The 3 Most Important Things to Know About Travel Photography

Let’s start by saying that I enjoy travel immensely and that I regard travel as one of life’s greatest privileges. I love to travel, and obviously, I also love photography. Does that make me a travel photographer? Based on the standard definition of one, probably not. I don’t get paid directly to take photos of the places I visit, and I’m not associated with any publications. But if I travel and take photos when I do, what does that make me?

This post is coming from my perspective and my experiences, and if you are getting paid to take photos of your travels, an alternative approach and precautions need to be considered. You can’t go home to your client with no photographs. Here is what I think are the most important things to know about your photography when travelling.

Paris - 2013

You Can’t Rush Your Approach

There is a temptation to go trigger-happy with your camera the moment you hit the streets and hope you get all these fantastic

photos you envisioned. Just get to the places, and I’ll be able to get the photos! What if I run out of time? What if the weather is not what I want when I get there? This point is particularly true if you are in well-known areas and landmarks where you have seen many stunning photos. There is the realization that this scene you have witnessed many times before is finally in front of you. You have the urge to photograph it immediately. This approach can lead to uninspiring photos or ones shy of being great. If you waited just a few seconds, things would have lined up perfectly with someone walking into your frame at just the right time, or light would have peaked through the clouds for that perfect composition. Studying a scene for a minute or two before taking a photograph can be invaluable in how happy you are with the photos you capture. If you have the luxury of time, use it.

You Could Come Home With Nothing

I’ve been to places where I have taken many photos and come home with nothing I was excited about. Sometimes, I didn’t feel inspired and didn’t take many photos. You can prepare for almost anything before you get there, but sometimes things don’t work as planned, and you come home with absolute duds and nothing you are happy to share. Other times, I was focused on aspects of the trip that did not involve having a camera in hand. Travel can be enjoyed in various ways. Sometimes, photography isn’t a priority.

It’s Probably Not Going to Be What You Expect

When planning a trip, the amount of research you can do is plentiful, and the resources are endless. This can be exciting or perhaps overwhelming. Part of the appeal of travel is the anticipation of it, but the truth is, no matter how much you prepare, it will never be precisely what you expect. It may be more, or it may be less. It could have wonderful surprises or significant letdowns. Your photography will reflect that. You will come home with photos that you love, the surprising ones.

Moreover, the photos you thought would be great from the places you had anticipated may not be your favourites. They may be your biggest disappointments. It’s impossible to check off all the boxes of where to go, what to see, and how to experience them.

Summary

Travelling to a new destination often brings unanticipated experiences and surprises. Unfamiliar sights and sounds will challenge your expectations, leading to unexpected interactions and photo opportunities. Unique experiences create scenarios that may take your photography in ways you did not expect. Be sure to enjoy your time wherever you go.