Isabella Santoro
Photography Editor
The last two years have been an unforeseen world wide shut in that have people desiring to travel and experience new places now more than ever. What better way to capture your travel memories than with photos.
What kind of camera should I use?
No matter where you decide to venture, you’re going to want to bring a good camera with a good travel bag. Make sure you’ve got a new or hardly used memory card so you don’t have to worry about taking up storage. Memory cards hold thousands of pictures and you might want to take that many with all the wonders you’re likely to see. You'll always need to make sure that your bag is waterproof and weatherproof. Especially if you’re using an expensive camera.
What kinds of pictures should I take?
Don’t strive for the famous landmarks you might encounter while traveling, but look for what inspires you. Search for what strikes you and what you find picture worthy. When I was in New York City, I didn’t take many photos of famous buildings, but I photographed what spoke to me. Beauty is in the eye of the beholder and if you don’t like a photo you’ve taken, you don’t need to take anymore like it. It’s okay to shy away from popular photography spots while traveling.
How should I take them?
The possibilities are endless, but if you need ideas think about the styles of photography that you enjoy the most. If you like nighttime photos, take night photos. If you’re looking for black and white, use a noir filter. If you’re like me and love landscape photography, take wide shots that show off an entire scene. If you’re into close up photography, use the lens to your advantage and get shots of what strikes you the most. If you’re in a crowd, wider shots are the way to go. Especially in these trying times. Focus on your shot. One thing you want to remember when taking photos is that you need to adjust your settings. Make sure your image is clear and that you do or don’t have the flash on.
When are the perfect times?
Go whenever you feel inspired the most or when it’s convenient for you. To take photos without crowds, go early in the morning or late at night. Check with locals when busy hours are and take it from there. If you’re on a tighter schedule, then make a schedule of the places and things you desire to photograph.
Where are some good photo spots?
That all depends on where you’re traveling. In the United States big cities are hubs for photography and you’re bound to get some great shots there. Places like Manhattan, Los Angeles, and Chicago are great! If you’re looking for more rural areas and nature shots, midwestern states and Northeast states are the way to go. On the chance you’re going abroad to a place like Europe, the possibilities are endless for areas to get great shots. Italy, France, and Spain are popular countries for some of the most beautifully taken photographs. Take some time to research where you want to go and what you want to experience while traveling. You can get an idea on some of the best places to get photographs.
Above all, remember to have fun with it. That’s what photography is supposed to be, fun. Live in the moment and take shots when you get that impulse to. It doesn’t have to be planned. Be as spontaneous as you’d like. Never forget to have the time of your life.