7 Photography Tips I Learned From Travelling With a Pro

Embarking on a journey with a seasoned photographer was a game-changer for my photography skills. Observing their techniques and tricks significantly enhanced my ability to capture memorable moments. Here are seven valuable travel photography tips I learned that can instantly elevate your photography.

1. Embrace the Magic of Soft Light

The secret to captivating photos often lies in the quality of light. My companion, Justin, almost exclusively took photos during the “golden hour” – the period shortly after sunrise or before sunset when the light is soft and diffused. Unlike harsh midday sunlight, which creates harsh shadows and high contrast, soft light bathes your subjects in a flattering glow, revealing intricate details and textures. Take a moment to review your favourite photos; chances are, they were captured during these optimal lighting conditions. If you’re going to take just one travel photography tip away from this, make it this one.

2. Harness the Power of Black and White

When faced with harsh midday sunlight, don’t let unfavourable lighting conditions ruin your shots. Convert your images to black and white to minimize the harshness and accentuate the contrast and textures. This simple technique can transform an ordinary photo into a timeless masterpiece. It’s an especially useful travel photography tip when you are not able to wait around for the perfect lighting conditions.

3. Experiment with Perspective

Photography allows you to offer viewers a fresh perspective by playing with angles and viewpoints. Don’t hesitate to crouch down low or climb up high to capture unique and compelling compositions. Get up close and personal with something, or point the camera straight up for alternative perspectives. Changing your vantage point can breathe new life into familiar scenes, adding depth and visual interest to your photographs.

4. Flip Your Phone Upside Down

Sometimes, the most unexpected perspectives yield the most striking results. Flipping your phone upside down can completely transform your composition, offering a fresh and unconventional view of your subject. Experiment with this unconventional technique to capture unique angles and compositions. Don’t be afraid to break the rules and embrace the unexpected – you might just uncover a hidden gem that adds a touch of magic to your photography.

5. Discover the Beauty of Reflections

This is probably my favorite of travel photography tip that I learnt. Incorporating reflections into your compositions adds depth and dimension to your images. Seek out reflective surfaces such as still bodies of water, polished floors, or mirrored facades to create captivating visual effects. Experiment with different angles and compositions to maximize the impact of reflections in your photos. For an added bonus incorporate Tip 4 – Turn Your Phone Upside Down with a reflection for that extra perspective shift.

6. Use Foreground Elements to Add Depth

When capturing expansive landscapes or cityscapes, include foreground elements to create a sense of depth and scale. Adding a prominent object in the foreground not only draws the viewer’s eye into the scene but also provides context and visual interest. Whether it’s a rustic fence, colorful flowers, or a striking silhouette, foreground elements can transform an ordinary snapshot into a dynamic and immersive experience.

7. Your Phone is (probably) Good Enough

Don’t underestimate the capabilities of your smartphone camera, especially when paired with the right techniques and settings. With advancements in mobile photography technology, modern smartphones can capture stunning images rivaling those taken with traditional cameras. Focus on composition, lighting, and creativity, and let your smartphone unleash your photographic potential. When taking your phone travelling, why not check out my list of essential travel apps.

Bonus Travel Photography Tips

We’re not done yet. Here are two other things which I’ve picked up along the way that really helped me out.

Leverage the Grid Feature

Take advantage of the grid overlay feature on your smartphone camera to compose well-balanced and visually appealing shots. The rule of thirds, a fundamental principle of photography composition, can guide your framing and help you create more dynamic and engaging images. If you don’t know how to turn on the grid feature on your phone try Googling “Turn on camera grid [phone name]”.

Enjoy the Process

Remember, photography is not just about capturing moments; it’s about embracing the joy and excitement of exploration. Whether you’re marveling at a breathtaking sunset or stumbling upon a hidden gem, savor the experience and let your passion for photography drive your creativity. I’ll never forget the excitement on Justin’s face when we found the perfect photography conditions. Not every photo is going to be amazing, but the process of taking it is something to be enjoyed.

In Conclusion – Travel Photography Tips

By implementing these simple yet effective travel photography tips, you can elevate your travel photography game and capture memorable moments with confidence and flair. Embrace the adventure, experiment with different techniques, and most importantly, have fun capturing the beauty of the world through your lens. But I’m keen to hear from you.

What is your number one travel photography tip? Let me know in the comments below.

Happy Exploring (and photo taking)

Kieren.

Ps. If you’re interested in seeing more from Justin, I recommend checking out his Instagram profile @justnsmith11