Vacations are the perfect time to capture those unforgettable moments and stunning landscapes, but sometimes, our photos fall short of the magic we experience in person. If you’re looking to up your vacation photography game, here are nine expert tips to help you take better travel photos and make your memories even more special.
1. Don’t Forget to Photograph People
Sure, the Grand Canyon is breathtaking, but so are your kids' faces when they see it for the first time. Jordan Carnegis, a photographer based in Orlando, suggests capturing both the scenery and the people you’re with. “Take pictures of the view, but don’t skip the cheesy selfies,” he says. Snap a quick photo of your family or friends enjoying the moment, then focus on the scenery. This way, you get both the amazing backdrop and the personal memories. And remember, if you’re always behind the camera, include yourself in some of the shots too!2. Forget About Social Media for a While
While it’s tempting to think about how your photos will look on Instagram, focusing too much on social media can detract from capturing genuine moments. Carnegie and Switzer suggest thinking like a photojournalist—capturing the moment as it happens. Don’t stress about getting the perfect shot for social media. Instead, document the authentic experiences and choose your best shots for Instagram later. This approach also applies to video; capturing those in-between moments, like buckling up on a plane or a child rolling a suitcase, adds a real touch to your vacation videos.
3. Follow the Light
Lighting can make or break your photos. Avoid shooting into the light, as it can leave faces dark and unflattering. Switzer advises turning your subject so that the light hits them directly. If you absolutely must shoot into the sun, try tapping on your subject in portrait mode to blur out the background and focus on the subject. And remember, it’s best to avoid using flash. Instead, look for natural light sources like street lights or use your phone’s night mode.4. Learn the "Rule of Thirds"
Basic composition can transform your photos from ordinary to extraordinary. Instead of centering your subject, use the “rule of thirds.” Imagine your photo divided into nine equal parts by two equally spaced horizontal and vertical lines. Position your subject along these lines or at their intersections for a more dynamic composition. Many cameras and phones have grid settings to help with this, making it easier to apply the rule.5. For Video, Less Is More
When filming the video, less is often more. Instead of capturing long, shaky clips, shoot in short bursts—three to five seconds at a time. This technique allows you to capture key moments without overwhelming your footage. For a professional touch, keep the camera steady or use a stable surface. Focus on capturing a variety of shots, like close-ups and wide angles, and then edit the highlights into a cohesive video montage.6. Use Your Phone's Native Camera
When taking photos, always use your phone’s built-in camera app rather than in-app cameras like those on Instagram or Snapchat. In-app cameras often compress images, reducing their quality. For the best results, use your phone’s camera for high-resolution photos and utilize its editing tools to enhance your shots. Apps like A Color Story or Snapseed can help with batch editing and fine-tuning.7. Play With Your Phone’s Features
Explore the different features of your phone’s camera to get creative with your shots. Portrait mode is great for making subjects stand out with a blurred background, while panorama mode is perfect for capturing expansive landscapes. Experiment with these settings before your trip to get comfortable with them.8. Pick a Theme
A fun way to make your travel photos more interesting is to choose a theme. Whether it’s photographing old house numbers or collecting small items like coins or seashells, a theme adds a unique twist to your photo collection. Over time, these themed photos can tell a richer story of your travels.9. Put the Phone Down Once in a While
Finally, remember that it’s okay to put your phone away and simply enjoy the moment. You don’t need to document every single detail. Choose the best moments to capture and savor the rest of your vacation without the distraction of constant photography.By incorporating these tips into your travel routine, you’ll not only enhance your photography skills but also create lasting memories that truly reflect the essence of your adventures. Happy snapping!
