regions, elevation adds depth and character to the landscapes I encounter. As a travel photographer, understanding the meaning of elevation and its implications allows me to capture the essence of a place and share its beauty with the world.

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Shooter Files by f.d. walker

Street Photography Tips, Interaction, Travel, Guides

Apr 24 2017

City Street Guides by f.d. walker: A Street Photography Guide to Moscow, Russia

*A series of guides on shooting Street Photography in cities around the world. Find the best spots to shoot, things to capture, street walks, street tips, safety concerns, and more for cities around the world. I have personally researched, explored and shot Street Photography in every city that I create a guide for. So you can be ready to capture the streets as soon as you step outside with your camera!

At over 12 million people, Moscow is the largest city in Russia and second largest in Europe by population ( Istanbul is #1). An urban, cosmopolitan metropolis with more than enough glitz and glam to cater to the elite, but without losing its fair share of Soviet era roughness around the edges. It can be fast paced, brash, busy, and trendy like other big cities, but it has its blend of West meets Russia atmosphere and beauty that provides plenty of unique interest. The Red Square is as famous as it gets, but there’s so much more to this city, including the most beautiful subway system you’ve ever seen. It would take years to capture all of Moscow, but that means you have an endless amount of areas to discover.

So here’s a Street Photography guide so you can be ready to capture all that Moscow has to offer before you even arrive!

• Patriarch’s Pond
• Old Arbat Street
• Maroseyka Street
• Tverskoy Boulevard

Top 5 Street Spots:

1. red square.

The Red Square is the most famous square in not just Russia, but all of Eastern Europe. The name actually doesn’t come from the color of the bricks or communism, but from the name in Russian, Krásnaya, once meaning “beautiful” before its meaning changed to “red.” This large plaza is what you see on the cover of guide books and magazines for Moscow, with St. Basil’s Cathedral being the center piece next to Lenin’s Mausoleum surrounded by the Kremlin Wall. Of course, the Red Square attracts hordes of tourist due to the main attractions, but all that activity around an interesting atmosphere does provide street photo opportunities. It’s also the central square connecting to the city’s major streets, providing a good starting point to explore outward.

You’ll also find the popular pedestrian only Nikolskaya Street connecting the Red Square to Lubyanka Square. This line of expensive shops includes plenty of activity, while also leading you to another popular square. Filled with history rivaling any city, the Red Square and surrounding areas are the heart and soul of Russia.

2. Patriarch’s Ponds

Patriarch’s Ponds is one of the most exclusive neighborhoods in Moscow. Despite the name being plural, there’s only one large pond, but it’s worth a visit with your camera. It’s a popular spot for locals and expats to come relax or take a stroll around the pond. You get an interesting mix of young and old too, from young love to “babushkas” feeding pigeons. It’s a very peaceful park atmosphere in one of the nicer areas within the city center, while bringing enough activity for street photography. 

The pond is shallow and in the winter becomes a popular spot for ice-skating too. The area is also well-known for the location in the famous Russian novel, The Master and Margarita. 

3. Old Arbat (Stary Arbat)

Old Arbat is the most famous pedestrian street in Moscow, and dating back to the 15th century, also one of its oldest. Originally, it was an area of trade, but soon became the most prestigious residential area in Moscow. During the 18th century, Arbat started attracting the city’s scholars and artists, including Alexander Pushkin. Cafes lined the streets and impressive homes filled the neighborhood. Since then, New Arbat street was created as a highway in the area, while Old Arbat was paved for a 1km pedestrian only walkway.

Due to the historic buildings, famous artists that lived here, and the bohemian atmosphere, Old Arbat has become a big attraction for tourists today. Now, there’s a mix of cafes, restaurants, souvenir shops, street performers, street merchants and other attractions for visitors, and some locals, to come enjoy. It can get really busy here and there’s usually something interesting going on so it’s a good street to come walk with your camera for guaranteed life.

4. Gorky Park

One of the most famous places in Moscow is Gorky Park. The official name is Maxim Gorky’s Central Park of Culture & Leisure, which gives you an idea of what goes on here. When built, it was the first of its kind in the Soviet Union. Divided into two parts, it stretches along Moscow River. One end contains fair rides, foods stands, tennis courts, a sports club, a lake for boat rides, and more. This end brings more active life due to its number of attractions, while the other end is more relaxed, where you’ll find gardens, trees, older buildings, and an outdoor amphitheater.

Gorky Park attracts mostly locals so it’s a good spot to capture the non-tourist side of Moscow life. Muscovites come here to escape the city and unwind in a picturesque setting. The park remains alive outside of the warmer months too, especially when the lake turns into the city’s largest outdoor skating rink. I’d recommend taking the metro out here to spend at least half a day exploring the massive park’s life with your camera.

5. Maroseyka Street

Maroseyka Street is a popular area not too far from the Red Square. The long, winding street turns into Pokrovka and is lined with restaurants, cafes, bars and places to stay. It’s actually where I like to stay when I’m in Moscow due to its location and solid street photography opportunities itself. You have Kitay-gorod station near and if you keep walking southwest, you’ll get to the Red Square. But if you walk northwest, as it changes to Pokrovka, you can find a long street of activity for photography with its own interesting atmosphere.

6. Tverskoy Boulevard

Tverskoy Boulevard is the oldest and longest boulevard in Moscow, beginning at the end of Nikitsky Boulevard, and finishing at Pushkin Square, a spot to come for activity itself. The boulevard is made up of two avenues, with pedestrian walkways in-between. You’ll find grass, shrubbery, trees, benches and more walking it’s almost kilometer length. Many people come here to enjoy some relaxation, walk their dog, or just to use it to walk wherever they’re going. Its center location also provides a nice place to walk with your camera near plenty of other spots you’ll want to check out anyway.

Sample Street Walk:

For a full day of Street Photography, covering some of the best spots, you can follow this sample street walk for Moscow:

• Start your morning walking around the Red Square (1), while exploring the surrounding area, including Nikolskaya Street
• Then walk northwest to Patriarch’s Ponds (2) and slowly walk the pond and surrounding area with your camera
• Next, walk east to the Pushkin Monument and stroll down Tverskoy Boulevard (6)
• Once Tverskoy Boulevard (6) ends, it will turn into Nikitsky Boulevard. Follow this down until you get to the start of Old Arbat Street (3), across from Arbatskaya station
• After you’re done walking down Old Arbat Street (3) for more street photography, spend some time checking out Moscow’s beautiful metro stations
• To finish off the day with more street photography, get off the metro near Red Square (1) again, Maroseyka Street (5) or wherever you’re staying for the night.

3 Things I’ll Remember about Shooting in Moscow:

1. museum metro.

The Moscow metro system was the first underground railway system in the Soviet Union and today includes 203 stations across 340km of routes. The elaborate system has some of the deepest stations in the world too, with escalators that seem to go on forever. None of this is what makes it so special, though. Many of its stations feel like stepping inside a museum, making it without a doubt the most interesting and beautiful metro system I’ve been in.

When built, Stalin wanted to make the metro stations “palaces for the people” with marble, chandeliers, and grand architecture. The best part is the variety of architecture and styles used, making many of the stations a completely different experience visually. You could easily spend a whole day traveling the stations and there are even tours available for people who wish to do just that. My advice, though, would be just to buy a ticket and hop on and off at different stations, while exploring different lines. The museum-like surrounding mixed with the crowds of characters can make for a great photography experience.

Since there are so many stations, here are some of my favorites to check out:

• Novoslobodskaya
• Mayakovskaya
• Elektrozavodskaya
• Komsomolskaya
• Ploschad Revolyutsii
• Dostoyevskaya
• Prospekt Mira

2. Moscow is Big

It’s no secret that Moscow is a big city, but it can feel even bigger with how spread out much of it is. This is especially true if you compare it to cities outside of Asia. If I compared it to cities in Europe, I’d probably say only Istanbul would warrant more time to really discover the depths of this city. Most only explore around the Red Square and surrounding area, but that is such a small part of the city. Although, that central area does give you plenty to see on its own.

Fortunately, I had a good friend living in the city to show me around, but it opened up my eyes even more to how much there is to discover in Moscow. It’s a big city with a variety of atmosphere that can take you from “east” to “west” and trendy to rugged depending on where you go. I’d imagine you’d have to live here a while to really know the city.

3. Cosmopolitan Mix of East meets West

Modern skyscrapers mixed with amazing architecture, a world-class metro system with museum-like beauty, trendy fashion and chic clubs, Moscow is a rich mix of Russian culture and history in a more western cosmopolitan package. There is a push to keep the Russian culture, while also pushing forward with a modern metropolis the whole world will envy. This comes with an impressive skyline, that continues to grow, and endless modernities, but with soviet nostalgia and atmosphere mixed in for good measure.

Mixed in with this grand western cosmopolitan atmosphere, is a strong national pride in Russia. This includes their famous leader, Vladimir Putin. Maybe no other place will you see a country’s leader more often. All over, from the pricey tourist shops to the underground walkway stalls, you’ll find goods with Putin’s likeness covering them. From t-shirts to magnets to Matryoshka dolls. There’s a strong national pride that can be seen around the city, which also extends to their leader. Moscow is many things. It’s East meets West, modernizations meets Soviet era, and a whole lot more.

What To Do For a Street Photography Break?:

Eat at a stolovaya.

Stolovayas are Russian cafeterias that became popular in the Soviet days. You grab a tray and walk down the line of freshly prepared local dishes, and select whatever you want from the chefs. They’re usually inexpensive and a much better value than restaurants, while giving you the opportunity to try from a wide selection of everyday Russian food. They’re also very tasty. I always include some borsch on my tray and go from there. The places themselves are all over Moscow and usually come with Soviet-era aesthetics to complete the experience.

Street Safety Score: 7

*As always, no place is completely safe! So when I talk about safety, I’m speaking in general comparison to other places. Always take precaution, be smart, observe your surroundings and trust your instincts anywhere you go!

Being the 2nd largest city in Europe with over 12 million people, you’re going to have your dangerous areas, but for the most part, it feels safe walking around. Russia is statistically higher in crime compared to most of Europe, but this generally doesn’t apply to tourists and visitors. Around the Red Square and surrounding city center, you should feel completely safe walking around. Pick pocketing can happen, but no more than other touristic places. I always explore Moscow freely without coming across too much to worry about. It’s a spread out city, though, so of course it matters where you are. Just use basic street smarts, know where you are and Moscow shouldn’t give you a problem. 

People’s Reaction Score: 7

Moscow is fast paced, big city life, which usually means people aren’t too concerned with you, or your camera. I don’t find people notice or pay much attention to me when I’m out taking photos in Moscow. For the most part, people just go about their day. You shouldn’t get too many looks or concern. But it can depend on the area you are in. The more you stick out, the more you might get noticed with suspicions. I’ve never had any problems in Moscow, or Russia, but just be careful who you’re taking a photo of if you get out of the city center. Other than that, it’s about average for reactions. 

Street Tips:

Learn the alphabet .

Much of Moscow, including the metro system, doesn’t use english. The Russian alphabet uses letters from the Cyrillic script, which if you aren’t familiar with it and don’t know the sounds, can be hard to decipher the words. This is most important for street names and metro stops when trying to get around. It can save confusion and make it easier getting around if you learn the basic alphabet. At the very least then, you can sound out the words to see which are similar in the english conversion, which can help matching them to maps. When out shooting street photography, getting around is as important as anything. So save yourself some time and frustration by learning the Russian Alphabet.

Use the metro

While Saint-Petersburg feels very walkable for a city its size, Moscow can feel very spread out, even for its bigger size. Outside of the Red Square area, you can have plenty of walking before getting anywhere very interesting, so you’ll need to take the metro a lot if you really want to explore the city. Maps are deceiving here too, it will always be further than it looks.

Another reason it’s less walkable than Saint-Petersburg is its completely different set-up. Moscow’s streets are mostly contstructed in rings with narrow, winding streets in-between. This is common with medieval city cities that used to be confined by walls, but you usually don’t have it in a city this massive. Saint-Petersburg has a more grid-like pattern that also uses the canals to help you know your way around. When it comes to navigating on foot in Moscow, it can be more difficult, so bring a map and take the metro when needed. It’s why Moscow’s metro carries more passengers per day than the London and Paris subways combined.

Explore other areas if you have time

Moscow is really big. While most people stay around the Red Square within the Boulevard Ring, there’s so much more to the city. I covered some other spots outside of this circle, but if you really want to see the city, you’ll need time. If you do have time, some other areas I’d check out first are Zamoskvarechye, along some of the south and western Moscow.

Inspiration:

For some more inspiration, you can look through the Street Photography of Moscow photographer Artem Zhitenev  and check out 33 of my photos taken in Moscow .

Conclusion:

Moscow’s name brings a certain mystique, but once you’re there it might bring a different atmosphere than you expect. It’s big and sprawling, but beautiful in many ways. It can feel like a European capital on a grand scale, but you can definitely find its Russian side in there.

The urban sprawl of Moscow can be intimidating, but give it enough time and you’ll be rewarded with plenty to discover. All with the world’s best metro system to take you around.

I hope this guide can help you start to experience some of what Moscow contains. So grab your camera and capture all that Moscow has to offer for Street Photography!

If you still have any questions about shooting in Moscow, feel free to comment below or email me!

(I want to make these guides as valuable as possible for all of you so add any ideas on improvements, including addition requests, in the comment section!)

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