5 tips to Travel Photography with just a single lens
Written by Chase Davidson
Let’s look at a few points to get the most memorable
travel photos with just your camera and one lens.
My suggestion for travel photography is to have a lens
that’s got a wide focal range instead of a prime lens.
This will give you much more variance in what you’ll be
able to shoot without cropping.
-> Tip 1: Use your surroundings
Many photos are often shot from a tourism influenced structure that offers unquestionably amazing views but comes with the fact that everyone else has the exact same photo. By using your surroundings to better frame the landscape or subject, you can create distinction between your own personal photos and the others shot from the same location.
Hint: Use puddles to create fun reflection shots!
—> Tip 2: Wake up early
Not only is sunrise and the subsequent golden hour that follows often times the best lighting for photography. The earlier you get to a destination, the better chance you have of beating tourists and especially those big buses filled with people.
Hint: Pack a small breakfast to go instead of eating at your hotel to get a head start.
—> Tip 3: Don’t let weather dampen the mood
Weather can have an everlasting impact on your perception of a destination but bad weather can be equally enjoyable to shoot in. If it’s not a hurricane, a little rain is no problem and can easily be mitigated with a small umbrella giving you enough cover to shoot.
Hint: No tripod? Use your surroundings to create a stable base for a long exposure photo!
—> Tip 4: Take advantage of the window seat
There’s no denying, if you’re on public transit of any kind, you’ll want a window seat to get the best views. Did you know you’re able to use your camera whilst flying? Believe it or not, some people are under the influence that you can’t have your camera out during take off but you can and you should!
We live in the age of drones but having a window seat can give you a view that even a drone can’t offer. Take advantage of it!
Hint: Purchase a circular polarizer for your everyday lens to eliminate reflections and glare from windows.
—> Tip 5: Don’t worry about embarrassing yourself
Take a selfie wherever you feel like it. Don’t let the thought of others judging you stop you from getting down on the ground for a shot. Sometimes the dumbest looking positions produce the best results!
Hint: Don’t have a wide enough lens to capture a whole scene? Take multiple photos and stack them together afterwards using Adobe Lightroom or similar applications.
