How to Travel With Your Camera

Preserve memories by having everything you need on hand and knowing how to make the best use of your camera.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Things You’ll Need:

• Airtight Resealable Bags
• Camera Accessories
• Camera Bags
• Camera Batteries
• Cameras
• Film

1. Pack your camera bag with film, spare batteries, replacement parts and repair tools.
2. Familiarize yourself thoroughly with your camera and equipment before you hit the road.
3. Choose a subject. Try to include people in your shots. If photographing a person, ask for permission whenever you can to avoid offense.
4. Get close to the subject, making it the dominant element.
5. Position the subject of the photograph off-center for greater visual interest.
6. Look for unusual viewpoints, simple backgrounds and dramatic lighting.
7. Add depth to scenic photos by including the foreground.

Tips & Warnings

• A 35-mm camera with both automatic and manual exposure with a 28-mm to 80-mm zoom lens provides the ideal range for travel photographers.
• Pack plastic bags and silica gel to protect against humidity, dust, sand and water.
• Check the seasonal weather patterns to ensure favorable conditions if photography is an important part of your trip.
• Avoid paying local people to take their photograph. Offer to send a copy of the processed shot instead.
• Photographing potentially sensitive spots such as airports, government buildings and border crossings in politically unstable countries can be dangerous. In such areas, avoid photographing evidence of poverty as well.