Taking photos on vacation is a great way to create memories you can look back on for years to come, but are you wishing you could take even better pictures when you’re out there? Capturing photos on vacation is a pastime for some, a hobby for others, and a massive part of the vacation for those of us who are avid photographers. This article discusses places to consider for your next vacation and how you can take your photos to a new level using specific techniques or camera gear.
Better Vacation Photos at Lake Como
Photographing in a Different Light
Most people might assume that shooting during golden hours, sunsets, or sunrises is the only way to get good photos while traveling, but that simply is not true. Places like Lake Como often look incredible during mid-day and in harsher lighting. Never be afraid to capture photos in the middle of the day. It will not only challenge you to become a better photographer but also give you the chance to create incredible imagery at places during busier times. While in Lake Como, I loved getting the chance to capture people enjoying the little towns and the water. It showcases what it’s actually like to be there, in that beautiful place.
This will also give you the chance to test out some filters. There are filters out there that can give you particular looks while photographing, such as polarizers, ND filters, and diffusion filters. Utilizing certain filters for different environments can elevate your photos in different ways. Polarizers can take out reflections and bring more color into your shots. Diffusion filters will diffuse light and give your photos a glow effect. ND filters can be used to slow your shutter speed and capture movement in the frame.
Better Vacation Photos on the California Coast
Create a Shot List
California has some of the most incredible views in the United States and it is also one of America’s hotspots for vacations. It’s a great spot to not only vacation but practice coastal photography on some of the most beautiful coastlines in the world.
Creating a shot list can help you brainstorm the types of photos you want to capture on your trip, as well as give you inspiration to capture your best content. You can use Google or even apps like Instagram to do research on a particular location and save those images as inspiration for your own adventure. This, of course, doesn’t mean replicating the photos that you find; rather, it gives you an idea of the location itself and where some of the best spots will be ahead of your arrival.
Better Vacation Photos in Japan
Capturing the Culture
Suppose you are going on vacation during a particular time of year. In that case, the odds are that you are going during the busier season because everyone typically has the same idea, right? Don’t let crowds discourage you. Photographing busier places is one of my favorite forms of photography. Capturing people in their daily lives, experiencing a place for the first time, or simply asking someone to take their portrait can stretch you as a photographer and give you more memories to look back on.
I traveled to Japan in April, which is one of the busiest times of the year to go (cherry blossom season), and I loved every minute of it. I was able to photograph not only locals but also tourists who had the chance to experience the same thing that I was experiencing for the first time.
Try bringing a tripod out. If you find yourself in a crowded place, put your camera on a tripod and lower your shutter speed. This will showcase the movement of the crowds while keeping your overall environment sharp and in focus.
Better Vacation Photos in Iceland
Accessible Adventure
Iceland has always been at the top of my list for best countries for photography, and considering how accessible everything is there, it’s also the perfect spot for a summer vacation. Iceland offers extreme landscapes, yet the safety of being in a controlled environment. It truly feels like you’ve stepped onto a different planet, but the people are super kind and there’s civilization almost anywhere you go.
Iceland is an incredible place to photograph. My favorite way to capture the country is from an aerial perspective. If you’re able to, this is the perfect country to use a drone to photograph some of the wildest terrain on the planet. If you are lucky enough, you might even be able to visit the island while a volcano is erupting. I was able to capture this event in 2021, and it was one of the most magical learning experiences of my life. Make sure you check all local drone laws before visiting to ensure you fly safely!
Road Trip!
Capture the Little Moments
Some of us are living on a tight budget, but if you’re still looking to go on vacation and capture it, going on a road trip is the perfect getaway. Even if you only venture a few hours away from home for a camping trip, you can photograph moments along the way and capture the faces of the people you are with.
Sometimes it’s not about photographing those massive landscapes, sometimes it’s about photographing those small moments with loved ones. Putting your camera on a tripod and capturing your group simply enjoying time with each other. Perhaps on the road, around a campfire, or visiting a landmark.
Conclusion
Whether you’re taking a trip abroad or simply hitting the open road, there will be moments along the way that you’re going to want to capture. With the right technique and the right camera (the right camera is the one you have with you), you can create lasting memories that you can be proud of, for years to come.
