We’ve all been there. You know, seeing your friends travel photos on Facebook, and I thinking wow, these shots are kinda boring (no offense to any of my friends who post travel photos on Facebook). With all the different tools at our disposal these days, it seems like it’s hard to take a boring photo while travelling. But believe me, people still do. Even Photoshop can only do so much.
Here are some tips to help you make the most of your travel photos, and be the envy of all your friends, when they say “Holy shit! Your photos from (insert location) are amazing!”.
Include Locals in Your Shot
Our zodiac operator in the Galapagos, photo by Attit Patel
These are the people that make your travels a true experience. They are your porters, your tour leaders, the locals you met at a random bar, they are the ones you remember from your trip. Shoot them doing what they do. This adds authenticity, and intrigue to your photos. Plus, getting them in action can look pretty amazing!
Shoot Your Group From a Different Perspective
My group at Machu Picchu, photo by Attit Patel
Every group gets one, the shot of them all in front of Machu Picchu, jumping up in the air, or with their arms around each other, but that’s it. Just one! Think about arranging your group in different poses. Better yet, shot them when they least expect it. You may catch them doing odd things, but again, it’s just a little less boring.
Avoid the Typical Postcard Shots
The Grand Canyon shot with a Canon tilt shift lens, photo by Attit Patel
Try not to take the standard shot. Sure, you can, but also look around. Walk around and find a quiet or empty spot. Different perspectives can offer a unique take on landmarks. Get higher, get lower and if you’ve got it, use different gear like tilt shift lenses, filters etc.
Tell a Story with Your Shots
Peruvian child we encountered in the Andes of Peru, photo by Attit Patel
Take wide shots, close ups, people shots etc., in the same location. Imagine showing someone this set of photos and them instantly understanding what’s going on. These shots will make your photo albums more memorable.
Find Beauty Anywhere
Notre-Dame Basilica, roped of section, Montreal, photo by Attit Patel
This can be easier than you think. Again, wander off the normal path. Turn the other corner, look up when everyone else is looking straight ahead, walk through that roped off area (but make sure you don’t get caught). You’d be surprised at what you might find.
Slow That Shutter Down
The Gates in Quebec City, shutter speed set at 25 seconds, photo by Attit Patel
If you’re shooting with an SLR, or an advanced point and shoot, experiment by slowing the shutter speed down on your camera. It will take a little more work on your part, but will be well worth it. Having a tripod is a huge plus, but you can get away with setting the camera down on a flat surface, or if you have really sure hands, try holding as still as possible.
A lot of great tips, I am with you on seeing so many photos that mean nothing to ME who wasn’t there. Find that thing to draw me in, get me to ask questions. I LOVE candid shots, makes me feel like I am there with you, walking beside you and happened to turn my head. I love close ups, but don’t forget to include what’s around you also, otherwise it could be a photo taken in your yard. I guess the final say is experiment and variety.
Great tips Attit! I agree, including the locals makes for much better photos. Nothing but scenery shots can get pretty boring and behind the scenes type shots are very cool to see.
I was amazed to see a G Adventure photographer advocate walking into the roped off area. G Adventures is supposed to be about responsible tourism. Often areas are roped off for good reasons. They may not be safe. They may be fragile, subject to wear or culturally important.
Great basic tips that can enhance anyones travel shots. I travel to Guatemala a lot and have used many of the same settings that you have mentioned. So much better and has resulted in putting together a presentation for the Spanish Department of Northern Virginia community College. Thanks for re-enforceing my desires to always find ways to improve
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extensive for me. I’m having a look ahead on your subsequent submit, I’ll attempt to get the hold of it!