Techniques and Rules

It’s important to keep your camera steady to make sure you get a clear shot. Even though stability is important, I don’t necessarily recommend a tripod, as they are usually large and cumbersome. Unless you have something small that can fit in your bag, it’s probably a good idea to leave it at home.

Your best tool is going to be the information you obtained before starting on your journey. With the right camera and settings, there are few images that are impossible to capture. A high ISO and shallow depth of field will help you in low light situations. Be sure to have a focal point. Become familiar with the rule of thirds and how it can help your compositions. Keep in mind how looking at something from a different angle can be refreshing.

What to Photograph

Whatever element made you decide to travel, be sure you express that in your photos. Aside from entertaining your friends and family, you will also be more satisfied years down the road when you look back on your memories.

Architecture - From Washington, DC to India, you’ll find architecture that will blow your mind. Get

You Might Want to Take a Picture of This

up close and record the details, but don’t forget to stand back to see the big picture. Be careful about using your flash, as it can create unnatural shadows to make your photos look stale. If you have the opportunity, use a wide angle lens. It will allow you to shoot a small area easily, which is especially great if there are many other people around. If you get out of the city, record nature. Sometimes you may run into wildlife, but for the most part you’ll become witness to beautiful beaches, sunsets, mountains, and greenery.

People – My favorite subjects are people, as they are what makes each culture so different and fascinating. Try to shoot candidly, but again, be courteous of someone’s desire to be photographed. Being hospitable and friendly will get you miles ahead of the rest. These photos are great way to remember the people you meet along the way, and helps put a face to the stories you will tell back home.

When photographing individuals it’s important to soften hard lights if possible. Shooting when the sun is at high noon doesn’t help a photo, so using a fill flash would be appropriate. If possible, use a shallow depth of field or tone down any distraction in the background, this way the person will in fact be the main subject. If you plan on publishing your photos, write their information in your notebook in order to obtain permission down the road.

By preparing yourself before you embark, you can handle anything that comes your way. Since most of us are now in the digital age, you can shoot to your heart’s content without regretting wasted film. In the end, it’s important to shoot what you want. It’s your journey and you should record it however you see fit.

Jessie Barber is a passionate photographer from Columbus, Ohio, who was also a finalist for the STA Travel 2009 World Traveler Internship. Make sure to follow her on Twitter, check out her photography portfolio, her Flickr and her blog.

Photo Credit: prakhar on Flickr