How to Get Those Awesome Travel Photographs

Traveling is one of the best ways to create unforgettable memories, but let’s be honest—half the fun is capturing those memories with stunning photographs to relive the adventure and share with others. Whether you're snapping sunsets, bustling city streets, or breathtaking landscapes, taking the perfect shot often requires a bit of planning and creativity.

I’ve learned a lot through my own experiences (and some epic fails), so I’m here to share tips that will help you elevate your travel photography game. Whether you're a seasoned shutterbug or just starting out, these suggestions will help you capture your adventures in all their glory.

That zoom lens though

Always ensure you have that shutter speed correct

Find Inspiration Before You Travel

Great travel photography starts before you even leave home. Browse Instagram, Pinterest, and photography blogs to see what others have captured at your destination. Check hashtags like #TravelPhotography or #YourDestinationName to find unique perspectives.

Personally, I love looking through travel magazines or even old National Geographic issues—there’s something magical about seeing a place through a professional lens. Make a list of iconic spots you’d like to capture but don’t forget to scout out lesser-known areas too. Sometimes, the hidden gems are the ones that make your photos stand out.

2. Pack a Drone for Aerial Shots

If you want to truly wow your audience (and yourself), invest in a drone. Aerial photography offers a perspective that can make even the most ordinary landscapes look extraordinary. Picture a bird’s-eye view of a winding road cutting through a forest or a sprawling cityscape at sunset.

Drones do come with a learning curve, though, so practice before your trip. Check local regulations—some places have strict rules about where you can and cannot fly. Trust me, nothing ruins a travel adventure faster than a fine or confiscated gear.

Aerial Selfie Stick

Drones make it ever so easy to capture that perfect selfie, landscape shot or aerial perspectives.

3. Take a Tripod for Those Stable Shots

Tripods might seem bulky, but they’re invaluable for travel photography. They’re essential for long-exposure shots (hello, starry skies and silky waterfalls!) or when you want to be in the photo yourself without relying on strangers.

When choosing a tripod, go for one that’s lightweight and compact but sturdy enough to handle your camera. If you’re traveling light, a mini tripod can work wonders for quick setups. And don’t forget to experiment—tripods aren’t just for nighttime shots; they’re great for framing those perfectly balanced compositions during the day too.

4. Carry Extra Storage Devices

There’s nothing worse than running out of storage space mid-trip. I’ve been there—standing in front of a once-in-a-lifetime view and frantically deleting old photos to make room. Avoid this nightmare by bringing plenty of storage options.

Pack multiple memory cards (trust me, one is never enough), and consider a portable SSD or an external hard drive to back up your shots each day. If you’re using a smartphone, make sure you have enough cloud storage or free up space before your trip.

Pro tip: Label your memory cards or drives by day or location. This helps keep things organized, especially on longer trips.

5. Chase the Best Light

Photography is all about light, and travel photography is no different. Golden hour—the hour after sunrise and before sunset—is your best friend. The light during this time is soft and warm, making everything look magical.

On the flip side, avoid shooting in harsh midday sunlight unless you’re going for specific high-contrast effects. If you’re exploring during the middle of the day, look for shaded areas or use a polarizing filter to reduce glare.

And don’t pack up as soon as the sun sets. Blue hour, the period right after sunset, offers gorgeous soft tones that are perfect for urban shots or landscapes.

6. Get Creative with Angles and Perspectives

Sure, you can shoot a landmark head-on like everyone else, but where’s the fun in that? Look for unique angles—get low to the ground, climb up high, or shoot through natural frames like arches, windows, or tree branches.

One of my favorite tricks is to add layers to a photo. For example, use flowers in the foreground and a mountain range in the background to create depth. Experimenting with reflections—like puddles, lakes, or glass—can also produce stunning results.

7. Incorporate People or Local Culture

Travel photography isn’t just about landscapes and landmarks; it’s about capturing the essence of a place. Including people in your shots—whether it’s a street performer, a local artisan, or even yourself—can add a sense of scale and emotion.

When photographing locals, always be respectful. Ask for permission before snapping a portrait, and don’t be afraid to strike up a conversation. Sometimes, the best stories (and photos) come from these interactions.

8. Learn Basic Editing Skills

Even the best photos can benefit from a little post-processing. Editing apps like Lightroom, Snapseed, or VSCO can help you adjust brightness, contrast, and colors to make your shots pop.

Don’t overdo it, though—your goal is to enhance, not distort. A good rule of thumb is to keep the edits subtle and true to the original scene.

If you’re new to editing, start with presets or filters and gradually learn how to tweak individual settings like exposure, saturation, and sharpness.

9. Embrace Imperfection

Not every shot needs to be Instagram-worthy, and that’s okay! Some of my favorite travel photos are the candid, imperfect ones that capture real moments. The blurry street shot of a bustling market or the slightly crooked horizon from a windy day on the beach—they all tell a story.

Remember, the goal isn’t just to take pretty pictures but to capture the spirit of your journey.

10. Stay Present and Enjoy the Moment

It’s easy to get so caught up in capturing the perfect shot that you forget to actually experience the place you’re in. Put the camera down now and then and just soak it all in.

When you do take photos, try to balance the technical aspects with the emotional ones. Sometimes, the best photos are the ones where you let your heart guide you, not just your lens.

Great travel photography isn’t about having the fanciest gear or visiting the most exotic locations. It’s about seeing the world through your own unique perspective and using your camera to share that vision.

So, grab your camera, charge your drone, pack those memory cards, and hit the road. The world is waiting for you—and your awesome travel photographs!

Do you have any travel photography tips or favorite moments captured on your adventures? I’d love to hear about them in the comments below!