What is photography? It is not only about the camera or the beautiful images we create. In fact it is about telling powerful stories. Photography can be termed as a tool for creating awareness and understanding across cultures, communities, and countries or a tool to make sense of our commonalities in the world we share. Whether you are taking a short day trip or going halfway around the world, there are things besides a destination. So a camera is the only tool that can ensure you with a collection of wonderful photographs after you return home. However, good photography is very important. Thus, here are 10 travel photo tips to help you while taking photograph.
1. Research
It is important to know the place very nicely before you go to visit the place. You can get to know about the place either from the local newspaper or social media. Find out about the natural beauty, tourist sites and the culture. Look at the images in the guides and see what the important areas are and what you need to record. You should learn about the culture and find out what you can photograph and what taboo, what the dress codes are and any local laws or rules. You must buy a phrase book and learn some of the key phrases in order to communicate when photographing. You will be amazed at how it will open doors for you.
2. Prepare a checklist
It is essential for any photographer is to do a checklist of everything that you require for the trip, photographically as well as you normal travel needs. Check that all your gear is covered by insurance and that it is up to date. Take proof that you purchased your equipment at home and not abroad so you do not get landed with customs duty on your return.
3. Go deep
Photography is not about travel photography but it is about adventure. You would be able to see extraordinary images not only by landing to exotic places but also staying in place where you can give yourself enough time to gain and understand. In order to have a good photograph you need to have lot of patience and persistence and also search for extraordinary images. This type of photograph you will find when you go deep into any culture.
4. Be authentic and sensitive
The easiest way to make compelling, real photographs of people is by being authentic. Making candid images of people is not a trick rather it is a skill of a photographer to develop such photography. It requires respect for the subject and building a relationship in the time you have together. If you want a successful picture of people then it is not possible from a distance. You must put away the telephoto lens and become part of the moment.
5. Avoid cliches
You should not return with all of the images that you have seen in the guide books as everyone has seen those photos. You should use new angles and try to get different viewpoints that are not traditionally used for photos. You must leave the tourist path and get away from the bus. If you can afford it then you can hire a private guide to take you off the beaten track.
6. Make yourself the subject
Being a photographer you probably find that there are few images in all aspects of your life in front of the camera. So you must go out of your way to include yourself in photos while touring. You can even ask a travel companion, a guide or another tourist to take photos of you. With digital you can see immediately the results of their work and whether you require reshooting it.
7. Trust your instincts
You must trust your instincts and do not ever assume or be lulled into a false sense of security. Even if it feels safe, do not let your guard down. It is essential to establish a relationship in advance is the best way to prepare.
8. Look for detail
While photographing you should get closer and while photographing the traditional clothes and jewellery you will see details in the colour and styles. So you should look for details in the architecture, transport and local costumes that reveal something more than a traditional shot. A macro or telephoto is great for such type of shot.
9. Take lots of photos
You must work out about how many images you would like to shoot and then double it. You should never take too many images. Though this may be the only opportunity for you to see this country but you should edit those photos later than losing the memories by shooting too little. However not every picture will be perfect but it will be a memory. You are not just looking to create perfect photos but also for great memories. In fact digital film is inexpensive so you can take lots of memory cards with you.
10. Have fun
Getting good shot is important but you should be thankful that you have the opportunity to even be where you are. You should pinch yourself and enjoy the moment. It is likely to relax everyone and you should have fun while clicking photographs.
Travel photography is not only likely to convey the sites and scenes you have seen but also the feelings and emotions associated with the locations. Unexpected things are always around the corner when you travel and with some careful preparation you can produce some memorable results. In fact many people often get a chance to travel so you should go well prepared and come back with memories that will last a lifetime. Happy shooting!