As we all know, traveling is a fun past time. You may visit places that you will get to see only once in your life. Why not capture the memory on photographs? For photo enthusiasts, getting the images is just as important as the idea of reaching a destination.
Some tips on how you can get better travel images
1. Carry the right gear
If you are looking to buy new gear before your next travel plan, you will need to make a basic choice between a compact camera and a Single Lens Reflex variety. It is unfair to say one is better than the other. It is a matter of how skilled you are to use the SLR, since it is a complex machine. When you use the SLR variety, you do have the added advantage of interchangeable lenses and zillions of gadgets to go with it. You could choose to buy ultra wide lenses for interiors and long focal length tele lenses for wild life images. On the other hand, these cameras are heavy to hold, difficult to master and more expensive. A compact will probably have a good range zoom inbuilt and will be much easier to use if photography is not something you wish to take the time to learn.
2. The right film
If you are among those who still prefer film over digital, that is fine - many people do. Well, you need to choose film as per the call of the hour. Generally speaking you will want fast film, or film with a high ISO rating like 400 or 800, if you are shooting in low light or with long lenses. If the light is adequate you will want slower film, such as 100 or 200 - they provide better quality. Make sure you carry enough film and batteries not to be left without any means to shoot at an awkward time. Keep exposed film in a separate bag or compartment so it doesn't get mixed up with new batches of film.
3. Get adequate information about where you are headed
As mentioned in the previous paragraph, you will need to plan ahead for the trip. Some situations of extremely cold or hot climate may require special clothing for you and protection for your camera. Use an underwater camera housing even if you just plan to shoot on the beach. The sand and spray can ruin a camera and its lens, especially where modern lenses with minute motors built in are concerned.
4. Maintain a journal
Do not ever leave your viewers left wondering what an image means. Every picture should be a story in itself. Note the data, time, place and exposure of the images where possible, so you can relate incidents as you show your images to family and friends.