travelling and photography

The Complete Guide to Travel Photography

By Megan Spurrell

As travelers, our cameras can feel like a fifth limb—an essential tool with which to move through the world and absorb new experiences. They make it possible to document the people we meet. They provide tangible memories of the remarkable beauty we travel so far to see. Ultimately, they help us communicate what words cannot.

In the digital era, the tie between travel and photography feels more innate than ever. Photography has become more accessible and affordable to dabble in (who even needs a real camera with phones these days? ). On the flip side, it can feel as if documenting and sharing our travel experiences has become half of the seeing itself. In her essay on pushing herself to take a photo-free trip , Allie Jones asks a question we can all relate to: “If you visit a trendy upstate New York museum and don’t take any photos, were you ever really there?”

As the routine of snapping and sharing becomes as habitual as rinse and repeat, others urge us to become more thoughtful with our travel photography. Just because we can photograph and share everything, in a matter of seconds, doesn’t mean we need to. In his feature, Tyler Moss explores the #nogeotag movement , and looks at just how our photo sharing can drastically alter a destination—and decide who gets to experience it. For professional photographers Gray Malin and Alex Strohl , the “how” of nailing their iconic travel photographs has relied more on patience, and analog techniques like driving massive props cross-country, or waiting for the perfect shot in sub-zero temps, than on any new developments.

And, just in case you were starting to let your Instagram feed convince you that you’ve seen it all, we’ve pulled in photo studies from photographers whose work we can’t help but ogle. Jessica Sarkodie shares a refreshing look at the unspoiled beaches of her native Ghana. Cedric Angeles flew to Mongolia for a peek inside the lives of the country’s famous eagle hunters (and yes, there are photos of the eagles in their hunting caps ahead). For Sandy Noto , photographing harvest season in the Dolomites while off-duty yielded gorgeous slices of life.

Of course, if you’re ready to step up your own game, we’ve also got the gear you need—from underwater cameras to camera bags that don’t look like camera bags. And, we’ve rounded up our favorite photographers to follow right now, because as much as we want to cut the social media umbilical cord, there is so much to admire there. You just need to know where to look.

Through the lens

Think before you shoot

Behind the scenes

The gear you need

Everything else you need to know

By signing up you agree to our User Agreement (including the class action waiver and arbitration provisions ), our Privacy Policy & Cookie Statement and to receive marketing and account-related emails from Traveller. You can unsubscribe at any time. This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.

Photography

Travel photography tips for near or far.

Get travel photography tips from professional photographers so you can capture new landscapes, cityscapes, and portraits of people you meet on your journeys.

Not sure which apps are best for you?

Take a minute. We'll help you figure it out.

JUMP TO SECTION

Types of travel photography

Top tips for travel photography

Turn travel photography into a career

A 10,000-foot view of travel photography

• Travel photography can be pictures of  landscapes, cities, architecture, or people on the street.
• You don’t have to go far to start practicing — photograph interesting places close to where you live.
•  To make a career of it, build an online portfolio of your best work.

Types of travel photography.

Travel photography can stretch across genres because you can take any type of photo when you travel. Depending on where you go and what you do, you can touch on everything from astrophotography to wildlife photography . As you travel, consider which aspects of your journey you want to focus on. 

Landscape photography.

The world is dotted with picturesque, compelling, and breathtaking sights. When you’re on a walk and you want to capture the feeling of the scenery you find, you can focus on landscape photography. Make sure to do your research before you go, be intentional about the time of day you want to shoot, and be sure to bring gear to protect yourself from the elements. 

City photography.

Capture the cityscape . From vast skylines to everyday life on the street, cities present wonderful subjects for experiments with perspective, texture, light, and color. Play with framing and vantage points, from the tops of buildings down to street level and below.

Architecture photography.

With architecture photography , you can explore the universal features and specific quirks of human-made structures wherever you go. Study a still subject like a building or a bridge to highlight the effects of weather or time of day, or to play with different vantage points. 

Street photography.

Once you’re on the street, you can focus less on the architecture and more on the people moving through the city. Capturing life on the ground is the goal of street photography — a style of visual storytelling that shows off and communicates the experience of everyday life. It’s vibrant and spontaneous, and you have to work with whatever light is available. Catch people as they move about their day to immerse yourself in the experience of a new city.

Top tips for travel photography.

Finding your way in the world of travel photography doesn’t have to be overwhelming or onerous. Discover how you can get started with these tips.

1. Follow your wanderlust.

No matter where your interest lies, if you travel for the shoot, it counts as travel photography. Like documentary photography , travel photography expresses some truth about the particular scene it captures. “For me, it’s just one way to share my perspective on the world,” says professional travel photographer Tiffany Nguyen. “I travel to different places, see the world through my lens, and tell stories through photography.”

2. Start where you are.

You don’t need to quit your day job and sell all your possessions to make travel photography. “I would just start in your own backyard,” Nguyen says. “I started small, doing short, weekend trips, and then when I got more comfortable traveling and better at photography, I wanted to take it to the next level and do more international locations.” Begin with a list of places nearby that might be interesting to shoot. Find locations you can get to in an afternoon. 

3. Research the location.

You can save yourself time and effort, and get better pictures, if you plan ahead. “Having the right inspiration before you get there is really key,” says travel photographer Forrest Smith. “Before I go, I like to build a moodboard to try to find the exact shot that I want.”

Nguyen does a lot of internet research, looking at blogs, Google Earth, and Google images. She scouts Instagram for different angles and perspectives. “I also find that social media is a huge resource, especially using hashtags on Instagram,” she says. “They’re really helpful for finding live conditions at a certain location. For example, if I go to a waterfall, I don’t really want to waste my time trying to get water photos if the waterfall is dry. So I’ll search the hashtag of the waterfall name to get an idea of the water level.”

In addition to weather conditions, your internet research can tell you how popular the location is, how to get there, and what times might be the least crowded. “I’m looking for the length of the hike, the elevation gain, any obstacles or challenges that are going to come my way,” says Nguyen.

4. Bring the right equipment.

Make a checklist so you don’t forget anything as you pack your camera bag. Include things like extra batteries, an extra memory card, a headlamp, emergency snacks, rain gear, protective cover for your photographic equipment, and extra lenses . (If you know you’ll do a lot of walking, make sure you really want that telephoto lens before you bring it.)

“For me it’s important to have compact, lightweight equipment,” says Nguyen, who uses a mirrorless Sony camera. Unlike DSLR cameras , mirrorless cameras have no mirror to reflect the image to the optical viewfinder. “Their bodies and lenses are much smaller than the DSLR cameras, but they’re still super-high quality, super-high resolution,” Nguyen says. She uses several lenses, including a 24–70mm f/2.8 lens and a 16–35mm f/2.8 lens for wide-angle shots. She’ll bring a prime lens (a lens of fixed focal length ) for astrophotography or low-light photography, and a lightweight carbon-fiber tripod. If she’s going to be close to her car, she’ll bring a 70–200mm f/2.8 telephoto lens.

Both Nguyen and Smith will bring drones for aerial shots if they know they’re going somewhere drones are allowed to fly. (Drones are not allowed in US national parks.) The best camera for his work, Smith says, is a Canon 5D Mark IV DSLR. Like Nguyen, he uses a 24–70mm f/2.8 lens. “If I’m going out for the day, I like to have something wide and something more cropped, so I’ll bring my 24mm prime or my 100mm prime,” Smith says. He’ll also bring neutral density filters . “They’re really great to have if you’re photographing water.”

5. Get the timing right.

Part of your research should include finding the best times of day to shoot and factoring in travel time. “I like to take advantage of the light, so I like to shoot at golden hour or sunset,” Nguyen says. “I try to avoid shooting at midday because the harsh lighting doesn’t look good for photos and there are more people out.” If you want to shoot an empty landscape in a typically busy place like a national park, you may want to get to the location before sunrise.

Always be on the lookout for great shots that you haven’t planned. “You have to be in the right place at the right time with the right attitude,” says Smith. “Keep an eye out because there are always stories to be told. Whether you’re in the heart of New York City or the middle of nowhere in Utah, there are always things happening that, if you’re attentive to them, you can use to tell an incredible story.”

Smith recommends keeping a camera with you at all times, even if it’s just a Polaroid or the camera on your smartphone, and using it to develop your creative eye. “Whether you’re at an iconic location or you’re just walking around your neighborhood, look for compositions and good lighting. Those off-the-hip, spur-of-the-moment photographs often tell a more incredible narrative than the super-planned shots do,” he says.

6. Accept uncertainty.

Travel is all about unpredictability. You might stumble upon a once-in-a-lifetime shot, or you might get fogged in and rained on. Try to roll with the punches when you encounter frustrating weather, find a road closed, or miss a train.

It helps to have backup plans and even backup plans for your backup plans. That way, you’re never at a complete loss for what to do if things go wrong. “Be realistic with your expectations and with things that you can’t control; it’s just a lot easier to be flexible and try to find a different plan,” Nguyen says.

7. Focus on telling stories.

Every travel photograph has a story to tell about a time and place. “Being able to bring people along for your journey through your images is the most important part of travel photography for me,” says Smith. “You want to be able to not just show the location but breathe life into it and find those authentic moments.”

Don’t be afraid to tread the beaten path. Even if you travel to places that have been photographed by hundreds or thousands of people, your photos and your stories will be unique. “You can have ten different photographers go to the same location, but you’ll come back with ten completely different images, ten different edits, and ten different stories, because everyone sees the locations differently,” says Nguyen.

8. International travel photography tips.

International travel involves a lot of planning because you want to make the most of your time. But it’s also important to accept that you can’t plan every moment. “Part of the experience that’s so fun and rewarding is how spontaneous it can be,” says Nguyen. “You never know where you’ll run into things you just can’t plan out or predict, so you just have to just go with the flow and work with what you find around you.”

Approach local people and their customs with an open mind and heart, and try to participate in their culture instead of just observing it from outside. “The people make the big difference. They have their own stories to tell, and you can learn a lot from them,” says Nguyen.

Remember to always be respectful. If you want to take a photo of someone, talk to them. Get to know them a bit, and then ask for permission. “A majority of the time, they’re more than happy for you to take their photo and maybe talk, too,” Nguyen says. “People think it’s fun because it’s not something that happens every day.” 

Edit, organize, store, and share photos from anywhere.

Adobe Photoshop Lightroom

View product details

9. Family travel photography tips.

You can apply all the tips above to the family photos you take on your travels. Just remember to be patient, do your best to cultivate patience in your family members, and be sure to pack a tripod and remote so you can capture the whole group at once.

If you have specific staged shots in mind, communicate your ideas ahead of time. It might help to share some inspirational photos from Pinterest or Instagram to get buy-in from every member of the family. If you have young children (or teenagers) be prepared to bribe them to cooperate.

Otherwise, focus on taking candid shots of your family members. Like people, candid photography can be unpredictable. You have to read the room, adapt, and give up control, but you might perfectly capture the experience of family travel with a mix of shots that cover everything from excitement to exhaustion, unfettered joy to unequivocal irritation.

10. Practice.

The best way to get better at travel photography is to keep going places and taking photos. “Put in the time and effort, show up and shoot as much as you can,” Nguyen says. Keep building your portfolio, and when you’re ready to look for work in the photography business, be selective about the photos you share. Be sure that you know why you’re including each photo and what skills you want to showcase with it.

11. Make the right moves in post-processing.

With Adobe Photoshop Lightroom photo editing software, you can take your photos from good to great. If a photo just needs a nudge toward the rule of thirds , or your horizon needs leveling, you can easily make those changes in Lightroom. You can also apply presets for fast fixes to urban photos and nature photos or follow step-by-step tutorials to learn how to do everything from image sharpening to removing unwanted objects.

Wherever you go with your camera, remember to embrace the adventure and the uncertainty that goes along with it. Be patient with yourself and your surroundings. With every photo you take, you’re practicing your photography skills and adding to your story.   

Turn travel photography into a career.

To turn your passion for travel photos into a career, start by taking a lot of photos and collecting your best work. If you’re committed and willing to think outside the box, you can start your own photography business .

• Pay attention to costs. You may already have camera gear and a computer, but you’ll also have to spend money on photo editing software and travel.
• Create a portfolio. Clients have to see your work before booking, so create a portfolio specific to your audience and your niche.
• Market yourself. One key part of turning your photography into a business is paying attention to marketing and branding . Establish an aesthetic and a point of view, so potential clients can have a sense of what they’re getting when they work with you.
• Think unconventionally. Many tropical paradises are oversaturated with people who want to travel and take photos of picturesque landscapes. A great place to start is by contacting bed and breakfasts, smaller hotels, and other businesses trying to attract visitors. Link them to your portfolio and see if they’re interested in providing lodging or a small per diem to photograph their resort.
• Treat every trip as an opportunity. If you’re interested in travel photography, you've likely already been bitten by the travel bug. Whenever you take a trip, take some time to build your portfolio. Professional photography can be a nomadic lifestyle with inconsistent income, so embrace a mindset of working wherever you are and being open to new opportunities. 

Finally, remember that careers are not made overnight, and every small step you take as a travel photographer is moving you closer to the goal of adopting it as your career. Good luck, and happy trails. 

Contributors

Tiffany Nguyen ,  Forrest Smith

Share this article

Do more with Adobe Photoshop Lightroom.

You may also like

Language Navigation

21 TRAVEL PHOTOGRAPHY TIPS (Easy Ways to Improve Today)

• Last Updated: February 8, 2024

Here are our best travel photography tips for beginners and intermediates, based on our experience of going from complete beginners to professional travel photographers, and now working in the industry for 8 years.

Picture this.

You finally book a trip to your ultimate bucket list destination.

Antarctica, Iceland, Namibia, Bali, seeing the Aurora Borealis – wherever it is, you’ve waited your whole life to finally visit.

Naturally you are going to want to capture the best travel photos possible of this once-in-a-lifetime adventure to share with your portrfriends and family members, on social media, and maybe even print on the wall at home.

Moments in time or a travel experience that you always want to cherish.

So you’ve splashed out on a new camera based on expert recommendations , and you’re keen to hit the road.

But here’s the problem – you don’t have the faintest idea how to get the same kinds of images you see in postcards or on the internet.

The kinds of travel photos that just pop, stand out from the rest, inspire you to book a flight immediately.

Luckily that’s where we come in.

We’ve been fortunate enough to work as professional travel photographers for almost a decade now, being paid to fly around the world, running photography workshops, take pictures for the tourism industry and tell stories.

And now we want to share our knowledge, secrets and insights from our travel photography journey with you so you can take better travel photos.

In this post you’ll find many of our favourite travel photography tips you need to know to come home with shots you will be proud to show off.

Today is the time to learn. Let’s begin.

Table of Contents

1) Know Your Camera

2) focus on the golden and blue hours, 3) plan your shots, 4) learn about composition, 5) framing, framing and more framing, 6) move your feet, make them feel comfortable, 8) use a tripod, 9) find the right travel photography gear, 10) be unique, 11) find your voice as a photographer, 13) aperture, 15) shutter speed, 17) bonus – general ideas for camera equipment settings, 18) use manual mode, 19) shoot in raw (if available), 20) learn about post processing, save this pin for later, general travel photography tips for beginners.

To start with let me talk about the general travel photography tips that I feel are not only the most important, but also the most difficult to master.

Developing an eye for photography takes time. Years in fact. It’s a never-ending learning process, but I promise you with practice you will get much better.

And once you start to get the skills for framing and composing a shot, the rest is easy.

Whether you shoot on a dSLR, mirrorless, smartphone or an old film unit, the first travel photography tip is to get to know your camera equipment.

Whatever you have in your camera bag , take the time to read the instructions, play around with all the buttons and camera settings, and spend hours with it in your hand so that it becomes a part of you.

Study the menu so that if you need to change camera settings in the field you’re not spending minutes scrolling through it when timing is critical.

Also don’t forget to learn your camera’s limitations.

Does it perform well in low-light or does the image fall apart? Is it sharp wide open, or do you need to stop down to get the best clarity? Does it have inbuilt image stabilisation?

Ultimately when you pick up your camera you want to feel comfortable and know exactly how it works. Then getting better pictures will come faster and easier.

Light is everything when it comes to travel photography images, and there’s a good chance you’ve already heard about the golden and blue hours.

The Golden Hour is that time when the sun is low in the sky and it throws a magical, warm glow across the scene.

Think the first hour after the sun peaks in the morning, and the last hour or two before the sun drops over the horizon in the afternoon.

The Blue Hour is when the sun is below the horizon and the sky gives off a beautiful blue hue.

If you really want better travel photos, one of the best travel photography tips we can give is to get used to waking up early and stay out late to make the most of these two times of day.

If you’re not a morning person, get used to setting an alarm. Many of the great travel photos of the Taj Mahal and other tourist sites with no one in them for example were taken by people who got there early.

Taking photos in the middle of the day can still result in great shots, but in general you’ll find the blue sky too blown out unless there are some interesting clouds, and on a sunny day you’ll find the lighting conditions can be a bit harsh.

Instead use the middle of the day to get street photography, or scout out photo locations and a vantage point for your sunrise and sunset photos to come back later.

Bonus Tip – Even if it looks like the sunrise or sunset might not be so beautiful, wait around. You never know when the clouds might break or the sky randomly lights up in brilliant colours.

Before you arrive in your tourist destinations, spend a few hours planning out your shot list of images you want to photograph.

You can get inspiration from Instagram, Google Maps, travel guides, magazines and more.

Make a note of these pictures, and then plan your day around the optimum time to shoot (sunrise or sunset for example).

Doing this will help you nail the shots you want to go, and give you more purpose and direction.

You need to know that all of the best photographers use tools like Google Maps or social media to form a shot list, and you should get used to it too.

You’ve probably heard about how important it is to compose a shot properly, and I bet if you’ve ever read a photography manual you would have come across the ‘ rule of thirds ‘.

Good composition can be the difference between an average shot and award-winning travel photos.

There’s all kinds of ‘rules’ that theoretically make a photo look nicer, such as not putting your subject in the middle of the shot, don’t cut elements out of the frame, etc.

But right now let’s go a bit into the Rule of Thirds.

This concept is where you divide your image into 9 even squares (many cameras actually have this grid line feature built into their display options).

Then what you do is you place the subjects and points of interest such as a human element along those lines and squares.

Here’s an example of how this looks:

The idea of the rule of thirds is that this is a mathematical idea of what our eyes naturally find pleasing. So it’s good practice to incorporate this method into your shots.

Another thing to look for is leading lines that naturally draw your eye around the photo, as well as different angles and shapes.

Have a river flowing from the side of the shot up to a waterfall on the top left for example, or the foreground bending around, leading the eye towards a church at the top of the photo.

This is a skill that you’ll learn with more practice.

An important thing to remember is that rules are meant to be broken .

Get used to analysing your shots with the rule of thirds, but please don’t use it as gospel if you think a different composition would work.

Adding a human element also brings a lot of interest to a good shot, so place people in your frame.

When you look through the viewfinder or LCD screen, don’t just focus on the subject.

Make sure you run your eyes around the entire frame to make sure you’re not accidentally cutting off something important.

Double-check that the top of a mountain is fully inside the frame, or that your friend’s whole body is in the shot as an example.

This isn’t gospel, because sometimes having something cut off from the frame can be good for composition, but you’ll have to be the judge of that.

Also check to see if you can use something natural in the scene to create a frame inside your picture.

Think of looking out a window at a building, or a bent-over tree surrounding a pretty lake.

These can all help make better travel photos.

This is one of the most important travel photography tips I can give – Move your feet.

Don’t just arrive to a scene and take a shot from the place you’re standing.

Instead take a few minutes to walk around and see if there is a better frame or composition.

Go closer, move back, step to the side, consider your lens’ focal length, etc.

Imagine trying to take that iconic Taj Mahal photo, only to find out later that you were 2m to the left of centre, throwing off that perfect symmetry.

Or maybe if you walk to the river’s edge you’ll be able to incorporate some interesting rocks into the scene instead of just water.

Better yet, take multiple travel photos and fill up those memory cards from the same photo locations so you have lots of options when you get home to see which is your favourite.

7) Ask People for Permission

Travel photography isn’t all about capturing the most beautiful sunsets and gorgeous architecture around the world.

Travel photography is also about the people you meet. But if you’re a bit shy like me, how do you get those amazing portrait photos without feeling rude?

Simple – just ask for permission.

Asking someone for permission to take their photo is polite and respectful.

If you have had a great encounter with someone, or you just see a great opportunity and want to capture a wonderful portrait, give them a big smile and ask if it’s ok to take their photo.

You’ll find many people are more than happy to pose for a photo if you just ask (just make sure you respect them if they say no).

But what if you want to get a candid shot, with the subject looking natural?

There’s always another way to get these without annoying the person.

Don’t make it obvious that you are taking their photo. Act natural and take lots of photos of the environment around them.

You can also keep your camera down by your side and point the lens in their direction.

If you have a zoom lens, use it. This was you can be on the other side of the street or market and still photograph the person.

Interested in learning more? Join one of our exclusive photography workshops in Antarctica, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan or Mongolia !

Another one of my favourite travel photography tips for portraits is to bring in another element to the shot.

Some people will feel uncomfortable posing for a stranger, but if you can make it about something else they will feel much more at ease.

As an example, maybe ask if they can pose with something in their store like a rug, or ask them to show you their wedding ring.

This way they’ll realise there is more to your photo than just them. This will also add a lot more interesting elements to the shot!

A tripod is one of the best camera accessories you can have in your camera bag, and really essential for travel photography.

This will allow you to get excellent shots in low light, as well as get creative with your images (like taking long exposures).

These days you don’t always need a massive tripod to travel around with, especially if you want to travel light and are a hobbyist photographer. Look at some of the Joby Gorillapods .

Another good thing about using a tripod is that it will force you to slow down with your photography and put more thought into each shot.

Rather than just pointing and shooting, you will think carefully about where you want to set up your tripod and how you want to compose your shot.

Honestly if you want to become a better travel photographer, you’ll need to invest in at least a small tripod.

You don’t need to go out and spend tens of thousands of dollars on new travel photography gear to get the best shots.

In fact chances are you already have a perfectly adequate camera right next to you (your phone).

Instead just get what you an afford, and as you grow with your photography style, post production, etc, you’ll learn what camera gear you need as well.

Things like filters, tripods, flashes, prime lenses, zoom lenses, etc will come in time.

For now, all you really need is a camera, memory card and enthusiasm!

Check out our recommendations for the best travel tripods .

There’s nothing wrong with getting those iconic shots of the Eiffel Tower or Machu Picchu to share on social media.

They’re beautiful and are often amazing camera angles of famous places that everyone wants to visit.

But don’t forget to be unique as well! Find a different perspective that hasn’t been photographed a million times.

In fact make it your goal to get a few unique shots that you can be proud of.

Over-expose, under-expose, incorporate motion blue – the only limitation is your imagination!

Just like a writer or musician finds a particular style they like, as a photographer you need to discover your ‘voice’.

Travel photography is such a broad term that can cover just about anything.

Really just taking any travel photos will fit the description, whether it is landscape photography, wildlife photography, architecture, portraits, food or whatever.

Just find a style you love most, and focus on getting better at it.

If you really like black and white photography, then start shooting in black and white! Love taking images of crazy street markets? Then get out there and find them!

Experiment, learn, discover and nurture!

Technical Travel Photography Tips

While the technical side of using a camera is usually the most overwhelming thing for a new photographer to think about, it’s actually one of the easiest things to master. All it takes is a bit of study and practice.

If you’ve never looked into getting out of ‘Auto mode’ on your camera, then terms like ISO, aperture, white balance and shutter speed will seem completely foreign.

READ MORE: Check out our great article and blog posts featuring our best landscape photography tips !

12) Exposure Triangle of Photography

The Exposure Triangle is a metaphor to explain the 3 elements that allow light onto a sensor.

A camera captures light, and the right amount is needed so that your image isn’t too bright or too dark.

The 3 parts of the Exposure Triangle are aperture, ISO and shutter.

Each one affects how light reaches the sensor in different ways, and getting this combination right is essential to capturing a beautiful image.

If you want more information, I’ve put together this comprehensive guide to understanding the exposure triangle which you should really check out.

For now though I’ll explain these three things briefly, and how they relate to taking better travel photographs.

Aperture is how wide, or small, the blades in your lens are and how much light goes through the lens.

The aperture size is measured in ‘F Stops’, and displayed as numbers. f5.6, f8, f11, f16, etc

A wide aperture (small number – f1.8) lets in more light than a low aperture (big number – f22).

A wide aperture also has a shallowed depth of field than a low aperture. I know it can be a little confusing, but you’ll pick it up the more you play around with it.

If you want the background blurry in your photo, you’ll want a wide aperture. If you want everything in focus, you’ll want a low aperture.

ISO is how sensitive your camera sensor is to light. A small number, such as 100, means it’s not very sensitive and therefore needs more light to leave an impression.

A high number, like 6400, means it’s very sensitive and needs only a little bit of light to show up on the sensor.

The higher the ISO, the more noise shows up in a photo. Noise lowers the quality of your image, so in a perfect world you’ll want to keep this as low as possible (unless you’re going to stay out late doing astro and night photography ).

It’s also necessary to raise your ISO if you’re shooting moving subjects (or handheld) indoors.

Shutter speed is pretty straight forward – how long it takes for your shutter to open and close. This allows you to freeze a frame, or introduce motion blur.

Want to capture a bird in flight? You’ll want to have a fast shutter (1/4000th of a second for example).

Want to make a waterfall look silky smooth, like you see in so much Iceland photography? Go for slow shutter speeds (3 seconds for example), and check out our guide to waterfall photography tips while you’re at it!

Keep in mind that if you are holding your camera equipment rather than using a tripod, you’ll need to have a fast enough shutter to eliminate your own hand movement.

As a general rule 1/60 of a second is the slowest you should go so your picture doesn’t pick up hand movement. Any slower than that and you’ll probably need a tripod.

16) Combining All Three for Perfect Exposure

There is no ‘perfect setting’ for aperture, ISO and shutter. It all depends on what you are trying to photograph and the style you’re going for.

Luckily most decent digital cameras have two little tools that will let you play around figure out how all three work together – manual mode and histograms.

Manual gives you complete control over your camera’s ISO, aperture and shutter.

If you change one, nothing else will change, unlike in ‘aperture priority’ mode or ‘shutter priority’ mode.

The histogram is a visual display of light. When the bars are all the way to the left, the image is darker. When they are all the way to the right, the image is lighter.

When most of the bars are in the centre, this is perfectly exposed.

The best way to figure out what combinations work best when you’re a complete amateur is to put your camera on “manual” mode, activate the histogram, and play around with the settings.

Pick an aperture (f/8 for example) and point it at the scene. Now look at the histogram.

If the image is too dark, then you’ll need to let more light in. Let’s make the speed slower. See a change?

Now put the shutter back to where it was and instead change the ISO. Make the ISO higher. Is the image getting lighter?

Spend an hour or two playing around with different apertures, ISO and shutter so you get an idea of how each one affects the light hitting the display.

Take note at how drastically things can change if a cloud goes in front of the sun, or you take the camera inside.

This just comes with practice of course, and knowing what settings you want for a particular scene will become second nature

Keep in mind that not all travel photos needs to be perfectly exposed. Sometimes having a darker image looks much better than having one that is nice and bright. You can use your judgement for this.

This is very, very basic and by no means should be read as gospel. There are a million different things that can affect why you would want a faster shutter, or wider aperture. But if you are confused about what to pick for what here’s a quick idea.

• Landscapes – You’ll want your aperture around f8-f11. You’ll also want your ISO as low as possible. Slow down the shutter accordingly.
• Portraits – You’ll probably want to photograph your subject to be sharp, but the background blurry to bring focus on the person. Have a wider aperture (say f2.8 for example), and a faster shutter (around 1/160 at the absolute slowest) to freeze the subject. Adjust ISO accordingly.
• Indoors – Because it is darker inside than outside, you’ll need to let a lot more light into the sensor. Unless you’re using a tripod, keep the speed at around 1/60 as the slowest, and the aperture around f5.6 to start with. Adjust ISO and aperture accordingly.

Of course there’s a bunch of other styles of travel photography that would use different settings, such as astrophotography, architecture, street scenes photography, wildlife photography, etc.

In time you’ll learn what settings work best for each scene.

The best way to get to know your camera and how light works is to have complete control over what settings you choose.

The only way to do this is to shoot in manual mode (shown by the letter M on most cameras).

It will take months of practice, but I promise you that in time you’ll be able to look at a scene and instantly know what aperture, ISO and shutter to use to get the exact style of image you’re looking for.

You can also use aperture priority mode (the letter A on your camera) if you don’t want to make the big leap to manual just yet.

This way you can lock in the aperture you want (f8 for landscape photography, f2.8 for portraits, etc) and the camera will automatically adjust the ISO (although you can control this part too) and shutter to get perfect exposure.

I highly recommend focusing on learning manual settings though until you have it perfected.

When you take a photo on your digital camera, the computer chip inside it takes what you captured on the sensor and converts it into a format that can be easily read. For most cameras, these two formats are RAW and JPEG.

JPEG is a compressed format that the camera creates to save on space. In doing so it ‘locks in’ all the data that it picked up such as the colour and white balance.

RAW files actually saves all the data of what you took and doesn’t compress it.

Most decent digital cameras will give you the menu option of shooting in RAW, and I recommend you use it if you ever plan on editing your photos.

Keep in mind that the file sizes will be a lot bigger (for example on one of our cameras a RAW is 42, while a JPEG is just 20), so you’ll need to have extra memory cards and external hard drive storage.

If you have no plans on editing your photos then shoot in JPEG.

Some people think that editing your photo is ‘cheating’. But the truth is photographers have been editing their photos ever since photography was invented.

Yes, even your favourite photos in National Geographic have been manipulated in some way.

99% of photos you see in your favourite travel magazines have been edited. Every professional photographer edits their photos to some degree.

The reason is that not all cameras are great at capturing exactly what the eye saw in terms of colour and light.

If you really want to get the most out of your professional travel photography business, you should start playing around with post processing.

Many people have heard of Adobe Photoshop , but it’s a pretty advanced tool that most people wouldn’t ever need to use (until you get more experience).

To start with look at the free apps that you can get on your phone, such as Snapseed, or free editing programs on your computer, like iPhoto or GIMP.

Once you get serious about travel photography and you want to start editing all of your photos that are filling up your memory cards and external hard drive, we recommend purchasing Adobe Lightroom.

If you’re ready to make the jump to using Lightroom and Photoshop, Adobe have a great ‘Creative Cloud’ package, which is what we use for only $10 a month. You can buy it here with a 7-day free trial

21) Practice, Practice, Practice

Just like anything, becoming a great travel photographer takes time, and a lot of practice. The only way you can get better is by getting out there taking travel photos!

You don’t even have to travel the world to tourist destinations or have the most travel camera available to be a great photographer.

Borrow some family members to take their portraits, get a friend who is also interested in photography and push each other, or grab your smartphone and go shoot sunset.

Buy whatever you can afford, go for a walk around your city and snap away.

We hope that this general guide on travel photography tips for beginners has been helpful.

Please feel free to reach out to us if you have any other questions. We have a lot of experience working with tourism boards, and would be happy to help you too.

Good luck on your photographic journey, and maybe we’ll see you in National Geographic one day!

DISCLAIMER: Some of the links in this article are affiliate links, which means if you book accommodation, tours or buy a product, we will receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. These commissions help us keep creating more free travel content to help people plan their holidays and adventures. We only recommend the best accommodations, tours and products that ourselves or our fantastic editorial team have personally experienced, and regularly review these. Thanks for your support, kind friend!

Alesha and Jarryd

Hi, We’re Alesha and Jarryd!

We’ve been traveling the world together since 2008, searching for the planet’s best destinations and adventures.

Love Travel?

Sign up for our free weekly newsletter for the best travel tips, ideas and deals!

We respect your privacy. Unsubscribe at any time.

READ MORE...

The Best Camera Accessories to Level Up Your Photography

GoPro HERO 12 Review – Is it Worth Buying in 2024?

Peak Design Everyday Messenger Review – My Honest Experience

Related Posts

40 incredible photos of uzbekistan that will blow your mind, 15 epic landscape photography tips from a pro (plus settings to use), 10 best camera backpacks for travel [2024 guide], 73 thoughts on “21 travel photography tips (easy ways to improve today)”.

I indeed agree in Know your camera and Plan your shots. These tips would make a good start in achieving your socmed worthy travel shots. And ofcourse, the other tips will surely be useful too. Great post!

Good article but I need to say something about using Manual – it’s not that great. Manual is just a different mode of settings for exposure, little different from either shutter or aperture priority, except these two give you a leg up, to where you’re going anyway. At the end of the day whatever exposure setting you choose will be just a combination of the 3 on the ‘exposure triangle’. Instead of using manual try these other two in conjunction with exposure compensation, which overrides the exposure meter reading. You still need the meter for any exposure anyway, just not necessarily using the value it recommends. It amounts to the same thing, only easier, quicker, and still constraining one of the triangle sides that you want. I use manual for specific unusual objects, such as sun, moon, stars, but during general daytime subjects it’ll be very unusual to hamper yourself by not using the aid provided when there is no advantage.

Your blog has become my go-to source for insightful content.

Thank you so much. So glad to hear. 🙂

Before you go, research your destination and its culture. This will help you better understand the people, customs, and landscapes you’ll be photographing.

I benefited a lot from your post. Thank you

So glad you did. Thank you for stopping by. 🙂

Thanks for sharing all this amazing tips & information. Fabulous post !

You are welcome. We are happy to help. Happy photographing

nice summary of basic photo tips that will improve my shots, thanx!

You are rocking..keep it up your work

Thank you so much. We really appreciate it.

Great article with great tips and i also like the pictures

Thank you so much Alesha and Jarryd for these amazing photography tips! I look forward to putting into practice some of your wonderful ideas and tips! I do so appreciate any tips that I can get to improve my photography. :)) Cheers, Marilyn

I absolutely loved this article! Like you I received my first ‘proper’ camera at 14 and since then have been hooked. I recently purchased a Nikon D750 and am absolutely loving it. Although at the moment I only have two lenses for it I am hoping to be able to afford more soon. What are your favourite lenses?

In my photography I love capturing candid portraits of people I encounter during my travels. I always struggle with the dilemma of getting the perfect candid shot and feeling compelled to ask permission before taking the shot. As a very shy person directing people in images is daunting, but it is something I am striving to work on. It’s nice to read that you are also shy yet manage to capture such incredible images of people.

As I am mostly self-taught, I always love to read technical tips to improve my images. I found the technical side of your post incredibly helpful and wanted to say thank you for taking the time to write such a detailed post. I believe it really helps and inspires amateur photographers like myself.

Glad you liked the article. Thank you for your comment. Keep photographying Caitlyn 🙂

Great tips and awesome photos! I always tell people if they aren’t comfortable with their settings, the #1 way to make sure their images aren’t blurry is to shoot in TV/S (shutter) priority. That way you can prioritize having no hand shake.

Thank you so much. Great advice. Thanks for your comment. 🙂

Awesome tips for everyone and specially to me who loves capturing photos everytime i travel.This one also help me and give me more knowledge on how to make awesome photos and its good because you don’t need to buy expensive camera to have a good quality photos, just your iPhone or smartphone you can make a great photos.

Hi, you are so right. You can take great photos with your phone. Glad the article could help you.

Great article! Do you even bother carrying your camera with you during the day in broad sunlight? I find it’s not worth the hassle for such poor shooting conditions.

Hi Scott, It all depends what we are doing. If we are on a job, we always carry our cameras with us. The midday sun is harsh but you get used to working with it. Especially indoors with the sun coming through the cracks, it can work out really lovely sometimes. When we are travelling on our own time, we don’t usually carry the camera. Happy travels

I really enjoyed reading this post, as I am a beginner in photography as well and it’s always interesting to see what gear other people are using!

I have the Canon Rebel as well, and also love the 50mm lens. It’s just great and is so versatile!

Thanks for sharing.

Glad we could help. Thank you for your comment. Happy photographing,

Great tips guys! Photography is an art so it must be learned properly. A good guide can teach art in a great way. This article is similar to a guide because it is an eye-opener for blooming photographers and travel lovers.

Thank you so much!

Thank you for your comment Glorias. Glad the article could help.

Hello Alesha and Jarryd, not sure to whom I adresse the message to, but I’m guessing Jarryd took the pictures and Alesha wrote about it :p

Anyway, do you guys use any customized Firmware on your DSLR? like the CHDK or Magic Lantern. That’s one question, the other one will be: can’t find any Mobile Phone photography on your blog? can you please refer me to any article that provide valuable info around Mobile phone photography?

Hi Ayoub, The photos and words in the article are a combination of both of us. Usually Alesha is the photographer and Jarryd is the writer.

We use use no customise firmware at all. We haven’t ventured this way as it voids our warranty.

As for phone photography, maybe this is an article we should write. With our phone photos, we do use Snapseed to edit them. But do not take any photos through any apps. All the best

Thank you for the tip regarding phone photography, I mostly use the customized firmware to do timelaps and edit directly on the camera, keep me posted after publishing the new article. (Already subscribed to the weekly newsletter)

Definitely will do. Thank you so much. Happy photographing. 🙂

you are doing a great job

Thank you so much. 🙂

This was really an amazing list of tips, I am a hobbyist photographer and this would really helps me a lot

Glad we could help. Keep up the photographing. 🙂

Great tips Alesha and Jarred. I really liked your golden and blue hours tip. Will try it soon and hope get amazing pics 🙂

Glad we could help. Practise will get you on the right track and before you know it you will be taking amazing shots. We are still learning about photography everyday. We love that you can never stop learning. Thanks Linda.

Some of the best tips I have read so far. Amazing post and captures so much detail. Worth the read for every travel photographer. 🙂 Keep it up.

Thank you so much,. We really appreciate it. 🙂

Priceless tips for amateurs like me. Thanks for sharing. For a long while, I’ve tried to follow the rule of thirds, but the best shots came out when I finally dared to break it. You’re absolutely right about the rules are meant to be broken. Regarding the camera, I agree it doesn’t have to be the most expensive. But sometimes I have a feeling my shots would have been better had I owned a proper camera. What device is the best balance between price and quality?

HI Robin, you’re welcome. We are so happy we could help. Sometimes breaking the rules works out to be better. 🙂 We definitely know what you mean. You do not need to buy the most experience camera. A camera that you can use manual settings, is great as you can start using and playing with aperture, shutter speed and ISO. We started off with a Sony RX100ii and it was great. Compact and a great camera to learn. Here is some articles that may help. https://www.nomadasaurus.com/best-camera-for-travel-ultimate-photography-series/ https://www.nomadasaurus.com/best-camera-accessories-ultimate-photography-series/

Thanks a lot for the great advise! I especially like your explanations about the exposure triangle. I was a bit aware of it before, but never played around with it unless I wanted to change the depth of field (and even then, I did this very rarely). But thanks to focusing more on it, I am starting to get the hang of it. I have taken some very good hummingbird pictures, for example, which never would have been possible if I hadn’t raised the ISO so I can keep the shutter speed fast. Those birds zip around like crazy!

Also, I think one of the most important pieces of advise, and the one I’m struggling with most, is to always look at the whole frame. I am guilty of looking at the main subject and later finding out that I cut off important things on the side or that something weird is in the photo that shouldn’t have been there.

Hi Ilona, so happy the article could help you. That’s amazing you experiment with your hummingbird shots. They are fast birds. By practising photography, you will get better and better. No matter how experienced you are, there are always things to learn. When you come to a scene you want to photograph, stop for a minute look around, walk around and think about what shots you want to take. Obviously this is hard when the subject is moving but great for landscape and street photography. All the best and keep up the awesome work. 🙂

Hi, I took around 500 shots on a trip to Kyrgyzstan recently, some I think are pretty good, but now after reading your tips, I think I will make another trip to that part of the world again soon!

what a great tips especially the lighting part – i also agree that getting up earlier and shooting in the natural sunlight is so great for your photos. talking to the locals and knowing your camera, You guys covered it all

Thank you so much for reading Shama. Glad you liked our article. Natural lighting is the best. Even though sometimes that early morning is hard it is worth it. 🙂

u are absolutely right u don’t need an expensive camera or go to Bali ( although it’s a good idea) to get great photos. it’s just simple common sense and a good eye and you can master photography

Well said. Thank you for your comment and reading Shama. Have a great week.

Thanks a lot for the helpful tips on holiday photos. My partner and I are in Easter Island, irresistible place for photo opportunity. My Nikon D7000 will keep on taking photos on auto mode for the time being until I have had enough practice following your guidelines and the who knows what photos I might produce! Thanks.

Glad we could help Balu. Definitely when you have time, go out and take some photos on manual. Play with the different settings. Before you know it, you’ll only be on manual. At the beginning when I was still learning, I would take a shot on the manual settings I thought and then a shot of the same view on auto in case I messed up. Better safe than sorry. Have a great time in Easter Island. There is so much to do there and learning about the history is amazing. Take care. Alesha

Guys your advice are completely helped me. I was stressed before, i want to travelling at the moment but i hope i can take a good picture cause you know how annoying it will be when we take a picture and then when we are home they are completely bad. So then you have to comeback at the same place again just to take a picture. But this one is helpfull

Hi Fabio, Don’t stress. You are going to bring back amazing photos from your travels. It is all overwhelming at the beginning but it gets easy. When you are shooting, put some time aside and concentrate on what you have learned. It doesn’t matter if it takes you 20 minutes to an hour to get your shot. If their are other photographers around, most of the time that are happy to give you some advice. Let them know you are new. Maybe they will let you know their settings for ISO, aperture and shutter. When it comes to editing, take your time as well. There are many You Tube videos that can help you for free. Have a great time on your trip. Happy travels

Hey Guys, very useful tips especially the Bonus tips.

Keep Sharing!!!

Glad we could help. Thanks for reading.

P(Program) you set either the aperture or shutter and the camera adjusts the other one accordingly to maintain the right exposure. Thanks

Thanks Rezan

I love traveling around the world. I wish to capture some of the beautiful places that I enjoyed. The above tips helped me to improve my travel photography skills. It also helped me to click some of the memorable moments of my travel with my friends and relatives.

Hi Vivek, Glad we could help. It is all about practise. We love having a day to ourselves and just getting out and shooting anything – landscape, cityscape, people or animals. We try to give ourselves a challenge sometimes. It makes it interesting and we are enjoying ourselves. 🙂

Great tips to help out beginners like me. I need to work on to ask people for permission as I get shy sometimes. I love the quote “rules are meant to be broken”!

Thank you Mao. Don’t worry, “asking” will come. Alesha was so shy and I used to take all the people shots. Now she is more confident and really enjoys shooting people. All the best.

THANK YOU . Your very easy to read starter guide to photography was AMAZEBALLS I learnt so much .cheers LIZY

Thank you. Glad we could help. Happy shooting and get creative. 🙂

Hey guys, this is an amazing guide, thanks for writing this up in such detail. As an amateur, I always look for good travel photography tips from other travellers. I left my tripod behind in Thailand and I think this was a huge mistake, I need to get a new one, urgently 🙂

By the way, really enjoy your photos on your blog and Instagram, they are amazing! 🙂

Glad we could help guys. We never used to use a tripod in our early years until we discovered how amazing the shots can be with one in low light and now we have 3. You can rest your camera on something to get a shot but you are limited to positions. Thanks for reading guys. 🙂

thanks for the tips. i’d make one edit: instead of ‘move your feet’ i’d say “don’t be lazy”…move left or right. move forward or back. climb up on something or get down on your knees.

Love it Aaron. You are so right. A little to the left might be the perfect shot or a little to the right and crouching might be the perfect shot. thanks for the input. Have a good one.

I love this post. It is incredibly helpful to all beginner travel photographers like myself! I have only been shooting in manual mode for the past 5 months and have already seen a huge increase in the quality of my photos! But I am always looking to improve. Will definitely be sharing your post

It is crazy how you improve when you start shooting manual. I know Alesha did also. You learn so much about the camera and what it can do, it is incredible. Thank you for reading and all the best with your photography Hayley. 🙂

this guide is amazing, thank you so much for explaining everything in a way an amateur can understand 🙂

Bookmarking the post for future reference!

Cheers, Naddya

Thank you guys. We are glad it is useful for you. 🙂

Wow! Amazing Tips. These tips will help a lot to click great pictures with your camera. Love the point of Shutter Speed. and about RAW.

Thanks for Sharing Helpful Post.

Thank you so much Nitin. Glad we can help. Thank you for reading.

Yeah I agree with you buddy.

Thank you 🙂

Leave a comment Cancel reply

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

How to get started in travel photography: tips from a landscape expert

Travel and adventure photographer James Popsys has travelled to more than 40 countries. He shares the secrets behind a successful photography business and his tips for getting started in the industry.

From the snowy tundras of Antarctica and the rocky coastline of Greenland to the winding waterways of the Chilean fjords, James Popsys' assignments have taken him to some of the world’s most remote locations. Over the last decade, his career has gone from strength to strength, but like everyone, he started out with just a camera and a passion for photography. He discusses how to improve your own skills behind the lens, delving into everything from angles to equipment.

How did you first get into photography and what were some of the challenges you faced when starting out ?

I did a lot of travelling in my early 20s, and I always had my camera with me. But it wasn’t until I was living in London that I started to get hooked. I couldn’t afford to travel much, so I spent my weekends taking photographs around the city. Sometimes it can be beneficial to photograph scenes close to home because you learn to see the extraordinary in the ordinary. It also allowed me to hone my skills and discover my own photography style.

The biggest challenge was getting people to care about my work. We live in a world where the vast majority of people consume photography on social media. The reality is that you can spend weeks chasing the perfect photo, but you can’t change the fact that most people will only see it for a few seconds on a very small screen. They may hit ‘like’, but before long they’ll be scrolling again. That’s why I started my YouTube channel — I wanted to show people the story behind my photos and make them care about the shot. In doing this, I found that people became much more familiar with my work and were much more likely to support me through buying prints or recommending me for photography jobs.

What kit would you advise budding travel photographers to buy?

My first camera was a compact Lumix with a huge zoom range. I then upgraded to a DSLR.

I used to have a huge kit bag full of different lenses and cameras, but as I honed my skills and found my photography style, I found that I didn’t need so much equipment. Today, my ideal gear bag would have one mirrorless camera and one 24-70mm zoom lens. This type of lens is versatile enough to capture the vast majority of things you want to capture at normal focal length. If you’re a beginner, any mirrorless camera made in the past 10 years with a standard zoom lens is a good place to start. If you have a phone released in the last three or four years, that’s a great place to start, too — camera phones can be just as good as regular lenses these days.

What's the key to capturing landscapes?

All photography, especially when you’re out in nature, is about simplification. It’s about taking complex scenes and simplifying them so that people know exactly what the photo is about. A mindset of constant experimentation is also useful — you may think you’ve got the shot, but always try different angles or take the shot from a different viewpoint or at a different time of day. Often when I get home, I find that the fifth photo I took is actually the one that sticks.

Finally, don’t focus on things you can’t control. If the weather or lighting is bad, don’t despair. Your aim isn’t to get the best photo that’s ever been taken of that scene, but to capture something that reflects your own perspective at that moment in time. On a practical level, make sure you have a camera that you’re not too precious about. Too many people will buy an expensive camera and then they’re terrified when they have to expose it to the elements. When I’m shooting in exposed areas, I plan for the worst — I always have an emergency bag with extra layers and a microfibre towel to dry my camera with.

Your photographs have a distinct style. How can new photographers go about finding their own style?

When I was starting out, I was in a rush to arrive at my style. But I’m realising that style isn’t a destination — it’s a constantly moving target. The reason for that is that a photographer’s style is formed by thousands of different inputs: you can be influenced by your personal experiences, other people’s work, books that you’ve read, films that you’ve seen, etc. I know what kinds of photo I want to take right now, but there’s no saying that this won't change or evolve over time. So, my advice would be don’t rush. Remember that the beauty of photography is that you can’t complete it — it’s a fruitless chase for perfection.

What’s the one thing you wish you’d known when you were starting out?

It’s a myth to think that as a photographer you’ll spend all your time taking photos. Making people care about your photos, and being able to promote yourself, is just as important as taking the photo. As a freelance photographer, you’re first and foremost a marketer. Another piece of advice that I found really useful was to think of photography as solving a jigsaw. In any given scene, you’ve got lots of different pieces — a car, the sea, a lamppost, maybe — and our job as photographers is working out how to fit them all together.

• Terms of Use
• Privacy Policy
• Your US State Privacy Rights
• Children's Online Privacy Policy
• Interest-Based Ads
• About Nielsen Measurement
• Do Not Sell or Share My Personal Information
• Nat Geo Home
• Attend a Live Event
• Book a Trip
• Inspire Your Kids
• Shop Nat Geo
• Visit the D.C. Museum
• Learn About Our Impact
• Support Our Mission
• Advertise With Us
• Customer Service
• Renew Subscription
• Manage Your Subscription
• Work at Nat Geo
• Sign Up for Our Newsletters
• Contribute to Protect the Planet

Copyright © 1996-2015 National Geographic Society Copyright © 2015-2024 National Geographic Partners, LLC. All rights reserved

Passing Thru Travel

Mastering Travel Photography: A Guide for American Travelers

Posted: April 25, 2024 | Last updated: April 25, 2024

Travel photography is an art form that combines exploration, storytelling, and technical skills to freeze moments that express the essence of a place and its people. This guide explores the core of travel photography, offering insights and tips to help you capture photos that are not only visually striking but also rich in narrative. Whether navigating bustling city streets or serene landscapes, these guidelines will equip you with the knowledge to bring back memorable photographs from your journeys.

Travel Photography

Image Credit: Shutterstock / Lesley Fisher Photography

Travel photography’s history is rich and diverse, evolving from the exclusive domain of professional explorers and photographers to a widespread passion fueled by technological advances and the democratization of travel. In its early days, travel photography was a means of documenting uncharted territories, exotic cultures, and remote landscapes, often for scientific or exploratory purposes. The advent of portable cameras in the late 19th and early 20th centuries allowed more individuals to document their travels, transforming travel photography into personal expression and storytelling.

One of the most influential figures in the history of photography, Ansel Adams, played a pivotal role in elevating landscape photography—a key component of travel photography—to an art form. Adams’ work in the American West, particularly his iconic images of Yosemite National Park, demonstrated the power of photography to capture the sublime beauty of nature. His exacting approach to composition, lighting, and technique has inspired generations of photographers to view travel photography as a way to record what they see and as a creative means to convey a place’s emotional and aesthetic spirit.

The Master of Travel Photography, Lesley Fisher

Upon graduating from Stirling University in Scotland with an honors degree in Psychology, Lesley Fisher embarked on a journey that blended her passion for the arts with an adventurous spirit. Her career in travel photography, which she commenced full-time almost a decade ago, has been a conduit for her quest for adventure and her artistic expression. Her portfolio, enriched by published works, is increasingly sought after by picture editors and art directors.

For the past 23 years, Fisher has called Thailand her home, where she initially worked in the travel and hospitality industry. Her fluency in Thai highlights her immersive approach to life and her surroundings. This approach is further evidenced by her certification as a PADI rescue diver and her proficiency in Mysore Ashtanga Yoga, showcasing her commitment to experiencing life fully and engaging deeply with her environment.

Fisher’s photographic journey has transitioned from her early days in luxury hotel and villa hospitality to her current status as a renowned international travel and architectural photographer and interior styling expert. Her work commands attention across the globe, with commissions leading her from various corners and islands in Asia to Europe and New York, among other locations. Continuously traveling and photographing in some of the world’s most remote locales, Fisher refines her skills while imparting her distinctive blend of charm and humor to all she encounters.

Environmental Responsibility

Environmental responsibility in travel photography emphasizes the importance of sustainable and respectful practices towards natural landscapes, wildlife, and local communities. Fisher urges photographers to minimize their ecological footprint by adhering to paths, maintaining distance from wildlife, and engaging with local cultures sensitively. Adopting eco-friendly travel options, durable equipment, and support for conservation efforts further underscores the commitment to preserving documented environments. Sharing images with consideration for their potential impact, alongside continuous education on environmental issues, reinforces the role of photographers in advocating for the protection of natural and cultural heritage.

Collaboration with local authorities, NGOs, and conservation groups enhances understanding of specific environmental challenges, leading to more informed photography practices. By embodying these principles, travel photographers capture the world’s beauty and contribute to ensuring its preservation for future generations. The collective effort towards environmental stewardship and cultural respect is crucial in maintaining the integrity of the diverse landscapes and communities that she seeks to document.

Understanding Light and Time of Day

The quality of light significantly impacts the mood and aesthetic of your photographs. Early morning and late afternoon, known as the golden hours, provide soft, warm light that enhances textures and colors. Conversely, just before sunrise or after sunset, the blue hour offers cool, ethereal light ideal for capturing cityscapes with glowing lights against a twilight sky. Midday light tends to be harsh and flat, often considered unfavorable for photography, but it can be used creatively to capture strong shadows and high-contrast scenes.

Composing with Purpose

Composition is the backbone of a compelling photograph. The rule of thirds, leading lines, framing, and symmetry are just a few principles that can guide you in creating balanced and engaging images. However, the essence of travel photography lies in telling a story — your composition should be aesthetically pleasing and convey a narrative or emotion that resonates with the viewer.

Capturing the Essence of the Locale

Travel photography is about capturing the essence of a place. This includes the people, the culture, the food, and the everyday moments that give a destination its character. Engaging with locals and immersing yourself in the culture can provide insights and access to moments tourists often overlook. Respect and sensitivity towards the people and places you photograph are paramount.

Embracing the Unplanned and Spontaneous

Some of the most impactful travel photographs come from unplanned moments and spontaneous encounters. While it’s essential to research and plan your photography around certain landmarks or events, leaving room for spontaneity can lead to unique and personal images that stand out. This approach requires a degree of flexibility, openness, and an always-ready mentality with your camera gear.

The Importance of Patience in Photography

Patience is a virtue, especially in travel photography. Waiting for the perfect light, for a crowd to clear, or for a moment to unfold naturally can make the difference between a good photo and a great one. This often means visiting a site multiple times or waiting in one spot for conditions to align perfectly. The ability to wait is a skill that can transform your photography, allowing you to capture images with intention and impact.

Mastering the Art of Street Photography

Street photography is a compelling aspect of travel photography that captures the essence of everyday life. It requires a keen eye for detail, timing, and anticipating moments. Successful street photography tells a story about the place and its people, often revealing emotions, interactions, and cultural nuances. It’s about finding beauty and interest in the mundane and presenting it in a way that resonates with viewers.

Navigating Cultural Sensitivities

Respecting cultural norms and sensitivities is paramount in travel photography. This means understanding and adhering to local customs, asking for permission before photographing people and being mindful of what is considered sacred or private. Sensitivity to your subjects ensures ethical photography practices, fosters mutual respect and can lead to more meaningful interactions and images.

Draw Inspirations but Don’t Copy

In travel photography, drawing inspiration from the work of others is a valuable part of the creative process, yet it’s crucial to distinguish between being inspired and directly copying someone else’s work. Emulating the style, composition, or subjects of established photographers can serve as a learning tool, but authentic expression and innovation lie in using these influences to develop one’s unique perspective and voice. This approach respects the originality of others and pushes the boundaries of creativity.

Try Different Techniques

Exploring various techniques is essential for growth and innovation in travel photography. Experimentation with different photographic methods—such as long exposures for dynamic landscapes, macro photography for detailed close-ups, or drone photography for aerial perspectives—can significantly enhance the diversity and appeal of a photographer’s portfolio. This approach encourages photographers to step out of their comfort zones, adapt to the unique challenges of each technique, and, ultimately, discover new ways to capture and convey the wonder of their travels. By continuously experimenting, photographers can refine their skills, develop a more versatile style, and produce work that stands out in the competitive field of travel photography.

Keep Safe and Know Your Locations

Safety and location knowledge are paramount in travel photography, necessitating thorough research and preparation before venturing into new areas. Understanding a destination’s geographical, cultural, and political landscape can significantly mitigate risks, ensuring photographers make informed decisions about where and when to shoot. This includes being aware of local customs and laws, identifying potential hazards, and taking appropriate precautions to protect oneself and one’s equipment. Additionally, staying informed about the weather and environmental conditions can prevent unforeseen complications. Prioritizing safety and location awareness safeguards the photographer and respects the integrity of the communities and environments being photographed, fostering a responsible and sustainable approach to travel photography.

Enjoy Yourself

Enjoyment is a fundamental aspect of travel photography, where the pursuit of compelling images should also embrace the experience of exploration and discovery. Engaging fully with the environment, immersing oneself in the moment, and appreciating the beauty and diversity of our world can enrich the photographic process, leading to more authentic and inspired work. This approach encourages photographers to view their journey not as an opportunity to connect with new cultures, landscapes, and stories, enhancing personal fulfillment and the overall quality of their portfolio. Ultimately, finding joy in travel photography benefits the photographer’s well-being and infuses their work with a sense of passion and vitality.

Share Your Images

Sharing your images is vital to travel photography, fostering connections and enriching the photographic journey. Lesley Fisher exemplifies this ethos by always carrying an instant Polaroid camera during her travels, allowing her to share tangible images with her subjects on the spot. This practice offers a token of gratitude and respect to those who become part of her photographic narrative and bridges cultural and linguistic barriers, creating immediate, shared moments of joy and understanding. Beyond personal interactions, sharing images through exhibitions, social media, and publications can inspire others, extend the reach of one’s work, and invite dialogue and feedback, further enhancing the impact and relevance of travel photography in a global context.

Research Your Destination: Understand the cultural, historical, and environmental aspects to find unique photographic opportunities.

Pack Light and Right: Choose versatile equipment that suits your style and the conditions of your destination.

Embrace the Golden Hour: Utilize the soft light of early morning and late afternoon for the most flattering illumination.

Practice Composition: Employ rules like the rule of thirds and leading lines to create visually compelling images.

Capture Candid Moments: Look for spontaneous, unposed moments that convey the essence of the place and its people.

Understand Local Customs: Respect and adhere to local traditions and norms, especially when photographing people and sacred sites.

Experiment with Perspectives: Try different angles and viewpoints to add depth and interest to your photos.

Use Manual Settings: Familiarize yourself with your camera’s manual settings to have more control over your shots.

Keep Your Gear Safe: Invest in a sturdy bag and use protective gear to secure your equipment in various environments.

Be Patient: Wait for the right moment when the light, subject, and composition align perfectly.

Edit Thoughtfully: Enhance your photos post-shoot with editing software, but avoid over-processing.

Share Your Work: Use social media, blogs, or exhibitions to share your images and experiences.

Stay Flexible: Be open to changing your plans based on weather, lighting, or unexpected discoveries.

Keep Learning: Continuously seek inspiration from other photographers and new experiences to improve your skills.

Enjoy the Process: Remember to experience the moment and enjoy your surroundings, not just through your lens.

The Bottom Line

Travel photography is about engaging deeply with the world, telling stories through your lens, and respecting the diversity of cultures and people you encounter. By embracing spontaneity, practicing patience, mastering photography, and navigating cultural sensitivities, you enrich your portfolio and your personal experience of the world. As you set out on your next adventure, remember that the most memorable photos reflect a genuine connection with the moment and the essence of the place. Keep exploring, keep learning, and let your photography be a bridge between you and the vast, beautiful world we share.

More for You

Harvard psychologist shares 5 toxic things 'highly narcissistic' people always do in relationships

Ex-Columbia law professor says school may have ‘unwittingly’ fended off class action suits with hybrid move

Average US annual salary by age revealed – see how you compare

You Won't Even Miss The Meat In This Flavorful Shroomami Burger

29 common human foods you may not realize are poisonous to your dog

Popular Beer Company Files for Chapter 11 Bankruptcy

Do I have to pay off my spouse's debts when they die? Here's what you're responsible for and what you aren't after a loved one's death

A woman said her tattoos got her rejected for a job, but experts say personality is far more important

The best PS5 SSDs

Genshin Impact: Praetorian Golem Locations

I'm abrosexual - it took me 30 years to realise

Here’s What the US Minimum Wage Was the Year You Were Born

If you and your partner use any of these 5 phrases regularly, your relationship is stronger than most

The most expensive state to live in isn't California or New York, based on data. Here are the top 10.

2024’s Canceled Shows, for Your Final Consideration

People Who Don’t Show Empathy Usually Have These 18 Traits

How to use emulators to play retro video games on your phone

Spacecraft spots "spiders" scattered across surface of Mars

Marriage counsellor shares one sign your relationship is really over

Genshin Impact: Where His Life Lies Quest Guide (In Those Ruins Of Dreams Achievement)

Travel guides and photography blogs

Our latest travel and photography blogs.

Top 16 Breathtaking Bamboo Houses in Bali

Complete Guide to Lisbon: The Most Beautiful Sights and Experiences!

The Ultimate Guide to the Ha Giang Loop: Adventure, Scenery and Culture

Ultimate Bali Travel Guide​: Tips, Visas, and Essential Information

| Our travel magazine

How we travelled.

Combining our love for travel with a passion for research and photography, we created this online travel journal to share our experiences from six years travelling together to places both familiar and unfamiliar.

We love everything about travelling: immersing ourselves in different cultures, close encounters with the wonders of nature, the food, the people!

Our site brings together written and visual stories of our journeys, travel tips, itineraries, hidden gems, travel routes, photography tips, amazing travel photos, and so much more! With this, we hope to inspire you to travel off the beaten track and to help you prepare for your next adventure.

Do you already know where this will lead you?

| Amazing travel routes

Discover our photography-minded travel itineraries.

Travel guide Northern Vietnam off the beaten track

Northern Vietnam is a popular travel destination for nature and culture enthusiasts, with bucket list places such as Ha Long Bay and Sapa. But this part of Vietnam still has plenty of hidden gems, where you can step off the beaten tourist path and experience the real authentic Vietnam. We share our best tips in this blog.

The ultimate photographer’s guide to São Miguel

São Miguel is nicknamed the Ilha Verde (‘The Green Island’) of the Azores, and with reason. Doing a road trip here is an absolute must do! In this blog we share our experiences, research and tips acquired from locals, so you can get the most of this adventurous travel hotspot.

Bali Off the Beaten Track: Discover Authentic Bali with This Ultimate Travel Guide

Venture beyond the well-trodden path with our “Bali Off the Beaten Track” travel guide. Explore untouched nature, authentic villages, and hidden cultural treasures of this enchanting island. Join us on an adventurous journey through the tranquil East, the pristine North, the cultural wealth of Central Bali, and conclude with the rugged beauty of Nusa Penida.

Want to know more?

Visit more beautiful countries that we travelled in our top menu.

Are you not sure about what country to visit? Or are you interested in knowing more about ‘all’ that comes with travelling or travel photography?

Please visit our explore page and become part of our community by signing up for our latest posts.

| The Azores

Discover the unique volcanic village of furnas, | travel photography, experience the world in a different way.

We did not start out as photography enthusiasts when we first started travelling, but over the years it has become our shared passion.

Photography has taught us to look at the world in a different way. Noticing people, nature, animals, details and events that we had previously simply passed by, without seeing them properly.

Over the years the photos we made along our travels, have become almost synonymous with the memories we have of certain places. Here we want to share some of those memories with you in our travel journal.

Go to our explore page to read more stories about travel photography, including photography for beginners, the best photography places and professional tips and tricks. So you too can get the most out of your travel photos!

| Travel blog

Discover beautiful countries, hidden gems, travel itineraries, hacks and more.

7 tips to get the most out of photographing the famous Dutch tulips

Planning to travel to The Netherlands in the spring to see the famous Dutch tulips in bloom? In this blog we provide you with 7 professional basic photography tips to get the most out of capturing these colourful wonders.

Discover the klongs with a longtail boat

Looking for a unique excursion in Bangkok? Take a longtail boat tour through the klongs. These ancient canals in the old Thonburi district offer a relaxing way to experience the classic Thai lifestyle, meet friendly locals, spot sunbathing monitor lizards and escape the hustle and bustle of the city.

10 best things to do on a photography tour on Terceira

Terceira island is a photographer’s dream. It combines some of the most beautiful ‘vistas’ in the world, with rugged shorelines, calm and eery forests, a UNESCO world heritage city and unique volcanic hotspots. You can even go descend into an extinct volcano! Experience all this island has to offer before the masses will discover it.

Nusa Penida: A Complete Guide to Paradise for Travelers and Photographers

Embark on a journey to Nusa Penida, Indonesia’s hidden gem, where adventure meets serenity. Our latest blog unveils the best-kept secrets of this breathtaking island. Discover why Nusa Penida is a paradise for photographers and thrill-seekers alike. From navigating the dramatic cliffs of Kelingking Beach to encountering the majestic manta rays, dive into our detailed guide and plan your next great escape!

Find our collection of travel posters on Etsy!

• Student Successes
• My Learning

30 Most Influential Travel Photographers to Follow in 2024

You can also select your interests for free access to our premium training:

Who doesn’t love traveling, visiting new places, and going on adventures? And who wouldn’t want to capture these memories and look back at them later?

If you want photography inspiration during your journeys, this article is just for you! We have collected 30 of the most influential travel photographers from across Instagram.

Believe us… they are worth following! Their work and unique style might give you some ideas next time you travel.

What Is Travel Photography?

Simply put, travel photography captures adventures and locations you visit during your journeys.

This photography niche involves so many different genres. A travel photographer must also know landscape, architecture, street, and environmental photography.

Travel and adventure photography often involves storytelling . And it focuses on capturing special moments and atmospheres.

There are many different approaches to travel photography. You can focus on people, take self-portraits , emphasize landscapes, or dive into aerial photography . Mixing these approaches can result in a unique style and, over time, get you professional recognition as a travel photographer.

30 Most Influential Travel Photographers to Follow

Let’s take a look at the work of these amazing travel photographers!

1. Frauke Hameister

This German photographer captures stunning landscapes and adventures. This is mostly when he’s surrounded by mountains and cliffs. Frauke does an excellent job at visualizing stories through her images.

Her style revolves around cold colors and a foggy atmosphere . She mostly includes herself in her photos, giving her work an extra personal touch.

            Sieh dir diesen Beitrag auf Instagram an                         Ein Beitrag geteilt von Frauki – made in Germany 🌊 (@frauki)

2. Robert King

From wildlife to landscapes and night photos , Robert King is exceptional in several areas of photography. But first and foremost, he travels around the world and captures the unique views in front of him.

His passion for traveling shines through his photographs. His compositions are top-notch, often created with an extra touch of drone perspective .

            Sieh dir diesen Beitrag auf Instagram an                         Ein Beitrag geteilt von Robert King 📸 (@king_roberto)

3. Pedro Quintela

Pedro is a true visual artist. His photos look as if they were paintings. He takes advantage of gorgeously colorful skies and landscapes all around the world. His way of using a central composition proves that this technique is definitely not as cliché as some think.

            Sieh dir diesen Beitrag auf Instagram an                         Ein Beitrag geteilt von Pedro Quintela | Visual Artist (@pedro_quintela_images)

4. Adam Desjardins

Snowy mountains, exotic islands, and vibrant cities. Nothing stops Adam when he arrives with his camera.

He uses a unique perspective to capture his traveling adventures. Adam mostly uses a wide-angle lens to include all his surroundings. He also likes to shoot from a bird’s-eye view , often including himself in his travel photography.

            Sieh dir diesen Beitrag auf Instagram an                         Ein Beitrag geteilt von Adam Desjardins (@_adamdesjardins)

5. Chris Henry

Chris is an American photographer who visits places like Norway, Iceland, Alaska, and Italy. He loves to shoot wildlife, getting unbelievably close to his models.

He uses a certain photography style for every country he visits, making each photo series unique and distinguishable. He also owns his own streetwear brand, where the designs are based on his photography.

            Sieh dir diesen Beitrag auf Instagram an                         Ein Beitrag geteilt von Chris Henry (@chrishenry)

6. Morten Munthe

Morten is a photographer from Norway, mainly taking photos of his own country’s treasures. He has a consistent style of dark, contrasty, and moody photographs.

He likes to include people in his photos, turning landscapes into lifestyle portraits . Not only that, but he also captures wildlife when he gets the chance.

            Sieh dir diesen Beitrag auf Instagram an                         Ein Beitrag geteilt von Morten Munthe (@morten_munthe)

7. Luke Stackpoole

This English photographer perfectly combines landscape and travel photography. Wherever he travels, he tries to take a photo of the hidden gems of the place.

Tiny houses, forest trails, and local animals are all common subjects of Luke’s photography. He prefers northern locations like Iceland, Scotland, or Greenland.

            Sieh dir diesen Beitrag auf Instagram an                         Ein Beitrag geteilt von Luke Stackpoole (@withluke)

8. Marcel Siebert

Marcel does an excellent job at depicting what’s best in each season. He likes to include as much detail in his photos as possible. He often uses props that symbolize the current season (such as pumpkins during autumn).

His images are like a fairytale. His subjects are often magical forests, breathtaking castles, and traditional villages.

            Sieh dir diesen Beitrag auf Instagram an                         Ein Beitrag geteilt von Marcel – From Germany 📷 (@_marcelsiebert)

9. Disa Wold

If someone is enjoying life to the fullest, it’s Disa. Wherever she goes, she embraces the opportunities that the place gives. From tenting to petting a reindeer or chilling in a hot tub, she knows how to bring the best out of each moment.

And she captures these moments authentically and joyfully. Disa also has a portrait photography account. So check it out if you are interested in her work.

            Sieh dir diesen Beitrag auf Instagram an                         Ein Beitrag geteilt von Disa Wold (@disa)

10. Monika Jeske

If you are looking for magic, you should definitely check out Monika’s photography. She uses spectacular skies to emphasize the beauty of locations such as Sicily or Jordan.

Apart from these, she also takes everyday places, like Prague’s old town. And she gives an extra touch to them with her editing style.

            Sieh dir diesen Beitrag auf Instagram an                         Ein Beitrag geteilt von Monika Jeske / Outdoor (@beautyland_photography)

11. Rach Stewart

Rach is a photographer from New Zealand, mainly taking photos of mountain landscapes. Her images are incredibly refined and thoughtfully composed.

She plays with colors like a true artist. The smooth transition between shades of the blue hour and cotton candy clouds in her pictures is remarkable.

            Sieh dir diesen Beitrag auf Instagram an                         Ein Beitrag geteilt von Rach Stewart ↟ New Zealand (@rachstewartnz)

12. Stijn Dijkstra

Stijn loves creating dramatic images. He often uses silhouettes , sunsets , and flares to reach the desired atmosphere. He often uses a bird’s-eye view to include as much scenery as possible.

Capturing himself in his scenes is also a common part of his work. Check out this account if you want adventure photography at the most varied locations!

            Sieh dir diesen Beitrag auf Instagram an                         Ein Beitrag geteilt von Stijn | 📸 Travel & Photography (@furstset)

13. Nazariy Kryvosheyev

Nazariy uses his photography to capture the moment while hiking and traveling through gorgeous places. You can often see a patch of sky, a ray of sunlight, or a passing cloud giving his images an extra touch. He knows how to play with shadows and contrast to create his own style.

            Sieh dir diesen Beitrag auf Instagram an                         Ein Beitrag geteilt von Travel Feeling🏕 (@nazarudi)

14. Roam The Planet

Unlike the other accounts in our list, @roamtheplanet is not an individual artist. It’s a photography community built on a passion for adventure.

It features images from a variety of travel photographers. You can use this account for inspiration. But you can also get featured using the #roamtheplanet hashtag under your travel photographs.

            Sieh dir diesen Beitrag auf Instagram an                         Ein Beitrag geteilt von ROAM THE PLANET (@roamtheplanet)

15. Thrainn Kolbeinsson

Thrainn is an Icelandic photographer traveling through his country. The sheer beauty of Iceland shines through his photos, from glaciers to highlands and waterfalls .

He captures details, such as close-ups of Icelandic horses, frozen grass, and landscapes. He often takes drone photos, showing the location from a unique perspective.

            Sieh dir diesen Beitrag auf Instagram an                         Ein Beitrag geteilt von Thrainn Kolbeinsson (@thrainnko)

16. Gábor Nagy

Gábor is a Hungarian photographer with a passion for traveling and adventures. His work is special because he often manages a minimalistic style of landscapes , with only two or three elements in the picture.

This makes his photographs simple yet breathtaking. One of his favorite locations is Iceland, and he is good friends with Thrainn.

            Sieh dir diesen Beitrag auf Instagram an                         Ein Beitrag geteilt von Gábor Nagy | Hungary 💪 (@gabornagy_photography)

17. Peter McKinnon

Peter is one of Instagram’s most-followed travel photographers. This is no accident. He takes a unique approach to travel, combining lifestyle self-portraits with adventure photos.

He visits a wide variety of locations. You can find photos of huge cities, northern landscapes, or even Californian beaches in his account.

            Sieh dir diesen Beitrag auf Instagram an                         Ein Beitrag geteilt von Peter McKinnon (@petermckinnon)

18. Michael Kagerer

His photos radiate calmness, partly thanks to his editing technique and partly because of his location choice. He prefers to visit places with minimal human habitation, explore the wild, and interact with animals.

Wherever he goes, he highlights the main characteristics of the area. This includes moody forests, frozen mountains, or bare hills.

            Sieh dir diesen Beitrag auf Instagram an                         Ein Beitrag geteilt von Michael Kagerer | Photography (@michaelkagerer)

19. Giulio Groebert

Giulio is a German photographer. He loves traveling through Europe and sharing his journey through his photography. He uses a harmonic set of colors in his pictures. This creates a warm atmosphere that defines his style.

Giulio proves that there are hidden gems everywhere. Looking at his pictures, the viewer gets an irresistible motivation to go out and discover new places.

            Sieh dir diesen Beitrag auf Instagram an                         Ein Beitrag geteilt von Giulio | Travel & Outdoor (@giuliogroebert)

20. Tom Juenemann

Tom is a German travel and outdoor photographer , often taking bird’s-eye view photos. He loves visiting castles and traditional villages, creating fairytale-like images .

He aims to inspire his followers to travel. He also cooperates with tourist offices and brands, like Vans, Sony, and Adobe, to help them get a bigger audience.

            Sieh dir diesen Beitrag auf Instagram an                         Ein Beitrag geteilt von Tom | Travel & Outdoor (@tom_juenemann)

21. Stuart Price

Stuart is a photographer who is experienced in many different areas. Apart from travel photos, he also does lifestyle, product , and portrait photography.

He has pictures from England, Portugal, and Greece, to mention a few. And he is extremely skilled at using various compositional techniques. He is also the writer of our Intuitive Composition eBook!

            Sieh dir diesen Beitrag auf Instagram an                         Ein Beitrag geteilt von Stuart Price (@stuartprice)

22. Mandy Rosenfeld

If you are looking for mountain landscape photography inspiration, check out this account. From the Dolomites to Iceland, Mandy has a talent for capturing the cold yet beautiful winter atmosphere through her photos. She loves rocky surroundings, fog, and sunsets peeking through the clouds.

            Sieh dir diesen Beitrag auf Instagram an                         Ein Beitrag geteilt von MANDY ROSENFELD (@rosenfeld.mandy)

23. Fabian Huebner

Speaking of cold and foggy photos, Fabian is one of the area’s leading travel photographers. He embraces the mystical atmosphere of cloudy days while using the occasional sunset. If you check out his account, be prepared that his dark and moody images will give you the chills.

            Sieh dir diesen Beitrag auf Instagram an                         Ein Beitrag geteilt von F A B I A N • H U E B N E R (@fabian.huebner)

24. Manuel Dietrich

Manuel is passionate about capturing his adventures from California to Germany to Norway. He loves having mountains and lakes in front of his camera.

His composition technique is dynamic. He often creates a foreground by letting plants and stones into his frame. A preset is also available so that his followers can reproduce the unique color tones he’s using.

            Sieh dir diesen Beitrag auf Instagram an                         Ein Beitrag geteilt von Manuel Dietrich | Germany (@manueldietrichphotography)

25. Marvin Kuhr

Marvin is yet another travel photographer who prefers to take a minimalistic approach. He doesn’t overcrowd his frame. He visibly composes each subject of his while consciously using compositional rules. He mainly travels in Europe. But he has also visited locations such as La Réunion and Canada.

            Sieh dir diesen Beitrag auf Instagram an                         Ein Beitrag geteilt von Marvin Kuhr (@kuhrmarvin)

26. Emmett Sparling

Other photographers on our list mostly take photos of mountain sceneries. But Emmett regularly visits exotic places and seashores. He has a vibrant and colorful photography style.

He often plays with different lighting conditions. And he ventures into underwater photography , taking portraits and wildlife photos.

            Sieh dir diesen Beitrag auf Instagram an                         Ein Beitrag geteilt von TRAVEL 🌎 EMMETT SPARLING (@emmett_sparling)

27. Brayden Hall

Brayden’s seasonal photo series is outstanding. He visualizes exactly what’s most appealing in each season. The colorful leaves of autumn or the sea adventures of summer are often the subjects of his photos. How he utilizes light can serve as an example for other photographers.

            Sieh dir diesen Beitrag auf Instagram an                         Ein Beitrag geteilt von BRAYDEN | travel + adventure 🗺 (@braybraywoowoo)

28. André Alexander

This German travel photographer takes pictures of landscapes as much as castles, villages, and cities. He prefers to do photoshoots at sunset or sunrise, which adds to the dreamy atmosphere of his shots. Looking at André’s photos really makes you want to travel through Europe and visit some of the places he captures.

            Sieh dir diesen Beitrag auf Instagram an                         Ein Beitrag geteilt von André Alexander | Germany (@formgestalter)

29. Dave Williams

Dave is an internationally recognized travel and wildlife photographer. He has been featured by sites and magazines such as Forbes or National Geographic.

He uses gorgeous lighting and landscapes, often choosing wild animals as his models. If you want to see some gorgeous Aurora Borealis photos, check out his account!

            Sieh dir diesen Beitrag auf Instagram an                         Ein Beitrag geteilt von Dave Williams (@idavewilliams)

30. Lennart Pagel

Lennart takes pictures of cities and villages just as much as nature. He loves using a bird’s-eye view when capturing his adventures all around the world. Whether it is landmarks or natural creations, he can capture the essence of each location.

            Sieh dir diesen Beitrag auf Instagram an                         Ein Beitrag geteilt von Lennart Pagel | 📍Germany (@lennart)

Conclusion: Most Influential Travel Photographers

Looking at other photographers’ work can give you inspiration and new ideas you can implement in your photos.

That’s why it is a good idea from time to time to go through some outstanding artists’ profiles and see if you like anything about their style. When it comes to travel photography, these artists can even motivate you to go on a trip yourself!

Do you agree with our list? Please drop us a comment with your favorite travel photographer under this post!

We are always on the lookout for exciting new travel photographers. If you are a travel photographer and feel you should be considered on our list, email us at [email protected] with your bio, website, and Instagram link!

Inspiration 20 Travel Photographers You Should Know

“My life is shaped by the urgent need to wander and observe, and my camera is my passport.” – Steve McCurry

Intrepid and visionary, photographers have long ventured forth to document their journeys and capture the essence of the places they explore. In celebration of our 2023 Travel Photography Award , (open for entries until the end of August) we’ve curated a list of 20 photographers, past and present, whose inspiring images embody the unique allure of travel.

1. Steve McCurry

Steve McCurry , the esteemed judge of our current Travel Award , is a globally-renowned figure in the world of photography. His remarkable oeuvre encompasses some of the most iconic images of our time and showcases the awe-inspiring beauty and cultural diversity of our planet.

Born in Philadelphia in 1950, McCurry studied cinematography at Pennsylvania State University, after which he worked as a staff photographer for the local newspaper Today’s Post . However, driven by his passion for travel and photography, he embarked on a journey to India, a country that would become synonymous with his name due to the stunning images he captured throughout his career. It was this inaugural trip that sparked the epiphanic realization, “if you wait, people will forget your camera and the soul will drift up into view”, setting the foundation for a remarkable career and some truly captivating images encompassing every corner of the globe.

2. Inge Morath

One of the most influential photographers in the history of the medium, Inge Morath travelled extensively throughout her career, forming close relationships with the places she visited through her absolute immersion in the local culture. The remarkable images she captured, display her wonderful artistry and serve as fascinating mementos of their time, whilst demonstrating the profound potential of color photography long before it gained widespread acceptance.

3. Michael Yamashita

Few photographers convey the sheer joy of travel like Michael Yamashita . Over the past three decades, he has embarked on a journey around the world, capturing breathtaking images of its landscapes and people.

Though, throughout his career, Yamashita has photographed on six different continents, it is his work in Asia that has become particularly renowned. With an Asian Studies major from Wesleyan University and Japanese heritage, Yamashita has become an expert in the region and has photographed extensively in China, Japan, Southeast Asia, and India, capturing images that articulately convey the cultural diversity and stunning beauty of this fascinating continent.

4. Denis Dailleux

Though he has photographed various locations, Denis Dailleux is inseparably linked to Egypt , a country with which he has had a long and complex love affair, that has engendered some truly stunning imagery. His images convey a deep understanding of the Egyptian people and their culture, capturing their humanity and resilience.

He first visited the country in 1992, to join his Egyptian lover whom he had met in Paris a year earlier, and immediately fell in love with the country, captivated by its beguiling beauty and the warmth and generosity of its people.

He spent the next three decades visiting the country (before eventually, living there for several years), capturing its unique essence with love, tenderness, profound respect, and a masterful eye for form, light, and color.

5. Martine Franck

One of the finest practitioners of her time, and, like her husband Henri Cartier-Bresson, a major proponent of the humanist style, Martine Franck spent much of her life traversing the globe, capturing utterly compelling depictions of everyday life with remarkable grace and artistry. Her subjects and locations were as diverse as Tibetan temples, and industrial Northern English towns, whilst she also photographed her homeland extensively, notably in 1976, when she and four female compatriots, were commissioned by La Fondation Nationale de la Photographie to document their countrymen and women on vacation, during which she captured her now iconic photograph ‘Swimming Pool Designed by Alain Capeilleres, La Brusc’.

6. Alex Webb

“Most of my projects seem to start as exploratory journeys with no visible end in sight.” — Alex Webb

Renowned photojournalist, and judge of our 2020 Street Photography Award (alongside his wife and fellow photographer Rebecca Norris-Webb) Alex Webb is a master of capturing the decisive moment, rendering images filled with energy and movement that communicate brilliantly the atmosphere of the scene.⁠ ⁠ While he has photographed extensively in his homeland, Webb is best known for his vibrant and dynamic work in Latin America and the Caribbean. His images capture the region’s unique atmosphere, rich colors, and intricate details, offering a captivating glimpse into this part of the world.⁠

7. Maggie Steber

One of the finest photographers of her generation, Maggie Steber has dedicated her life to documenting some of the most important stories of our time, a mission that has taken her to some 70 countries, and encompassed everything from the African slave trade to natural disasters. Forthright and rooted in compassion, her images, which have graced the pages of many of the world’s most important publications including, National Geographic, The New York Times Magazine, and The Guardian, cut to the heart of the human condition, leaving a lasting impact on viewers worldwide.

8. Frédéric Lagrange

Frédéric Lagrange is a French-born photographer whose breathtaking imagery showcases the dramatic beauty and cultural diversity of our world. Over the last decade and a half, he has traveled extensively, visiting approximately 100 countries across almost every continent, focusing particularly on secluded shores and remote areas, such as the wild and rugged Wakhan Corridor in northeastern Afghanistan. His stunning images, which have been published in The New York Times Magazine, Vanity Fair, Harper’s Bazaar, Vogue, and The New Yorker (among others) evoke a sense of intrepidity and solidify his position as one of today’s most talented travel photographers.

9. Sebastião Salgado

One of the medium’s most masterful living practitioners, Brazilian photojournalist Sebastião Salgado is renowned for his powerful monochromatic images that tell the human stories behind some of the most important issues of our age.

During the course of his near-five decade-long career, he has traversed the globe, capturing extraordinary images, though it is perhaps his depictions of his homeland for which he is best known. In 1986, he travelled to the notorious Serra Pelada gold mine, to photograph some of the 50,000 workers who worked in terrible conditions. His most recent project, the landmark, Amazonia a series of stunning images of the landscapes and people of the world’s largest rainforest captured during a series of trips over the course of six years, is one of his most impressive, communicating the dramatic beauty, incredible biodiversity, and rich cultural heterogeneity of what the photographer calls “paradise on earth”, and thus highlighting the importance of its conservation at what is a crucial tipping point in the fight against climate change.

10. Pia Riverola

One of the best-known travel photographs of recent years, Pia Riverola , is renowned for her dreamy, pastel-hued renderings, which flawlessly capture the very essence of their subject matter.

Whether it’s vibrant flower markets in Mexico City, neon-lit and rain-drenched streets in Tokyo , or the lush landscapes of South American jungles, Riverola ‘s photographs exude a nostalgic and dream-like quality, displaying her masterful understanding of light and inducing a powerful sense of wanderlust.

11. Bruno Barbey

One of the finest photographers of our time, Moroccan-born, French photographer Bruno Barbey, has spent the last five decades travelling the world capturing powerful images that display his unique artistic voice and intrepidity. Over the years he has photographed in Brazil, China, India, his homeland France, and Morrocco, his birthplace, returning on numerous occasions to capture stunning, color-rich images that convey the unique essence of the country.

12. Jimmy Nelson

Judge of our recent Portrait Award , Jimmy Nelson, has dedicated the last ten years to documenting indigenous cultures around the world, which face increasing threats to their traditions and ways of life.

Nelson ‘s adventurous spirit was ignited during his childhood through his father’s work as an exploratory geologist. His first major project involved an epic journey on foot across Tibet in 1987, while seven years later, he documented the newly-opened People’s Republic of China in his acclaimed project “Literary Portraits of China,” which was exhibited in Tiananmen Square before touring globally.

However, it was his subsequent travels around the world to photograph remote cultures using a traditional 50-year-old plate camera, that laid the foundation for the project for which he is best known. “Before They Pass Away”, comprises stunning portraits of 35 different indigenous communities across the globe, capturing their unique traditions and practices in the face of globalization and industrialization.

13. Jim Richardson

Though born in the US, Richardson is immensely proud of his Celtic roots and has spent much of his career focusing on Ireland and Scotland. The latter has been a particularly prominent subject, his fascination with the wild landscapes of the Scottish highlands and the remote islands off its western coastline, engendering a wealth of captivating landscape images that articulate its unique, rugged beauty.

14. Matthieu Paley

French-born Matthieu Paley is one of the finest contemporary travel photographers, whose practice focuses on remote areas, and those communities that call them home.

Working on assignments for National Geographic and other leading publications, he has captured profoundly fascinating photo essays on hunter-gatherers in Tanzania, Greenland’s Inuit and Afghanistan’s Kyrgyz nomads (which he did over the course of a decade), leading to a number of notable awards, including a 2017 World Press Photo award for his portrayal of a Uighur woman in western China.

15. Brooke Holm

The 2nd Prize Winner of our 2018 Color Award for her breathtaking depiction of an Icelandic landscape, Australian-American artist Brooke Holm is one of the most exciting emerging proponents of travel photography. Inspired by satellite imagery and therefore, captured almost invariably from above, her depictions of some of the world’s most beautiful natural scenery are akin to paintings. Rich in color, texture and form, they offer a divergence from conventional viewpoints, showing the natural world at scale, in an attempt to subvert traditional anthropocentric narratives and advocate for coexistence with our environment and its inhabitants.

16. Galen Rowell

Equal parts adventurer and photographer, Galen Rowell spent the majority of his extraordinary life traversing some of the world’s most lofty areas, and capturing stunning landscape images that convey the beauty of the subject.

Throughout his career, Rowell undertook assignments for prestigious publications like LIFE and National Geographic, fearlessly venturing into remote and unforgiving locations, capturing them with unmatched artistry that still resonates today. His work not only showcased the natural wonders of these landscapes but also left a profound impact on the field of photography, inspiring generations of landscape photographers and ensuring his legacy lives on through his work.

17. Ami Vitale

Considered one of the most important conservation photographers of her generation, Ami Vitale has spent her career travelling the globe, traversing more than 100 countries and capturing stunning images that illuminates the often-overlooked heroes and communities whose efforts to protect wildlife and the natural world are truly inspiring. A Nikon Ambassador and regular contributor to National Geographic, Vitale has received numerous awards and commendations over the years, among them a Lucie Humanitarian Award and numerous World Press Photo prizes, which stand as a testament to her dedication and talent in her field. 

18. Jody MacDonald

Few can rival Jody MacDonald when it comes to intrepidity. The award-winning adventurer and photographer has visited over 100 countries and spent a decade travelling the globe on a 60-foot catamaran, on an expedition to uncover the most remote and untamed corners of the planet. Working on assignment for National Geographic and other leading publications, or commercial projects for the likes of Patagonia and Red Bull, MacDonald has photographed some of the harshest and most difficult-to-reach corners of the earth – from the Sahara to the Himalayas – capturing stunning images that communicate the wild beauty of our world.

19. Evelyn Hofer

Few, if any photographers in history captured the essence of cites in the manner of Evelyn Hofer , the enigmatic German-born photographer who, throughout her impressive career, travelled the world photographing its landscapes and people with rarely-matched grace and artistry.

Whether it was Dublin, Paris, Florence, or the cities of her adopted homeland, the United States, Hofer’s photographs capture the essence of the subject. Underpinned by a masterful understanding of form, light, and color, today they stand as timeless testaments to her artistic vision and her ability to reveal the profound beauty that exists within the tapestry of our world.

20. René Burri

All images © their respective owners

• Privacy Overview
• Strictly Necessary Cookies
• 3rd Party Cookies

This website uses cookies so that we can provide you with the best user experience. Cookie information is stored in your browser and performs functions such as recognising you when you return to our website or helping our team to understand which sections of the website you find most interesting and useful.

Strictly Necessary Cookie should be enabled at all times so that we can save your preferences for cookie settings.

This website uses Google Analytics to collect anonymous information such as the number of visitors to the site, and the most popular pages.

Keeping this cookie enabled helps us to improve our website.

Please enable Strictly Necessary Cookies first so that we can save your preferences!

Limited Time Offer! Save up to 50% Off annual plans.* View Plans

Save up to 50% Now .* View Plans

• Travel Photography Portfolio

Getting Started With Travel Photography

What is travel photography.

Travel photography is a genre of photography where the photography captures the landscape, cultures, historic, traditions, landmarks, customs, history, and the story of the place.

Travel photography — which is the act of photographing while traveling — covers many different types of photography niches such as landscape, architecture, portraiture, food, street photos, adventure photos, and much more. Travel photography can also be found in many pieces of media we regularly encounter — such as tourism brochures, billboards, advertisements, nature magazines, and restaurants.

In this article, we’ll cover everything you need to know about travel photography — including what travel photographers do, how you can become a travel photographer, which equipment will help you capture winning shots, and how you can build and leverage a travel photography brand.

Travel photography is the term used to describe the types of photographs that are taken while someone is traveling. The goal of a travel photographer is to capture their adventures and experiences through the lens of a camera, allowing them to be documented and experienced for future viewing.

Popular subjects often shot by travel photographers include landscape, tourist attractions, people, culture, food, history, nature, architecture, and much more. Travel photography is also a broader term often used to describe other smaller sub-genres — such as street photography, landscape photography, architecture photography, and food photography (to name a few).

What Do Travel Photographers Do?

The main goal of a travel photographer is to capture stunning images of their experiences in locations away from home. This allows them to serve as storytellers and educators on the world’s rich diversity — with the power to capture moments in time, just as they were experienced.

As a travel photographer , your main reason for traveling must be for taking photos — which means that being able to take the best possible photographs can become extremely challenging. However, many travel photographers find their career choice to be one of the most fulfilling occupations in the photography world.

How Can You Become a Travel Photographer?

Professional travel photographers have existed for several years. However, in previous times, this profession was mainly limited to explorers who had their work published in popular magazines (such as National Geographic).

The Internet and social media have made travel photography more accessible to the public, increasing work opportunities and earning potential for photographers of this genre.

While it may appear simple to become a travel photographer by simply traveling with a camera, it involves much more than that. Professional travel photography requires a lot of work, time, and skill development. If you want to become a travel photographer, you should take the following steps:

Defining Your Personal and Professional Goals

We highly recommend researching, planning, and defining your personal and professional goals before starting a career in travel photography. Many aspiring travel photographers make the costly mistake of entering the field without a clear vision of their brand objectives. In a highly competitive field like travel photography, having a clear set of long-term goals gives you leverage and a head start.

Outline your goals for a career in travel photography, whether you want to make it a long-term career or use your photography career to travel. For example, you should decide whether a nomadic lifestyle or having a fixed base is better for your operations.

Learning the Art of Travel Photography

As stated previously, becoming a successful travel photographer involves much more than just taking cool photos. Most successful photographers have mastered their craft and are proficient with high-quality equipment, allowing them to capture shots that will truly stand out and wow viewers.

To produce work that meets the standards of magazines, stock image sites, and other outlets that want to purchase travel images, you must become skilled with a DSLR. While smartphone cameras have improved, they still cannot match the quality of a high-end DSLR (like a Canon or Nikon) and a set of standard or professional lenses.

Observing and learning from other professionals will also help you improve your photography. This includes taking travel photography courses, watching YouTube videos, and reading online articles from seasoned pros.

Creating a Brand and Portfolio

Given the competitive landscape created by social media and the internet for photographers, developing a niche or brand is critical. Give your brand a unique name and logo, and define your niche.

Creating a portfolio for your brand and work is also important. Your travel photography portfolio will allow you to show off your work and tell stories about your travels. It will also showcase your work and creative abilities, giving potential clients a sense of your brand goals and overall photography skills.

Consider scaled image features, horizontal-scrolling galleries, accessible menu options, and an intuitive layout design when creating your travel photography portfolio. Your portfolio should only contain your best work and be updated frequently.

Ready to build your travel photography portfolio?

Your online portfolio will be your number-one tool in helping you grow your career in travel photography and winning new clients.

What Education Do You Need To Become a Travel Photographer?

While having a photography or arts degree can be helpful in getting your travel photography business off the ground, formal education isn’t a requirement to pursue a career in travel photography. At the end of the day, your clients will want to see your ability to produce stunning images — not your credentials. This means that while your certificates can certainly spruce up your resume and speak for your experience, your portfolio will be your key tool in impressing your viewers and landing more gigs.

What Are Some Travel Photography Courses You Can Take

If you’d like to sharpen your skills, there are hundreds of travel photography courses online to help you cover the fundamentals and learn to take better photos. Many universities, community colleges, and online workshops feature certificate programs and seminars to help you master your craft.

There are a number of free and paid resources online to take your photography skills to the next level. In our list of photography courses , explore all the classes you can take from renowned brands, education institutes, and professional photographers.

What Skills Do You Need To Become a Travel Photographer?

Some skills you’ll need to succeed as a travel photographer include:

Travel photographers must be organized, flexible, and ready to adapt to time constraints (such as needing to wake up early or stay up late to capture shots of a particular place, event, or person). Traveling isn’t always luxurious; it can be time-consuming, strenuous, and demanding. Long-haul flights can be taxing on the body, causing fatigue, stress, and decreased productivity.

Travel photographers should also be prepared for delays, crowds, language barriers, lost directions, and traffic (to name a few). Mandatory COVID-19 testing and awareness of pandemic-related travel restrictions have recently been added.

Flexibility

Compromise is sometimes required in the world of photography. The more you’re willing to travel or relocate quickly, the more travel photography opportunities you’ll have.

Given that opportunities can vary based on location, being flexible will help you land more gigs. Consider how much time you can and want to spend away from home. Many travel photographers choose to work as digital nomads, constantly moving their base of operations to meet demand.

Strong Communication Skills

Language is a powerful tool in photography. The ability to communicate with strangers and ask for directions in unfamiliar places will help you grow as a travel photographer. Even better is learning basic phrases in each destination’s language.

Is Travel Photography a Good Career?

While many aspire to a career in travel photography, it is not without its challenges.

Travel photographers typically spend several hours in planes, trains, cars, and transit stops. Due to the nature of landing gigs, you may be required to spend extended periods away from home and alone. Early in your career, the frequency of gigs and pay can be unpredictable.

However, there are many benefits to working as a travel photographer. It will allow you to travel to amazing places and meet amazing people. You’ll also get to meet other creative professionals, try new foods, and have a flexible work schedule that allows you to explore new ideas.

How Much Money Does a Travel Photographer Make?

The amount of money you can make as a travel photographer is largely dependent on how much work you do and the type of work you choose to take on. Other factors that can determine your financial success include how many clients you receive, what their general budget range is, and where (and when) you decide to travel for work.

Some of the main ways travel photographers generate income include selling their photos to stock photography websites, selling their photos to clients (such as magazines or tourism publications), taking on assignments, serving as retainers, selling prints, conducting in-person workshops, or photo blogging/vlogging (which can generate advertising or affiliate revenue).

According to ZipRecruiter , the average annual pay for a travel photographer is $45,581 USD.

What Is the Best Equipment To Use for Travel Photography?

While different photographers will have varying preferences and budgets, finding the right equipment will ensure you’re prepared to take the perfect travel shots for your upcoming trips.

Best Camera for Travel Photography

When it comes to choosing the best equipment for travel photography, professional travel photographers often prefer a compact camera for its portability, affordability, and budget-friendliness. A smaller device is also easier to fit into a carry-on bag (or even a pocket) when traveling light.

However, DSLRs are also better options for still photography than mirrorless cameras. Their optical viewfinder can help you get a better idea of what your camera will capture. DSLRs have better low-light performance and more manual controls.

Action cameras have also revolutionized travel photography. Small, waterproof, and damage-resistant, these cameras are ideal for hiking, boating, snorkeling, scuba diving, and other outdoor activities.

Some of the best-reviewed cameras by travel photography professionals (in 2021) include:

Sony a7C – The Sony a7C is one of the most compact devices on the market, offering image stabilization and full frame image quality within a small and portable package. It also includes an AF system, 4K video, and a long-lasting battery, making it great for long day trips. It also comes equipped with a 28-60mm F4-5.6 kit lens, keeping its overall size small and convenient for easier travel.

GoPro Hero 9 – The GoPro Hero 9 is one of GoPro’s best models, with excellent video stabilization, vibrant color, and 5K footage. It has a touch screen and a waterproof case. The Hero 9’s second front-facing screen allows photographers to preview selfie-style shots before taking them.

Nikon D7200 – If your luggage can accommodate a somewhat larger camera, the Nikon D7200 is one of the best entry APS-C cameras available — making it a great option for beginner travel photographers. It comes equipped with a 24.2 MP sensor and is compatible with hundreds of lenses.

Best Lens for Travel Photography

Like your camera, you won’t want your lens to weigh you down while you’re on the road. If you’ve chosen a DSLR or a mirrorless camera as your trusted device, you’ll need to figure out which lenses to carry as well.

When choosing the best lens for travel photography, performance isn’t the only thing that needs to be weighed. The tools you use should be as durable, versatile, and compact as possible during periods of travel.

The best lens types to consider for travel photography include:

All-Around Lens – If you’re new to travel photography, a 24-70mm lens is ideal. With its extensive features, it can easily capture landscapes, portraits, and close-ups. Pricey, but high-performing and sharp-shooting device that will help you capture serious photography pieces.

Telephoto Lens – If you’re looking to specialize in landscape photography, having a telephoto lens in your luggage is a must. To shoot detailed landscapes with sharp precision, you’ll want your camera’s focal length to have greater reach. A 70-200mm lens will provide you with extra length, without being too weighty or difficult to carry around on the road.

Wide-Angle Lens – A wide-angle lens is ideal for capturing stunning landscapes, cityscapes, and architecture. Wide-angle lenses’ added depth and smaller aperture allow them to capture perspectives unseen by the human eye. Wide-angle lenses are a premium choice for those willing to carry a little extra weight.

Travel photography can be an exciting career. Pick up your camera and start snapping around your own city and start building your travel photography portfolio!

Complete Guides to Get Started with Any Type of Photography and Profession

• Food Photography Guide
• Music Photography Guide
• Portrait Photography Guide
• Product Photography Guide
• Real Estate Photography Guide
• Student Portfolio Guide
• Wedding Photography Guide
• Graphic Design Portfolio Guide
• Architecture Guide
• Landscape Photography Guide
• Digital Artist Portfolio Guide
• Fashion Design Guide
• Illustrator Portfolio Guide
• Interior Design Guide
• Makeup Artist Guide
• Modeling Guide
• Tattoo Artist Portfolio Guide
• UX UI Designer Portfolio Guide
• Videography Portfolio Guide
• Web Design Portfolio Guide
• Artist Portfolio Guide
• Boudoir Photography Guide
• Still Life Photography Guide
• Black and White Photography Guide
• Family Photography Guide
• Wildlife Photography Guide
• Editorial Photography Guide
• Travel Photography Guide
• Lifestyle Photography Guide
• Sports Photography Guide
• Documentary Photography Guide
• Event Photography Guide

Build a Stunning Portfolio

Put your travel photography in the spotlight with Format.

*Offer must be redeemed by April 30, 2024 at 11:59 p.m. PST. 50% discount off the subscription price of a new annual Pro Plus plan can be applied at checkout with code PROPLUSANNUAL, 38% discount off the price of a new annual Pro plan can be applied with code PROANNUAL, and 20% discount off the price of a new Basic annual plan can be applied with code BASICANNUAL. The discount applies to the first year only. Cannot be combined with any other promotion.

• Privacy Overview
• Strictly Necessary Cookies

This website uses cookies so that we can provide you with the best user experience possible. Cookie information is stored in your browser and performs functions such as recognising you when you return to our website and helping our team to understand which sections of the website you find most interesting and useful.

Strictly Necessary Cookie should be enabled at all times so that we can save your preferences for cookie settings.

If you disable this cookie, we will not be able to save your preferences. This means that every time you visit this website you will need to enable or disable cookies again.

What is travel photography?

What is a good travel photo, aspects of travel photography, travel photography, a popular genre, travel photography is underestimated, travel photography explained, receive photography and travel tips, travel photography.

Travel photography is a form of photography that for example involves photography of landscapes, historical buildings, cultures, and people in a specific place and destination to document a certain place and make others make to wish they were there.

With a collection of travel photographs of amazing landscapes, wildlife, breathtaking nature, cultures, and people, you will have the possibility to showcase a place, country, or even the world through photos. Travel Photography goes further than just capturing an awesome image.

A good travel photo tells a story, inspires the viewer about other beautiful places in this big world, and educates them about a place or culture by showing them how they differ from their own.

There are travel photographers that specialize in a specific aspect of photography , for example, landscapes or travel portraits but I basically shoot all aspects of travel and I combine that with photographing properties, such as hotels and lodges. When I travel to a certain place or country I try to showcase that place at its very best using a variety of images including landscapes, nature, wildlife, and people from different cultures.

Travel Photography became popular through magazines like National Geographic Magazine . Since more people travel, more people photograph while traveling. Therefore, it's a popular genre among travel and photography lovers.

Travel photography is an underestimated photography genre . To shoot high-quality travel photos you have to do a lot of research on the subject you want to photograph, but you still can't control all shooting conditions. You have to deal with different conditions that affect the final result, such as low light, unpredictable weather conditions, and unexpected moments that sometimes make an ordinary photo a spectacular photo. Something, I experienced myself while photographing wildlife, where you come across moments that rarely recur.

I hope you got a better understanding of the travel photography genre, one of the many types of photography .

Check out the Travel Photography Guide to learn more about travel photography, including many useful travel photography tips to improve your travel images and learn how to make money with your images.

Related photography articles:

• How to take better travel photos? Follow this 4-step formula
• How I got published in National Geographic Magazine

• 1x Each Month! A newsletter with free photography & travel tips to help you make the most out of your trip
• Be the first to know about giveaways, for instance, free ebooks and downloadable travel images

Yes, I want to receive the newsletter 1x p/month

Hrmm. Looks like you're using an older browser, which means some site features may not work they way they should. For the full gadventures.com experience, we recommend upgrading to the most recent version of your browser . It's worth it! Honest!

View all tours

North America

Central america & caribbean, south america, north africa & middle east.

Few travellers make it to this icy continent, but the lucky ones who do get to explore a frozen Eden ruled by the elements and teeming with wildlife.

G Adventures Land

G adventures sailing & cruises, g adventures private travel.

Whether it’s a family retreat or a girls trip, you can surround yourself with a hand-picked crew and customize a tour that fits you all perfectly.

The Geluxe Collection

Our new line of premium active adventures is officially here. With perfectly paced itineraries, one-of-a-kind accommodations and elevated dining, this is adventure at its finest.

National Geographic Journeys

Go deeper into the cultures and habitats of the places we explore. More is included and you’ll enjoy greater hands-on exploration, interactions with local experts, and freedom to roam.

National Geographic Family Journeys

Are you an adventure-loving family in search of meaningful ways to discover the world together? These tours are specially designed for travellers seven and up and their inquisitive families.

Jane Goodall Collection

Step deeper into the animal kingdom while respecting all of its inhabitants. Our incredible collection of 20 wildlife-focused tours is endorsed by the world-renowned ethologist.

Roamies by Hostelworld

The thrill of adventure. The awesomeness of hostels. Get ‘em both on these immersive small group trips for 18 to 35-year-old travellers.

Why choose us

As the leader in small group travel for 30 years, we know how to do it right: flexible itineraries, freedom to roam, safety, peace of mind, and locally based guides.

Change the world just by having the time of your life. When you travel with us, you become a force for good by acting responsibly and creating positive impact.

Together with our non-profit partner, Planeterra, we ensure local communities touched by our tours benefit from our visits in as many ways possible.

Trees for Days

Leave your destination even greener than you found it! For every day on tour, we’ll plant a tree in your honour and ensure that our forests get to live their best lives.

Travel resources

Last minute deals.

Looking to have the time of your life in the next 90 days or so? You can save big if you’re ready to book now.

Loyalty discount

Back home from a G Adventures tour? Submit a quick trip evaluation to save 5% on your next tour with us.

Student discount

Got proof that you’re pursuing higher learning? Then we’ve got a travel voucher with your name on it.

All travel deals

New ways to save pop up all the time. Here’s where you’ll find every hot deal in one easy place.

Why Taking Photos While You Travel is Important

I occasionally get the comment from people that photography takes away from what they are experiencing when they travel. a recent article from smithsonian magazine suggests that this might be true. they did a study where people who took more photos in a museum remembered less about the paintings they photographed than the people who [&hellip.

I occasionally get the comment from people that photography takes away from what they are experiencing when they travel. A recent article from Smithsonian Magazine suggests that this might be true. They did a study where people who took more photos in a museum remembered less about the paintings they photographed than the people who didn’t take photos.

Personally, I have found the opposite to be true. Over the last seven years of traveling around the world, taking photos and becoming a photographer has done more to enhance my experiences traveling than anything else I have done.

That being said, there is a difference between taking photographs and taking snapshots, which is exactly what most travelers do. A photograph is a purposeful attempt at taking a beautiful image. It requires some thought, positioning and awareness of your surroundings. A snapshot is nothing more than pressing the button on your camera while standing in front of something.

Taking the time to take real photographs can enhance your travel experience in several ways:

1) Photography makes you more aware of your surroundings.

I tend to notice much more because I’m always looking for photos. I’m looking at the tops of buildings, down side streets and even on the ground. There have been many times where I break off from a group of people to take a photo and suddenly the group gravitates to me to take snapshots of something they missed. Once you begin looking for photos, you see much more of the world than if you are just walking through it.

2) Photos help you remember.

Despite the conclusion of the Smithsonian Magazine article, the real test of a photo’s ability to help you remember doesn’t come the day after you take it; it comes years later. I’ve looked back on the images I captured very early in my travels and have been mentally taken back to moments that I hadn’t remembered in years. As time passes, you need things to jog your memory and nothing works better than photos that you took yourself.

3) People will actually want to see your vacation photos.

Most people are bored to tears of vacation photos that are nothing more than endless shots of people in front of landmarks. Most people don’t want to see you on vacation; they are more interested in the destination itself. If you focus on taking better images, people will actually be interested in seeing your photos.

Travel photography isn’t about owning a large, expensive camera. You can do it with nothing more than a smartphone. What it is is paying careful attention to your surroundings and taking the time and effort to create beautiful images.

On your next trip, take the time to pay attention to your surroundings and you will be rewarded for years to come.

Getting There

G Adventures invites you to improve your photography skills in one of the world's most inspiring settings with the guidance of Wander-in-Residence Gary Arndt. Learn tips and techniques while capturing the diversity of South Africa through your viewfinder. In co-operation with Gary Arndt — the world's most read travel blogger — G Adventures is pleased to present a very special departure of its ' Cape, Rails & Kruger Quest' this May. Reserve a space on this very special departure today.

Read more from

Capturing patagonia: an analog film adventure, by haramar kandola.

Steeple-like peaks, turquoise lagoons, contemplative moments at camp — our very own Haramar Kandola shares analog snaps from Torres del Paine

5 ways solo travel helps you meet new people

By g adventures.

See how small group tours like National Geographic Journeys with G Adventures help spark lasting connections

6 best places to propose for a unique engagement

By jessica moy.

From glowworm caves to snow monkey parks, discover our best destinations to pop the question

Going solo: how to travel the world on your own

See how small group tours pave the way for incredible solo adventures (especially for women!)

Mexican street food: a beginner's guide

By richard kitzinger.

One frequent (but first-time Mexico) traveller takes a crash course to prep for a Classic Mexico Adventure

Delete post?

Note: If you only want to remove this post from public view, you can choose to unpublish it instead.

The leading authority in photography and camera gear.

Become a better photographer.

12.9 Million

Annual Readers

Newsletter Subscribers

Featured Photographers

Photography Guides & Gear Reviews

31 Most Famous Travel Photographers to Follow in 2024

Want to know the best travel photographers to follow on Instagram? Get inspired by these 31 incredible travel photography accounts!

Famous Photographers | Learn | By Jeff Collier

You’re about to discover 31 of the best travel photographers on Instagram in 2024.

I’ll introduce you to award-winning travel photographers who fly around the world in search of the most incredible photos.

I’ll also answer some frequently asked questions related to travel photographers in general.

You’ll find a ton of inspiration for your own travel photography in this guide.

You should also check out our related guides:

• Most famous photographers in the world
• Most famous celebrity photographers
• Most famous street photographers
• Most famous fashion photographers
• Most famous underwater photographers

Table of Contents

Who Are The Most Famous Travel Photographers in 2024?

Chris burkard.

  View this post on Instagram   A post shared by ChrisBurkard (@chrisburkard)

Burkard is a self-taught photographer who has truly mastered the art of taking breathtaking landscapes and action-filled portraits.

• What is the Best Camera for Travel Photography?

Lauren Bath

  View this post on Instagram   A post shared by Lauren Bath | Australia (@laurenepbath)

Her Instagram feed showcases her unique perspective in highly saturated landscapes and atmospheric wildlife photography .

She also gives you behind-the-scenes photography insights into how she goes about capturing her travel photos.

Joshua Cripps

@joshuacrippsphotography

Joshua Cripps is a well-known American photographer , international speaker, and tour leader. His epic landscapes are somehow able to capture the feeling of being there yourself.

Melissa Hie

  View this post on Instagram   A post shared by ❤️ Mel’s Food & Travel log (@girleatworld)

This concept allows her to share tiny moments from around the world in fun and unique ways.

• Read more: What hashtags get the most attention on Instagram?

Lucy Rose Laucht

  View this post on Instagram   A post shared by Lucy Rose Laucht (@lucylaucht)

As a Leica ambassador, her passion and dedication to her craft shows up in every image, from beach scene to cityscape.

Even now, when most people take photographs with their phones, there’s still a lot to learn from film photography where every shot is precious.

• Best travel camera for blogging

  View this post on Instagram   A post shared by Sam Horine (@samhorine)

His Instagram account features life around him, with images from the city and the natural wonders his day job brings him to document.

Chase Guttman

  View this post on Instagram   A post shared by Chase Guttman (@chaseguttman)

He uses a drone to shoot amazing landscape photography in a different light, and he finds beauty in the repeating patterns you can see from above.

How Much Do You REALLY Know About Photography?! 🤔

Test your photography knowledge with this quick quiz!

See how much you really know about photography...

Your answer:

Correct answer:

SHARE YOUR RESULTS

Your Answers

• What is the best lens for travel photography?

  View this post on Instagram   A post shared by Gab Scanu | Travel • Photography (@gabscanu)

His duo-toned landscape shots are framed with a manmade element that helps the viewer focus on the natural beauty of the outdoors and be reminded of man’s interaction with it.

Glenn Lee Robinson

  View this post on Instagram   A post shared by Adventure Enthusiasts (@adventurenthusiasts)

From snowy mountains in Yosemite to a bird’s eye view of Lake Tahoe, his photos highlight the sheer beauty of California’s national parks and forests.

Senai Senna

  View this post on Instagram   A post shared by Senna Relax (@sennarelax)

In the meantime, I like to look at his tagged locations for travel inspiration and where I want to go next.

Lisa Michele Burns

  View this post on Instagram   A post shared by Lisa Michele Burns (@the_wanderinglens)

The pastel colors of sunset and the misty aura of waterfalls and ocean spray fill her feed with calming energy.

  View this post on Instagram   A post shared by Gary Arndt (@everythingeverywhere)

While he doesn’t post new images often, his reputation as a three-time Travel Photographer of the Year means that every post or reel is a must-see.

• Who are the 33 most famous architecture photographers?

Manuel Dietrich

  View this post on Instagram   A post shared by Manuel Dietrich | Germany 🇩🇪 | Travel | Hiking (@manueldietrichphotography)

Dietrich’s Instagram grid showcases his teal-orange-green style in a way that’s deeply inspiring. Instead of applying a filter to any photograph, he makes sure his subject fits into his style.

Laurence and Jessica Norah

View this post on Instagram   A post shared by Laurence Norah (@lozula)

As full-time photography bloggers, they share their expertise in planning trips and documenting them.

Their Instagram feed is an approachable portfolio of experiences that almost anyone can learn from and emulate on their next big trip.

Colby Brown

  View this post on Instagram   A post shared by Colby Brown (@colbybrownphotography)

One feature of Brown’s photograph descriptions is the camera settings or equipment he uses. For most shots, he lets you know which lens and body he used, which is helpful when you’re ready for an upgrade.

Richard Bernabe

  View this post on Instagram   A post shared by Richard Bernabe (@bernabephoto)

His adventure photos from around the world move people to think about conserving the natural environment that he is so good at capturing.

• Read more: How do I start adventure photography?

Alex Strohl

  View this post on Instagram   A post shared by Alex Strohl (@alexstrohl)

His Instagram feed is more like a collection of mini blog posts behind the scenes of taking and producing images that you can share with the world.

  View this post on Instagram   A post shared by Sam (@sam.vox)

Don’t miss out on Vox’s reels which provide a behind-the-scenes look at the day’s work. Some photos are taken with a small point-and-shoot which proves that the best camera is the one that you have with you.

  View this post on Instagram   A post shared by Art Wolfe (@artwolfe)

His extensive archive of Instagram images showcases why he’s known as a master of color, composition and perspective.

  View this post on Instagram   A post shared by Bob Krist (@bobkristphoto)

Because of his experience, his Instagram travel photographs have a range of styles and subjects that I – and many others – look to for inspiration.

Timothy Allen

  View this post on Instagram   A post shared by Timothy Allen (@timothy_allen)

Paul Nicklen

  View this post on Instagram   A post shared by Paul Nicklen (@paulnicklen)

Nicklen’s skill in composing his photos is something I study before going on a trip and again before I edit my shots. His use of framing and composition takes his photos from snapshots to masterpieces.

Michael Yamashita

  View this post on Instagram   A post shared by Michael Yamashita (@yamashitaphoto)

His books, workshops, and lectures help him share his passion for historic explorers and the landscapes that they would have seen in ancient times.

  View this post on Instagram   A post shared by Yosigo (@yosigo_yosigo)

Whether it’s a trip to the beach or an abandoned parking garage, he has the ability to portray the modern world in a fresh light.

Navaneeth Unnikrishnan

View this post on Instagram   A post shared by Navaneeth Unnikrishnan (@navaneeth_unnikrishnan)

Ami Vitale is a renowned photographer who has travelled to over 100 countries and published a book showing pandas being released into the wild.

Lola Akinmade Åkerström

  View this post on Instagram   A post shared by PhotoShelter (@photoshelter)

Jord Hammond

  View this post on Instagram   A post shared by JORD | TRAVEL PHOTOGRAPHY (@jordhammond)

Eric Rubens

  View this post on Instagram   A post shared by Eric Rubens 🌅 Travel & Photography (@ericrubens)

Though the colors in his landscapes must be highly edited, his skill in knowing what to highlight and when to stop makes his dreamy seascapes something special.

• Read more: Who are the most famous landscape photographers?

Elia Locardi

  View this post on Instagram   A post shared by Elia Locardi (@elialocardi)

From a once-in-a-lifetime photo of the Northern Lights to a series of shots documenting the city’s skyline, he knows how to draw you into his world.

Matjaž Krivic

  View this post on Instagram   A post shared by Matjaz Krivic Photography (@krivicmatjaz)

The emotion of the trip is evident in every shot, which he shares on his Instagram feed.

FAQs about Travel Photographers

What is considered as a travel photographer?

Anyone who uses a camera to document the world and showcase what makes a location unique. Instagram travel photographers may have a defined vision or may take inspiration from an area’s landscape, food, people and history.

Is it hard to be a travel photographer?

It takes dedication, and it can be hard at times. My favorite photographers are skilled with both a camera and a computer, and they work almost as hard at marketing themselves and teaching others as they do in capturing the perfect picture.

Are travel photographers in demand?

Yes! The travel industry is not slowing down, which means that the demand for new photographs and videos of exciting locations around the world is still high.

Does travel photography pay well?

Instagram travel photographers may be paid by brand sponsorships and marketing agencies for the trips they take. They can make money selling prints of their work directly online or through galleries . Many even guide trips and have online classes teaching others how to recreate their style.

Check out these 8 essential tools to help you succeed as a professional photographer.

Includes limited-time discounts.

You'll Also Like These:

Jeff Collier is an experienced film photographer who enjoys experimenting with modern digital photography equipment, software and apps. He’s also an ex-world champion triathlete and avid cyclist, clocking hundreds of km each week in the beautiful Tweed Valley of northern NSW, Australia.

Leave a Comment Cancel Reply

👋 WELCOME TO SHOTKIT!

🔥 Popular NOW:

Unlock the EXACT blueprint to capture breathtaking iPhone photos!

Shotkit may earn a commission on affiliate links. Learn more.

Travel Photography - How to Blend Your Passion with Profession

Out of the different genres of photography, travel photography is the most appealing to many. A travel photographer gets a chance to experience places, people, and cultures while doing photography. And one tries to bring the viewer to the same experience through the photographs. It offers a fair share of the adrenaline rush, money, and accolades. However, choosing to combine a life of wanderlust with your profession has its own set of challenges. Like other career and business options, travel photography can offer you every bit of joy and learning experience that you want both from traveling the world and from the career of photography, provided that you can manage and scale things up, focus on brand building and market your work effectively.

Pro-tip: Remember that travel photography will require you to do the miles, most often on your own, and there will be serious expenses to be incurred and work to be done.

Before you respond to the call of adrenaline and decide to quit your nine to five to dedicate yourself to travel photography business, take cognizance of the pros and cons.

Travelling is a fantastic activity that rejuvenates the mind and soul to the hilt. Each destination comes with its unique charm and beauty, which you capture through the lenses (photography). You can cherish the travel memories for long and share the beauty of the places you travel to with the world.

Someone has aptly said that a picture paints a thousand words. No wonder travel photography is not only amazing but soul-stirring. And nowadays travel photography has also become an interesting and lucrative business. It is such a rewarding thing that you will grow creatively, and the joy that you will experience in your heart will be unparalleled.

What is Travel Photography? 

Travel photography is primarily about photographing places in all their glory. As a travel photographer, you will travel to lots of places and capture them through your camera. The places can be tourist attractions, natural landscapes, hotels and resorts, cultural experiences, and outdoor adventures. Most professional travel photography is in some way or the other linked with the tourism industry, generating imagery for magazines, brochures, advertising, merchandise, and online media.

Top reasons why you should become a travel photographer:

Develop your respect and love for this beautiful planet When you step out of the hustle-bustle and chaos of your fast-paced life in cities and see the natural beauty and abundance of this fascinating earth, you feel ardent love and need to save this planet. When you capture the enchanting beauty of the places, you feel grateful and happy. You understand the lessons which your parents and teachers taught you in school about being sensitive to our environment and the planet. Travel photography strengthens the bond with our planet and makes you value it more than ever.

Learn the virtues of flexibility and patience 

Travel photography helps you grow at a personal level. It changes you significantly. When you are sensitive to the planet, you become more flexible and develop patience. It is one of the best learnings from travel photography that Nature runs at its own sweet pace and yet accomplishes everything it aspires.

Similarly, you feel that you have become more patient with people, with circumstances. Success doesn’t always come fast; one needs to persevere and show some patience. Similarly, in photography, also you need lots of patience and perseverance. You have to wait for hours to capture that perfect and mind-boggling sunrise. And if you give it the time it deserves by being patient, then you will have some of the best shots in your portfolio. Flexibility is another great lesson you learn through travel photography. There have been times when you face undesirable circumstances such as flight cancellation, a flat tire, sudden change in weather conditions, etc., but you should never hold on to an itinerary and schedule and should show flexibility instead. You won’t regret it.

Make your life an adventure

You will never find any shortage of places to see and capture in your camera. Even your entire life is not enough to photograph our vast and beautiful planet. There are endless places you can shoot. Make a list of the places you will travel to and shoot. You will be spoilt for choice. There are endless options, and it is the most beautiful dilemma to choose which places to shortlist for travel photography. So don’t miss out on any opportunity and photograph as many places as you can and build a treasure of your photographs.

Feel and mingle with your environment

Let lose yourself in your environment, be natural, and absorb every bit of it. Even ask your co-travelers to do the same. Don’t get into posing and constantly smiling. Capture natural emotions as they will come out more beautifully in your pictures. For travelers, landscape photography is one preferred approach. Be it doing travel and street photography, animals, or inanimate objects, you will find a lot of choices in picking up a theme or subject for your next set of travel photography portfolio. It is important to note that external conditions such as the weather and lighting play an important role in getting that perfect shot. So, make sure to know the right time and right vantage point to click a memorable photograph and fulfill your wanderlust and engage in travel photography.

Revel in the opportunity to capture fascinating places and moments

Every time you travel, you come back with pictures of beautiful places and moments, some of which may leave you spell-bound, and some leave the effect of absolute tranquillity. You get to capture your dream destinations, the places which looked picture-perfect in a magazine/internet. You capture those moments which leave you in awe. One such place where you can click such pictures is Rajasthan. The picturesque beauty and history of Rajasthan make it a perfect destination for travel photography. Wherever you travel in Rajasthan, you will be inspired by the “Lands of Kings,” which is one of the best places in the entire world. Such is the charm of majestic Rajasthan.

Here are 4 top useful tips on how to get started in travel photography

Play around with angles and shots, capture emotions and moments, plan the travel photography shoot well, always be ready with your gears.

Wondering how to get into travel photography? First things first. You don’t have to be obsessive about your gear. You can start shooting with your smartphone, regular cameras, or DSLR. The best lens for travel photography is what you have. Since there are so many types of subjects, one type of lens would not be enough. Instead of focusing on the subjects which your lens is suitable for is the thing to do. What is essential is to start. Many photographers prove that it is not the equipment, but the creative vision that helps one to sift the best from the rest.

Similarly, there are no specific types of DSLR made for travel photography; even an entry-level DSLR can take some good photos. The best camera for travel photography is the one that can give you a wide scope of getting the best shots. Also, the best lenses for travel photography would depend on which type of shots you are looking to take. If you are looking for wide-angle shots, then a wide-angle zoom lens like a 16-35mm lens would help you take great shots. The more pictures you take, the more you will come to know about camera angles, subject/object interplay, lighting conditions, and post-processing. Thus, when you start, it’s best to start on a slow scale and then upgrade your travel photography gear as and when you feel you are ready to transcend the next level of photography expertise.

Take pictures from different angles, and maybe you can use wide-angle lenses to give more context to your images. Step out of your comfort zone and make silly poses and have a good time alone with good pictures. You will surely get some good shots which will be interesting. But first, you need to know some crucial terms like eye angle, Dutch, establishing shot, cut-in, cutaway, low angle, perspective, reverse shot, over the shoulder (for shots).

Similarly, in angles, you need to have some degree of proficiency in close up/ extreme, medium shot, worm’s eye view, bird’s eye view, longshot, or POV. The interplay of framing, angles, shots, and positions provide a different viewpoint, a different aspect of focus to the viewer, and convey varied emotions.

When you visit a lovely place with amazing landscapes, views, and the environment, apart from capturing these beautiful things to capture the feeling of being there. More than the aesthetics, it is about telling its own story to the viewers. This virtue can be enabled by allowing the subjects to be captured in their familiar environment or surroundings. The special bond of the familiar place can stir emotions and can be radiated into your shots.

Also, they need not be overwhelmed with elaborate directions. Just subtle guidance would be enough to keep the subjects at ease and bring out the natural pose without feeling self-conscious or uncomfortable. Another way to conjure emotion is to avoid having them standstill. Give them something to do, and see their involvement in the activity, bring out their genuine emotion.

It is always better to plan things before heading out for travel photography. Take ideas on how to capture emotions and the surroundings when you are on your travel photography trip. Spend some time to assess how you will be capturing the place in its full glory. Answer questions like,” How will I get there?” ‘Does the place have photographic potential,’ ‘Will the potential be affected by the time of the year or the time of the day?’, ‘How do I arrange for traveling around the different spots to get incredible shots?’.

An hour on Google can provide you both – the inspiration as well as the information to plan your travel photography trip well. While you plan on which places will be worth the shot, you also need to factor in unexpected issues like delay, seasonal changes, or poor lighting conditions.

For many photography enthusiasts, the sudden change in weather can be a blessing in disguise. It can present an unexpected enhancement to the subject (Think of a layer of snow covering the city landscapes, or sudden rainfall leading to lush greenery).

Wherever you travel, be prepared with your camera and the supporting gear . Be prepared to take advantage of an opportunity to click photographs. You never know you might click your masterpiece at a very humble place or in any other place where you had never thought you would.

To summarize, you can say that there is a vast difference between taking photos on your trip or traveling specifically to take photos. The proof of the difference will be in the quality of the images captured by your camera. These travel photography tips and techniques aptly showed why you need to explore travel photography as an option. These tips will factor in for elevating the overall photography experience to a new level of subtlety and sophistication.

Now that you know the benefits of travel photography, here are our top 9 travel photography tips for beginners on how to turn your travel photography passion into a business.

1. choose travel photography only if you love it deeply. it’s going to be tough..

Adventurous photography has many niche genres, like wildlife photography, industrial photography, landscape photography, etc. Learn about the types, the corresponding skill requirements, the temperament that is needed, the challenges involved, and of course, the monetization models involved. Make sure that you understand all the dynamics before making your final decision. Follow both your heart and mind. Once you have made up your mind on selecting travel photography as your specialty, you then need to focus and prioritize it and pursue it with all your passion. Half measures will not do.

2. Invest time, effort and money to learn the tricks of the trade

Falling in love with someone at first sight, is sensitivity at its highest. Planning to get married and start a family with that someone is sensibility at its highest. We are talking about marriage here. Marrying your passion and your expertise - technical, aesthetic, and commercial. Think like a pro. Start learning the tricks of the trade by interning for free as you take pictures with a second-hand camera or taking some travel photography courses. Interact with peers and seek travel photography tips by browsing good travel photography websites. Study books and magazines on travel photography. Learn from the masters. You can also attend travel photography workshops , seminars, and other training programs to learn from the best.

3. Clearly Describe your Travel Photography Service

Define your travel photography service in unambiguous terms. Enable your clients and prospects understand the quality of work that you deliver, prices that you charge, value-added services that you render, and the scale of projects that you work on. Define the mode of payment, and the terms and conditions for hourly rates, weekly commitments of time and project deadlines. Defining your service will help you to make money with photography while traveling.

4. Create your professional travel photography website

Even as you continue to learn and inculcate the skills of professional travel photography, you must not forget to market your work. Build a professional travel photography website to showcase your travel photography photos. Sort and curate your work and select the best travel photos of different genres that you have for your portfolio website. Regularly update your portfolio website and add new work from recent travels. Your website is your showcase window to the world and the first point of contact with potential clients and collaborators. Get inspired by these awe-inspiring photography portfolio websites created on Pixpa.

Here’s a great guide on how to create an online portfolio website.

Pixpa is an all-in-one platform to create a travel photography portfolio website easily without any coding knowledge. Take a free trial and start building your portfolio website now.

5. Use social media to generate exposure for your work

Travel photography gets a lot of attention and response to social media. People love to like and share beautiful, picturesque images of places they would love to visit. As a travel photographer, learn to leverage social media to your advantage. Choose one or at max two social media platforms and focus all your energies on sharing high-quality posts regularly. Interact with people who comment and share your work and build your fan following. Look through the metrics of likes, shares, and comments to understand the market trends , the quality of work, and areas for improvement.

Instagram has emerged as the preferred platform for photographers to share their work. Travel photography is especially popular on Instagram, with many hub pages promoting travel photography. Learn how to use photography hashtags on Instagram to get success as a travel photographer.

6. Start a Travel Photography Blog

Add a travel photography blog to your portfolio website. Starting telling visual stories, share travel photography tips, and behind-the-scenes insights of your travels. Create photo stories of the places you are visiting. Talk about the culture, experiences, and share your explorations through your blog posts. Your blog will gradually become a magnet for attracting admirers and potential clients alike.

Tip: You can add a blog to your portfolio website on Pixpa easily. Learn more.

7. Explore Ways to Earn Money through Travel Photography Passion

Here is the challenge. Capturing the best travel photos as you travel across the world is one thing and making money from them, quite another. Always be looking to sell your skills, brand your work, and get a better bargain. You may try publishing your work on some of the best travel photography platforms, online tourism platforms, and wildlife adventure photography and conservation platforms that offer a good amount of money. 

There are a lot of stock photography websites where you can sell your travel photography images. There are also many travel magazines that regularly post travel photography jobs. Build your relationships with travel magazines and understand their requirements. You can plan your travels wherein you are shooting images that a travel photography magazine or website would be interested in paying. 

Tip: Get an established photography agency to market and sell your travel photography work  

8. Network! Join a Travel Photography Group

How about socializing with buddy travel photographers at a cool theme restaurant on the weekend? You get to know each other, bond over shared interests in adventure photography, learn cutting-edge technical tricks, and, most importantly, get recommended to clients by senior professionals. Network, share positive vibes with your tribe, and get recognized within the community of travel photographers for your work.

There are also several online travel photography communities that you can join. Fellow travel photographers are more than happy to help each other out with insider tips on the places they have visited.

9. Build and Grow your Client Relationships

Travel photography is not just about the camera. It is about exploring people, places, cultures, geographies, and practically whatever the roads serve your way. Flag each place you visit with a bit of self-promotion. Associate with noble causes and look to attach yourself to social campaigns. For example, you can try your hand at wildlife photography to spread the word on endangered species and animals that are on the verge of extinction. Amidst all the frenzy of meeting people, new clients and new assignments will pop out of nowhere.

Keep the faith and have the resolve to overcome a few challenges that the trade might throw your way. If you love photography and the freedom of working while traveling places, travel photography is for you. Leap with preparation and trust that the net will appear.

So, what are you waiting for, when the lush vistas of unexplored terrains beckon your inner creative side? Don't think too hard about how to be a travel photographer. Simply pack your bag and camera, make note of the tips and tricks of the trade and embark on your travel photography journey today!

Create your travel photography website easily without any coding knowledge on Pixpa. Take a free trial and start building your portfolio website now.

Frequently Asked Questions

• How do I prepare to be a travel photographer? To prepare yourself to be a travel photographer, you need to first prepare yourself to be a good traveller. This includes being flexible and patient, planning well but being prepared for eventualities, and always being on the lookout for an opportunity to capture an interesting moment or place. Having a sense of adventure is important in travel photography.
• What makes for good travel photography? Good travel photography always tries to capture the emotion of the moment and the place in each photograph. Make sure to capture not just locations, buildings and monuments but also people, events and moments. Your travel photography should be able to visually narrate the story of your journeys and not just the destinations.
• How much money do travel photographers make? According to Glassdoor, the average annual salary of travel photographers in the United States was $44,193 for 2021.

Try Pixpa - the easy, all-in-one portfolio website builder loved by photographers & creators.

Explore More Articles See all articles

Top-rated by creatives for 10+ years

All-in-one website builder for creatives.

Build Your Website

Start an Online Store

Sell Images

Marketing Tools

Client Galleries

Photo Gallery Apps

Start a Blog

Creatives love Pixpa

15-day free trial. No credit card required.

Beautiful Templates Made for Creatives Awesome Support Really Easy to Use Affordable Pricing

Rated as top website builder by creatives for 10+ years.

What's new on Pixpa

• 7 Travel Photography Jobs to take you around the World
• Career Tips
• By Lisa Michele Burns

Travel Photography Jobs + Tips for Becoming a Travel Photographer

Travel photography offers a broad range of potential career paths that can see you and your camera heading off for endless adventures around the world. From working as a photojournalist to capturing photos at a resort, there are plenty of ways to combine your love of travelling with photography if you’ve got both determination and talent.

I’ve been utterly obsessed with travelling since I was in school and first attempted to become a pilot so I can fly myself (and a plane load of passengers) to exotic destinations. That plan fell through when I got violently air sick during every flying lesson so my back-up was to become a travel journalist. You can read about that journey here , but long story short, that path led to discovering the art of photography and over the past 15 years I’ve worked a number of jobs under the ‘travel photography’ umbrella and it’s been one crazy, incredible adventure.

For those with a creative mind and the motivation to turn their dream into a reality and working business, it may sound cliché but the sky really is the limit. Sure it takes a tonne of begging, pitching, rejections, both time and money, BUT, now more than ever there’s such a need for photographic content that there are plenty of positions and career paths available!

But let’s take a peek at the available jobs!

Firstly, a few tips for getting a travel photography job –

• Create an online portfolio/website of your work
• Learn photography and develop a style that’s uniquely yours ( read more here on how to stand out as a photographer )
• Don’t undersell yourself or your photography and be confident in your ability
• Find a niche or specialty
• Learn to market your work and have a pitch ready for interviews/phone calls
• Invest in quality camera equipment ( see what Olympus gear I use here )
• Be flexible, travel photography requires a commitment to time away from home and long days working, unfortunately it’s only about 15% glamourous.

Now let’s take a peek at six travel photography jobs that may just be suited for you…

Travel Photography Jobs

#1 freelance travel photographer.

Working as a freelance photographer sounds quite carefree and adventurous but it does require a lot of organisation, patience and determination. As a freelance travel photographer you’re essentially running your own business so are responsible for not only finding work and clients, but marketing, managing, researching, producing the content to a high standard and then keeping a track of your invoicing and payments.

Freelance photography is a maze of opportunities when it comes to how you can make it work as so many brands, businesses and publications need content. As a freelancer you can potentially work for multiple clients at any one time or if you’re lucky, you may score a regular gig that will ensure a stable monthly income…a big plus when working solo!

While there are endless areas within freelancing that you can find work in, if you’re looking to focus on travel photography then you’ll want to have a good portfolio of work from your previous travels to use as you pitch for work. And of course, a passion for travelling and talent that helps you stand out when approaching clients and editors!

Learn more: Enrol in a self-study program called ‘ The Freelance Travel Photographer Course ‘ with The Wandering Lens, aimed at developing your photography portfolio, industry knowledge + starting a freelance career.

Read more: ‘ How to Become a Professional Travel Photographer ‘

Having an online portfolio is essential when working as a freelance photographer, I used to actually carry around a printed album of my work and introduce myself in person (yikes, scary!) but thank goodness a well-written email introduction with a link to your work does the trick now.

Travel photography is quite a competitive market to work in however there is a constant need for content with social media, magazines, online travel guides, blogs, marketing materials, newspapers and so on all requiring regular updates and a fresh take on destinations.

If you’re looking to approach magazines to have your work published, it can be worthwhile to read the publication for a few months to get a feel for their style, what they publish and what regions they focus on throughout the year…more often than not they’ll be quite seasonal so you’ll need to time your pitch. You probably won’t find a photo or article about skiing on the shelves just before summer as an example.

A few tips for working as a freelance photographer:

• Build a portfolio of both published + personal work (I recommend the Premium plan on Wix.com , loved using it for my site!)
• Learn the art of pitching
• Ensure you have enough funds to support yourself if it’s a little slow getting clients
• Don’t take rejection as failure, you will get a lot of no’s whether you’re just starting out or established so get used to negative responses and learn to shine once you get a yes!
• Streamline your finances so you have a steady system in place for expenses/income

Exciting news – The Freelance Travel Photographer Course is a brand new online offering by The Wandering Lens.

#2 Destination Wedding Photographer

It may come as a surprise to some readers, but I actually owned a wedding photography (and landscape) business for six years on a tropical island in Australia. After the first two years on one very small (but beautiful!) island, I branched out and took enquiries for destination weddings, combining wedding photography with my addiction to travelling.

As a destination wedding photographer you’re typically booked by a couple to photograph their wedding day somewhere away from home. It could mean they’re travelling from their home to somewhere close to your base, or they may ask you to travel with them abroad to photograph their nuptials, aka the dream job.

I’ve photographed over 450 weddings and of those, many were destination weddings in places like Italy, France, New Zealand, the Cook Islands and on numerous islands of the Great Barrier Reef. The best part about working as a destination wedding photographer is that if you’re equally as passionate about travel and landscape photography as you are about weddings and portraits, then you get to combine the two and create magic for your clients!

I had a motto with my business that it was ‘blending love and landscapes’, a concept that attracted clients because my work wasn’t traditional and posed, it was relaxed and romantic mainly featuring the couple amongst a scene, enjoying their wedding day and exploring the destination. You can have a peek at my wedding portfolio here .

As a business, working as a wedding photographer abroad you need to ensure you have insurance, a good contract, price your packages to cover travel costs and just like working as a freelancer, you need to have the skills to market and manage plus a portfolio that allows couples to trust that you’ll cover their perfect day professionally.

I can’t stress enough how important it is to be professional when photographing a wedding. It may look pretty and calm on the outside but there’s a lot of pressure involved because the moments don’t happen twice so you’ll want to ensure you’re completely comfortable using your camera in any environment, are a pro at posing or relaxing your clients so they’re appearing natural and their most beautiful in front of the camera and that you’ve got all the equipment to photograph not just on the day, but to save back up and edit the images.

Tips for becoming a destination wedding photographer:

• Build a career as a wedding photographer in your local area
• Create an online portfolio of your wedding and travel images (I used Wix.com to create my portfolio site in a few hours)
• Network at wedding industry events with potential clients
• Approach destination wedding specialists (they may need to add to their list of recommended photographers)
• Be confident in your abilities as a photographer and ensure you know how to capture a wedding day from start to finish in all conditions!
• Advertise in bridal magazines, social media and ask your friends and family to spread the word if they know anyone heading abroad to get married.

#3 Resort Photographer

Many resorts whether they’re located on an island, a ski resort or are attached to a theme park will have resort photographer positions available. Typically they’ll be seasonal and are a great way to work your way around the world with the safety net of a fixed income and usually some discounted staff accommodation where most people holiday!

More often than not the positions will be quite casual, requiring a few hours work per day photographing people doing activities or you may be booked for family portraits, events or work in the photography store. This job probably won’t get you rich quick but it’s a fantastic way to improve your photography skills while working in a beautiful destination.

One of the first resort photography jobs I did was at Tangalooma Island Resort and every day was a mix between photographing people at the sand dunes, on quad bike tours (yes I got to ride one!) and then in the evening I’d shoot sunset portraits and photos in the water with wild dolphins. It’s a job that inspired a lot of what I do today and I’ll be forever grateful for the skills and people I met during the year I worked there.

Settings: ISO 200 (this was taken from a moving ski lift), f/3.5, 1/1600sec.

To find a resort photography job take a peek at online employment sites for the area you’re hoping to work. You may need to also look into working visas if you’re looking to work abroad but a number of countries have working holiday arrangements if you’re under 32 and casual work like a resort photographer is an ideal position for this type of visa!

The skill level required for a resort photography job is usually not too high as more often than not you’ll be working in a set environment so the camera settings and position won’t change too much. It’s a great job if you’re just starting out and will help build a lot of confidence as a photographer which you can then take on to bigger and more professional opportunities.

Tips for getting work as a resort photographer:

• Be flexible with starting dates, working hours and living conditions
• Show you’re a people person and can think on your feet
• Demonstrate an interest or skill in photography
• Research the resort/area you’re applying for
• Learn the basics of capturing action shots and portrait images

#4 Photojournalist

Possibly the most respected job in the travel photography realm, a photojournalist is quite similar to working as a freelance photographer however is associated more with commissioned work from publications or clients.

Photojournalism is traditionally relating to the coverage of an event, issue, subject or location that helps to shed light and tell a story for a newspaper, magazine, NGO or online publication. More often than not, people working as photojournalists are also journalists who can write a supporting story or provide in depth captions for their images. To work as a photojournalist who specializes in travel photography, you’ll want to have gained a lot of experience before applying for jobs or approaching editors as these are sought after gigs!

Work experience, internships or publishing your own photo features and stories on a website/blog can be a great way to get a foot in the door as a photojournalist. These steps will also help you to develop your style and skills as a photographer because you’ll be booked for your ability and proven results.

It can be helpful to have studied or have a background in journalism and then check with your local newspaper for openings within the journalism or photography departments. Online publications can also be a great place to build a portfolio of published work so once you feel you’ve got a solid skillset and have a story to tell, pitch it, there’s nothing to lose!

Also don’t forget to enter photography competitions as some include a commission and chance to have your work published! National Geographic runs a monthly ‘Your Sho t’ competition, and a number of other publications such as Wanderlust and Lonely Planet also regularly run talent based contests which can help get your work seen by editors. World Nomads offers regular travel photography scholarships that offer talented photographers a chance to learn from industry experts and have their work published! *Always check entry terms when submitting your images as some contests are run purely to grab content and don’t have the photographer’s rights in mind.

Tips for finding work as a photojournalist:

• Research the work of other photojournalists, see where they’re getting published.
• Find a niche or issue you’re passionate about
• Develop a consistent style that editors can come to rely on
• Network with writers, photographers and editors at social travel and/or publishing events

Read more: The Art of Telling Stories with your Photos

#5 Cruise Ship Photographer

Now this is a travel photography job for the more patient and seaworthy photographer…for obvious reasons. While you’ll be visiting a number of exotic ports, there’s a lot of time spent on board the cruise ship so before you follow this path, be sure you’re ready for time at sea, cramped staff cabins and repetitive working conditions.

Typical tasks as a cruise ship photographer include capturing portraits of guests on board, at dinners, doing activities and if you’re lucky, some adventures off the boat but more often than not, it’s focused around what happens on the ship itself. The size of ship can differ, there’s luxury yachts right through to the mega cruise liners and you’ll find it much easier to secure a job on board one of the big boys.

There are some very cool opportunities that exist on board expedition vessels, not just your typical cruise ship. It’s worth researching available opportunities with Arctic or Antarctic expedition cruises as they’ll have on board photographers to and these positions will be more focused on not only photographing guests but teaching them how to capture the stunning scenery you’ll pass.

It can be a great job to build your confidence and skills as a photographer and you’ll get very comfortable using flash as a lot of the time it’s a staged setting (on a traditional ship). Because you’re working with guests, there’s a lot of interaction with people so you’ll want to be comfortable socializing or looking to use this experience to bring you out of your shell a little. Take a peek at MSC’s career site to see job outlines relating to photography on a cruise ship.

A few things to check when applying for a cruise ship photography position:

• What are the hours you’ll work?
• What country is the cruise ship company based in, for visa/work permit purposes?
• What are the living arrangements like? Is it a shared cabin?
• Do you get sea sick? If so, visit your doctor to be prescribed some medication!
• Do you get to actually visit the locations the ship docks in? In my opinion there’s no point being a cruise ship photographer if all you get to see is the ship! Unless you like ships…

#6 Travel Blogger

Ever wanted to take full control of your career and release your creative projects into the world without having to wait for someone to approve them? Travel blogging may be just the thing for you!

Now firstly, take away all those ideas that a travel blogger only writes about ‘what I did on my holiday in Paris’, more often than not, bloggers are savvy and business-minded people and the blog is not only a creative outlet, but a full-time job. Travel blogging is a career path open to anyone from any background with one common interest, a love of travel and thanks to the good old internet, is a job that can be done absolutely anywhere…with a WIFI connection!

Technically you can turn your own travel blog into anything you want! You can publish hard hitting political pieces about destinations effected by war, environmental articles and images that highlight issues relating to climate change, or you can of course, focus on the travel experience, cultures and destinations both popular and more off the beaten path.

Now having a travel blog doesn’t mean you need to be an accomplished journalist or writer, you can be a photographer keen to have somewhere to publish your images. I started The Wandering Lens to write destination guides for photographers and while I have a background in journalism, I wanted the site to be very image heavy so people would be attracted to the visuals, not the words. I actually don’t love the word ‘blog’ and prefer to call it a guide or website because essentially, it’s a little library of content that sits online waiting for someone to type some golden search words into Google and discover my Destination Guides or Photo Tip archives.

Learn more – chat with me (Lisa) about your goals and I’ll personally suggest a path forward to learn faster and get started as a travel blogger and photographer! Email [email protected] and let’s chat about your career!

A blog can be a fantastic way to share some behind the scenes of your photography missions whether they’re personal or professional to document the destination or project. At first it may feel like you’re pressing publish and only your mum is taking a peek (Hi Mum!) but building an audience to follow your work is one of the essential elements of having a blog and does take time and patience.

Since The Wandering Lens started back in 2015 I’ve grown from just 100 visitors per month to over 125,000 and it’s incredible to finally see years of work paying off. There were definitely times when it just didn’t feel worth it and it takes a lot of work and a tonne of motivation to stick with it. You’ll also need to dedicate quite a bit of time to creating content, to actually do the travel part of having a travel blog! This sounds like the fun part but because you’re working for yourself, need to ensure that you’re sticking to a budget and not going bananas on the credit card to become a famous blogger…that’s never going to end well. Once you’re more established you can approach partners, tourism boards, tour operators and accommodation outlets to work in supporting your ventures to reduce costs but to do this you need to be able to prove there’s a benefit to them, eg. your blog needs a lot of visitors or you can provide them with high quality imagery.

You may hear a lot of people say that you can start a blog in just a matter of minutes, which is very true. However, to create a successful travel blog you need to continuously work on it and treat it as a business. There’s always new technical updates to install, HTML code, plugins, SEO, checking your domain name and server subscriptions are up to date not to mention writing, photographing, editing, creating a layout then working to make sure your posts are seen across social media or visible on Google.

If you love sharing stories, telling people where to find amazing places or simply just want an outlet to publish your images then building a travel blog is such a rewarding career path. Eventually you can aim to monetize your website via display advertising or affiliate income but when starting out, it’s important to lay a foundation of solid and informative content or inspiring imagery that make people want to visit your site again and again.

#7 An Influencer

Since the rise of social media, a career path has evolved that relates to creating content with the aim of ‘influencing’ others. I’m sure if you’ve got an Instagram account you’re well aware of who the influencers are, personally I still find it a little bizarre that people are out there pretending (in some cases, definitely not all), to live a certain way or use certain brands because they’re being paid to do so. I know that probably 70% (random figure) are genuine but that other chunk can make this career appear a tad questionable and from a business point of view, very risky, especially if it’s your only source of income.

Influencing is essentially marketing with a fancy new name and the game of promoting and selling things to people has been around for centuries, it’s now just a bit more obvious.  Combining travel photography with being an influencer is a no brainer because visual aids  are essential when selling a product or experience and the need for fresh content is never ending. Working as an influencer can mean collaborating with clients to showcase their product, creating content for them to use in their own marketing requirements or using your influence to support something meaningful or a creative project.

Read more: ‘ The Power of Instagram and how its Changing the Way we Travel ‘

There’s a lot of factors that come into working as an influencer and while it may look glamourous on the outside, there’s countless pitches, emails, negotiations, planning, research and creating that goes into taking that perfect photo. More often than not people will judge an influencer solely on their images but forget about how much time and effort went into the set up and production, something you’ll need to perfect in order to become a professional influencer.

Read more: ‘ The Best Apps for Travel Photographers ‘

I’m a little old school but of course have social media and due to my following on Instagram @the_wanderinglens , I’m often considered an influencer despite the fact I have no fashion sense or rarely show myself on camera. Starting to consider yourself an influencer usually comes down to numbers, the amount of likes and engagement you receive and also, your message…which is the part I’m much more comfortable with. Being an influencer has many, many positives because once you’ve built a large following (or small and super engaged) and audience, you can use it for good. A lot of what I share relates to revealing beautiful places to photograph, creative photo tips for people to use on their travels and very soon I’ll be sharing content from a project I’m photographing that highlights destinations impact by climatic conditions and environmental issues. There’s a number of influencers currently involved in sustainable tourism projects, clean ups, wildlife conservation and charitable initiatives which is something that’s on the increase and a wonderful outcome from the world of social media.

One thing I do want to mention about becoming an influencer is that due to the ever changing algorithms and lack of control you actually have over how your content is delivered, it can be quite a risky career move. Instead, combine social media with another element of your business such as travel blogging, travel writing and travel photography to give yourself a better chance of a stable income and more opportunities.

There are a lot of courses available online that promise to ‘help you become an influencer’ but really, you need to follow these few steps:

• Create beautiful and original content
• Engage with other users on social media
• Have a message and/or tell a story within your posts
• Curate and publish a consistent body of work ( read more about this here )
• Lastly, get lucky. Sure it requires a lot of work but sometimes it’s all about luck too!
• Be responsible, being an influencer means you’re influencing trends and behaviour so take that fact seriously

Do you have any questions about working as a travel photographer?

Leave comment below and I’ll do my best to answer!

Keen to learn more with The Wandering Lens?

If you’re eager to improve your photography, explore your creative talents and even perhaps work in the industry, you’ll find self-study courses and a library of eBooks and Workbooks via The Wandering Lens store. I’ve developed online resources for photographers, creatives, dreamers, adventurers, travellers and freelancers. If that sounds like you, maybe we should connect and chat about your photography goals! These creative courses and resources bring together my 17+years of experience and lessons from working in the industry. I want to see others share their talents and get published, sell prints, find clients – to have the confidence to achieve whatever it is you want to within the field of photography. Get in touch via [email protected] if you’d like to chat about your photography!

SELF-STUDY COURSES – ONLINE LEARNING, WORK AT YOUR OWN PACE

You’ll find The Freelance Travel Photographer Course guides you through the process of getting ready to work in the industry, teaches you about pricing, professionalism and how to get published and find clients! If you’re keen to start a little slower, The 3-Week Composition Reset program is a great way to refresh your approach to photography, learn new composition skills and find your style as a photographer.

Want to work as a travel photographer yourself?

To learn more about becoming a travel photographer, join me for an 8-week online course called The Freelance Travel Photographer Course , where I share anything and everything you need to know to succeed in the industry, based on my 17+yrs as a professional travel photographer. Alternatively, you can register to receive my free email series focused on travel photography as a career. Register for the free travel photography email series here.

*This article contains relevant affiliate links to sites I recommend and from which I would make a small commission if you opt to use their products.

Hello! I’m the founder and photographer behind The Wandering Lens. With 17+yrs experience as a professional travel and landscape photographer, all advice found on this site is from my personal experience on the road. I hope it’s useful for your own travels and would love to hear in the comments about your trips and experiences around the world.

Enjoyed reading? Share the article!

• 15 Comments

Keep Reading...

Columbia Icefields – Hiking on the Athabasca Glacier with IceWalks

A Photographer’s Guide to Kanazawa, Japan

Mastering Light: A Quick Guide to Golden Hour Photography

Blog comments.

Brennen Tope

May 11, 2019 at 3:32 am

Thanks for the post! I’ve been interested in traveling more with my camera and this will give me ideas for how to support that.

airlie beach accommodation

February 27, 2020 at 8:58 pm

really cool website

April 13, 2020 at 7:18 pm

I have finished my +1,+2, in India. Now I wish to take degree in IITTM (INDIAN INSTITUTE OF TOURISM AND MANAGEMENT) in Nellore. Iam very much instrested on wild life photography and travelling photography. Do we have any chances in this. I request to kindly look into my matter.

Trisha pragassa

April 19, 2020 at 7:50 pm

Hello Lisa. My name is Trisha and I am currently in high school but preparing to go to university. I wish to undertake a course that will in turn let me pursue a career concerning travel, photography or/and geography. I was hoping you could give me some advice because I am running out of options on what I can do. If possible please help me out with my predicament. Thank you.

Lisa Michele Burns

May 7, 2020 at 3:41 pm

Hi Trisha, great to hear you’re keen to get involved within the photography and travel industries. There are so many career paths you can take that it really depends on what you want to focus on. One tip I would give, is to include some element of business and/or marketing studies in there because if you’re running your own business whether it’s focused on travel or photography, having these skills will give you a head start! Best of luck 🙂

July 8, 2020 at 7:25 pm

Thank you for great article. There are also lot of people on worldee who takes professional photos and travel.

Zach McConnell

December 14, 2020 at 10:12 pm

Awsome – this gave me so much clarity

Ivvor Rocha

January 25, 2021 at 3:09 pm

thanks for sharing

Jacqueline L. Pollock

May 31, 2021 at 8:45 pm

I remember how excited I was when I first started posting on instagram. I finally had a platform to get my work seen, tell my stories, share my life and get inspired by those of others. It was all about creativity and art and The Work, it was fair and ethical and just awesome! Things have changed a lot since, and now I often find myself feeling sick to my stomach when I have to post a new picture!

June 11, 2021 at 3:49 am

Thanks for sharing such an informative website. your all article really greats.

July 6, 2021 at 1:44 am

Thank you for the information. It is very informative. I am just beginning my journey as a travel blogger/photographer and am so excited and a little overwhelmed at everything there is to learn. I have a long way to go but believe anything good in life comes with a price. Good luck to your future endeavors. Who knows, maybe one day we must get the opportunity to meet in person.

LA Photo Party

July 12, 2021 at 4:54 pm

Great Blog. Thanks for Sharing.

Lisa Hughes

October 18, 2021 at 3:33 am

Hi Lisa, I enjoyed reading your blog. I am just getting started as a travel agent and wondered if you know of some study programs with travel photography and writing combined. Or can you suggest some other route to learn more about photojournalism. Lisa

July 2, 2022 at 7:07 pm

Hi Lisa, apologies for the delay in replying to your comment! Combining work as a travel agent with photography/travel writing is so ideal. I actually came from a similar career path and studied tourism operations and management before moving into journalism. I’ve got a self-study program available online that works through the steps of improving your photography, creating a portfolio and exploring ways in which to freelance, start a blog or sell prints via your blog/website. You’re welcome to reach out via email ([email protected]) and chat further if you like!

Vivian Kent

August 17, 2023 at 5:43 pm

Thank you so much for sharing these invaluable insights on travel photography jobs! Your article has not only inspired me but also provided practical advice that I can apply to my own journey in the world of photography. Your tips are a treasure trove for aspiring photographers like me who dream of combining their passion for travel with their love for capturing stunning moments. Your generosity in sharing your experiences is truly appreciated. Looking forward to more of your incredible content!

Leave a Comment Cancel Comment

Looking for something….

• Read Today's Paper

These photography tours will change how you travel

Snap to it for a tour that’ll challenge your photography skills.

Don't miss out on the headlines from Lifestyle. Followed categories will be added to My News.

You may have been to the world’s most extraordinary destination, but if you haven’t got the photo to prove it, does it even count?

With travellers on a quest to improve their holiday snaps, specialist photography tours are popping up around the globe. Guided by experienced photographers, these tours combine opportunities to capture spectacular subject matter – from stunning landscapes to unique wildlife to colourful cities – with expert support to gain new camera skills.

Photographer Chris Bray , who has been running tours globally since 2010, explains expert tuition is just part of the appeal. “Increasingly, people don’t really come on photo tours just to get photos – photography is becoming a lovely reason for them to travel in a small unhurried group to unique and beautiful places, often away from the crowds, and to create memories,” he says.

For the ultimate inspiration, try one of these upcoming photography-focused tours.

ALASKA WITH CHRIS BRAY

When a top nature photographer says it’s “perhaps the best wildlife photography experience in the world” you know this trip is going to be special. Chris Bray’s 13-day Alaska tour gets up close with bears catching salmon in Geographic Harbor, cruises around Kodiak Island, and takes in the scenery of Prince William Sound, including otters, puffins and whales. This year’s tour is fully booked, but bookings are now open for August 2025. 

THE KIMBERLEY WITH JAKE WILTON

With its dramatic waterfalls and stunning reefs, the striking landscapes of Western Australia’s Kimberley region have always captivated photographers. But thanks to luxe cruise ship  Scenic Eclipse II , now it’s an even more attractive destination for camera-toting travellers. Guests on board the ultra-luxury discovery yacht will be joined by nature and travel photographer Jake Wilton on an upcoming departure. The itinerary features on-board lectures and daily hosted photography excursions. The 11-day Uncover the Kimberley Coastline cruise from Broome to Darwin departs on June 29, 2024. 

BOTSWANA WITH DIANA ANDERSEN

Who better qualified to guide you towards a stellar safari shot than a zookeeper turned award-winning wildlife photographer? Diana Andersen is the driving force behind a spectacular 12-day tour of Botswana , including a six-night immersion in Mashatu Game Reserve – known for its leopards, lions, cheetahs and large elephant herds. That’s followed by three nights at Chobe National Park, with days spent cruising the Chobe River on dedicated photography boats for close encounters with hippos, buffalos and birds. The tour departs on November 5, 2024. 

More Coverage

JAPAN WITH ALFONSO CALERO

You don’t need a fancy camera – Alfonso Calero’s landscape photography tours of Japan welcome smartphone snappers. The award-winning photographer’s 12-day springtime tour of Central Japan is timed to coincide with cherry-blossom season.

Highlights include photogenic hotspots like Kyoto’s Inari Shrine and Arashiyama Bamboo Forest, Tokyo’s Shibuya Crossing and Mount Fuji. The small group tour from Kyoto to Tokyo departs on March 28, 2025. 

Originally published as These photography tours will change how you travel

We’re busier than ever – and this is the deadly result

Australia has a new, number-one public health issue and it’s being experienced in epidemic proportions like never before.

The world-class chef behind award-winning Noosa restaurant

A beachfront alfresco restaurant led by an experienced chef of 20 years who has cooked for the Queen has snatched up its second award months after its upscaled reopening.

Transforming Field Photography with The Ultimate Modular Backpack

Designer: COALAX

Click Here to Buy Now: $169   $299 ($130 off). Hurry, 118 of 200 left!

From the outset, the LANCER 300 impresses with its robust modular exoskeleton, providing unmatched adaptability and resilience. This allows photographers to tailor the compartments to fit a diverse array of equipment, from cameras and lenses to drones, while outdoor adventurers find its flexibility ideal for stowing varying gear like hydration packs and climbing ropes. The integration of dual multi-angle selfie rocker arms elevates its utility, enabling dynamic self-portraits and breathtaking panoramas without halting the journey. These arms, designed to withstand the elements with their waterproof build, cater to a wide range of devices, ensuring no memorable scene goes uncaptured.

Never miss a moment with the selfie-stick arm.

Enhancements in design from recent updates introduce an advanced modular system with increased customization capabilities, allowing even greater precision in configuring storage spaces to fit oversized camera bodies or additional personal gear. An innovative addition is the side flap for quick access to the backpack’s lower segment, which proves invaluable when quick retrieval of equipment is crucial, eliminating the hassle of rummaging through the top layers.

Further developments include a reinforced anti-theft system featuring cut-proof materials and strategically hidden zippers that offer an added layer of security, essential for protecting valuable equipment in high-risk areas. The ergonomic design, too, has seen improvements, with advanced lumbar support and a sophisticated strap adjustment system that enhances comfort and ensures even weight distribution during extended treks.

The bag doesn’t stop there; it incorporates a detachable power station extended by a solar panel, providing a sustainable source of energy to keep devices charged in the most remote locations. The commitment to security is robust, with lockable zippers and discreet compartments providing peace of mind. Practicality is woven into every aspect of its design, from quick-access pockets to dual-access points that allow for the easy retrieval of gear. A newly integrated LED lighting system in the main compartments ensures visibility in low-light conditions, proving indispensable for early morning or late evening shoots.

Constructed from eco-friendly materials, the brand’s commitment to sustainability is clear. It reduces environmental impact while ensuring durability for continuous, rugged use. A built-in weather cover quickly deploys to protect against sudden downpours or dusty trails, securing the backpack’s contents and providing reliability regardless of external conditions.

With each iteration, the LANCER 300 backpack adapts to meet its users’ challenging demands, integrating the latest technology and materials to deliver a more effective, secure, and comfortable experience. It stands as a sophisticated solution for anyone serious about their outdoor and photographic endeavors, blending advanced technology with thoughtful design to create a backpack that is as versatile as it is vital for the modern explorer.

Related Posts

Breath Smarter, Not Harder: Introducing the World’s first Ai-Driven Smart Mask

The COVID-19 pandemic may be over, but the challenge of maintaining clean air persists. If there’s anything we’ve learned over the past year, it’s that…

A Smart Case with Quick Action Button Transform Your iPhone 14 and 15 Pro/Max with a Single Press

Bringing the iPhone 15/14 Pro or 15/14 Pro Max into your daily routine is significantly enhanced with the addition of the BANG!CASE, which combines durable…

Lego built a real-life customizable Super Mario kit with drainpipes, killer mushrooms, and Bowser!

Children will perhaps never understand what it was like to plug an NES into your CRT television, blow on the back of a game cassette…

Studio lighting in your phone-case

I’m reminded of how Phil Schiller made a rather important observation at yesterday’s keynotes. The iPhone’s camera is pretty great, but there’s still one thing…

Charging cable that turns the tables!

MicroUSBs suck. Lightning Connectors are alright. And I can’t help being a little amused but Apple’s Magsafe charger for the laptop clearly has the best…

Perfectly Hot Coffee Till the Very Last Drop!

Believe it or not, coffee has an ideal drinking temperature. It isn’t a fixed unit, but for most people, just a 5° deviation in their…

Manfrotto Befree Advanced Carbon Fiber travel tripod review

A sturdy and lightweight tripod that’s packed with features and built to rack up the air miles.

Digital Camera World Verdict

If you’re looking for a lightweight tripod that’s small enough to fit in carry-on luggage and solid enough for outdoor pursuits then the Befree Advanced Carbon Fibre Travel Tripod is a great choice that hits the sweet spot between portability and stability.

Quality build

Vast Befree Advanced range allows you to tailor your tripod needs

Head isn't Arca-Swiss compatible

There are cheaper options in this class

Why you can trust Digital Camera World Our expert reviewers spend hours testing and comparing products and services so you can choose the best for you. Find out how we test.

• Specifications

Key features

• Performance

While it’s tempting to spend all your hard-earned on exciting new cameras and lenses, a good-quality tripod really is worth its weight in gold. Or maybe that’s not always the case. The goal of a travel tripod is to provide a harmonious blend of stability and portability, a solid tripod that you can depend upon time and again, yet is light enough and portable enough to accompany you on trips to far-flung places. 

Just like the best travel tripods , the Manfrotto Befree Advanced Carbon Fibre Travel Tripod excels when it comes to these prerequisites. It collapses into a carry-on sized package, is light enough to haul around on your back for hours on end and boasts Manfrotto’s exceptional build quality. The question is, does it have the legs to perform adequately out in the field?

Manfrotto Befree Advanced Carbon Fibre: Specifications

Material:  Carbon Fiber (there is also an Aluminum version) Folded height:  41cm / 16.1in Maximum operating height:  150cm / 19.7in Minimum operating height:  40cm / 15.7in Weight:  1.25kg / 2.75lb Load rating:  9 kg / 19.8lbs Sections per leg:  4 Center column:  Yes Locking leg angles:  3 Feet:  Rubber pads Case/bag included:  Nylon, Synthetic Fabric

The beauty of the Befree Advanced range is that you can select a travel tripod to fit your needs. Similarly specced variants are available with multiple heads (incl. fluid and 3-way), aluminum builds, tilting center columns, as well as Manfrotto’s M-Lock, and twist and lever leg-locking systems.

We received the ball head twist carbon fiber variant, which features standard twisting leg locks and Manfrotto's 494 Center Ball Head. Fully extended, the tripod's four leg sections and center column combine to stand at 150cm (19.7in). Packed down, the tripod measures 41cm (16.1in) and has a diameter under 10cm (0.39in). It also comes in a nice Manfrotto-branded tripod bag and weighs just 1.25kg (2.75lb).

The 494 Center Ball Head features three points of control: a pan knob and larger dual knob for friction control and locking the ball head. Manfrotto’s removable plate is Arca-Swiss compatible, so it can be placed on an Arca-Swiss-type mount, but the tripod head’s mounting plate is not Arca-Swiss compatible.

An RRP of $390 / £394 is pricier than many tripods in this class, but shop around and you should be able to find a decent discount, which is much more palatable. And of course, you’re investing in a quality Italian-made product from one of the industry’s leading tripod manufacturers.

Build and handling

Carbon fiber is of course renowned for its durability and lightweight, but the legs on the Befree Advanced feel particularly sturdy. This is impressive, since the thinnest of its telescopic legs have a diameter of just 11.2mm (0.44in). The 494 Center Ball Head is made from aluminum, but feels similarly sturdy.

The knobs on the ball head and the twisting leg locks feel solid and don’t need to be overtightened to provide a sturdy lock. The plate can feel a little fiddly to lock in place and remove, but this isn’t anything new. Ultimately, the locking mechanism you prefer comes down to personal preference and usage.

Overall, this tripod exhibits the build quality you’d expect from Manfrotto. It’s worth noting that you need to upgrade to the Befree GT to access Manfrotto’s premium M-Lock system, but the standard twist locks work just fine. Leg locks are a weak point on any tripod – especially during a trip to a sandy beach – but treat this tripod with care and maintain it properly and it should serve you well.

Manfrotto Befree Advanced Carbon Fibre: Performance

The Befree Advanced Carbon Fiber performs well out in the field. Twisting leg extensions and leg-angle selectors on each leg make collapsing the tripod effortless. The latter is unlatched and held down with a thumb or finger as the leg pivots right up until it rests on the head. 

When pivoting the legs back down, the selectors don’t need to be unlatched and simply click three times to represent the three different leg angles. You can splay the legs at 90 degrees so the tripod lays flat (with center column fully extended). When fully extended to a serviceable – not towering – 150cm (19.7in), the non-pivoting center column is stable enough to achieve that extra height, even if this isn’t best practice.

The 494 Center Ball Head pans and tilts smoothly. It isn’t video smooth, but it’s smooth enough for photography and while the friction control can prove a little fiddly – you have to pinch it to turn it – the ball locks solidly into place.

When packed down, the tripod meets even easyJet’s meagre carry-on guidelines and is pretty thin. We’re not talking Peak Design Travel Tripod thin here, but thin enough that it’s easily stowed on the side of a camera bag. Add the light weight and the Befree Advanced doesn’t attempt to pull your camera backpack off-kilter like heavier tripods, making it much more enjoyable to carry on your back. 

The 9kg payload is what you’d expect from this class of tripod and the build’s inherent stability does mean that it feels secure when loaded up. Still, it’s important to remember what this tripod is designed for. A huge super-telephoto prime support, it is not. So I’d recommend keeping within the 9kg payload if you want to maximize your tripod’s longevity.

Manfrotto Befree Advanced Carbon Fibre: Verdict

Look past the steep price of admission, lack of Arca-Swiss compatibility and relatively short maximum operating height, and this is yet another fantastic tripod from Manfrotto. It’s light, it’s highly portable and it’s rock solid. And if it features something you’re not happy with, chances are you can find the variant for you within the Befree Advanced range. If you’re looking for a first good-quality tripod, an accompaniment to an ultra-sturdy but hefty tripod or something that’s light enough to travel the world and survive the journey, the Befree Advanced Carbon Fibre Travel Tripod twist is worth a look.

Read more: Find out about other tripod options in our guide for the best tripod for photographers , or check out the best ball heads for tripods .

Mike is Deputy Editor for N-Photo: The Nikon Magazine , and brings with him over 10 years experience writing both freelance and for some of the biggest specialist publications. Prior to joining N-Photo Mike was the production editor for the content marketing team of Wex Photo Video, the UK’s largest online specialist photographic retailer, where he sharpened his skills in both the stills and videography spheres.  

While he’s an avid motorsport photographer, his skills extend to every genre of photography – making him one of Digital Camera World’s top tutors for techniques on cameras, lenses, tripods, filters and other imaging equipment, as well as sharing his expertise on shooting everything from portraits and landscapes to abstracts and architecture to wildlife and, yes, fast things going around race tracks. 

• TripAdvisor

• Testimonials
• Travel Tips

Moscow Metro

About Me in Short

My name's Arthur Lookyanov, I'm a private tour guide, personal driver and photographer in Moscow, Russia. I work in my business and run my website Moscow-Driver.com from 2002. Read more about me and my services , check out testimonials of my former business and travel clients from all over the World, hit me up on Twitter or other social websites. I hope that you will like my photos as well.

See you in Moscow!

• View full size
• Owner: Moscow Guide & Driver
• Date: June 3, 2012 06:12:00 am EDT
• File name: ALP-2012-0603-146-Entering-Moscow-Metro-Station-Komsomolskaya.jpg
• Tags: Russia , Moscow Metro , Komsomolskaya , Moscow Highlights , escalators , Moscow Famous Landmarks , underground palace , Moscow

GPS Location of the Photo

Google maps.

• GPS Map of this album
• GPS Map of Moscow Guide & Driver's pictures

Random image

Johnny Weir & St. Basils Cathedral: "Such a beautiful sight ... one I could hold tight and never let go!"

Featured Tags

• 273 photos are tagged with architecture
• 199 photos are tagged with cathedrals
• 305 photos are tagged with churches
• 294 photos are tagged with Dear Clients
• 260 photos are tagged with lights
• 1875 photos are tagged with Moscow
• 306 photos are tagged with Moscow by Night
• 194 photos are tagged with Moscow cityscapes
• 264 photos are tagged with Moscow Kremlin
• 326 photos are tagged with night moscow
• 426 photos are tagged with Orthodox Churches
• 226 photos are tagged with Red Square
• 2538 photos are tagged with Russia
• 209 photos are tagged with twilights
• 350 photos are tagged with Winter

Take one of these exciting tours:

• Moscow Highlights
• Discovering the Golden Ring of Russia
• Arts & Culture Tours
• Moscow by Night tour

• Articles   >

The Moscow Metro Museum of Art: 10 Must-See Stations

There are few times one can claim having been on the subway all afternoon and loving it, but the Moscow Metro provides just that opportunity.  While many cities boast famous public transport systems—New York’s subway, London’s underground, San Salvador’s chicken buses—few warrant hours of exploration.  Moscow is different: Take one ride on the Metro, and you’ll find out that this network of railways can be so much more than point A to B drudgery.

The Metro began operating in 1935 with just thirteen stations, covering less than seven miles, but it has since grown into the world’s third busiest transit system ( Tokyo is first ), spanning about 200 miles and offering over 180 stops along the way.  The construction of the Metro began under Joseph Stalin’s command, and being one of the USSR’s most ambitious building projects, the iron-fisted leader instructed designers to create a place full of svet (radiance) and svetloe budushchee (a radiant future), a palace for the people and a tribute to the Mother nation.

Consequently, the Metro is among the most memorable attractions in Moscow.  The stations provide a unique collection of public art, comparable to anything the city’s galleries have to offer and providing a sense of the Soviet era, which is absent from the State National History Museum.  Even better, touring the Metro delivers palpable, experiential moments, which many of us don’t get standing in front of painting or a case of coins.

Though tours are available , discovering the Moscow Metro on your own provides a much more comprehensive, truer experience, something much less sterile than following a guide.  What better place is there to see the “real” Moscow than on mass transit: A few hours will expose you to characters and caricatures you’ll be hard-pressed to find dining near the Bolshoi Theater.  You become part of the attraction, hear it in the screech of the train, feel it as hurried commuters brush by: The Metro sucks you beneath the city and churns you into the mix.

With the recommendations of our born-and-bred Muscovite students, my wife Emma and I have just taken a self-guided tour of what some locals consider the top ten stations of the Moscow Metro. What most satisfied me about our Metro tour was the sense of adventure .  I loved following our route on the maps of the wagon walls as we circled the city, plotting out the course to the subsequent stops; having the weird sensation of being underground for nearly four hours; and discovering the next cavern of treasures, playing Indiana Jones for the afternoon, piecing together fragments of Russia’s mysterious history.  It’s the ultimate interactive museum.

Top Ten Stations (In order of appearance)

Kievskaya station.

Kievskaya Station went public in March of 1937, the rails between it and Park Kultury Station being the first to cross the Moscow River.  Kievskaya is full of mosaics depicting aristocratic scenes of Russian life, with great cameo appearances by Lenin, Trotsky, and Stalin.  Each work has a Cyrillic title/explanation etched in the marble beneath it; however, if your Russian is rusty, you can just appreciate seeing familiar revolutionary dates like 1905 ( the Russian Revolution ) and 1917 ( the October Revolution ).

Mayakovskaya Station

Mayakovskaya Station ranks in my top three most notable Metro stations. Mayakovskaya just feels right, done Art Deco but no sense of gaudiness or pretention.  The arches are adorned with rounded chrome piping and create feeling of being in a jukebox, but the roof’s expansive mosaics of the sky are the real showstopper.  Subjects cleverly range from looking up at a high jumper, workers atop a building, spires of Orthodox cathedrals, to nimble aircraft humming by, a fleet of prop planes spelling out CCCP in the bluest of skies.

Novoslobodskaya Station

Novoslobodskaya is the Metro’s unique stained glass station.  Each column has its own distinctive panels of colorful glass, most of them with a floral theme, some of them capturing the odd sailor, musician, artist, gardener, or stenographer in action.  The glass is framed in Art Deco metalwork, and there is the lovely aspect of discovering panels in the less frequented haunches of the hall (on the trackside, between the incoming staircases).  Novosblod is, I’ve been told, the favorite amongst out-of-town visitors.

Komsomolskaya Station

Komsomolskaya Station is one of palatial grandeur.  It seems both magnificent and obligatory, like the presidential palace of a colonial city.  The yellow ceiling has leafy, white concrete garland and a series of golden military mosaics accenting the tile mosaics of glorified Russian life.  Switching lines here, the hallway has an Alice-in-Wonderland feel, impossibly long with decorative tile walls, culminating in a very old station left in a remarkable state of disrepair, offering a really tangible glimpse behind the palace walls.

Dostoevskaya Station

Dostoevskaya is a tribute to the late, great hero of Russian literature .  The station at first glance seems bare and unimpressive, a stark marble platform without a whiff of reassembled chips of tile.  However, two columns have eerie stone inlay collages of scenes from Dostoevsky’s work, including The Idiot , The Brothers Karamazov , and Crime and Punishment.   Then, standing at the center of the platform, the marble creates a kaleidoscope of reflections.  At the entrance, there is a large, inlay portrait of the author.

Chkalovskaya Station

Chkalovskaya does space Art Deco style (yet again).  Chrome borders all.  Passageways with curvy overhangs create the illusion of walking through the belly of a chic, new-age spacecraft.  There are two (kos)mosaics, one at each end, with planetary subjects.  Transferring here brings you above ground, where some rather elaborate metalwork is on display.  By name similarity only, I’d expected Komsolskaya Station to deliver some kosmonaut décor; instead, it was Chkalovskaya that took us up to the space station.

Elektrozavodskaya Station

Elektrozavodskaya is full of marble reliefs of workers, men and women, laboring through the different stages of industry.  The superhuman figures are round with muscles, Hollywood fit, and seemingly undeterred by each Herculean task they respectively perform.  The station is chocked with brass, from hammer and sickle light fixtures to beautiful, angular framework up the innards of the columns.  The station’s art pieces are less clever or extravagant than others, but identifying the different stages of industry is entertaining.

Baumanskaya Statio

Baumanskaya Station is the only stop that wasn’t suggested by the students.  Pulling in, the network of statues was just too enticing: Out of half-circle depressions in the platform’s columns, the USSR’s proud and powerful labor force again flaunts its success.  Pilots, blacksmiths, politicians, and artists have all congregated, posing amongst more Art Deco framing.  At the far end, a massive Soviet flag dons the face of Lenin and banners for ’05, ’17, and ‘45.  Standing in front of the flag, you can play with the echoing roof.

Ploshchad Revolutsii Station

Novokuznetskaya Station

Novokuznetskaya Station finishes off this tour, more or less, where it started: beautiful mosaics.  This station recalls the skyward-facing pieces from Mayakovskaya (Station #2), only with a little larger pictures in a more cramped, very trafficked area.  Due to a line of street lamps in the center of the platform, it has the atmosphere of a bustling market.  The more inventive sky scenes include a man on a ladder, women picking fruit, and a tank-dozer being craned in.  The station’s also has a handsome black-and-white stone mural.

Here is a map and a brief description of our route:

Start at (1)Kievskaya on the “ring line” (look for the squares at the bottom of the platform signs to help you navigate—the ring line is #5, brown line) and go north to Belorusskaya, make a quick switch to the Dark Green/#2 line, and go south one stop to (2)Mayakovskaya.  Backtrack to the ring line—Brown/#5—and continue north, getting off at (3)Novosblodskaya and (4)Komsolskaya.  At Komsolskaya Station, transfer to the Red/#1 line, go south for two stops to Chistye Prudy, and get on the Light Green/#10 line going north.  Take a look at (5)Dostoevskaya Station on the northern segment of Light Green/#10 line then change directions and head south to (6)Chkalovskaya, which offers a transfer to the Dark Blue/#3 line, going west, away from the city center.  Have a look (7)Elektroskaya Station before backtracking into the center of Moscow, stopping off at (8)Baumskaya, getting off the Dark Blue/#3 line at (9)Ploschad Revolyutsii.  Change to the Dark Green/#2 line and go south one stop to see (10)Novokuznetskaya Station.

Check out our new Moscow Indie Travel Guide , book a flight to Moscow and read 10 Bars with Views Worth Blowing the Budget For

Jonathon Engels, formerly a patron saint of misadventure, has been stumbling his way across cultural borders since 2005 and is currently volunteering in the mountains outside of Antigua, Guatemala.  For more of his work, visit his website and blog .

Photo credits:   SergeyRod , all others courtesy of the author and may not be used without permission

What Not To Do When Putting Together Your Photography Portfolio

Trying to decide what to include in a photography portfolio can be a daunting challenge. Here are just a few things that should definitely not be included.

I’ve been a professional photographer for a couple of decades now and have been through more amazing, and more than a few less than amazing, portfolio reviews than I can remember. Those once-in-a-lifetime opportunities you get to sit across from prominent art producers, creative directors, photo editors, and various other titles to show them your work as a photographer and make your case for why your name should be at the top of their list. I don’t know that anyone can really master portfolio reviews. Like most things in life, you win some and you lose some. But after so many years of sitting in the hot seat, there are a few common threads which I thought I might share. I’ve written before about things you should do when building your portfolio. Below are a few things you would do best to avoid.

A Portfolio Is Not a Greatest Hits Album

Lesson one: It’s tempting to think of a photo portfolio as an opportunity to prove to the world that you are an amazing photographer. Be it portraits, fashion, landscapes, documentary, or still life, you know it all. And you can do it all. And daggumit, anyone who looks at your portfolio is going to walk away knowing that you, John Doe, are the greatest photographer ever to pick up a camera and that they should hire you for any and every job that comes into the ad agency.

Well, as logical as that all may sound, it ignores two very important things. One, no matter how good you are, there will never be a world where you (or anyone else) will win the crown of “world’s best photographer.” There are simply too many amazingly talented photographers in the world. However many amazing photographers you think there are, multiply that by 100 and you’d still be undercounting. So hoping to objectively prove that you are the best generalist photographer on the planet isn’t likely to do much more than leave you frustrated.

The good news, and point number two, is that you don’t have to prove yourself to be the absolute best generalist photographer on the planet. Why? Because your clients aren’t likely shopping for a generalist. The brief they are coming to you with is for a very specific job. A ketchup campaign for Heinz. A lifestyle shoot for Coca-Cola. Editorial portraits for The New York Times. Clients don’t tend to just be looking for “a photographer.” Rather, they need specific types of photographers to fulfill specific types of assignments. So, when you sit down to show your work, you aren’t trying to show that you just know how to take a photograph in a general sense. Instead, you are specifically showing them your unique product and the areas in which you excel so that, when a matching assignment is available, you are first on their list.

I had an art producer put it simply once, “tell me how to hire you.” All manners of projects flow through advertising agencies. So art buyers need to keep a list of talented artists in every specialty on hand to meet the needs of their clients. Art buyers are inundated with hundreds of emails, promos, and cold calls every day from talented photographers hoping to be at the top of that list. And, as I mentioned earlier, a simply daunting number of these photographers will be absolutely amazing and likely just as good as ourselves, whether we wish to admit that or not. So, how do you stand out? Well, it’s impossible to stand out if you’re hoping they will remember you just as a “good photographer.” There are just too many good photographers and unless your timing is impeccable, it’s too easy to get lost in the shuffle. But, if, for example, they know you as an “amazing celebrity photographer” or “one of the best shooters of high-end fashion,” it helps the art buyer to know when to hire you. There aren’t likely too many generalist briefs. But there are ones for automotive photographers. So, if you have a portfolio full of great car shots, you are cementing a place in the art buyer's brain that cars are a subject you can handle.

It’s very tempting to want to show everything to everybody. Especially because of the understandable fear that not showing everything might lead to you missing out on a potential job because the buyer didn’t know that you could shoot both cars and travel photos. But, it’s far more likely that trying to show everything to everybody will simply lead your potential buyer to be confused as to what exact product it is that you are selling. You’re not trying to sell Coca-Cola just as generic soda. You’re trying to sell a soda with a specific taste. Your portfolio is a chance to show that taste.

You Don’t Need To Tick Off The Boxes of Minimum Requirements

Similar to our last topic, there is another temptation that emerging photographers often fall prey to. I know I did. You see a number of advertisements, editorials, etc., using a certain kind of shot, and you think that you have to have an example of that kind of shot in your portfolio to prove that you can do it too.

In my case, it was a simple portrait of a subject properly lit on white seamless. Sound boring? Well, that’s because it was. Oftentimes, a simple shot like that is a default of an ad campaign for reasons of time or convenience. And, no doubt, you will likely take thousands of such photos over your career once things get rolling. So that is a skill set you should have. But that doesn’t mean you need to have it in your portfolio.

Why? Well, first let me point out that it’s not a crime to have a well-lit portrait on white seamless in your portfolio. But, like every other shot in your book, it should only be there because it is unique to your artistic voice and you are doing something with that simple shot on white seamless that no one else would ever think to do. It should not be there, as it was in my case, simply to prove that you have the technical capabilities to execute it. Because, the truth is, being able to execute a shot like that is one of the bare minimum capabilities clients would expect a professional photographer to have (assuming you are doing studio work). So it’s not special to show that you can execute a shot that art buyers are going to assume that all professional photographers should be able to accomplish. Even if you nail your exposure with mathematical precision, it still does nothing to set you apart.

Of course, I’m only using a shot on white seamless as a personal example since it’s a trap I fell into. And, again, you may have come up with an entirely different spin that takes your image to a whole new level and the fact that it is on white seamless is beside the fact. Or maybe it's a simple shot but the engagement you got out of your subject highlights your unique skill in working with talent and bringing a signature humanity to your images. I knew a photographer who had an entire section of his website dedicated only to black and white portraits on white seamless. But, again, the point of the collection was that it showed how he was able to bring out candid moments among his celebrity subjects, not just to show that he knew how to work his light meter.

There are a million reasons why you might want to include a certain shot. Just don’t include it because you think you have to in order to prove a minimum level of capability as a photographer. It will do nothing to set you apart from the competition. And, unless something about that shot highlights what you personally do best, it’s missing the point of a portfolio, which is to show your unique artistic voice.

You Will Always Be Judged by The Worst Image in Your Book

I am often asked how many images should be in your portfolio. The actual answer varies on a case-by-case basis. But, to simplify things, I would say there should only be as many images in your portfolio as are necessary to prove your point.

As an example, let’s say that you are a fashion photographer known for your unique lighting choices, bold styling, and dynamic poses from your talent. Let's now say that you have a top 20 set of images that all speak that brand, varying enough from each other not to get monotonous, but speaking from the same voice to project a cohesive style. This is perfect. You are displaying your true artistic vision and leaving the art buyer with the knowledge of how to hire you and the types of jobs that you would excel in.

But then you have one more image you are considering. It’s not quite as good as the others. But it’s in the same family. And, it’s kind of cool. So, why not? Let’s throw it in. Well, I can tell you exactly what is going to happen. After all those amazing images you showed, it’s going to be that one lackluster image that sticks in the reviewer’s head. It’s not fair. It’s just human nature. Part of the reviewer’s mind is always going to be searching for a way to disqualify you. Remember, they are getting tens of thousands of emails a year from potential photographers. They have to eliminate some or else their inboxes will explode. So, one of your main jobs when presenting your portfolio is to not give them any reasons to cross you off the list. If that means having only 15 images in your portfolio instead of 30, so be it. You’d rather leave them wanting more than having one or two lesser images bringing down the quality of your entire presentation. Sure, all the other images in your portfolio may be amazing. But one bad image can start to sow doubt. And you don’t want to instill doubt.

Just yesterday I was on the other side of the table, helping to review portfolios for a non-profit organization connecting photographers with clients. I was helping to narrow down our selections for the available slots. One of the photographers had a decent portfolio overall. But three of his images were way overexposed. And not in a kind of “artistic choice” kind of way. Rather, they were so badly exposed that it made me think that the photographer hadn’t yet fully mastered basic exposure. I don’t know if that was true or not. But, since it created immediate doubt in me, it would likely do the same to any potential art buyer. Those couple of shots completely disqualified every other good shot in his portfolio. So he ended up shooting himself in the foot just by not trimming the fat from his book. Don’t shoot yourself in the foot.

All in all, showing your portfolio is about creating a cohesive vision of who you are as an artist that will leave the potential buyer with a firm knowledge of your product, what makes your product unique, and zero doubt that you can repeat your process if called upon to do so on the job. We are artists. But we are selling a product. And just like when you go to the store in search of any other product, our potential clients are looking to purchase dependable products that suit their own unique needs. Your job, when presenting your work, is to show that you are the perfect fit.

Christopher Malcolm is a Los Angeles-based lifestyle, fitness, and advertising photographer, director, and cinematographer shooting for clients such as Nike, lululemon, ASICS, and Verizon.

Turn Your Curiosity Into Discovery

Latest facts.

12 Facts About Beer Pong Day May 4th

15 Facts About National Gummi Bear Day April 27th

40 facts about elektrostal.

Written by Lanette Mayes

Modified & Updated: 02 Mar 2024

Reviewed by Jessica Corbett

Elektrostal is a vibrant city located in the Moscow Oblast region of Russia. With a rich history, stunning architecture, and a thriving community, Elektrostal is a city that has much to offer. Whether you are a history buff, nature enthusiast, or simply curious about different cultures, Elektrostal is sure to captivate you.

This article will provide you with 40 fascinating facts about Elektrostal, giving you a better understanding of why this city is worth exploring. From its origins as an industrial hub to its modern-day charm, we will delve into the various aspects that make Elektrostal a unique and must-visit destination.

So, join us as we uncover the hidden treasures of Elektrostal and discover what makes this city a true gem in the heart of Russia.

Key Takeaways:

• Elektrostal, known as the “Motor City of Russia,” is a vibrant and growing city with a rich industrial history, offering diverse cultural experiences and a strong commitment to environmental sustainability.
• With its convenient location near Moscow, Elektrostal provides a picturesque landscape, vibrant nightlife, and a range of recreational activities, making it an ideal destination for residents and visitors alike.

Known as the “Motor City of Russia.”

Elektrostal, a city located in the Moscow Oblast region of Russia, earned the nickname “Motor City” due to its significant involvement in the automotive industry.

Home to the Elektrostal Metallurgical Plant.

Elektrostal is renowned for its metallurgical plant, which has been producing high-quality steel and alloys since its establishment in 1916.

Boasts a rich industrial heritage.

Elektrostal has a long history of industrial development, contributing to the growth and progress of the region.

Founded in 1916.

The city of Elektrostal was founded in 1916 as a result of the construction of the Elektrostal Metallurgical Plant.

Located approximately 50 kilometers east of Moscow.

Elektrostal is situated in close proximity to the Russian capital, making it easily accessible for both residents and visitors.

Known for its vibrant cultural scene.

Elektrostal is home to several cultural institutions, including museums, theaters, and art galleries that showcase the city’s rich artistic heritage.

A popular destination for nature lovers.

Surrounded by picturesque landscapes and forests, Elektrostal offers ample opportunities for outdoor activities such as hiking, camping, and birdwatching.

Hosts the annual Elektrostal City Day celebrations.

Every year, Elektrostal organizes festive events and activities to celebrate its founding, bringing together residents and visitors in a spirit of unity and joy.

Has a population of approximately 160,000 people.

Elektrostal is home to a diverse and vibrant community of around 160,000 residents, contributing to its dynamic atmosphere.

Boasts excellent education facilities.

The city is known for its well-established educational institutions, providing quality education to students of all ages.

A center for scientific research and innovation.

Elektrostal serves as an important hub for scientific research, particularly in the fields of metallurgy, materials science, and engineering.

Surrounded by picturesque lakes.

The city is blessed with numerous beautiful lakes, offering scenic views and recreational opportunities for locals and visitors alike.

Well-connected transportation system.

Elektrostal benefits from an efficient transportation network, including highways, railways, and public transportation options, ensuring convenient travel within and beyond the city.

Famous for its traditional Russian cuisine.

Food enthusiasts can indulge in authentic Russian dishes at numerous restaurants and cafes scattered throughout Elektrostal.

Home to notable architectural landmarks.

Elektrostal boasts impressive architecture, including the Church of the Transfiguration of the Lord and the Elektrostal Palace of Culture.

Offers a wide range of recreational facilities.

Residents and visitors can enjoy various recreational activities, such as sports complexes, swimming pools, and fitness centers, enhancing the overall quality of life.

Provides a high standard of healthcare.

Elektrostal is equipped with modern medical facilities, ensuring residents have access to quality healthcare services.

Home to the Elektrostal History Museum.

The Elektrostal History Museum showcases the city’s fascinating past through exhibitions and displays.

A hub for sports enthusiasts.

Elektrostal is passionate about sports, with numerous stadiums, arenas, and sports clubs offering opportunities for athletes and spectators.

Celebrates diverse cultural festivals.

Throughout the year, Elektrostal hosts a variety of cultural festivals, celebrating different ethnicities, traditions, and art forms.

Electric power played a significant role in its early development.

Elektrostal owes its name and initial growth to the establishment of electric power stations and the utilization of electricity in the industrial sector.

Boasts a thriving economy.

The city’s strong industrial base, coupled with its strategic location near Moscow, has contributed to Elektrostal’s prosperous economic status.

Houses the Elektrostal Drama Theater.

The Elektrostal Drama Theater is a cultural centerpiece, attracting theater enthusiasts from far and wide.

Popular destination for winter sports.

Elektrostal’s proximity to ski resorts and winter sport facilities makes it a favorite destination for skiing, snowboarding, and other winter activities.

Promotes environmental sustainability.

Elektrostal prioritizes environmental protection and sustainability, implementing initiatives to reduce pollution and preserve natural resources.

Home to renowned educational institutions.

Elektrostal is known for its prestigious schools and universities, offering a wide range of academic programs to students.

Committed to cultural preservation.

The city values its cultural heritage and takes active steps to preserve and promote traditional customs, crafts, and arts.

Hosts an annual International Film Festival.

The Elektrostal International Film Festival attracts filmmakers and cinema enthusiasts from around the world, showcasing a diverse range of films.

Encourages entrepreneurship and innovation.

Elektrostal supports aspiring entrepreneurs and fosters a culture of innovation, providing opportunities for startups and business development.

Offers a range of housing options.

Elektrostal provides diverse housing options, including apartments, houses, and residential complexes, catering to different lifestyles and budgets.

Home to notable sports teams.

Elektrostal is proud of its sports legacy, with several successful sports teams competing at regional and national levels.

Boasts a vibrant nightlife scene.

Residents and visitors can enjoy a lively nightlife in Elektrostal, with numerous bars, clubs, and entertainment venues.

Promotes cultural exchange and international relations.

Elektrostal actively engages in international partnerships, cultural exchanges, and diplomatic collaborations to foster global connections.

Surrounded by beautiful nature reserves.

Nearby nature reserves, such as the Barybino Forest and Luchinskoye Lake, offer opportunities for nature enthusiasts to explore and appreciate the region’s biodiversity.

Commemorates historical events.

The city pays tribute to significant historical events through memorials, monuments, and exhibitions, ensuring the preservation of collective memory.

Promotes sports and youth development.

Elektrostal invests in sports infrastructure and programs to encourage youth participation, health, and physical fitness.

Hosts annual cultural and artistic festivals.

Throughout the year, Elektrostal celebrates its cultural diversity through festivals dedicated to music, dance, art, and theater.

Provides a picturesque landscape for photography enthusiasts.

The city’s scenic beauty, architectural landmarks, and natural surroundings make it a paradise for photographers.

Connects to Moscow via a direct train line.

The convenient train connection between Elektrostal and Moscow makes commuting between the two cities effortless.

A city with a bright future.

Elektrostal continues to grow and develop, aiming to become a model city in terms of infrastructure, sustainability, and quality of life for its residents.

In conclusion, Elektrostal is a fascinating city with a rich history and a vibrant present. From its origins as a center of steel production to its modern-day status as a hub for education and industry, Elektrostal has plenty to offer both residents and visitors. With its beautiful parks, cultural attractions, and proximity to Moscow, there is no shortage of things to see and do in this dynamic city. Whether you’re interested in exploring its historical landmarks, enjoying outdoor activities, or immersing yourself in the local culture, Elektrostal has something for everyone. So, next time you find yourself in the Moscow region, don’t miss the opportunity to discover the hidden gems of Elektrostal.

Q: What is the population of Elektrostal?

A: As of the latest data, the population of Elektrostal is approximately XXXX.

Q: How far is Elektrostal from Moscow?

A: Elektrostal is located approximately XX kilometers away from Moscow.

Q: Are there any famous landmarks in Elektrostal?

A: Yes, Elektrostal is home to several notable landmarks, including XXXX and XXXX.

Q: What industries are prominent in Elektrostal?

A: Elektrostal is known for its steel production industry and is also a center for engineering and manufacturing.

Q: Are there any universities or educational institutions in Elektrostal?

A: Yes, Elektrostal is home to XXXX University and several other educational institutions.

Q: What are some popular outdoor activities in Elektrostal?

A: Elektrostal offers several outdoor activities, such as hiking, cycling, and picnicking in its beautiful parks.

Q: Is Elektrostal well-connected in terms of transportation?

A: Yes, Elektrostal has good transportation links, including trains and buses, making it easily accessible from nearby cities.

Q: Are there any annual events or festivals in Elektrostal?

A: Yes, Elektrostal hosts various events and festivals throughout the year, including XXXX and XXXX.

Was this page helpful?

Our commitment to delivering trustworthy and engaging content is at the heart of what we do. Each fact on our site is contributed by real users like you, bringing a wealth of diverse insights and information. To ensure the highest standards of accuracy and reliability, our dedicated editors meticulously review each submission. This process guarantees that the facts we share are not only fascinating but also credible. Trust in our commitment to quality and authenticity as you explore and learn with us.

Share this Fact:

Russian Aviation

Doug Alberg visited Monino in July 1999 . He has several galleries of his pictures from that visit.

Western tourists are becoming regular visitors to Star City , the Russian Cosmonauts Training Centre.

Andrew Juniper hosts the where you will find a collection of profiles of some of the more modern Russian military aircraft.

Books about Russian aviation available from

Mig : Fifty Years of Secret Aircraft Design by R. A. Beliakov

Send a message to Brian .

Edited July 3, 1998.