For many photographers, traveling offers not just a vacation, but an opportunity to expand one’s photographic knowledge, experience, and portfolio. Regardless of the style of trip, traveling can pose some interesting challenges to a photographer. While you’re taking photos close to home, all of your equipment is readily available. However, traveling requires extra planning and preparation. Below are some tips that cover all aspects of travel photography, from packing to composition.

Packing and Trip Preparation

The most common advice for travelers is “pack light.” Remember, once you’re on your trip, you will have to carry all of that stuff. Think about what you need, make a list, and then question every item on that list. Do you really need it?

Get a good camera bag or camera backpack that will carry the gear you need and other items. It should be lightweight, sturdy, and comfortable. If at all possible, have a bag that does not look like it contains expensive equipment. Don’t make yourself a target for theft.

Obviously you’re going to bring your camera and some lenses. However, think very hard about which lenses you plan to pack. A good walk around mid-range zoom is very important. A wide angle lens and a telephoto (not too large) are good choices as well. Packing all of your lenses will weigh you down, though. Don’t wear yourself out carrying too much equipment.

Be ready for the weather. Get a waterproof backpack cover and carry sealable plastic bags to protect your gear. When the camera is in its bag, have the camera and lenses already sitting in plastic bags so that if it starts raining you can close things up in a hurry. Also, you may want to carry some sort of hard container to hold small fragile items. A hard plastic water bottle makes a strong, waterproof, and cheap container for cords and memory cards.

Depending on the length of your trip, you will need to think about data storage. Some travelers carry a laptop, but others will say that a laptop is too heavy and too expensive. Consider getting a small portable hard drive. Various electronics companies make devices that contain built-in card readers designed for photographers on the move. Some of these devices even have small screens to review photos (but are usually more expensive). It is generally recommended to make backups onto CD’s or DVD’s as well.

Other important equipment you should have readily available: a lens cleaning cloth, a small portable tripod, backup batteries, extra memory cards, and a pen.

If you’re traveling abroad, a universal plug adapter is a wise investment. The smaller it is, the better. Some adapters convert voltage, as different regions of the world use different amounts of voltage. However, a voltage adapter may not be needed, because your camera’s power charger probably already has one built in. Read the small print on the back of your battery charger for more information, and get a smaller power converter without voltage conversion if you can get away with it. Remember, pack light!

When you pack your camera, have the most commonly used lens already attached, and have the camera positioned in the bag so that you can easily and quickly pull it out or put it away. You’ll want it to be convenient for when you see something interesting.

Consider insuring your gear. If you have homeowners or renters insurance, your insurance provider can probably give you a personal property quote for a small amount per year. Some policies will also cover accidental damage, just in case you drop something.

If you are a professional photographer, or otherwise planning to sell photos that you take on a trip, don’t forget to take some model release forms (and some pens). Find a place in your camera bag or luggage that will keep the papers dry, clean, and flat.

Choosing your Photos

Take unique and telling photos. Most locations have famous monuments or popular sights that are commonly photographed, often from the same vantage point. Instead of taking the “postcard” image, move around and find a new angle. Return at different times of the day for a change of lighting. Incorporate other aspects of the location into the scene, such as local people or vegetation. Furthermore, there is often more to a place than a famous monument. Explore the streets and markets where tourists don’t often visit. These are the locations where you will find the authentic character of a place. Also, focus on everyday scenes, especially if you are in a place where everyday life is different from your home. Common activities such as a daily commute, shopping at the market, or exercising can often portray the most insight into a foreign culture. Finally, a good wide-angle shot of a location can help to capture the overall feel of a place.

Focusing on the Details

Details often give a place its special flavor. Photographing small objects in the market or architectural details will help you capture a true sense of place. Be on the lookout for good photo opportunities when walking through markets, along the streets, or even in museums. Don’t be afraid to get up close. Signs along your journey will often tell an interesting story, even if they are commonplace. Also, don’t forget to photograph the food of a new location, whether in a market or a restaurant.

People

It is often the people that truly make up the character of a place. Don’t forget to capture the feel of the local population in your photographs. Natural and candid shots of local residents in their everyday lives can be very telling. But most importantly, always remember to treat people with respect. Try to learn some words in their language ahead of time, then speak to them and find out more about them. Ask permission before taking someone’s photo. Becoming friendly with someone will give you a much better travel experience, and you will likely end up with better portraits, too. Finally, keep in mind the social rules of a place. If it is inappropriate to take photos for any reason, show respect and don’t photograph.

Last, but not least, remember “safety first.” Don’t do anything stupid in an attempt to get that one amazing photo.

In summary, good preparation can make for a great photographic journey. If you get caught up in the excitement, just remember the basic photographic rules. Seek out the culture of a place, because this will lead to the best photos and also the most fun for you as a traveler. Most importantly, get out from behind the camera and have fun. Keep your perspective on the whole trip, and your enjoyment will shine through in your photos.