Article By: Kathy Feather
Contributing Writer

Capturing your travel adventures through photographs is a wonderful way to share your
experiences and preserve memories. Whether you’re using a smartphone or a camera, here
are some tips to help you take your travel photos to the next level.

Composition Techniques
Rule of Thirds
One principle of photography is the rule of thirds. Image your frame divided into nine equal
parts by two horizontal and two vertical lines. Place the subject along these lines or at the
intersection. This helps draw the viewer’s eye to the most important element in the shot and
creates a balanced and engaging photo.
Leading Lines
Use natural or man-made lines to guide the eye through your photo. Roads, rivers, fences, and
even a row of trees can lead to your subject. This helps add depth and interest to you image.
Framing
Use natural frames like doorways, windows, and archways to focus attention on the subject.
This helps add context and layers making the photo visually appealing.

Lighting Tips
Natural Light
The quality of the light will make or break your photo. Natural light is the best and early morning
or late afternoon provides the “golden hour” that is most flattering. Avoid the harsh midday
overhead sun. It will create shadows and cause other issues that detract from the photo.

Adjusting Exposure
Smartphones have so many options to manually adjust the exposure setting. Simply tap
different areas of the screen to adjust. This helps make photos more interesting and truly focus
on your subject.
Reflectors and Diffusers
If you really want to wow with your photos, carry a portable reflector or diffuser. Reflectors help
to bounce the light onto the subject; while diffusers software harsh lighting conditions. These
are especially useful if you’re taking portrait photos in direct sunlight.

Editing Apps and Filters
Popular Editing Apps
Snapseed. This app offers a wide range of tools to fine-tune your images.
VSCO. Known for amazing filters and an easy-to-use interface.
Adobe Lightroom Mobile. Provides powerful editing capabilities with professional-grade tools.
Creative filters
Use filters sparingly to maintain the natural beauty of your photos. Aim for cohesive looks by
sticking to consistent editing styles across the photos from the trip.
Capture Authentic Moments
Nothing is more important than focusing on capturing genuine moments and emotions rather
than posed shots. Candid photos tell compelling stories. Look for interactions, experiences,
expressions, and spontaneous moments that convey the true spirit of your travels.
Share Stories Behind the Photos
Share the untold story and experiences of your photos. What culture and anecdotes
happened? This adds depth, and context, and connects the audience with your photos.
Whether it’s a bustling scene, a serene landscape, or a celebration; let the photos tell the story
and the emotion you experienced.

Final Thoughts
Great travel photos are all about capturing your unique journey and sharing it with others in a
way that’s both visually appealing and emotionally engaging. Remember, experiment, have fun,
and let your unique perspective shine through.
Photo by Dariusz Sankowski on Unsplash