Each place that you visit has its own peculiar ambiance. If you want your travel photographs to look exceptionally good, you should try to capture the unique character and features of that place. The snapshots should not only trigger your memories, but should also easily communicate to others the captivating vim and vigor of the location.
With respect to travel photography, here are 8 important tips that will help you to capture outstanding digital photos.
1. Buy a high-grade camera and learn the basics of photography
A good quality digital camera will certainly help you to take better pictures. Instead of a point and shoot camera, buy a SLR or DSLR with 300mm to 800mm lens. In addition to the photographic equipment, your bag should have memory cards, filters, external flash units, lens hood, cleaning gear, power adaptor and tripod or mono pod. If the batteries are rechargeable, then you would need a re-charger. Otherwise, you should keep a set of batteries as well.
For clicking excellent shots, you don't require any kind of special training in travel photography. You just have to know the basics like how to set the shutter speed or how to alter the aperture size. You should also learn about different camera modes, ISO, silhouettes, filter usage, and so forth.
2. Gather as much information about the destination as possible
If photography is the sole purpose of your trip, then before getting to the destination, gather as much information as possible. You should know about the best time to travel, chief modes of transportation, main attractions, events that shouldn't be missed, and things that should be avoided. Once you have completed your research, you should prepare a list of photographic opportunities available in the place.
3. Look beyond the main tourist attraction
Often, travel photographers become so obsessed with the main tourist attraction that they fail to notice other photo-worthy subjects. While travelling, keep your eyes wide open. At times, objects near the main attraction are more interesting and photogenic.
4. Natural light vs. artificial light
Usage of artificial light sources usually makes the photographs look unreal. For stupendous shots always rely upon natural light. Make the most of sunlight, and don't hesitate to use filters, reflectors, lens hoods, and fill flash technique whenever the sun becomes too overbearing. If the subject is not well-lit, then freely use flash. By utilizing flash diffusers, night mode, and fine-tuning the exposure settings of the camera, you can easily prevent instances of flash blow-outs.
5. Frame composition is crucial
Each frame that you capture should be top-class. So, before you press the shutter button, meticulously examine and evaluate the scene. Apart from the subject, take a look at the background. Make sure that secondary focal points do not overshadow the subject. Everything you wish to include in the frame should be distinctly visible.
6. Try to interact and connect with the people
For capturing candid portraits, you should openly interact with the people. Close interaction will help to generate trust, and it will become relatively easy for you to convince them to gaze through your lens.
7. Don't count the pictures
Experienced travel photographers shoot the subject from all possible perspectives before moving to the next photographic opportunity. Hence, for shooting great travel photos, explore the scene from all angles, and take snapshots liberally.
8. Avoid travelling with a group
If you travel with a group, your creative freedom would be drastically curtailed. You won't get a chance to pause, look around, and assess the different perspectives of the subject. Moreover, your pictures won't be exclusive as all the members will be shooting the same buildings and people.