I leave for my UConn Senior Trip to Europe tomorrow and decided to search the internet for photography tips (after all, I want to shoot as much as possible). I found 10 quick, simple tips on how, and what, to take pictures of when you’re traveling.
1) Framing is important: This can mean the rule of thirds, or just knowing how to frame a subject the right way. You want to create an appealing photograph, and the basics are important.
2) The rule of thirds that I just mentioned. Most people automatically want to place the key subject in the dead-center of the frame. The rule of thirds discourages that, placing the subject 1/3 from the top/bottom/left/right of the frame.
3) Seek the “golden hour“: This refers to the first or last hour of daylight. It casts a golden glow on subjects, adding interesting light and shadows to your photos.
4) How not to crop people: When taking photos of people, it’s important to know how to frame them. You don’t want to cut someone off at the elbows or ankles, it makes them look odd. It’s better to crop them mid-calf, mid-thigh, etc.
5) Turn off the flash: I always prefer natural lighting. Learn the aperture and shutter settings on your camera and you can come up with fantastic photos without a harsh flash.
6) Don’t be afraid to shoot mundane things: These little things can remind you of the spirit of your trip. Obviously everyone wants photos of the big monuments and landmarks, but sometimes a photo of a lonely flower or old building can be just as special to your trip.
7) Become your own tripod: Simply leaning against a wall or placing your camera on a ledge can help you take clear photos without a tripod, especially in low lighting with a long exposure. Face it, we’re not as stable as a brick wall.
8) Look for reflections in still water: This adds interest, perspective and frankly, beauty to photos. Who doesn’t love reflections?
9) Consider your options when photographing strangers: Sometimes you see people engaging in activities that are interesting, fun, romantic or exciting. You can do two things: sneakily zoom in on them and snap a picture, or go up to them and ask for a close up. Sometimes having that extra confidence to ask can create a better picture. Grow a pair!
10) Capture triangles: Angles are great in photos. They add a sense of perspective for the viewers of the photo, putting them in the scene. Angles and triangles are pleasing to the eye. Try to find some!
the world through a wide angle 