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How to Take Travel Photos: A Complete Guide

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Travel photography is one of the most exciting types of photography you can pursue. Combining two of life’s great pleasures—exploring new lands and taking photographs—is a thrill any photographer would enjoy. 

While travel photography is open to anyone with the drive to get up and hit the road, there are a few things you need to learn. That’s why we’ve compiled this in-depth article containing everything you need to know about travel photography. We cover everything from camera settings to the best travel gear, so keep reading to find out more. 

What Is Travel Photography

Travel photography is simply taking pictures of different places around the world. But good travel photos are not mere holiday snaps. Travel images should show a location in a new light so they’re interesting even for people who have already been there.

Travel photography involves many different styles and techniques. You can incorporate landscapes and portraits into your travel photography. You can even use more advanced techniques like time-lapse and long exposures.

A travel photographer needs to show more than the obvious. They need to explore each location at a deeper level and look for elements that make that place unique and interesting. It isn’t enough to take pictures of the famous landmarks. A travel photographer needs to look deeper and go beyond. 

Far-flung exotic locations often hold the most romance for travelers, but you don’t have to go far to practice travel photography. Venturing to new locations is always exciting, but you can also photograph places you’re familiar with. Using your familiarity to your advantage, you can give viewers a deeper view of these locations.

Anyone can shoot travel photography. The first thing you need is a desire to explore the world, which is something you probably already have. But continue reading for everything else you need to know about travel photography, from techniques to gear.

Mastering Travel Photography

While travel photography is open to anyone with an adventurous spirit, mastering the art does require practice, knowledge, and skill.

Firstly, you need to understand your camera and its settings. You might be tempted to take the easy road and shoot in Auto mode. But you’ll get far better results and more interesting and unique images when shooting with semi or fully manual settings. 

You should also experiment with composition, and you can try both color and black-and-white photography. These are stylistic choices that’ll give your travel photography a personal touch. You also have to consider specific types of travel photography so you’re ready for anything when you’re on the move. 

The following sections cover mastering the art of travel photography. Click the links in the text for more information on each topic. 

Camera Settings

When it comes to camera settings for travel photography, there are a few key things to keep in mind. First, make sure your camera is set to the right aperture and shutter speed for the type of photo you want to take. You’ll also need to adjust your white balance and ISO as you move through different locations.

To learn more about camera settings for travel photography, check out camera settings for travel photography .

A travel photography shot list helps you plan and capture the best photos on your trip. Research the location thoroughly, including famous sights, experiences, geography, and lighting conditions. Look at existing travel photos for inspiration, but aim to create something unique.

Use a spreadsheet to organize your shots by day and time, considering factors like sunrise, sunset, and harsh midday light. Include a mix of portraits, environmental portraits, cityscapes, daily life moments, religious sites, festivals, food, transportation, landscapes, close-ups, architecture, night scenes, and wildlife.

Remember to be adaptable and respectful of local customs. With careful planning and a detailed shot list, you’ll be well-prepared to capture stunning travel photos that transport viewers to your destination. To learn more about creating a travel photography shot list , check out this in-depth guide.

Composition

Good travel photography composition captures the beauty and essence of a destination. Use the rule of thirds by placing important parts of your photo on the intersecting points of the grid. Or take advantage of symmetry by centering the axis of symmetry in one direction.

Direct attention with leading lines, using elements like paths or fences to guide the viewer’s eye to your subject. Frame spectacular views with windows or arches to provide context. You can also use bold colors to lead the eyes or balance the composition.

Change your perspective by moving around, kneeling, or shooting from a rooftop. Get close to fill the frame with your subject or step back to include surrounding context. Play with scale by including familiar elements like people to convey the impressive size of large spaces.

To learn more about travel photography composition , check out this in-depth guide.

Black & White

Black-and-white travel photography can be a powerful way to capture the essence of a place. By removing color, you can focus on the light, shapes, and textures that make a scene unique.

Pay attention to contrast and tone in your black-and-white photos. Look for strong shadows and highlights that create depth and drama. Texture is also important in black-and-white photography, so seek out interesting surfaces like rough stone or smooth water.

Most importantly, use black-and-white photography to connect with your subject and tell a story. Whether it’s a portrait of a local person or a landscape that captures the mood of a place, aim to convey emotion in your images.

By developing your own style and vision, you can create compelling black-and-white travel photos that stand out. To learn more about black-and-white travel photography , check out this in-depth guide.

Unique Perspectives

Taking unique photos of famous places can be challenging, but with some creativity and planning, you can capture stunning images. Start by researching the location and scouting out potential spots for your shots. Arrive early to avoid crowds and take advantage of the soft, golden light.

Look for elevated views or unusual angles to create a different perspective. Use composition techniques like the rule of thirds to emphasize the landmark in an interesting way. Including people in your shots can add a sense of atmosphere and tell a story.

Don’t be afraid to experiment with different techniques like light trails or time-lapse photography . If you encounter photography restrictions, think outside the box and find creative solutions. To learn more about capturing unique photos of famous places , check out this in-depth guide.

Documentary Photography

Documentary photography captures real-life events as they happen. It’s a form of visual storytelling that depicts the world around us. Documentary photographers often work on long-term projects to tell new stories through their images.

You don’t need to travel far to find good documentary photography ideas. Look for interesting subjects in your family or community. Focus on the people involved to help viewers connect with the story. You can also tackle big topics by photographing small, local stories related to them.

Visit and scout your locations before the shoot. Get comfortable with the basics of photography, like camera settings and composition. Keep your story personal and critique your work as you go.

If you want to learn more about documentary photography ideas , we have a detailed guide to help you get started.

Train Photography

Train photography offers a diverse range of subjects, from historic steam engines to modern bullet trains. To capture excellent locomotive photos, research train routes and schedules to find the best locations and times. Use natural light to your advantage, with side or backlighting to highlight steam and texture.

Longer focal lengths can compress the scene and show the train in its surroundings. At stations, photograph details like wheels and logos to create atmosphere. Adjust shutter speed for sharp images or creative motion blur, and slightly overexpose for more detail.

For more insights on capturing stunning train photography , check out our full-length article.

Backing Up Photos

It is important to back up photos while traveling, and an external hard drive is a great option. They are compact, durable, and have large storage capacities.

Smartphones and tablets can also be used to manage photos on the go. With the right accessories, they can connect to external storage devices. This allows you to back up and edit your photos without a laptop.

For the best results, use multiple backup methods. This could include an external hard drive, a USB thumb drive, and cloud storage. By having multiple copies of your photos, you reduce the risk of losing them. If you want to learn how to back up photos , check out our in-depth article.

Making Money from Travel Photography

Becoming a travel photographer takes hard work and dedication. You need to learn a wide range of photography skills for shooting everything from landscapes to portraits. Building a strong portfolio of your best travel images is key to attracting clients.

To get your name out there, create a travel website or blog to showcase your work. You can also sell your images on digital platforms like stock photography websites. Selling physical prints of your photos is another great option.

As you travel, look for photography work with local businesses, such as hostels or tourism boards. Capture great travel content and consider offering tours or workshops for extra income.

To learn more about how to become a travel photographer , check out this in-depth guide.

Travel Photography Jobs

Travel photography jobs can be an exciting and rewarding career path for those with a passion for photography and adventure. However, it’s important to understand the challenges that come with the job. You’ll need to have exceptional photography skills, business savvy, and the ability to handle tough physical conditions.

To succeed, you’ll need a strong online presence, including a professional website and active social media accounts. You’ll also need reliable gear that can withstand the demands of travel.

There are many ways to make money as a travel photographer, such as selling prints, licensing stock photos, writing for publications, and teaching. The key is diversifying your income streams and constantly looking for new opportunities. With hard work and creativity, finding paid travel photography jobs can be both fulfilling and profitable.

Get Paid to Travel

Getting paid to travel and take photos is a dream for many photographers. There are several ways to make this a reality. Selling prints of your travel photos through print-on-demand websites is one option. You can also upload your best images to stock photography agencies and earn passive income from sales.

Entering travel photography competitions is another way to earn money and gain prestige. Winning contests can help you promote your work and attract potential clients.

Building relationships with travel magazine editors can lead to regular paid assignments. Learn what they want and deliver high-quality photos to make their jobs easier. To further your success, get paid to travel and take photos by marketing your photography services to people who have the budget to hire you.

Sell Travel Photos

Selling your travel photos can be a great way to make money with your photography. To get started, ensure you have high-quality, well-lit, and properly composed images. They should also be free of technical errors like chromatic aberration and noise.

There are many ways to sell your travel photos. You can sell them through stock photography agencies, directly to clients, or as prints. Each option has its own requirements and markets, so consider your goals before deciding which path to take.

Actively promoting your work is key to maximizing sales. Use social media, email lists, and other marketing strategies to reach potential buyers. If you’re working with a stock agency, ask them what types of images are in demand so you can plan your shoots accordingly.

Learning how to sell travel photos takes time and effort, but with persistence and a willingness to adapt, you can turn your passion into a profitable venture.

Gear for Travel Photography

When packing for a travel photography trip, it’s important to bring the right gear. A lightweight and compact camera body is essential, along with one or two versatile lenses like a wide-angle and a medium telephoto lens.

Don’t forget a sturdy tripod that fits in your luggage for sharp shots in low light. Filters like a circular polarizer and strong ND filter are small but open up creative options when traveling.

Cleaning supplies, extra batteries, memory cards, and rain protection round out the must-haves. With the right travel photography gear , you’ll be ready to capture amazing images anywhere your adventures take you.

Traveling with Camera Gear

Traveling with camera gear can be challenging, but there are ways to make it easier and safer. Use padded cases to protect your equipment from bumps and knocks. A shoulder bag is a good option for keeping your camera close and secure while walking through busy areas.

Always carry your gear in your hand luggage when flying. Most airlines understand the importance of this and are lenient about the weight of your carry-on bag. To deter thieves, hide or remove any camera branding using black duct tape.

Insuring your gear is crucial in case of theft or damage. Take down all the serial numbers and make sure your equipment is fully covered. By following these tips for traveling with camera gear , you can have peace of mind and focus on capturing great photos during your travels.

External Hard Drives

An external hard drive is an essential accessory for travel photographers. Memory cards fill up fast when you’re traveling, and you don’t want to carry a bunch of them around with you. It’s best to take an external hard drive to keep all your photo files in one place.

You’ll need something durable yet compact, which is why we recommend the LaCie Rugged Mini for travelers. It’s an easy fit for any travel camera bag. You have storage options up to 5 TB, and it’s the most durable external hard drive on the market. 

See more of the best external hard drives in our full-length article.

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Cameras for Travel Photography

The Canon EOS RP is a great mirrorless camera for travel photography. It’s lightweight, easy to handle, and has a 26 MP full-frame sensor that captures high-quality images in any situation.

The camera’s autofocus system is fast and accurate, even in low light. It also offers eye-detection AF for portraits. The EOS RP can shoot 4K video and has convenient Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity.

This camera is ideal for most travel photography needs. If you want to learn more about the best travel cameras , check out our detailed guide.

Mirrorless Cameras

The best mirrorless cameras for travel are compact and lightweight, but still capture stunning photos and videos. Our top pick is the Nikon Z50 . It has a compact body that fits easily in any camera bag. The 20.9 MP sensor produces bright, vibrant images with excellent low-light performance.

The Z50 is also great for travel vlogging. It records 4K video at 30 fps and has an articulating screen for easy self-recording. Built-in Wi-Fi and Bluetooth make it simple to share your adventures with friends and family back home.

If you want to learn more about the best mirrorless cameras for travel , check out our in-depth guide. We cover a range of cameras for every type of traveler, from beginners to professionals.

Compact Cameras

The Sony ZV-1 II is a pocket-sized camera packed with features for modern travelers. It has a high-resolution 20 MP sensor and a versatile 18-50mm zoom lens. The f/1.8-4 aperture provides solid low-light performance.

Vloggers love the ZV-1 II’s 4K video at 30 fps and the special Cinematic Vlog Setting. A built-in mic and wind muffler make capturing audio easy. Real-time AF with face and eye detection keeps subjects sharp.

The Sony ZV-1 II is the ideal compact camera for travel vlogging. It’s a worthwhile investment for creating exciting content abroad. But we have more options in the link above. 

Lenses for Travel Photography

The best travel lenses give you a wide focal range in a compact size. Zoom lenses like the Nikon AF-S DX 18-105mm f/3.5-5.6 are very popular. It has vibration reduction to reduce camera shake and improve low-light performance.

Prime lenses are another good option. They are usually smaller and lighter than zooms. The Canon EF-S 24mm f/2.8 STM is a great example. This pancake lens is ultra-compact but still gives you a versatile focal length.

When choosing the best travel lens , think about the size, weight, and focal length. You want a lens that is easy to carry but still gives you plenty of options. The lenses on this list are all fantastic choices for your next adventure.

Canon Lenses

The best Canon lenses for travel photography are lightweight, versatile, and capture stunning images. Our top picks are the Canon RF 50mm f/1.8 STM and Canon EF 50mm f/1.8 STM . These nifty-fifty lenses are compact, affordable, and great in low light.

Other top choices include the Canon RF 24-105mm f/4-7.1 IS STM for its wide zoom range and the Canon RF 16mm f/2.8 STM for landscapes. The Canon EF 24-105mm f/4L IS USM is a popular all-in-one zoom for DSLR users. It has a constant f/4 aperture and weather sealing.

No matter your camera type, there’s a perfect travel lens for you. Look for a lens that’s light, has a useful focal range, and fits your budget. Canon lenses for travel photography help you capture amazing images around the world.

Nikon Lenses

The Nikon Z 50mm f/1.8 S and Nikon AF-S 50mm f/1.8G are the best Nikon lenses for travel photography. The Z 50mm f/1.8 S offers sharp images and a durable build. It’s great for low light with its f/1.8 aperture.

The AF-S 50mm f/1.8G is compact and lightweight. It also performs well in low light. The 50mm focal length is perfect for street scenes and portraits.

Both lenses are very popular with travel photographers. If you want to learn more about Nikon lenses for travel photography , we have a detailed guide that covers the best options for Nikon mirrorless and DSLR cameras.

Sony Lenses

When choosing the best Sony lenses for travel photography, consider weight, versatility, and image quality. Our top pick is the Sony E 18-105mm f/4 G OSS PZ , offering a wide zoom range, constant f/4 aperture, and effective optical stabilization in a compact design.

For APS-C cameras, the Sony E 35mm f/1.8 OSS is a great low-light prime lens. Its wide f/1.8 aperture and built-in stabilization help capture sharp images in dim settings. The Sony FE 50mm f/1.8 is an affordable and versatile prime for full-frame cameras, ideal for portraits and everyday shots.

Other notable lenses include the Sony FE 24-105mm f/4 G OSS for its all-in-one zoom capabilities and the Sigma 18-50mm f/2.8 DC DN | C for its fast aperture and compact size. To learn more about the best Sony lenses for travel photography , check out our in-depth guide.

Travel Tripods

A travel tripod is a must-have for any photographer on the go. The best travel tripods are lightweight, compact, and easy to set up. They also need to be sturdy enough to support your camera gear.

Our top pick is the K&F Concept Lightweight Travel Tripod . It weighs only 2.4 lb but can hold up to 17.6 lb of gear. The aluminum ball head gives you great flexibility for positioning your camera. And the included carry case makes it easy to take with you anywhere.

If you want to learn more about choosing the right travel tripod , check out our detailed guide. It covers everything from key features to look for to our top recommendations in different price ranges.

Travel Camera Backpacks

When choosing a camera backpack for travel, protection and comfort are key. The best bags are well-designed, roomy, and easy to carry.

Our top pick is the Manfrotto PRO Light Multiloader . It’s sturdy, spacious, and versatile. You can use it as a backpack, duffel, or sling. And it has access from the front and both sides.

The Wandrd Duo Daypack is another great option. It’s made from quality materials that protect your gear from the weather. It has ample storage and the main zipper allows quick access to your camera.

If you want to learn more about the best camera backpack for travel , check out our detailed reviews. We’ll help you find the perfect bag for your next adventure.

Manfrotto PRO Light Multiloader

The Manfrotto PRO Light Multiloader Camera Backpack is a top choice for photographers. It has a sturdy design and plenty of space for your gear.

The backpack is comfortable to wear, even when fully loaded. You can easily adjust it to fit your body.

This bag is perfect for any photography adventure. It’s a worthwhile investment for serious photographers looking for a reliable way to carry their equipment. To learn more about the Manfrotto Pro Light Multiloader, check out our full review .

Think Tank Airport Essentials

The Think Tank Airport Essentials is a camera backpack specifically designed for air travel. It has a smart design, useful features, and fits as carry-on luggage.

This backpack offers secure storage with an efficient use of space and a special lock. The lifetime warranty makes it a one-time investment for years of use.

While it lacks some versatility found in other bags, the Airport Essentials excels at storage capacity, protection, and style. Photographers who want a Think Tank Airport Essentials for their travels will find this bag a great choice.

Weatherproof Backpacks

Protecting your camera gear from the elements is essential. Weatherproof camera bags offer peace of mind when shooting in unpredictable conditions. They feature robust materials and coatings that keep water out, even in sudden downpours.

Our top picks, the Wandrd Prvke , Wandrd Duo , and Lowepro Freeline , have impressive exterior materials that don’t need a separate rain cover. The Prvke’s roll-top design is commonly used in waterproof bags, while the Duo and Freeline include waterproof zippers to secure even the weakest points.

When choosing a weatherproof camera bag , consider not only its water-resistant abilities but also its functionality for your photography style. Look for features like easy access points, ample storage, and comfortable carrying options that suit your needs.

A camera hard case is the best way to protect your photography gear while traveling. The Pelican Air 1525 is our top choice, with its tough exterior and foam-padded interior that keeps your equipment safe and secure. It’s spacious enough for your camera and accessories without being too bulky.

The Vanguard Supreme 46F is another excellent option, especially for adventure travel. It’s waterproof down to 16.5 ft (5 m) and can withstand temperatures as low as -40 C. The customizable Pick ‘n’ Pluck foam interior ensures a snug fit for each item.

For convenience, the Nanuk 935 is hard to beat. Its retractable handle and wheels make transportation a breeze, while the padded dividers keep your gear organized and protected. If you’re looking for a camera hard case that combines durability and ease of use, the Nanuk 935 is a great choice.

Travel Apps

Travel apps can make your photography adventures easier and more enjoyable. Snapseed is a powerful photo editor with a wide range of tools, from basic adjustments to creative effects. It’s free and available on both iOS and Android.

VSCO is another popular editing app that offers a simple, streamlined experience. Its presets are based on real film stocks, giving your photos an authentic vintage look. You can also use sliders to fine-tune the exposure and add fade or grain effects.

When you’re ready to share your travel photos, consider using Spot. This app helps you find picturesque locations and share your own discoveries with other photographers. With detailed maps and tips, it’s one of the best apps for travel photography .

Editing Travel Photos

Editing your travel photos can take them to the next level. There are many techniques you can use to improve your images, from simple adjustments to more advanced processes.

Cropping is a quick way to remove unwanted elements or zoom in on important parts of the photo. Sharpening will make details pop, while noise reduction can clean up high ISO shots. Straightening the horizon line is also important for a polished look.

Other useful techniques include adding a vignette to draw the eye, adjusting saturation and contrast, balancing highlights and shadows, and using digital blending for challenging lighting. For an extra level of refinement, you can even remove unwanted objects.

With practice, you’ll learn which editing steps work best for your travel images. Check out our in-depth guide if you’d like to dive deeper into editing travel photos .

Location Guides

Whenever you’re heading off somewhere new, it’s always best to do some research before you go. Your preparations will be more thorough and more specialized when you have a better idea of what to expect. That means you can hit the ground running when you arrive, and you’ll get better results. 

We have a collection of location guides for some travel photography hot spots. These posts give you a head start when taking pictures in these locations, helping you get unique shots in popular places. 

Let’s drop in on a few of the hottest locations in Europe, Asia, and the US. 

European Cities

Europe is a photographer’s dream, with its stunning architecture, charming villages, and beautiful countryside. From the centuries-old buildings to the cobblestone streets, there’s no shortage of photo opportunities.

Some of the best European cities for photography include Amalfi, Italy, with its medieval stories and dainty houses; Venice, Italy, known for its canals and seafood; and Dubrovnik, Croatia, a seaside location with picturesque houses and Game of Thrones filming locations.

Other notable cities include Prague, Czech Republic, with its historic buildings and Gothic churches; Oia, Greece, with its stunning white buildings and sunsets; and Amsterdam, Netherlands, full of incredible art and historical monuments.

Whether you’re interested in architecture, landscapes, or street photography, these European cities offer endless inspiration. To learn more about the European cities for photography , check out this in-depth guide.

Paris is a photographer’s dream, offering countless opportunities to capture stunning images. From the iconic Eiffel Tower to the charming streets of Montmartre, there’s no shortage of beautiful subjects to photograph.

One of the best spots for photography in Paris is the Trocadero, which offers a perfect view of the Eiffel Tower. The Champs Elysee and Arc de Triomphe are also must-see locations, with the latter providing a great vantage point for capturing the city’s skyline.

Other notable photo locations include the Louvre, with its striking glass pyramid, and Notre Dame Cathedral, which offers both interior and exterior photo opportunities. It’s still striking even after the fire damage. 

For a taste of modern Paris, head to La Defense, the city’s business district filled with skyscrapers and unique architecture.

To learn more about Paris photography , check out this in-depth guide that covers the best locations, tips, and techniques for capturing the city’s beauty.

London offers plenty of photography opportunities, from cityscapes to street photography and architecture. Some of the best locations include the Palace of Westminster, where you can capture iconic photos from Westminster Bridge or the south bank of the Thames. Tower Bridge is another well-known site, offering great angles for traffic light trails and sunrise photos.

The London Eye is a newer addition to the skyline, perfect for creative shots like zoom bursts or portraits inside the capsules. Don’t miss the photogenic wrought iron roof at Borough Market or the beautiful exterior of St Paul’s Cathedral.

For stunning views, head to The Shard, the highest skyscraper in the European Union. Buckingham Palace is a must-see, especially during the Changing of the Guard ceremony. If you’re interested in photography in London , these locations are sure to inspire you.

Rome is a photographer’s dream, with stunning architecture, rich history, and vibrant culture around every corner. From the iconic Colosseum to the beautiful Trevi Fountain, there are countless opportunities to capture breathtaking images.

Don’t miss the Vatican Museum, where you can photograph the famous spiral staircase. The Pantheon’s exterior and interior are equally impressive, especially during the blue hour. St. Peter’s Basilica offers great views of the city and a chance to capture the Pope if you’re lucky.

The Tiber River provides picturesque views, particularly from Ponte Sant’Angelo towards St. Peter’s Basilica. Piazza Navona and Piazza del Popolo are perfect for street photography and capturing traditional Roman scenes. To learn more about the best spots for Rome photography , check out this in-depth guide.

Venice is a photographer’s dream, offering endless opportunities to capture its unique beauty. The best time to avoid crowds and oppressive heat is during the low season or early morning. Sunrise at Academia Bridge provides a stunning view of the Grand Canal, while Piazza San Marco is best photographed before tourists arrive.

Don’t miss the iconic gondolas along the waterfront near Piazza San Marco, especially during sunset and blue hour. For a different perspective, head to San Giorgio Maggiore island to photograph the church and Venice’s skyline at golden hour.

Explore the backstreets of San Polo and Dorsoduro districts for charming piazzas, decaying architecture, and canal scenes. Murano and Burano islands offer colorful buildings and glassmaking demonstrations perfect for photography. To learn more about Venice photography , check out this in-depth guide.

Budapest is another fantastic city for photographers, offering endless opportunities to capture stunning images. From the grand architecture of the Hungarian Parliament Building to the thermal baths of Széchenyi, there’s no shortage of photogenic spots in this beautiful city.

One of the best places to start is the Fisherman’s Bastion, a neo-Gothic terrace with breathtaking views of the Danube River and the Pest side of the city. Nearby, you’ll find Matthias Church, a stunning example of neo-Gothic architecture that’s perfect for capturing intricate details and beautiful stained glass windows.

For panoramic views of the city, head to Gellért Hill, where you can capture the entire skyline from the Citadella fortress. And don’t miss the iconic Chain Bridge, which looks particularly stunning at night when it’s lit up against the dark sky. To learn more about the best spots for Budapest photography , check out this in-depth guide.

Japan is a brilliant destination for a photography trip. From stunning landscapes to interesting architecture and fascinating culture, there’s no shortage of inspiration for your travel photography.

Capture the vibrant cityscape of Minato, one of Tokyo’s special wards. Improve your food photography skills at Japan’s many cafés and restaurants, where every dish looks like a work of art. Take adorable photos of tame deer in Nara Park or sharpen your landscape photography in Hakone, with its hot springs, views of Mount Fuji, and gorgeous lake.

Don’t miss the breathtaking cherry blossoms in Japan’s parks during the Sakura season, usually from January to April. Visit the magical Blue Pond in Biei, go on an adventure in Kyoto’s Bamboo Grove, or document the commercial side of Japan in Shinjuku. For more inspiration on Japan photography , check out our in-depth guide.

Tokyo is one of the world’s most vibrant locations, offering a diverse range of subjects to capture. From the bustling streets of Shinjuku and Shibuya to the traditional temples of Asakusa, there’s no shortage of incredible hot spots to explore.

For those seeking modern architecture and vibrant city life, the Tokyo Skytree and Roppongi Hills Mori Tower provide stunning views of the skyline. Harajuku, the heart of Tokyo’s youth culture, is perfect for street photography and capturing unique fashion trends.

If you’re interested in learning more about Tokyo photography , check out our in-depth article to help you plan your trip and find the best spots to shoot. With its mix of old and new, Tokyo is a city that will inspire and challenge you as a photographer.

Etiquette in Japan

When taking photos in Japan, it’s important to be respectful and follow proper etiquette. Always ask for permission before taking someone’s photo, especially if you plan to share it publicly. If you can’t get permission, blur the person’s face to protect their privacy.

Be prepared to show your photos to the police if asked, and avoid using selfie sticks in crowded areas to prevent injuries. In cafés and restaurants, ask the staff for permission before taking photos of your meal.

At night, skip the flash and use a higher ISO and tripod to capture vibrant neon lights. Avoid taking photos in no-photo areas, of children without parental consent, geishas, people on public transport, and those in the middle of prayer. For more tips on photography in Japan , check out this in-depth guide.

Los Angeles

Los Angeles is a street photographer’s paradise. From the colorful Venice Beach boardwalk to the iconic Griffith Observatory, there are endless opportunities to capture the city’s unique character.

The Santa Monica Pier is a must-visit spot, especially in the evening when the lights come on. Echo Park offers stunning views of the skyline, particularly at sunrise or sunset.

Downtown LA is full of hidden gems like the Bradbury Building with its intricate architecture and the bustling Grand Central Market. For a taste of old Hollywood glamor, head to Union Station or the Hollywood Bowl Overlook. Places for street photography in Los Angeles are as diverse as the city itself, so grab your camera and start exploring.

New York City remains one of the most popular locations for photographers, with countless iconic locations to capture. Central Park offers a variety of scenes, from the Bethesda Terrace and Fountain to the Alice in Wonderland statue. The Brooklyn Bridge is another must-see, with its stunning suspension cables and brick towers.

Grand Central Station and the Chelsea Market are great for street photography and architectural details. Rockefeller Center provides both street-level interest and panoramic views from its observation deck.

Of course, no trip to New York would be complete without photographing the Empire State Building and the Statue of Liberty. For breathtaking cityscapes, head to Brooklyn Bridge Park or find a unique vantage point to capture the Manhattan skyline. Don’t miss the Flatiron Building and the vibrant energy of Times Square.

To learn more about the best spots for New York photography , check out our in-depth guide.

Photography Road Trip

Planning a road trip for photography involves choosing the right vehicle, deciding on accommodation, and mapping out your route. Your vehicle should be safe, comfortable, and suitable for the terrain you’ll encounter. Living out of your vehicle, like an RV or camper van, allows you to stay closer to photo locations and immerse yourself in nature.

When planning your route, prioritize the locations you want to photograph. Research potential spots using apps and websites like Pinterest, 500px, Flickr, and Google’s My Maps. Plot your route, campgrounds, points of interest, and photo locations to make the most of your trip.

Electricity is essential for photographers on the road. Ensure you have reliable power sources, such as a dual battery system, solar panels, or a 12v inverter. Always carry a power bank as a backup. To stay connected, use local SIM cards with data or take advantage of Wi-Fi at cafes and fast food outlets.

By planning your shots in advance and considering factors like lighting, crowds, and unique perspectives, you can capture stunning images that tell the story of your road trip photography adventure.

Inspiration from the Best Travel Photographers

Travel photography captures the adventures and locations you visit during your journeys. It involves many genres like landscape, architecture, street, and environmental photography. Travel photographers often tell stories through their images, focusing on special moments and atmospheres.

There are many approaches to travel photography. You can focus on people, take self-portraits, emphasize landscapes, or try aerial photography. Mixing these approaches can result in a unique style and help you gain recognition as a travel photographer.

If you’d like to learn more about travel photographers , we have an article that goes into greater depth on the topic.

Travel Blogs

Travel photography blogs are a great source of inspiration for your next adventure. They feature stunning images from around the world and provide useful tips for capturing your own travel photos.

Some of the best travel photography blogs cover a wide range of topics, from destination guides to photography tutorials. They showcase the work of talented photographers who have explored every corner of the globe.

Whether you’re planning your next trip or simply looking for some armchair travel, these blogs are sure to inspire you. To discover some of the best travel photography blogs to follow in 2024, check out this list of top picks.

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Have a passion for travel photography but not sure how to take it further? This post covers careers, what gear is best, and tips for improving!

Learn | Photography Guides | By Ashley Darrow

Travel photography is one of the most exciting styles of photography, but it can also be one of the most intimidating to get started with.

I’m at my most inspired as a photographer when I’m on the road.

Even when I’m not headed to an exciting new location, I’ve started to think about all of my photography from the standpoint of travel.

This guide is going to give you everything you need to know to get started with travel photography.

I’ll be covering everything from the basics, to the equipment you need, to 20 travel photography tips that will improve how you approach taking photos.

When you’re ready to hit the road, we’ll start our adventure with some travel photography 101.

Table of Contents

What Is Travel Photography?

Defining travel photography can be a little bit challenging as this is one of the most open and free categories of photography.

In general, travel photography involves documenting people, landscapes, and cultures anywhere in the world.

Your travel photography counts whether you have to hike for thousands of miles or you took a 10-minute bus ride from your home.

Travel photography can be done by career professionals working for major magazines like National Geographic or it can be done as part-time freelance work.

Many travel photographers make their money by taking contract work from tourism departments or brands looking for product photography shot on location.

Travel photographers often find themselves working in challenging conditions. There’s a good chance that you’re going to be snapping pics in low light conditions , rough weather, or even half a world away from the comfort of your own bed.

•  Related: 77 useful travel tips for photographers

What Does Travel Photography Include?

Image Credit: Sam Forson

Travel photography incorporates countless different styles.

Travel photographers often take landscape photographs, architectural photographs , as well as street photography. It’s also common to see food photography and documentary work being done by travel photographers.

As a travel photographer, your goal is to capture and express the story of a particular time and place. You’ll be giving people a taste of what’s happening in the moment while you’re in a particular location.

How Much Do Travel Photographers Make?

Travel photography is made up of a wide range of styles, but it’s also made up of a wide range of pay rates.

If you’re lucky enough to land a staff photography job with a major magazine, you could wind up with a six-figure salary. However, freelance travel photographers can make as little as around $18,000 a year.

Beginner travel photographers often make even less than that as they start to piece together their career.

Part of your pay as a travel photographer will come in the form of comped travel expenses. It’s pretty common for travel photographers to take a job with a tourism department that includes free transportation and lodging as part of their payment.

Is travel photography in demand?

Travel photography is in high demand.

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This demand is being driven by tourism departments, brands looking for more engaged lifestyle photography , and the rise of social media making travel photography a viable path for a content creator.

There are more people taking travel photos than ever before which means that you’re also going to have a lot more competition despite there being more job openings.

How Do I Become a Travel Photographer?

Image Credit: Kamaji Ogino

Becoming a travel photographer is pretty similar to how you would start up almost any photography career.

If you’re a total beginner, you want to start by mastering the craft of working behind the camera. This means learning how to stay in control of your exposure, frame captivating shots, and just get comfortable taking pictures wherever you go.

Here’s a basic outline of the steps you’ll take to start your travel photography career.

• Learn your photography basics
• Identify your travel photography niches
• Build your portfolio
• Grow a social media presence
• Begin reaching out to clients
• Publish your photography
• Grow your business by reaching out to bigger clients
• Continue to promote your work
• Have fun traveling!

I should note that plenty of travel photographers also crowdfund parts of their career.

Building a presence on social media sites like YouTube and connecting that to your crowdfunding platform of choice is a great way to bring in some additional money.

What Equipment is Needed for Travel Photography?

Image Credit: Hiren Lad

In all my years of photography, the one thing I’ve learned is that if there’s anything photographers love nearly as much as taking pictures, it’s talking about their gear.

Whether you see this equipment as the tools of your trade or the raw materials of your art, you’re going to need some equipment to get started with travel photography.

I’m going to cover the standard gear that most travel photographers will gravitate towards, but I’ll also be talking about different setups for film photographers and mobile photography.

I’m going to kick things off with the absolute must: a camera.

You’re not going to get very far in your career as a Travel Photographer without a camera. I’m being a little silly here, but it’s not just as simple as picking up any random mirrorless camera for travel blogging .

So, what camera is best for travel photography?

The absolute best cameras for travel photography are going to be, no surprises here, the latest mirrorless releases from the big-name brands like Sony, Camera, and Nikon.

Those cameras are packed full of the latest features and offer some of the best image quality.

You can also get amazing results, and save money, by picking up older cameras. My Sony a7s II is still my main camera body and my Canon 5D Classic, which was released way back in 2005, still takes pictures that get people asking me “How did you do that?”

You don’t need to spend a lot of money on your travel photography camera. A skilled photographer will be able to take amazing pictures using a point and shoot digital camera from the 90s. It’s craft that makes the photographer, not gear.

Travel photography can also be done with your smartphone. There are plenty of professional photographers out there primarily shooting on smartphones.

I also want to highlight film cameras. Film is the historic origin of our art form. Any film camera from a toy lomography camera to a professional large format camera can help us see our travels in a new way.

With all of that said, there are a few important features that you should look for in a travel photography camera.

• Weather sealed designs are much more important when you’re trekking through unknown territory than when you’re at home in the studio
• Your camera should also be ready for the road. Just like your car, you should take your camera in for a tune-up before a long trip
• Double-check for the specs that matter most to you. For me, that’s low-light performance and color science

Your camera is only half the equation which means we need to take a look at the lenses that will be going on this journey with you.

• Related: How to choose a camera and what is the best camera for travel photography?

I bet you’re wondering which lens is best for travel photography? You don’t need to worry, I’ll walk you through my top pics for a travel lens whether you’re shooting on a brand-new Sony mirrorless camera or you plan on taking a Canon 5D Classic on the road.

The first place you need to start is by asking yourself the most essential question in photography: What types of pictures do I plan on taking?

Here’s a quick breakdown of my recommendations for travel photography lenses based on my experience for a variety of photographic styles and budgets.

• Standard Zoom Lens —A standard zoom lens like the classic 24 to 70mm is the go-to travel lens for so many photographers I know. This lens easily handles street photographs, landscapes, and portraits. Pick this to make a flexible one-lens kit
• Wide Angle Zoom Lens —Wide angle zooms are better suited for photographers who know they’ll be shooting landscapes and architecture. If your wide angle zoom goes up to 35mm, then you can even get away with using that as your every-day lens
• Wide to Telephoto —These lenses have focal length ranges like 24 to 105mm. They are usually affordable alternatives to pro-level lenses that can still capture stunning images. You’ll want this lens if your main concerns are budget and stylistic flexibility
• Telephoto Zoom Lenses —These massive lenses typically top out at 200mm or 400mm focal lengths and are ideal for wildlife, bird, and sports photography. Their size, weight, and cost make them less flexible than other options, but these lenses are a must-have for photographers interested in the styles I just mentioned
• Pancakes and Nifty Fifties —Pancakes lenses have such a small profile they double as a body cap while the iconic Nifty Fifty is a budget 50mm with a huge fanbase. These lenses are perfect for photogs who want to stay ultralight or for anyone who wants an emergency backup lens.
• THAT lens —We all have a lens that, despite never getting much use, we just can’t seem to leave at home. Mine is the Helios 44-2. I take that lens on pretty much every trip even if it doesn’t get much use. Allow yourself a little room for that “fun” lens and you might be surprised by how much use it gets over time

I always have at least two lenses on me when I’m traveling—just in case.

I once dropped an expensive prime lens and watched it roll off the edge of a mountain in the desert. Luckily, I had a pancake lens in my bag so the photography trip wasn’t a total loss.

Ever since then, not only do I treat each of my lenses with the utmost care, but I also make sure but I’ve got backup options on hand.

• Related: How to choose a camera lens and best lenses for travel photography .

Travel Photography Bag

Just like with lenses and camera bodies, you have a few options to consider when it comes to picking the right travel bag for your next adventure.

Before I get too far into talking about camera bags, here’s the five things I always consider when I’m packing a bag for my next trip.

• Camera Bag Size —Size is one of the most important things to look at when shopping for a new travel photography bag. You want to find a bag that’s going to comfortably fit all of your equipment without causing too much strain on your back. Sling bags are great for days out in the city with light gear, but you should look for a comfortable backpack if you plan on covering some serious distance with your gear
• Pack Weight —Here’s a quick piece of advice I picked up from hiking. Your maximum pack weight should only ever be 20% of your total body weight. This means that if you weigh 200 lb, the heaviest your camera bag should ever be is 40 lb. The lighter, the better
• Features —There are some features that I consider an absolute must have in any of my travel camera bags including rugged build quality, plenty of padding and protection for my gear, and easy access to at least my main camera body and lens so I can shoot on the fly
• Style —You could buy the most technically perfect travel camera bag, but if you don’t actually like the way it looks you’re never going to take it on a trip. I definitely believe that form should be second to function when it comes to camera bags, but I’d also be lying if I said it wasn’t a huge factor in my camera bag purchasing decisions
• Your Gear —Your gear is actually going to dictate the type of bag that you’ll be looking for. A travel photographer shooting on a Leica Q2 can get away with a much smaller bag than a photographer shooting with a Canon 1DX

I also typically bring a packable backpack with me as part of my kit. This could be a really lightweight sling bag or something like the Lowepro Runabout.

This lets me leave the bulk of my gear at my hotel when I just want to have a quick trip around a new city taking pictures.

• Related: How to choose a camera bag

Tripods for Travel Photography 

Tripods are an interesting—and somewhat contested—piece of the travel photography puzzle. I never used to take a tripod with me while traveling and that’s because most of my photography was shot street style which means lightweight and handheld.

However, the more I get into film photography and more interesting exposures, the more I find myself relying on my travel tripod.

My absolute number one pick for an adventure tripod would have to be the Peak Design Travel Tripod . It’s fairly lightweight, intelligently designed, and packs down small enough to fit in most of my bags.

Depending on the type of photography you’re looking to capture, you can also use tripods like a gorilla pod or even just take the tripod you have—even though it might be a little larger and heavier than would be ideal for travel.

This roundup of the 7 best travel tripods is a great place to get started if you’re shopping for something designed for the road.

Do I Need a Tripod for Travel Photography?

I’m going to dig into this mild controversy for just a moment. The question of whether or not you need a travel tripod to begin with is the source of some debate for photographers.

Honestly, the answer is maybe. It really depends on the type of pictures that you’re hoping to capture and your personal style as a photographer.

If you like to run and gun while capturing slices of life on busy city streets, you probably don’t need to bring a tripod with you.

Styles of photography that are highly mobile and rely on fast composition changes typically ditch the added stabilization that a tripod brings because it just slows them down too much.

Tripods might also not work for certain events and organizations. Trying to set up a tripod during a rock concert is a recipe for disaster and some museums won’t even let you bring in a tripod unless you pay their professional photography fees.

Then again, there are a few types of photography that absolutely need a tripod in order to work. Long exposures, shooting in dimly lit situations, and using some telephoto zoom lenses pretty much mandate shooting on a tripod.

The long and short of this is that owning a tripod and learning how to use it will make you a better photographer, but it’s not quite a mandatory piece of your travel photography kit.

The Camera Accessories I Always Forget for Travel Photography!

There are so many small accessories that are vital for digital photography that I find myself constantly forgetting. Far from being little odds and ends, these are essential parts of my kit that I’ve started to just leave in my travel bag so I never have to worry about packing them.

I’m talking about SD cards , microfiber cloths, sensor cleaning kits, and all those other little things that you might not miss until you’re in the field and you’ve got a speck of sand on your sensor ruining your shots.

I’ve started making a checklist that contains all these little items before I pack out. There’s nothing more defeating than being in some beautiful destination and realizing you only have enough space on your memory card for a few dozen more shots.

This is the checklist that I use for your average trip. Feel free to adjust things based on the gear that you use.

• Sensor cleaning swab x 2
• Lens cleaning Spray
• Microfiber cloth
• Spare camera batteries for each camera
• Memory cards—one in each camera, extra in the bag
• External SSD if I’ll need to backup files while traveling
• iPad for editing, emailing, and posting pics on socials
• Camera strap
• Camera body cap and rear lens cap
• Remote shutter release
• Chargers and cables

Lighting for Travel Photography 

Lighting is a bit of an interesting topic when it comes to travel photography. We don’t often associate this incredibly mobile genre of photography with the piece of equipment that defines studio work, but there’s some great reasons to take some lights with you on your next trip.

Photographers like Briscoe Park are doing incredible work mixing bold, almost giallo, lighting styles with travel photography. There’s also a wealth of photographers using the dark nights of remote locations as canvases for their light paintings.

I started taking a few small lights with me when I hit the road and it’s definitely pushing my abilities behind the camera.

Lights like the Aputure MC and MC Pro are great for adding lights to portraits, throwing splashes of color into images, or creating other-worldly scenes. The Infinibar or MT Pro, also from Aputure, are solid choices for light painting .

Even something small like the Lume Cube can help gain control over lighting while away from the studio. Just don’t try to haul around your old tungsten lights on your next trip!

Mobile Travel Photography Gear

Before you start thinking travel photography requires a mountain of expensive equipment, you might be reading this article on the only device you need to get started with travel photography.

That’s right, smartphone cameras have come a long way and they are perfectly capable of being your main camera body for traveling adventure photography .

Even though your smartphone is essentially a pocket camera that can surf the internet and make phone calls, you still might want to add some extra gear to make the most out of being a mobile travel photographer.

My biggest recommendation would be to pick up a Moment smartphone case and a few Moment lenses.

These lenses will dramatically change your composition and help make your images look a bit more professional and a bit less like a quick shot on a smartphone.

A lightweight Gorillapod, a photo editing app like Lightroom mobile, and a power bank to keep you charged are a few must-haves.

This might sound a little unconventional, but my smartphone is one of the cameras I use the most. It’s lightweight, can take high quality pictures, and it can be a great budget alternative to expensive cameras because you probably already own one.

I almost never leave the house without throwing one or two Moment lenses in my bag. This is true whether I’m going on a 10-minute walk to the store or I’m about to hop on a 10-hour flight.

Travel Film Photography Gear

Is there any sound more relaxing than the shutter of a film camera when you’re deep in the woods or on top of a mountain ridgeline?

I don’t think so and that’s one of the reasons why I tend to travel with film photography equipment.

Film photography is almost a completely different animal than digital photography. You have to be much more engaged with your subject, composition, and exposure since you only have a few frames before your roll is spent.

Here’s a quick list of the film photography gear that I travel with. Just as a quick note, I’m leaving out things like tripods and camera bags that overlap with digital photography.

• Gallon zip-top bag to store film
• Permanent marker to jot notes on the side of a film canister
• Light meter
• Film (I always try to bring one more roll than I think I’ll need—just in case)

Read our guide to film photography for more tips.

20 Tips to Help You Improve Your Travel Photography

Want to improve your travel photography? I’ve put together 20 travel photography tips to help you up your game the next time you take your camera on vacation.

These tips are going to cover everything from advice for total beginners to some really interesting things that caught me by surprise while I’ve been on tour with my camera.

Tip 1—Get Comfortable With Your Gear Before You Travel 

Image Credit: Amar Preciado

This is my number one tip for travel photography because it applies to experienced photographers as well as beginners. Before you head out on your big trip, take some time to get comfortable with your equipment.

This means packing your camera bag just like you’re going to for your travel photography trip and wearing it around your home city or just walking around your neighborhood.

There’s nothing worse than being hundreds, or thousands, of miles from home only to find out that you actually don’t like that brand new camera bag you bought.

Giving all of your gear a comfortable trial run ahead of time ensures that you don’t run into any sudden surprises while you’re traveling.

I’ve started doing this with all of my travel photography gear and it’s hard to express just how much it’s helped me. Most of the time I’m just adjusting my backpack to make sure it’s got a comfortable fit for a long day of hiking, but there have also been times where I realized that piece of my equipment just wasn’t right for me.

This will also help make things easier when you’re out there taking pictures.

It can be a little stressful to try and line up the right composition in a busy downtown neighborhood of a foreign city. Knowing your gear inside and out will give you a huge confidence boost when you need it the most.

Tip 2—Set Your Travel Photography Intentions 

This might seem like a silly question to ask, but why do you want to do travel photography?

Setting some intentions and being aware of your goals ahead of time is going to help improve your career as a photographer.

If you need some inspiration for your goals, here’s a few that I’ve used in the past.

• Have at least 5 new pictures that I can turn into prints once I’m home
• Spend two days on location, day one focuses on lifestyle photography while day two is all about landscapes
• Get out of my comfort zone and network with other travel photographers shooting the same location

Remember that goals are a lot like onions. They have layers.

Your ultimate goal might be to become a world famous travel photographer with National Geographic calling you every day, but you’ve got to start somewhere.

Let’s say that your goal is to start getting freelance travel photography contracts with tourism departments. You can start from scratch by pretending that you’re on contract to take photos of a particular location.

This will help you with your future goals as well as allow you to build your portfolio in the now.

Tip 3—Always Bring (Your) Camera 

Image Credit: Ketut Subiyanto

Everything starts with the ABCs and for travel photographers this means to Always Bring (your) Camera and always be taking pictures.

You really never know when the right moment is going to strike for your photography. There have been countless moments where I wish I would have had a camera on me to capture a moment that was either beautiful or could have even been historic.

Whether you’re carrying your main camera body, a pocket camera, or even your smartphone, you should always have a camera on you when you’re traveling. Be ready to start snapping pics at a moment’s notice if you spot something that catches your eye.

Worst case scenario, you’ve got another few hundred pictures to sort through when you get home. Best case scenario, you’ve caught the once-in-a-lifetime shot that you might have otherwise missed.

Tip 4—Be Patient with Your Shots

Here’s something that’s happened to me nearly every single time I’ve gone on a travel photography trip.

I’ll be at a historic ruin or in a national park with the perfect shot framed only for there to be dozens of other tourists cluttering up my shot.

When I first started with photography, I didn’t have enough patience just to wait it out. I thought that I would have to spend hours standing at a particular spot waiting for people to disperse.

As it turns out, the longest I’ve really ever had to wait for a shot to clear up has been about a half hour. If you’ve got someone to talk to or a book to read, that’s no time at all.

Don’t pass up on the shots that you want to capture just because there’s something cluttering your frame. Patients will reward photographers every single time.

Pro travel photography tip: Using an ND filter on your camera can let you lower your shutter speed which will cause fast-moving cars and people to “vanish” from your shots!

Tip 5—Learn How to Photograph People 

This travel photography tip can be one of the most challenging to incorporate. Getting comfortable cold approaching strangers takes a lot of social energy.

I know extroverted photographers that have a dozen model release forms printed and ready to go in their backpack. They have no problem chatting up strangers, but it took me some time to build up that confidence.

Here’s a quick template that you can use for approaching strangers for portraits.

Be cheerful and open about being a photographer. You can say something like “I’m a photographer taking portraits today in [Location] and I’d love to take your picture.”

If you’re on a freelance contract or working for a client, feel free to name drop them to give yourself some added credibility.

After snapping their pic, I like to give people my business card, email, or Instagram handle so they can contact me later if they’d like a copy of their photo.

If they say no photos, that’s just business.

It also really helps if you can speak just a little bit of the local language. You’ll be shocked how much more accommodating people can be if you can handle a few lines of the local tongue.

Tip 6—Study Local Laws and Customs 

Photography laws and customs are different the world over. As a travel photographer, you’re going to need to familiarize yourself with local laws and customs—especially when you’re traveling abroad.

Remember that the letter of the law and the local customs might not necessarily be a one-to-one match.

I’m based in the United States and here it’s perfectly legal to take pictures of strangers as long as you’re in a public location. However, social customs dictate that it’s considered rude to take someone’s picture without asking their permission first.

When in doubt, always default to asking permission first. This means asking someone’s permission before taking their portrait or asking permission before taking pictures at a historic site or museum.

Tip 7—Get in Frame 

Image Credit: Dominika Roseclay

This is something I’m still working on becoming more comfortable with.

When I’m in the studio, I’ve got no problem hopping in front of the lens and doing some self-portraiture. However, once I’m out in the field I’m a little bit reluctant to stand in as my own model.

Travel photography is about telling your story. This means that you’re going to need to get in frame for some of your photographs.

Even if it’s just a few shots of you setting up, traveling to your destination, or getting dinner after a long day of shooting, people want to see the photographer behind the camera.

If you’re traveling with other photographers, why not consider making this a game? Challenge each other to see who can take the most interesting photos of your fellow photographers.

You can even take some quick selfies on location to contrast your professional photography. This will make your self-portraiture a little more intimate and warm while your travel photos show off your full talent.

Tip 8—Scout Travel Photography Locations with Your Smartphone

A great way to dramatically improve your travel photography is to scout your locations ahead of time. Before you haul all of your gear on a quest for the perfect photo, go out there with just a day pack and walk around soaking up the scenery.

Location scouting gives you a strong understanding of what speaks to you as a photographer about this location before you even start pressing the shutter button.

I recommend carrying your smartphone or a point-and-shoot camera when you’re out scouting locations.

This lets you take some test shots of a travel location before bringing all your gear out.

Tip 9—How to Always Pack the Right Lenses

I used to be so worried about not bringing the right lenses on a trip, but it’s been years since I’ve felt like I picked the wrong lens for the job.

Part of this is knowing your lenses inside and out. You should learn the basics of your lenses like aperture, how their focal length compresses an image, and which focal lengths are ideal for different styles of photography.

Lenses like the Sony FE 24-70mm f/2.8  make a great choice for travel. The focal length options on that lens easily handle majestic landscape panoramas and street photography portraiture.

I also recommend taking at least two lenses with you for most travel photography trips. I’ll take one primary lens with me that I plan on doing most of my shooting with and a secondary lens for those “just in case” moments.

Tip 10—Staying Safe While Traveling with Camera Gear 

Being a tourist always carries some risk when it comes to crime. Being a tourist that happens to be carrying $3,000 in photography equipment carries a little bit more risk.

Here’s a few tips that I stick with when it comes to staying safe while shooting with expensive camera equipment.

If you can, try to do your travel photography with a group. Even if you have one other person traveling with you, that company is usually more than enough to deter most would-be thieves.

This might seem a little obvious, but you always want to keep your gear in sight. Unless I know I’m alone in the wilderness, my camera bag is never further than an arm’s reach away.

I’ve got a tip for you that I don’t see a lot of people talking about when it comes to traveling safely with your camera equipment. I like to stay discreet when I’m traveling with my camera gear.

This means I leave the branded Sony strap at home and opt for a much more neutral Peak Design strap . I also throw a velcro patch over things like the LowePro logo on my backpack that might otherwise announce that there’s some expensive camera equipment in there.

If you stay smart and aware of your surroundings, your odds of having an unfortunate encounter while carrying camera equipment will be greatly reduced.

Tip 11—Shoot Some Short Format Video  

We’re all photographers here. This means I can be a little honest with you about shooting short form video.

It might not be your main stay, but social media platforms are putting a lot of emphasis on TikTok style videos. If you can incorporate a little short form videography into your travel photography routine, you’ll have that much better performance online.

There are countless ways that you can build short form video production into your photography routine. You could record a 60 second video demonstrating your setup for the shot or even just an interesting voice over on top of a still image.

Shooting short videos can also be fun. Building this into your photography routine is a great way to improve your skill set while you’re also increasing your social media following.

Tip 12—Find Your Voice by Getting Lost 

Some of the best travel photography stories happen because you get lost. Getting turned around is a great way to change your perspective on things and improve you or travel photography.

This is easily one of the most underrated travel photography tips. Best of all, you can do this from the comfort of your hometown.

Try getting lost on purpose by walking through a neighborhood you don’t usually go to or checking out a city that you might have otherwise overlooked.

While all the other travel photographers are gathered at the tourist traps we’ve all seen a thousand times on Instagram, you’ll be exploring something new while catching refreshing pictures of your travels.

Tip 13—How to Fly With Film 

If you plan on doing some film photography while you’re traveling, you’re going to need to know how to transport your film while traversing through airports safely.

The x-rays used in airport security scanners can damage undeveloped photographic film. The more x-rays undeveloped film is exposed to, the more haze and distortion starts to pop up on the final image.

Film with an ISO 800 and above can be damaged by any airport X-ray machine. Expired and experimental films can also be damaged by x-ray equipment.

Some airports now use more powerful CT scanners. These are often used for checked baggage, but they can also be used for carry-on as well.

CT scanners put out enough x-ray radiation to damage film of any ISO. You should always bring your film with your carry-on luggage in its own zip-top bag.

When you’re traveling through security at an airport, you can ask the security personnel for a hand examination of your photographic film. In my experience, they almost always say yes no matter how busy the airport is.

However, it is at the discretion of airport security and I have had them turn down a hand examination of my film. One trip through an X-ray scanner won’t damage your film, but multiple trips will.

This is why I recommend buying film on location if possible. You can also have film mailed to your hotel or to a friend’s address who lives near where you’re traveling.

Tip 14—Become a Traveler at Home 

Traveling is expensive and it’s not always available for us. However, this doesn’t mean that you have to stop your travel photography plans.

If you’re looking for the true zero-budget way of starting a travel photography career, you have to start in your home city.

While this might not seem exciting at first, keep in mind that the city that you live in is an exotic travel destination for someone else.

Try using all of the  travel photography tips and tricks I’ve talked about in this article while taking pictures of your home city. Even if you live in a sleepy little town, there are compelling stories that you can tell by documenting the life and history of the place you live.

Tip 15—How to Find Travel Photography Inspiration 

No matter what style of photography you’re in, it’s easy to get stuck in a rut. What should you do if you’re running out of inspiration before your next big travel photography trip?

Here are five quick ways I stay inspired and motivated as a photographer.

• Start following more photographers on social media to see what other people are doing
• Research historic photographers and get inspired by how they were shooting when our medium was still new
• Check out international photographers to see how people are shooting across the world
• Get experimental by looking into the weirder side of photography with things like film soup or databending
• When I’m heading to a new location, I like to look at the history, upcoming events, and what photographers are shooting for that local

Tip 16—Turn Regular Trips into Travel Photography Trips 

If you’ve always got your camera with you, and you’re always shooting, every trip you go on is a travel photography trip.

A great way to stay active as a travel photographer who has yet to break into the full-time business is to transform every trip you go on into an opportunity for travel photography.

Whether you’re heading across town for a family dinner or going on a work trip, you’ve got an opportunity to do some trouble photography.

Not everything has to be a grand adventure. You could use that trip across town as an excuse to work on catching shots of yourself in transit, for example.

Tip 17—Becoming a Better Photographer 

Every photographer has an area that they can improve on. Whether you’ve always wanted to be one of those photographers who only ever shoots on full manual mode or you’ve been hoping to add sports photography to your travel routine, now’s the time to start working on those skills.

Skills building exercises can be a great activity during your travel photography downtime. You’re not always going to be on the road to an exotic destination and that time in between trips is vital to your success.

Even if you’ve been a professional photographer for decades, there’s still countless things about this art form that you can learn.

Tip 18—Get Your Photos Seen

Now that you’ve got a portfolio of travel photography images, how do you get people to see them?

As with most freelancing gigs, the name of the game is networking. Here’s a few tips for getting your pics in front of more eyes.

• Be more consistent with social media by posting regularly and using hashtags strategically
• Enter into photography competitions
• Ask local shops if you can display your work
• Get your photos published
• Reach out to travel agencies, tourism boards, and parks departments for freelance work or partnerships
• Network with other photographers

As the old saying goes: It’s not what you know, it’s who you know.

Tip 19— Travel Photographer Tips for The Business Side of Things 

Making it as a working travel photographer has gotten harder in recent years, but it’s not out of reach. Here’s a few business tips to help you stay on top of your budding photography career.

Always try reaching out to new clients. Keep in mind that bigger clients are harder to land, but there are plenty of smaller travel destinations that are ideal for a beginner photographer.

You should create a budget for your travel photography work. If you’re just starting out, you don’t need a fancy app. A simple spreadsheet is more than enough for you to stay on top of your money.

You can also try becoming a content creator while you’re working on landing clients. Building up a social media following and generating some income through a site like Patreon can help you stay on the road longer.

Tip 20—How to Tell Your Travel Photography Story 

Image Credit: Ena Marinkovic

You’ve reached the end of my travel photography tips. The last tip, and the most important one, that I’m going to give you is some advice on how you can tell your story.

Travel photography is all about storytelling. This means documenting your journey, engaging your audience, and finding your voice.

Taking captivating pictures without context isn’t enough. Your travel photography needs to speak to people on a deeper level and communicate something yet untold about the experiences behind your journeys.

It’s going to take time to figure out how you want to represent your adventures. The best thing you can do is get started today.

Even if you’re just taking travel photos a few blocks from your home, you’ll be breaking the ice and taking those important steps in finding your voice as a storyteller.

What is the purpose of travel photography?

The purpose of travel photography is to share your journey with the world. Travel photographers help to tell the story of not only their adventures, but also the people and places they encounter whether they are traveling around the world or within a few miles of where they grew up.

Is travel photography a good career?

Travel photography can be an amazing career that is rewarding and potentially very lucrative. It can be challenging to get started, but there are countless photographers who do travel photography as both their main job as well as a side gig.

What is the single best lens for travel photography?

The single best lens for travel photography is the wide angle to telephoto zoom like the Sony FE 24-105mm f/4 G OSS Lens. This lens allows you to capture everything from sweeping landscape panoramas to sports and wildlife photography .

Is travel photography a job?

Travel photography can absolutely be a job. You can make money as a travel photographer by freelancing for clients, photographing destination weddings , or working as a photojournalist.

Is GoPro good for travel photography?

A GoPro can be great for travel photography especially if you’re interested in capturing video and using stills from that footage for your photography.

Even though a GoPro is a good choice for travel photography, you’re probably going to be better served by a dedicated camera if your main goal is photo rather than video.

Final Words

I hope this guide gives you everything you need to hit the ground running with travel photography. If you’re an experienced travel photographer, I hope you’ve picked up a few new tricks that can help improve your next adventure.

I’ve tried to cover travel photography from nose to tail in this blog, but I’m sure I left a few things out.

I want to hear your travel photography tips, tricks, and experiences in the comments. If you like this article, make sure to check out my other photography blogs .

Check out these 8 essential tools to help you succeed as a professional photographer.

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Ashley is a photographer, writer, and film critic. When Ashley’s not writing essays on photography, cinema, and theory, he’s out taking pictures with retro film cameras.

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55 Instagram Pose Ideas: Use these Travel Photo Poses on your next trip

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Travel photo poses are an art form that requires a lot of practice and preparation. Posing for photographs while traveling can be incredibly difficult, especially when you’re trying to capture the perfect vacation moment! Don’t worry, we will share some of the easiest and most creative Instagram pose ideas to help you out. 

We have included photos with posing options with and without props, use of hands, movement, and other travel photography tips!

So, let’s get started. 

Travel Photo Poses + Instagram Pose Ideas: Perfect for Bloggers & Travel Enthusiasts

Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links. If you click one of them, we may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you.

Use of Props and Travel Photo Poses | Outfits, items & more

Using props regardless of the location is a great way to incorporate wanderlust and life into your photos. These creative poses include using flowers, maps, use of hands (peace sign, clothing, suitcase/luggage), and more. 

You can always move away from the camera and just use the movement of clothing and hands to really express yourself and get creative! 

1. Twirl your skirt or dress

Adding some movement to your travel photos can help create an interesting and unique image. If you’re wearing a skirt or dress, twirling it around in the air is a fun and creative way to show off your outfit while also capturing beautiful motion shots. 

Pose 1: Try standing still and throwing the fabric up toward the sky for a dramatic effect.

Pose 2: Lift the loose fabric gently for a more graceful and romantic look. 

2. Cover your face with your camera

Get creative and add easy props to make your travel photos stand out. 

Covering your face with an object such as a camera is a super cute pose as it adds a whimsical and ethereal feel to the shot.

Tip : Try holding a leaf or camera up to your face with one hand while gesturing out towards something else with your other hand. This type of pose can add layers to the shot while also highlighting the features of your environment and creating a connection between you and them. It’s a great way to emphasize the relationship between yourself and the world around you in your photos!

3. Read a guidebook

Use a travel guidebook as a lovely prop to add a feeling of instant wanderlust to your photos. You can show your face or cover it with a guidebook, whichever you prefer. 

Tip: This is a great way to introduce destinations when you are vacationing as well!

4. Hold a map (or travel brochure)

Another option is to use a travel map (or a brochure) and pretend to be reading it or navigating and planning your next adventure.

You can take a shot by sitting with your head down or looking away.  

5. Play with your hair

Playfully interacting with your hair can add a lot of personality and flair to your travel photos. Whether you’re posing solo or with friends, getting creative with the way you style and move your locks can result in some truly stunning images. 

Pose 1: Try twirling a few tendrils around your fingers, and gently tucking them behind your ears for a natural, romantic look.

Pose 2: Or just swaying works too!!

Tip : Keep in mind that playing with your hair doesn’t have to involve a lot of styling or time spent in front of the mirror—just a few simple touches can achieve great results. So go ahead and let your hair down, and get creative!

6. Use a hat, or beret (look back and touch your hat)

Using a hat as part of your travel poses can add an extra element of fun and creativity to your photos. 

Pose 1: As a pose, you can show your back and hold your hat.

Pose 2: Or touch your hat/ beret and look down.

For a timeless look, try wearing a Trilby hat or fedora with some shades for a classic and chic vibe. You can also mix it up with some more eye-catching options, such as berets, or wide-brimmed straw hats. 

Tip : I own hats for every season and berets in various colors! They are not very expensive and you can easily pack them in your carry-on to add a little flair and pop to your photos.

7. Reach for your sunglasses

Pack a pair of sunnies and pose with it. Reaching for your sunglasses is a great pose to add some dynamism and personality to your Instagram photos. This simple yet effective gesture can create an eye-catching silhouette effect, adding depth and movement to your images. 

Try to relax and act naturally as you reach for your sunglasses, allowing your body to move with ease and grace. 

8. Hold a flower and cover your face or just the eyes

Holding a flower and covering your face or eyes is a great way to capture a playful photo. This pose can bring out the beauty of nature while also adding some fun and mystery to your pictures. 

Pose 1: Try holding a wildflower in front of your face, playfully hiding behind it like a mask. 

Pose 2: Or try draping the petals over one eye or half of your face to create a dreamy and romantic look (this is perfect for fall photoshoots as well).

Tip : You can use fallen leaves or flowers, or pack a few artificial ones for the purposes of a photo shoot. 

9. Throw something in the air 

Whether it’s snow, confetti, or leaves, finding interesting objects to throw up in the air can create stunning images with unique textures and colors. 

When throwing something into the sky, make sure you find an open space where there is plenty of room to move around without any obstructions. Use the ‘live’ photo options on your iPhone, or the burst mode to capture the right moment. 

Experiment with different angles and perspectives to create unexpected and creative looks in your photos. 

10. Road trip vibes (car inside or outside)

Road trips are a great way to capture some amazing memories, and there are plenty of unique poses that you can try for your Instagram photos! 

Pose 1: One fun idea is to take a photo of yourself from the car side mirrors . This angle works really well when you have interesting scenery or landscape, as it gives an unobstructed view while also adding a sense of movement and adventure. 

Pose 2: If you’re feeling daring, try peeking out from the side (or add a victory sign). 

Pose 3: Another great pose to try is to stand in front of the car with your friends and pretend that you’re about to drive off on an adventure. This can be especially effective if there are some cool backdrops like mountains or sunsets in the background.

11. Play with an umbrella 

Don’t fret when it rains when you are in a new destination. Instead, make use of props like umbrellas or colorful raincoats and strike a pose. 

Pose 1: You can cover yourself with an umbrella and pose. 

Pose 2: You could even incorporate movement shots by lifting the umbrella over the head – at an angle. 

Tip : If you didn’t pack an umbrella and happen to buy it once you arrive at your destination, then you can choose a color to match your outfits or the location. 

12. Use a suitcase, backpack and walk away

An ultimate travel prop is a suitcase or backpack that speaks volumes about wanderlust and exploring! 

Have your subject (or you) hold a suitcase/bag to create a story of their journey. Use an empty road, or the airport as a backdrop for a unique creation!

Outdoor Travel Photography Poses | Landscapes & Landmarks

When capturing outdoor travel photos in a city or a national park, it is important to find a background that really stands out. A bright and colorful location can bring life to your photos, so look for vibrant wall murals or visually stimulating locations when scouting for a backdrop. 

You can always use your lenses and composition skills to frame the subject, add leading lines, depth, etc. 

13. Crossing the Street

Walk or cross the street and take an Instagrammable image! This works in both a busy urban area or a tranquil rural setting and is bound to engage those who view your photograph.

Try shooting from a low angle for an added dramatic effect. 

Tip: Start early in the morning if you are planning to capture a busy city or landmark to avoid crowds in your shot. Additionally, when traveling solo you will be safe with your belongings and feel confident! 

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Photoshoot checklist & planner.

Planning a photo shoot can be daunting, but not with our planner!

This planner is designed to help you plan and execute a successful travel photoshoot with ease. It includes a checklist for equipment, packing, location scouting, mood boards, and more – everything you need to know to make your shoot run smoothly.

14. Sit down on a bench 

For a more relaxed and candid pose, try sitting down on a bench or chair. This type of photo works well if you’re looking to capture a more casual atmosphere, as it conveys a sense of comfort and ease. 

Pose 1: Try sitting down sideways with one leg in front of the other .

Pose 2: Or take a shot from behind without a face . Using props such as a hat, a cup of coffee or a book can also add some character to your photos. 

You can also add interest to the shot by incorporating elements around you, like trees, mountains, or buildings in the background. 

15. Show your side profile in a cool backdrop

Showcasing your side profile is a great way to capture a striking and dynamic photo. 

Try standing in front of a dramatic setting such as an expansive view of the mountain or an urban jungle and show your side profile. You can even bring props with you to add some extra flair to your photo, such as wearing large hats, scarves, etc. 

16. Checking your phone (in a busy area)

Sometimes the simplest poses can look really great when done right. If you’re in a busy area, try checking your phone as part of your pose for a more candid and natural look. This type of photo will capture the hustle and bustle of your travels, while still showcasing your personality. 

17. Walk away from the camera

If you’re looking for an Instagram pose that will make your followers stop and take notice, try walking away from the camera. 

Pose 1 : Take a few steps away from the camera while keeping your gaze fixed on it—this allows you to connect to the audience. 

Pose 2: You can also capture some stunning shots of you wandering off into the horizon or woods, conveying a feeling of curiosity and adventure that will certainly make your photos stand out from the rest! 

18. Sit and enjoy the lovely view

When visiting a new place, one of the best photo poses you can do is simply sit and enjoy the view. 

Find a scenic spot with a beautiful landscape or skyline, then take some time to relax and appreciate your surroundings. This type of pose can be extremely calming and peaceful, so it’s perfect for Instagram posts that evoke a sense of serenity and relaxation.

Tip: You can also bring something with you to further personalize the photo, such as a cup of tea or coffee, a book, or a bouquet of flowers. 

19. Stand and enjoy the lovely view

You can also stand and admire the view ahead of you! Position yourself in the centre of the frame and then twist a little – if you are wearing a headgear, hold it gently. 

Whether you’re looking out into a beautiful landscape, watching the sunset on the horizon, or just taking in your surroundings, this pose can capture some truly breathtaking photos. 

Tip : Try framing yourself against an epic backdrop like a mountain range or vast body of water for maximum impact. You can also experiment with different angles and perspectives, like standing in the middle of a field or on top of a hill for an elevated view.

20. Throw up a peace sign

Sit or stand and use your hands – show off a victory or a peace sign – enjoying that EPIC trip of a lifetime!

21. Take a photo with your phone or camera 

Take a photo of you taking photos using a phone or camera with a beautiful backdrop. This doesn’t require you to look at the camera, but shows you in your true traveler element! 

22. Put your hand on your hip and pose

Putting your hand on your hip and striking a pose can instantly add some pizzazz to any photo. This timeless classic is an especially great pose for travel photos, as it shows off the scenery while also providing a sense of confidence and empowerment.

With one arm slightly bent at the elbow and your hand resting gracefully on your hip, you’ll look both approachable and stylish in the shot.

23. Pretend to walk (and add movement)

Adding movement to your photos can create an interesting and dynamic effect that is sure to draw the eye of viewers. Pretending to walk is a great way to do this while still keeping the focus on you as the subject. 

Take a step forward and gently move back and forward (or swing) to create that movement. 

24. Frame yourself with something

Framing yourself with nature or other objects can add an interesting twist to your travel photos. Try using the environment around you, such as roads, trees, rivers, and other landmarks as a way to frame your subject. 

You could also get creative with flowers and foliage, positioning them around your body or face for a beautiful and natural look.

For a more abstract approach, try using interesting shapes or textures like windows and doorways as frames. This can add depth to your images and draw attention to the main subject in an unexpected way. 

Cute Instagram Poses Indoors | Hotels, Cafes & Stores

Now that we covered all the possible outdoor poses and photoshoot ideas, let’s go over a few options for indoor photography. 

28. Sitting on the Stairs

Pose 1: Find a grand staircase (or a plain one), and sit at the edge of the step for an angled look. 

Pose 2: Or center yourself on top of them for a more composed shot (take the shot from a low level if you wish to capture gorgeous artwork on the handrails). 

Tip: Always sit at an angle rather than looking straight into the camera. Place one foot in front of the other. 

29.  Enjoy a cuppa

When traveling, taking a photo of yourself seated in a cafe can be a great way to capture the feeling of relaxation and vacation. 

You can capture yourself in the moment of sipping your drink while sitting at one of the tables—this can be a great way to tell stories without using words! 

30. Hold your drink 

Another super easy pose to try at a cafe. 

Pose 1: Try sitting outside with your wine, tea, or coffee cup held near your face, allowing for the natural light to enhance your features and make you glow. 

Pose 2: Alternatively, you could try turning away from the camera for a more candid and relatable shot. 

31. Put one hand/arm up from the balcony

Putting one hand up from a balcony makes for an eye-catching and dramatic photo pose. This simple yet powerful gesture will draw attention to your figure and bring out the beauty of the landscape or the view behind you. 

This pose works especially well if you’re in a high-rise building or balcony overlooking an amazing view. If possible, try capturing the sky in your photos for an even more breathtaking look. 

Whether it’s a sunny day, twilight hour, or nighttime—this pose will make your Instagram feed truly stand out!

32. Snap a Mirror Selfie

Taking close-up selfies is a great way to express yourself and capture memorable moments while traveling.

Whether it’s a classic selfie with your phone at arm’s length or an intimate portrait with a friend, getting close to the camera will draw attention to your facial expressions and emotions. 

I like using pretty mirrors or finding glass that reflects, especially when I am outdoors. This type of pose can be powerful when telling stories or highlighting special memories in your favorite destination, so don’t be afraid to get creative with your angles and lighting. 

This is also great for taking outfit photos. With a little experimentation, you can create truly captivating selfies that capture the essence of your travels! 

33. Interact with a Prop (hotel room ideas)

Interacting with a prop in your hotel room can be a great way to add some personality and storytelling to your photos. Whether you’re traveling alone or with friends, try incorporating everyday objects like books, magazines, food, or clothing into your shots for an interesting visual effect.

For example, try reading a book while lying in bed for a cozy and relaxed look. Hold a glass, and say cheers!

Or bring breakfast in bed to create a more intimate and intimate feeling. 

Tip: And of course, don’t forget to use the items in your wardrobe—a bright and colorful outfit can go a long way towards creating an eye-catching photo! 

Read : Hotel photoshoot ideas

34. Admire an artwork or painting (in a museum) 

Admiring a piece of artwork or painting can be a great way to capture the beauty and emotion of your trip in a photo. 

Pose 1: Whether you’re at an art museum or gallery, simply sit to admire the piece of artwork.

Pose 2: Or standing in front of any large artwork with a contemplative look on your face can make for some stunning photos. 

35. Wake me up look (in a hotel)

The ‘wake me up’ look can be a great way to capture the beauty and comfort of your hotel stay in an Instagram photo. Whether you’re in a five-star resort or a simple inn, getting cozy in bed with some pillows and blankets will make for some beautiful shots. 

You can also try capturing yourself relaxing on the couch, lounging in an armchair, or taking a seat at the mini bar for some creative and interesting poses.

Tip: For extra detail, try adding elements like eye masks, breakfast trays, room service items, and even your suitcase or passport to add more context to your photos. Not only will this create a sense of luxury and relaxation in your images, but it will also give your followers a glimpse into your travels and hotel experiences. 

36. Lean in or Lean out from the balcony 

Leaning out from the balcony can be a great way to add some drama and adventure to your Instagram photos. Wear a flowy dress or a skirt and lean forward (or look out) from the balcony.

Budget Travel Tips : Didn’t book a hotel room with a balcony? A rooftop bar or terrace will also work for a similar look. You can also lean against the wall and pose – play with your hair, look out, etc. 

In-action & Activities: Posing Ideas for Instagram 

You don’t need a Go Pro or any adventure camera for this (bonus if you do, but it’s not a necessity). Now, on to the poses

37. Sit on the floor (swimming pool or poolside)

Adding an extra dose of fun and creativity to your Instagram photos can be as simple as sitting on the floor by a swimming pool. This is a flattering pose as it is perfect for any time of year (plus you can hide your face and tummy). 

Try putting one leg on top of the other to create a beautiful shape and symmetry while also adding some dynamic movement to the shot. 

38. Throw snow – snow fight (in the winter)

Throwing snow in the air is one of the easy poses in the winter. 

Try throwing handfuls of snow up towards the sky for an explosive effect, or running around in circles while letting it fly from your hands for some more whimsical shots.

You can also try having a snow fight with friends! Not only will it be fun, but you can create some great memories while also getting some amazing photos. 

Use your hands to make snowballs and aim them at each other while making silly expressions or playfully ducking away from the snow—this will bring an extra layer of fun and energy to the shot. 

39. Pottery class

Taking pictures in a pottery class can be an enjoyable and creative way to capture the beauty of your travels. 

Pose 1: Whether you’re working on a bowl, plate, or vase, simply holding the clay in your hands while taking pictures can make for some interesting photos.

Pose 2: Or have someone take close-up shots of the clay in your hands as you’re working on it, as this can add an extra element of texture and movement to your photos. 

You can also try taking pictures of yourself in the middle of a creative process, such as spinning the wheel or shaping the clay with your hands—this will capture the beauty and energy of creating something with your own two hands.

40. Cooking class

Taking pictures in a cooking class can be a great way to document and showcase your culinary adventures. 

Pose 1: Take photos mid-action—like of yourself stirring ingredients, plating up dishes, or cutting vegetables. 

Pose 2: You can also experiment with different angles and take a shot once the items are ready. 

41. Stop for a pose while biking or cycling

While biking or cycling, get down and stop for a pose – you can look away or smile shyly. My husband took this photo right outside the Basel SBB to share taking off from the station! 

You can also try different poses, such as standing side-by-side with your bike, leaning against the handlebars, or just sitting and enjoying the view.

42. On a hike (with related gear)

Hiking is an amazing way to explore nature and capture beautiful photos while doing it. 

Pose 1: Wear your hiking clothes and shoes and pretend to walk or climb for a photo. 

Pose 2: Try getting creative with your angles when taking pictures – like get your photographer to stand at an elevated level and then take a photo from there — focusing on the views below/around. 

43. Look outside and ponder on a cruise  

If you are vacationing on a cruise, one of the easy ways to take a vacation shot is to look outside (into the ocean) and then take a shot. 

You can also try standing near one of the windows or doors, allowing natural light to illuminate your features and bring out your beauty. 

44. Have fun on a Tuk Tuk ride

Climbing aboard a Tuk Tuk is the perfect way to get some fun shots for your Instagram. Have your driver/operator stop at scenic places along the journey and snap away while enjoying some of the most incredible views around you! 

Stand on the edge of the Tuk Tuk and peek outside (flowy dresses or skirts are nicer). 

45. Look outside from a plane/ car/ train window

Nothing gives a more wanderlust vibe than a mode of transportation – a plane, car, or train window. 

If you’re in an airplane, try taking a shot of the window – with the subject peeking out. Or switch an airplane to a train ride with views – it is one of the natural poses to capture when traveling.

Solo Shots (without you/your face)

These travel photography ideas are perfect if you are traveling solo, or do not wish to show your face. Use your hands, phone, purse, or whatever you have with you to show your presence and take a shot!

I use this technique a lot when I am traveling alone, exploring a busy place, or when I am not ready to show my tired face 🙂

46. The Close Up

Close-up shots are a great way to capture the details of your environment or an object. You can also take portrait shots of yourself. 

If you do not want yourself in the frame, try taking photos of items that you encounter on your travels like souvenirs, street art, or unique architecture . 

47. Smile at the Camera

Look at the camera and smile – simple as that!

Don’t want to smile at the camera – say cheers without showing your face. Raise a glass and take a shot!

49. Use your purse or phone as your signature style in a cafe/destination

Prefer not to show your face? Use your pretty purse or phone as a substitute. 

50. Hold an item – same as the destination

Another option is to hold an item such as a coffee mug, magnet, etc. to introduce a destination you are in!

How to Pose for Photos as a Couple or as a Group

51. sit down together (picnic, cafe, etc).

Sit down in a park, and pose together – enjoying the lovely weather or picnic. 

52. Cheers, hold drinks together

Hold your drinks, look at the camera and say ‘cheers’!

You can also create this photo without faces and with a group!

Whether a close-up of a couple kissing or capturing a silhouette from a distance with a gorgeous landscape – kissing is simple and makes for amazing couple shots!

54. Look into each other’s eyes

Focus on one subject looking into the eyes of the partner. This is a simple pose and is perfect for engagement photos. 

55. Follow me away style

This is one of the popular Instagrammable shots where a girl is leading and the photographer is holding on and following!

Try to re-create this composition in your next location (or use it when you are buying a new house/ housewarming invites, etc)

Fashion Outfit Ideas | Photoshoot Dress Ideas

Finding the perfect outfit for your photoshoot can be a challenge, but don’t worry—there are so many stylish and timeless looks that you can choose from. 

• Flowy outfits : Flowy dresses or skirts with movement are great options for creating an effortless and romantic feel. They are also very lightweight and easy to pack. 
• Classic white or pastel tones look amazing against a backdrop of nature. 
• If the backdrop is busy (like a city/urban landscape), then plain colors without much print work well. 
• Red, yellow, and white can be used in most compositions (urban or nature)
• Props : Props are also great for adding another layer to your photoshoot photos. Choose items like hats, scarves, sunglasses, and jewelry that you can play around with. You can also bring along items from home like books or flowers for an added touch of personality.

If I have some room in my luggage, I always add 1-2 shoes for photos, a mini bag, battery-operated lights, fake leaves, etc. You can buy these props/items on Amazon.

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Travel photography tips.

Whether it’s posing solo or with friends, it’s important to think about your angles, expressions, and body positioning before snapping that Instagram-worthy shot. 

Here are some quick tips for travel photography poses that will help you take the perfect vacation photo!

The first tip when taking travel photos is to find a background that really stands out. A bright and colorful location can bring life to your photos, so look for vibrant wall murals or visually stimulating locations when scouting for a backdrop. 

If you’re posing with friends on group trips, it’s also important to find a spot with enough room for everyone to stand comfortably.

The next tip is to keep your body language in mind when posing. A confident posture can make all the difference, so think about how you want to be perceived in the photo. 

If you’re feeling shy, don’t be afraid to give a subtle smile or side glance. 

Looking away from the camera is also a great posing idea. 

If you’re feeling more adventurous, try out playful poses such as handstands or jumping into the air with friends!

Finally, don’t be afraid to experiment with angles when taking pictures. You can make use of props like benches and tables to get different perspectives for your shots. 

Trying a bird’s-eye view or a low angle can bring out interesting details and shapes in your pictures. 

Plus, don’t forget to play around with the lighting—a great way to add drama and depth to your photos is by using natural light from windows and doorways. 

We hope you enjoyed this round of poses. If you did, follow us on social media –  Instagram here

Read other posts on photography

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Mayuri is the founder & editor of ToSomePlaceNew. An Indian-Canadian globetrotter, she has traveled to over 100 cities and 35+ countries. Mayuri has a graduate degree in History and is an MBA. She loves traveling the world, capturing historical nuances, and discussing that over a cup of coffee with her husband, Salil. She currently resides in Edmonton, Canada, and plots travel plans to Europe, the Americas, and beyond. 

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A Look at My 20 Top Travel Photos of 2021

The clock is beginning to run out on the year 2021 and that means it is about time for my annual post on my Top Travel Photos of the year. To be completely honest, when the year started, my hope was that this post would be filled with wonderful pictures from my autumn trip to Egypt, Jordan, and Israel. However, the COVID-19 curse put a dent in my travel plans once again and left me scrambling to change my travel plans this autumn. As frustrating as it was to have to push back my trip, I was extremely blessed to be able to go on several incredible adventures this past year. From those adventures, I was able to capture several great photographs that I am very happy with. The purpose of this annual post is to share these photographs with you in the hopes that it inspires you to plan your next big adventure.

However, before I introduce you to my favorite pictures from my travel adventures this year, let me remind you that you can still go back and review my favorite photographs from previous years in case you missed them. This is a yearly exercise that I have been doing for several years and I have linked to the previous editions of my yearly Top Travel Photos showcase for you to review below.

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If you are a fan of my travel photography and you would like to know a very easy way to support me in my quest to keep bringing you travel and travel photography related content, you can give my Instagram account a follow. I post unique travel photographs and travel experiences to my feed at least twice a week and your support would mean the world to me. Like I said, it is a quick and easy way to support me without having to do too much!

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Elephant Seal Vista in California

The travel year began for me with a trip to Southern California to visit my brother and his family. I love getting to see them, but I also love my visits because there are so many incredible things to see and do in Southern California. One of my favorite stops, when I am down there, is the Elephant Seal vista North of Santa Barbara. Seeing these huge and incredible creatures up close is remarkable.

Bull Elephant Seal

This year when I visited, I was lucky enough to visit around mating season, so there were a lot of huge bull elephant seals on the beach. You really have no idea just how massive these seals are until you see them in person. This guy was doing his best to protect a prime piece of beach that he had staked his claim to.

Pinnacles National Park

One of my favorite stops on my California trip this year was to a national park that I have been trying to find time to visit for years. Pinnacles National Park is one of the newer parks in the United States, and it is also one of the smallest. However, what it lacks in size it certainly makes up for in beauty. I think this shot of the jagged rock formations in the high hills of the park perfectly showcases the beauty of this incredible park. If you would like to learn more about the park, I have linked to a visitor guide I created for you to review below.

Condor Landing at Pinnacles National Park

Without a doubt, some of the top travel photos that I took this past year were of the incredible California Condors at Pinnacles National Park. If you haven’t had an opportunity to see these incredible birds in person, you are really missing out. If you think the size and beauty of bald eagles are impressive, wait until you see these kings of the sky.

Condor in Flight at Pinnacles National Park

If I had to narrow down the favorite of my top travel photos from this year, it would be very difficult to not choose this shot of a California Condor in mid-flight at Pinnacles National Park. Seeing this picture brings back such fond memories of seeing these amazing birds in person and just sitting mesmerized as I watched them soar above the park.

Beautiful Santa Barbara, California

Ever since I first visited my brother and his family in Santa Barbara, California, I have been in love with the city. If you love outdoor adventure, the city of Santa Barbara couldn’t be a more perfect destination for you. With close proximity to some incredible surfing spots and the Sierra Nevada range only a short way away, there is always something to do outside. Not to mention, it is the gateway to the Channel Islands, which is one of the most incredible and underrated national parks in the United States. There is some of the best whale watching in the world off of the islands. I took the picture below from high up on the bluffs behind Santa Barbara. In the distance, you can actually see the Channel Islands off the coast. So beautiful!

Beautiful Sunset in Ventura, California

One thing that you can always count on when visiting California is experiencing some of the most vibrant and brilliant sunsets imaginable. This was certainly the case when we visited Ventura, California. The sunset off the beach was so incredible that I was able to capture a number of amazing photographs. This sunset photo is definitely one of my top travel photos of this past year. You can see the surfers trying to get in as many waves as they can before the sun sets behind the horizon.

California Sunset Dreaming

This is another photograph that I took of the same sunset that I am equally as proud of. You can see the young family at the bottom of the screen out on the beach enjoying the incredible view. If I had the time, I would try and spend every evening chasing sunsets as it often produces some of the top travel photos and most memorable shots. If you would like to learn how to predict when there will be an amazing sunrise or sunset to photograph, I have included a guide that you can review below.

Exploring the Porcupine Mountains

As the calendar year turned to Summer in the Midwest United States, it was time for me to head to the Great Lakes to embark on what has become a yearly tradition for me. Each summer, I try and seek out some of the best kayaking destinations to explore. This year, one of the destinations that I chose to explore was the beautiful Porcupine Mountains in the Upper Peninsula of Michigan. These rolling hills (I wouldn’t actually call them mountains) are absolutely beautiful and have some really fantastic hiking trails for visitors to explore. I love this shot that I was able to get that shows the mountains with Lake Superior in the distance.

Beautiful Bond Falls in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula

One of the best parts about the Porcupine Mountains in the Upper Peninsula of Michigan is all of the incredible waterfalls in the area. One of my favorites to visit when I am in the area is the beautiful Bond Falls, which is located just outside of the park. I was able to capture this beautiful photograph of the falls with the reflection in the water on my visit this past summer. Such a beautiful place.

Breathtaking Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore

Without a doubt, the hallmark of my summer kayaking trip was a visit to the infamous Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore. If you love to kayak, then Pictured Rocks is an absolute must-visit destination. It is home to some of the best big freshwater kayaking in North America. It is also where I took some of my top travel photos of the year. The huge rock cliffs that highlight this spectacular coastline are amazing to explore from the water. You can also hike along the top of the cliffs to get a bird’s eye view of this dramatic coastline. I absolutely love this shot that I got when I hiked the Mosquito Beach and Chapel Beach loop this summer.

Kayaking Fun at Pictured National Lakeshore

While there might be some wonderful hiking trails at Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore, the claim to fame for this coastline is the spectacular giant coastal cliffs. One of the most popular ways to see and experience these cliffs is to get out on the water in a kayak and explore the coastline. That is exactly what I did this summer, and the experience is one that I will not soon forget. This photograph of our group kayaking thru the large archway on the coastline is one of my top travel photos of the year for sure. For more information on how to visit Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore and get out on the water and kayak this amazing coastline, please see my Definitive Pictured Rocks Travel Guide linked below.

Pictured Rocks Kayaking Adventure

While the kayaking at Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore was cool enough, having the opportunity to do so around sunset just added to this magical experience. As I have mentioned many times on my blog, photographing around sunset or early morning around sunrise are my favorite times of day to take pictures. This shot that I got on the back end of my Pictured Rocks Kayaking adventure is one of my favorites because the soft light of the evening gives the picture a warm glow. What an amazing moment to capture!

Exploring Leprechaun Canyon

My last big trip of the year was to Southern Utah and without a doubt, this trip ended up delivering some of my top travel photos of the year. Southern Utah is such a magical place, which is why I keep getting drawn back there to explore and photograph. On this trip, I was determined to discover some of the lesser-known spots in Southern Utah and explore them so that I could share them with you. One of these places was the beautiful Leprechaun Canyon Slot. I have explored several breathtaking slot canyons in my travel adventures, and Leprechaun Canyon ranks right up there with some of the most beautiful. However, the best part about Leprechaun Canyon is that it is not nearly as busy or crowded as some of the other slot canyons in Southern Utah. As you can see in this photograph of me, we have the canyon all to ourselves.

Exploring the Amazing Goblin Valley State Park

While Southern Utah’s five national parks may get most of the attention, the area is also home to some truly spectacular state parks for visitors to enjoy as well. Without a doubt, one of the most incredible state parks to visit in Southern Utah is the beautiful Goblin Valley State Park. Much like the nearby Bryce Canyon National Park, the Goblin Valley State Park is known for its incredible canyons filled with amazing rock formations. I love this photograph that I took in Goblin Valley because it showcases both the area’s vastness and beauty.

The Beauty of Goblin Valley State Park

Like most places in Southern Utah, the beauty of Goblin Valley State Park is only enhanced as the sun starts to set. I absolutely love the glow in this photograph that I took of the breathtaking rock formations in the valley that make Goblin Valley State Park such a treasured destination. It almost feels like you are walking on the planet Mars when the sun starts to set and the red rock formations in the valley start to glow with the setting sun. It’s a stunning time to see the park!

A Monument Valley Sunset at Forrest Gump Point

Not only is this photograph of Monument Valley one of my top travel photos of 2021, but it is also one of my favorite photographs that I have ever taken in Southern Utah. If this landscape looks familiar, it is probably because it has been showcased in a large number of movies throughout the years. Most famously, this exact spot was showcased in the 1990’s classic “Forrest Gump”, starring Tom Hanks. If you don’t recall the scene, this is where Forrest Gump abruptly stops his cross-country run and decides to go home. It is a beautiful viewpoint of a breathtaking landscape. I love the glowing sunset sky in this shot I was able to capture at Forrest Gump Point this past autumn.

The Beautiful Alstrom Point in Glen Canyon

This photograph that I took of the incredible Alstrom Point in the Glen Canyon National Recreation Area in Southern Utah could have made my list of the top travel photos of 2021 for me simply because it is a destination that I have tried to reach at least a handful of times in the past and failed. I simply never had enough time and the correct vehicle to reach this viewpoint before. This past autumn I was bound and determined to get there, so I set aside a large portion of an afternoon and made sure I had a high clearance 4×4 vehicle with me. Needless to say, getting there still wasn’t easy and involved white knuckle driving on an unimproved road at night, but I was able to finally capture some long-desired photographs of Alstrom Point like this beauty here.

Posing for a Picture at Alstrom Point

This sunset photograph that I was able to take of myself at the incredible Alstrom Point in the Glen Canyon National Recreation Area is one of my favorite self-portraits of all time. I am absolutely obsessed with the breathtaking viewpoints in Southern Utah and Alstrom Point is one of the most beautiful and difficult to reach. The fact I was able to make it there this year and get this photograph makes me so very happy!

An Amazing Sunrise at Reflection Canyon

For years, the favorite photograph that I have ever taken was one that I took early on in my adventure travels of the incredible Morraine Lake near Banff National Park in Alberta, Canada. While I still absolutely cherish that photograph, I may have a new all-time favorite picture. Never before in my adventure travels have I had to work so hard to get a photograph. To get this beautiful sunrise shot of Reflection Canyon in the Glen Canyon National Recreation Area in Southern Utah I had to drive 2.5-hours a mere 50-miles down an unimproved road, hike roughly 18-miles on an unmarked trail thru slot canyons and deep washes, and camp out overnight in 28-degree Fahrenheit temperatures to be ready to capture this photograph. After seeing how it turned out, it was so worth it!

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Published by Josh Hewitt

Avid traveler and photographer who loves to see new places, meet new people, and experience new things. There is so much this world can teach us, we just need to explore! View all posts by Josh Hewitt

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9 comments ›.

These are great photos!

Thank you so much Laci!! 😄

That Sunrise At Reflection Canyon is one of the most beautiful photos I’ve ever seen. And what an amazing place.

Thank you so very much Coral!! You made my day!! 😃

• A Look at My 2022 Travel Adventure Bucket List January 5, 2022 • 8:31 am

Best photos.

Thank you so very much!!!

• A Look at My 25 Top Travel Photos of 2022 January 25, 2023 • 12:01 pm
• A Look Back at My 20 Top Travel Photos of 2023 December 18, 2023 • 8:23 pm

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Gibraltar is so beautiful, I never thought of visiting this place, your always adorable photography has made Gibraltar even more…

Thank you so much for the kind words!!

Wonderful, very nice article

[…] Late November or late February are particularly recommended as they offer a balance between good weather and slightly fewer…

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Helene in Between

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15 Ridiculously Easy Travel Instagram Photo Ideas and Poses

By Helene Sula

Instagram is everyone's favorite photo app but, it's also my most cherished tool to drive traffic to my blog, make money, and make real connections. I attended a travel blog conference recently and two things were discussed: social media is important now more than ever and so are the messages that you post. Instagram is one of the TOP drivers of traffic to my blog. And I also find that I spend more time on it than any other app. Instagram is a visual platform that lets you bridge the gap between words, videos, and images all in one. It's not always easy to know what to shoot, how and what will work for your account. So I've got 15 travel Instagram photo ideas and poses that will help you master the perfect shot every time.

The key to nailing Instagram is developing a theme or aesthetic that you love and makes you happy. I have a whole post detailing just how to do that! One of the key ways to grow your Instagram is to share beautiful images that align with your passions and goals. But right now, let's focus on some pictures and poses so you can create your perfect ‘gram. I advise having some “stock” photos if you have nothing to post, so you can always have something to share. After all, as far as Instagram goes, consistency is key.

So let's beat the Instagrammer's block together and share some photo ideas for Instagram that will always work.

1. What's in my hand

This one never seems to fail. Hold up your hand in a pretty background and BOOM, you've got a great picture. My personal favorite thing to hold is gelato, like this picture in Venice, Italy. Make it work with where you are, for example, fries in Belgium, a pretzel in Germany, a crepe in France, etc. This is a popular Instagram photo idea but it's eaasy to change up and suit your needs, no matter where you are.

A post shared by Helene Sula | Travel Blogger (@heleneinbetween) on Apr 4, 2017 at 11:55am PDT

Shot in Venice, Italy.

2. Hold onto your hats

I love having a central point to look at in images. I read recently that photos that have a theme that you can look at directly give your eye something to focus on, and make for a better viewer experience. Not to get too involved here on the psychology of our images, but having a hat in the photo creates a great travel photo and pulls in our focus. Whether it's on your head or in your hand, this is a fun idea for an Instagram pose.

A post shared by Helene Sula | Travel Blogger (@heleneinbetween) on Sep 5, 2017 at 6:08am PDT  

Hat found here, can be customized! ( Similar )

3. Sitting pretty

I like to play with where I am in the frame of the shot. Sometimes it's my whole body, other times it's only half of me, or a close up of my face. A good way to do that is to also sit down, so you can give the viewer a chance to see what's all around you. I often find my head might be blocking the mountains, or in this case, the rows of colorful buildings in Copenhagen, Denmark.

A post shared by Helene Sula | Travel Blogger (@heleneinbetween) on Sep 19, 2017 at 4:45pm PDT

Related post: The Top 15 Instagram Hashags for Female Travelers + The Accounts that Will Regram You

4. Sideways glance

I love seeing someone's face in a photo, but I think a side profile works well, too. It helps your eye follow along with what I'm looking at, while still showing you emotions on my face. I also find this to be a flattering angle for Instagram photos, like this one taken in Sofia, Bulgaria .

A post shared by Helene Sula | Travel Blogger (@heleneinbetween) on Jun 2, 2017 at 4:13pm PDT

5. Where I'm headed flatlay

I ALWAYS find it interesting to see what people pack in their suitcase. I claim to be a fairly expert travel packer and pride myself on always carrying on. This is a great way to also introduce the start of a new trip and let people know where you're headed off to next.

A post shared by Helene Sula | Travel Blogger (@heleneinbetween) on Dec 12, 2016 at 1:43pm PST

Related post: How to Find Super Cheap Flights

6. Grab a pal

Whether you're with a significant other or a friend, it's always a good idea to shake up your images. A theme does NOT mean that every photo should look the exact same. Boring!! Having another person in the picture helps give more perspective to your photo and makes an image more fun. It's also a great way to introduce someone on Instagram.

A post shared by Helene Sula | Travel Blogger (@heleneinbetween) on Aug 13, 2017 at 10:00am PDT

Related post: How to Grow Your Instagram the Right Way

7. Looking away

I love the looking away pose because it gives the Instagram viewer a chance to literally be in your shoes. Like they too are looking out on the horizon, the pretty city, or the sea. One of the best things you can do for your Instagram is let people be part of your story. I think this type of photo does just that.

A post shared by Helene Sula | Travel Blogger (@heleneinbetween) on Jun 21, 2017 at 6:20am PDT

Picture taken in the mountains of Wilder Kaiser, Austria .

8. Caught in the act

Think of this as a behind the scenes or more “real life” photo of what you're doing while traveling. I really was devouring pasta in Italy and wanted to share this with my followers. It makes for a fun photo that you can easily caption for Instagram.

A post shared by Helene Sula | Travel Blogger (@heleneinbetween) on May 24, 2017 at 7:20am PDT

Related post: My Favorite Hashtags to Gain Likes and Organically Grow Your Instagram

9. Into the light

Many will tell you it's counter-intuitive to shoot INTO the light, but sometimes it can work. I love a good lens flare in a photo and I think it can make for a really unique shot. I think sunset is the best time of day to capture the light and colors. I love the way it makes images look and adds a fun alternative.

A post shared by Helene Sula | Travel Blogger (@heleneinbetween) on Dec 10, 2016 at 7:44am PST

10. Magical monuments

Of course, don't forget about the main attractions. Sure, many people have photos of the Eiffel tower, but you have your own taste and way that you want to share. Instead of shooting this picture dead on, I shot it with the carousel taking up half the frame. You will have your own unique spin on it, your own style of editing, and so it will differ from the others. Don't forget to change up your view.

A post shared by Helene Sula | Travel Blogger (@heleneinbetween) on May 3, 2017 at 10:15am PDT

Shot in Paris, France.

11. Out my window

Giving viewers a more intimate view of your hotel or lodging helps them see the benefits of where to stay or what you're looking at outside. Maybe it's raining and you want to show the current weather, or you've got a beautiful view, or you love the little nook you've found.

A post shared by Helene Sula | Travel Blogger (@heleneinbetween) on Aug 4, 2017 at 6:19am PDT

Shot in Canal House, Amsterdam, The Netherlands .

12. Rooftop outlook

One of my essentials when traveling is to get up high. This is the best way to survey a city and get that Instagram shot! When I was in Munich, Germany we headed up the New Town Hall to really get a feel for the city.

A post shared by Helene Sula | Travel Blogger (@heleneinbetween) on Jan 3, 2017 at 1:02pm PST

13. Hidden alleyways

I love seeing a different view of a city by heading off-the-beaten-path for some pictures. You'll usually find it's less crowded (so you can take more pictures without 100s of people in them!) and unique architecture.

A post shared by Helene Sula | Travel Blogger (@heleneinbetween) on Apr 29, 2017 at 7:11am PDT

Related post: How to Avoid Lines and People While Traveling

14. Walk this way

A good walking photo let's the viewer come along for the trip. It's in motion and so gives the picture more movement. Which is usually what I'm doing while traveling: go-go-go!

A post shared by Helene Sula | Travel Blogger (@heleneinbetween) on Jul 3, 2017 at 11:58am PDT

Shot in Vienna, Austria .

15. Resident expert

I am particularly fond of the houses and buildings when traveling. It gives you a sense of the architecture, how old a city is, and what they are all about. It usually makes for a colorful backdrop or a neatly lined photo on Instagram. Like these colorful buildings in Innsbruck, Austria .

A post shared by Helene Sula | Travel Blogger (@heleneinbetween) on Jan 6, 2017 at 11:24am PST

Related post: How I Doubled My Instagram Following

So there you have it! 15 ricidulously easy travel (or whatever you like) photo ideas for Instagram. I hope this makes taking photos easier for you whenever you're in a pinch. What even more travel inspiration and Instagram photo ideas? Follow me on Instagram! I'm @heleneinbetween and I update daily with where I'm headed in Europe!

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MEET THE AUTHOR

Helene Sula

I believe that one trip can change your life. It did for me. I'm a self proclaimed home body that quit her job, moved abroad, and more often than not, lives out of a carry-on bag. If I'm not traveling, I'm most likely re-reading Harry Potter or watching "Midnight in Paris" while snuggling my dogs. I'm a digital marketing expert who turned my love of travel into a full-time career. And I help others do it too.

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Travel Photos: 12 Creative Ways to Actually Share and Display Them

Your plane has landed, you’ve unpacked your bags, and you can finally begin to think past the fog of jet lag. Just because your vacation is over doesn’t mean you forget about the magic of your recent travels.

Whether or not you regularly takes photos of life’s everyday moments, chances are you take travel photos while on vacation .

And what you need are creative ways to share and display your travel photos so you can revisit those special moments… and maybe Instagram captions for travel photos too!

Table of Contents

Discover Creative Ways to Share and Display Your Travel Photos

As an affiliate, I earn from qualifying purchases. This page may contain affiliate links. I would love your support through clicking on the links. Read the full disclosure here.

When you return from a trip, are you the kind who keeps all of your photos on your phone to scroll through as you wait in line at the drive-thru?

Are you a photographer extraordinaire yet still have over 2000 photos from a recent trip on your SD card and your phone? How about a stash of photos from your previous travels?

My favorite photographer, Audrey Ann at LiveSnapLove.com , shares a few tips on how to upload and organize those photos if you are at a loss or new to travel photography.

PS. She offers some FREE cheat sheets and some pretty great courses too!

• Free Manual Mode Cheat Sheet
• Free Lightroom Starter Kit
• Free Aperture Cheat Sheet
• Free 90-Day Starter Kit
• Launch into Lightroom Course
• Auto to Awesome Course

Read on to be inspired with creative ways to share and display your travel photos and keep the memories of your travel experiences alive.

>>Related: 5 Best Travel Photography Courses for Beginners

1. Create a Look Book or Travel Photo Album

Over the past ten years, I have created travel photo albums specifically focused on a travel destination or a “year in review” that featured family vacations and epic destinations. My girls often pull out these books on a rainy afternoon. They make a perfect memento or gift for kids and grandparents at Christmas too.

TIP * Make books for each of your travel destinations as a way to journal your travels. If you have never made one, I think you would be surprised to find just how quick and easy they are to make.

Online Options:

2. Create Wall Art

Are you wondering how to display travel photos?

My husband surprised me with a Christmas gift one year of one of my favorite prints of all time. I captured the photo in Lourmarin , France as he and I explored the South of France together. The metal print now hangs in a niche in my front entry and regularly receives comments such as, “Wow, what an amazing photo?” or “Where did you get that?”

• Metal Prints
• Framed Prints
• Turn Your Photos Into a Painting

>> Related: 5 Spectacular Days in the South of France

3. Create a Travel Photo Gallery Wall

Sometimes our most favorite photos and memories are nicely catalogued and filed on our computers but could be used to decorate a room or a wall.

The cost of printing your photos is relatively inexpensive and you can often have them in less than an hour.

Create memorable travel moments in your home that inspire you to reminisce or to plan your next trip.

Take Photo Tours

4. upload to a photo sharing site.

There are a variety of sites that will allow you to store and share your photos:

• Amazon Photos
• Google Photo Sharing

5. Create and Send Gifts to Family and Friends

Beyond the photo books, many companies feature additional products that allow you to use your own photos to create works of art or mementos that you use daily. You can have your face immortalized on:

• Drink Coasters
• Travel Photo Mug
• Photo Panels
• Luggage Tags

6. Create Postcards to Send

Send an actual postcard by mail. What? That’s so 1990.

But who doesn’t love to receive a personalized note in the mail ? Better yet, who doesn’t love to receive a personalized letter in the mail with a beautiful picture that YOU took?

Astound your friends (and the delivery person) with your talent.

7. Use Your Photos as Screen Savers

• Stream photos as a Digital Screensaver on your TV – Many TVs come with streaming options and instructions on how to access your photos
• Use your travel photos as your Lock Screen and Home Screen on your phone
• Purchase a Digital Photo Frame for your home or to send photos to grandparents

>> Related: 15+ FREE Gorgeous Photos: Wallpaper for Your iPhone to Inspire Travel

8. Create a Personal Blog to Share Your Travel Photos

You can create a personal, diary-style blog to share your travel photos and everyday snapshots with family and friends. WordPress.com  or  blogger.com make this easy to set up.

I started on Blogger for my personal blog and found it easy as a newbie to use and personalize. Not only do my girls have a written record of their life, but they also have corresponding pictures from the time they were infants.

Tip * My best piece of advice to couples starting a new life together: keep a blog of your life as your family grows. I promise, someday your kids will thank you.

9. Create a Professional Travel Website

If you dream of creating a website dedicated to travel (or parenting or recipes or whatever) these are the steps to begin your journey:

• Step 1: The Best Way to Pick Your Niche and Choose a Domain
• Step 2: The Best Way to Choose a Hosting Plan and a Provider
• Step 3: The Best Way to Create Your Website

A blog is a fantastic medium for journaling travel experiences (or parenting or recipes or whatever), adding your travel photos, and beginning to share itineraries, tips, and practical advice with would-be travelers.

10. Post Your Travel Photos on Social Media

• Upload Photos to YouTube – Upload to your YouTube channel (set to private if you wish), and you have a virtual album of your trip you can watch on the big screen or send to Grandma.
• Create a Travel Instagram Site – Share your pictures with family and friends or work to create a following to grow your brand. Learn some of the Best Selfie Poses for awesome shots.
• Share on Twitter
• Add Photos to your Facebook feed
• Save photos on Pinterest
• Are you TikTok-er?

>> Related: Inspiring Instagram Captions for Travel Photos

Captions for Travel Photos

If you are looking for Instagram captions for travel photos, check out all of the these posts:

• 109 Beach Captions for Instagram
• 101 Best Travel Quotes for Instagram to Inspire Wanderlust
• 103 Romantic Instagram Quotes for Couples Who Love to Travel
• 100 Inspiring Instagram Travel Captions
• 300+ Instagram Content and Travel Caption Ideas for Bloggers

11. Sell Your Travel Photos

I have not had any experience selling my photos to stock photography websites or online marketplaces. You can learn more about that through research or online tutorials.

I do sell my photos on Just Wander More. Contact me if you are interested .

12. Create a Scrapbook Using Your Travel Photos

Are you an avid scrapbooker? I was always too busy blogging to add one more medium to my efforts to journal my travels, but many of my friends love the scrapbooks they have created over the years.

You will want to collect and save memorabilia from your trip such as ticket stubs, vouchers, a napkin, postcards, and receipts. And the hardcopy scrapbooks will give you a great excuse to print your photos and then look back through the pages.

Travel Photography Tips

Whether you are a traveler extraordinaire who hopes to take better travel photos, you want to explore the world of posting on social media, you are a mom who snaps pictures of her family  wherever you go , OR you want to UP your photography game, learning a few of the basics will help to improve the quality of your photographs.

• Plan your shots
• Edit photos and be willing to delete (sometimes that’s the hardest thing to do)
• Avoid visiting popular sites at popular times
• Avoid crowds and tour groups if possible
• Have your camera settings dialed in and act fast
• Have your phone ready to go as a back up
• Stand so people in the background are hidden from view
• Take day trips to lesser known destinations
• Simply ask people to move
• Use the crowd in your shot

>> Related: Tips to Take Better Travel Photos

Permission Granted to Delete Some Travel Photos

<GASP>

Did I really just suggest that you should DELETE some of your travel photos? Yes. Yes, I did.

In case YOU need to hear this today, I am giving you permission to delete some of your photos. Yes! You.

Why? You need to get rid of your photo clutter too.

Pictures to Delete:

• So the burst of pictures you took of the Eiffel Tower? You only need one from that angle
• Blurry or badly composed photos
• Unflattering photos of you or your family members (unless you need them for future blackmail opportunities!)
• Screenshots – Are you snapping a quick pic of your train ticket so you won’t forget your seat number? Delete it
• Selfies – Only keep the ones that are really great
• Reminders – I often take pictures of restaurant names, city names, etc. as I travel. These pics are NOT my best work. They are informational. You don’t need to keep them once you have retrieved the information you need
• Super short video clips
• Memes, recipes, kids’ school work that you sent to grandma. Delete it or create a file for them and download it
• Unintentional Photos or Videos – How many videos or photos did you snap that you didn’t even realize you took? You don’t need that shot of your left leg. Delete it .

Composition Tips

• Consider the light and your light sources
• Use the rule of thirds
• Try to not have objects sprouting out of your subject’s head
• Use natural frames
• Find leading lines as you compose your photo
• Shoot from a creative angle
• Try to capture a reflection
• Focus on the eyes
• Make sure your focus is spot on

And don’t forget to STRAIGHTEN YOUR PHOTOS PEOPLE! This happens to be a pet peeve of mine.

I am insanely talented at taking photos that are not straight, ie., the horizon slants horribly to the right.

When I get home and look at the wonkiness of the horizon or the leaning tower of anything in my travel photos, I wonder how I could have taken such a crooked photo!

If this is you as well, not to worry: photo editing programs allow you to crop and straighten the horizon or buildings or whatever on all of your photos.

I go more in depth on Photography Composition Tips, Taking Vacation Photos, How to Improve Your Photography Skills, Camera Equipment, and Tips for Looking Awesome to Take Better Travel Photos of YOU in my post Tips to Take Better Travel Photos . Check it out!

Photography Travel Gear

I take photos everyday and everywhere. Sometimes I quickly grab my phone before the opportunity is gone, and sometimes I use my DSLR for a well-composed quality shot.

And…sometimes when I travel, I have both my phone and my camera ready to go (I look like such a tourist!)

You may encounter people who are passionate about their brand of camera. There has long been a debate about which camera brand is the best—Sony, Canon, Nikon, etc. The answer?  Whatever camera you have with you !!!

Here are a few ideas for your photography travel gear options:

• Point and Shoot Camera
• Underwater Camera
• Mid-range DSLR
• Canon EF-S 18-135 mm f/3.5-5.6  
• Canon EF 24-105mm f/4 L IS USM Lens  
• Nifty Fifty

Just remember, you don’t have to travel with ALL of your photography equipment. Pack lightly. Take only the essentials. That may mean your camera body, one or two versatile lenses, and a few accessories.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are some more creative ways to share and display your photos.

Photo coasters Shadow box Collage and letterboard frames Coffee table books Cork map bulletin board

Are there photo sharing apps?

Yes. You are probably already using some of them: DropBox, Flickr, Amazon Photos, Facebook, Instagram, eFamily, Google Drive, Google Photos…to name a few.

What does it mean to “upload” a photo?

You “upload” a photo to transfer it from your phone to your computer, your phone, another device, or the internet

Love this Post? Pin it!

Final Thoughts on Creative Ways To Actually Share and Display Your Travel Photos

Travel and photography go hand in hand.

If you have been wondering what to do with all of your amazing travel photos, I hope you have some ideas now. You DO NOT have to be a professional photographer!

It is such a convenience to snap digital photos as you travel and to take as many as you wish.

So, after you have spent all that time lining up the perfect shot, taking time to find the right angle, and waiting for the best light, find ways to enjoy your photos and relive your travel memories once you return home.

P.S. They make great Christmas gifts too!

You may also enjoy these posts…

• Tips to Take Better Travel Photos (and Look Good in Them Too!)
• 27 Instagram Worthy Insanely Colorful Destinations Around the World
• Amazing Amazon Deals for Travelers on Prime Day
• 65 Awesome Travel Quotes for Instagram
• 5 Best Travel Photography Courses for Beginners

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I’m a Colorado-based travel blogger with a passion for exploring the world, enjoying family time, and taking fantastic photographs. I am also a book writing, creative thinking, detail loving, frequent flying, comfort loving mom of three girls and wife to an amazing guy. Discover More .

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20 comments.

Love all these ideas! Now I just gotta do it!

I love photography. Great tips! And the photos in this post are beautiful.

I love all of these ideas, I love looking at the pictures on the walls they bring back wonderful memories…

Awesome tips! Uploading them to a site like Pinterest is a great tip! I LOVE seeing travel shots on Pinterest and will often re-share.

So many great ways to display travel photos.

Great ideas! It is sooo much better when you actually manage to use your photos! I normally blog and create travel albums… but I love the idea of making postcards! p.s. lol i appreciate the permission to delete some too!

This was so fun! Thank you for these fun ideas, I definitely want to start a trip photo album. Also thank you for the permission to delete some photos! Lord knows I need to do that too!

These are great ideas! I love creating photo albums and photo scrapbooks with my travel photos. I also love sharing them on social media. Thanks for all the additional tips!

You listed some of my favorite camera gear – and the lenses last forever too. Great article!

Your Lourmarin, France is gorgeous! It has never occurred to me to make postcards. That is a fantastic idea. Getting snail mail that isn’t junk mail is a special treat. I share most of my stuff on facebook but I do have special family and friends that aren’t on facebook. SOMEDAY I’ll have time to scrapbook…I hope!

Thank you so much for giving me permission to delete some of my travel photos! ?I so needed to hear that! Great ideas on how to display travel photos…I do all of them.

Fantastic article, I love taking photos all around the world and I am motivated to do better and better! Reading this was inspiring!

I love all these tips. I try to make a photo book each year that has all my pictures so I can look back and easily see the pictures!

Love all these ideas! I always make a scrapbook for each of my big trips, which is fun. I love the postcard idea though too, I’ll need to try that!

This is such a helpful post, I have so many travel photos at this point that I don’t know what to do with them! Deleting them would probably be the best idea for me 😀

These are great tips! I find it difficult to keep up with all the photos and organize them. They get dumped into a folder by location and date. I’m sure there is a lot of wasted space and I should delete before moving them from my camera. Thanks for all the ideas!

Thanks for your great post. Especially I love your permission to delete some of my photos! So far I just add more of hard disc space and delete just really bad unusable photos. I definitely have to use your permission much more often.

Great ideas for share travel photos! I’ve been thinking of printing a few for the walls, but selecting the right ones is difficult.

Great suggestions! I usually scrapbook, but I have been a bit too busy lately!

We have created photo books for gifts and they were always hugely appreciated. But I must admit we don’t have any of our great photos as art on the walls. I always have an online photo gallery when we travel and share it with friends and family to travel with us. And we stream our photos to our Apple TV and enjoy them over and over again. But I sure which my hubby would get better at deleting photos so he can get his to me quicker for the blog so it is not just my photos.

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65 Vacation Captions for Your Next Travel-inspired Instagram Post

Post your best travel photos with these clever and funny vacation captions.

Since 1971, Travel + Leisure editors have followed one mission: to inform, inspire, and guide travelers to have deeper, more meaningful experiences. T+L's editors have traveled to countries all over the world, having flown, sailed, road tripped, and taken the train countless miles. They've visited small towns and big cities, hidden gems and popular destinations, beaches and mountains, and everything in between. With a breadth of knowledge about destinations around the globe, air travel, cruises, hotels, food and drinks, outdoor adventure, and more, they are able to take their real-world experience and provide readers with tried-and-tested trip ideas, in-depth intel, and inspiration at every point of a journey.

In the age of witty tweets and clever Instagram stories, it can feel like there's a lot of pressure to be a wordsmith and craft the perfect eye-catching social media post. Luckily, going on vacation makes it easier to produce attention-grabbing content. After all, you've already got the breathtaking travel photos working in your favor — now you just need the perfect vacation caption.

From cute, travel-inspired captions to funny quotes and destination puns, there is a vacation Instagram caption for every type of destination- and traveler. Here's your guide to the best vacation Instagram captions .

Vacation Captions

It's about the journey, not the destination. But maybe it's a little bit about the destination…#[insert location]

Keep calm and travel on.

Wanderlust: A desire to travel, to understand one's very existence.

An adventure a day keeps the doctor away.

Up, up, and away... *insert airplane emoji*

Vacation mode: Activated.

Out of office. *insert waving hand emoji*

Always take the scenic route.

Every day is one step closer to your next vacation.

Let the adventure begin.

Beach Vacation Caption Ideas

Time to seas the day.

Life's a beach.

Time for some vitamin sea. *insert beach emoji*

I never met a sunset I didn't like. *insert sunset emoji*

The tan will fade, but the memories will last forever.

Palm trees and the ocean breeze.

It's a shore thing.

On island time. *insert palm tree emoji*

Sunshine on my mind.

Every day is sun-day at the beach.

Mountain Destination Vacation Captions

Find me where the wild things are.

The mountains are my happy place.

Sky above. Earth below. Peace within.

The best views come from the hardest climb.

Take me to the mountains.

All good things are wild and free.

Adventure awaits.

I will move mountains.

Climbing my way to bigger and better things.

European Vacation Captions

Italy stole a pizza my heart.

London calling.

Doing it for the Amster-gram.

I Louvre Paris.

When in Rome...

Leaving Germany is going to be the wurst.

It's always pub o'clock in London!

Fiesta like there's no mañana.

When in Belgium, chocolate calories don't count!

Irish I never had to leave Ireland.

Sea you soon, Croatia.

Eiffel for France, and now I never want to leave.

Czech this out!

U.S Destination Vacation Captions

Viva Las Vegas!

Woke up in the city that never sleeps.

Chicago has blown me away — now I see why they call it the #WindyCity!

California dreaming.

What happens in Vegas, stays in Vegas.

North is a direction. The South is a lifestyle.

Everything's bigger in Texas.

New York State of Mind.

Seattle days and summer rays!

Welcome to colorful Colorado.

All you need is a little faith, trust, and pixie dust.

Travel Quotes That Make Perfect Vacation Captions

"I haven't been everywhere, but it's on my list." — Susan Sontag

"And I think to myself, what a wonderful world." — Louis Armstrong

"The biggest adventure you can take is to live the life of your dreams." — Oprah Winfrey

"Travel is about the gorgeous feeling of teetering in the unknown." — Anthony Bourdain

"Each fresh peak ascended teaches something." — Sir Martin Convay

"Travel can be anywhere, it's not measured in miles." — Samantha Brown

"Never stop doing things for the first time." — Anonymous

"There should be sympathy cards for having to go back to work after vacation." — Anonymous

"Jet lag is for amateurs." — Dick Clark

"Bizarre travel plans are dancing lessons from God." — Kurt Vonnegut

"I've been everywhere, man." — Johnny Cash

"On the road again. Just can't wait to get on the road again." — Willie Nelson

Related : 30 Inspiring Travel Quotes That Make Perfect Instagram Captions

14 Websites for Sharing Your Travel Photos

While you’re traveling, or after you return home, you probably would love to share your photos with friends and family. Fortunately, there are a number of websites that make it easy.

Here is a list of 14 different sites for sharing your travel photos online. Some of the sites exist specifically for sharing travel photos, while others are general photo sharing sites. Some also have features that allow you to integrate with your favorite social networking sites.

• Virtual Tourist
• Tourism Tome
• Travellerspoint
• Worldisround
• Photobucket

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A living travel journal for your friends back home.

Read On. Scroll Down.

Tripcast has an overall App Store rating of 4.8 stars , based on 3.5K user reviews

“Tripcast Is A Beautiful Travel Journal For Your Smartphone. Another polished, well-built app from a talented team.”

“The students' parents back in America loved being able to see the photos at the end of every day. It made them feel like they were sharing in their kids' trip.” M. Steitle

“Our group of 36 people of all ages found it easy to learn and use. It really added to our experience, almost like extending the trip after we were all back home.” T. Langevin

The best way to share your trip

Make updates instantly.

Update your family and friends in real time

Stay in touch

Ask questions, leave comments, and like posts

Build an album with everybody

Vacationers assemble.

Collect everyone's trip photos in one place

Easy backup

Download them all when you get home

Effortless tagging

Photos are automatically added to the trip map

Browse by location

View photos by where they happened, not when

Available for anyone, anywhere

Tripcast is simple to access and use through a web browser, so anyone can join and contribute.

Tripcast's award winning iOS app gives you fast, mobile access and takes full use of iOS 7 and iOS 8.

Tripcast for Android has been specially designed for the world's most popular mobile operating system.

Everyone is using Tripcast to share their travels

Keep it private.

Share only with the people who care the most, away from social media

Apps for everyone

Access Tripcast through gorgeous mobile apps and the web

Bring everyone along

Notifications keep friends and family updated whenever there's activity

Get Daily Travel Tips & Deals!

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How to Share Your Travel Photos and Experiences

Ed Hewitt started traveling with his family at the age of 10 and has since visited dozens of countries on six continents. He wrote for IndependentTraveler.com for more than 20 years, producing hundreds of columns on travel and offering his expertise on radio and television. He is now a regular contributor to SmarterTravel.

An avid surfer and rower, Ed has written about and photographed rowing competitions around the world, including the last five Olympic Games.

He's passing his love of travel on to the next generation; his 10-year-old son has flown some 200,000 miles already.

Travel Smarter! Sign up for our free newsletter.

A few years back, I wrote about dancing man Matt Harding , and it occurred to me that part of Matt’s success is due to his 21st-century updating of the age-old — and dead-tired — tradition of sharing photos from your travels.

Gone is the faded suburban parlor tradition of boring your friends to somnambulance with an endless slideshow of your family standing in front of statues, fountains and landmarks. These days the technology has changed, and the 21st-century equivalent of the long, tedious slideshow is the long, tedious travel blog in which you write about every minute of every day, or the long, tedious Facebook photo gallery that your friends have to click through for hours to find interesting images.

So how can you capture the spirit of your trip without weighing your audience down in minutiae? As the saying goes, presentation is everything, and a hook or gimmick can help bring both interest and organization to your travel memories. Take Matt’s example: doing exactly the same thing in very different places, and then collecting all his video clips into a short greatest hits compilation. (Matt discards plenty of material along the way — you can see some of his outtakes here .) You can take a similar strategy with photos if you prefer, but the important thing is to tap into the power of repetition, and provide a touchstone for your audience again and again — one familiar thing in many very strange places.

You should also consider maintaining some level of mystery — tell some of the story, but not the whole boring story. Here are my suggestions for finding the right balance of the familiar and the novel, the straightforward and the mysterious, the serious and the fun — a perfect description of the best travel experiences.

The Travel Blog

This is probably the most conventional approach, but in my estimation the least likely to thrill and enthrall. If you have ever read back over your notes from the road, you know not everything is a keeper — and if you have a few bad days in a row, your audience could turn you off like the 11 o’clock news.

However, if you have the self-control and wherewithal to take a “less is more” approach and stick to it, a travel blog can be a great way to go. Some suggestions:

– Post one snippet of overheard local conversation every day, and nothing more.

– Post the top headline of the day from the local newspaper.

– Wait until the next morning before posting, and write about the one thing from the day before that most made an impression and stuck with you overnight.

– Post the misunderstanding of the day. For example, when I was covering the Olympics in Beijing, an Iraqi athlete who had trouble getting funding for his trip to China was thought to have said, “I could not afford the bus fare,” when in fact he said, “We could not afford to get there.” (This is the “Excuse me while I kiss this guy” tactic.)

Photo Blogs

Photo journals are far less demanding of the reader, and can sometimes even do a better job of conveying the extreme variety you can encounter in a day’s travels. A prose recounting of where you went and what you did tells your audience what to think; a picture lets them see and think for themselves.

But a gimmick, whether thematic or organizational, still serves an essential function here. Some possible approaches:

– The “photo a day” blog is somewhat overdone at this point, but there’s a reason for that; it’s easy to do and easy to follow, and doesn’t ask too much of anyone involved. Post only one photo per day, without exception. This forces you to pick the best and most essential photo from each day, and spares your audience from having to be your virtual sidekick.

– Post a photo at the same time each day, whether it be at breakfast, sundown, high noon, midnight, etc. Wherever you are and whatever you are doing, take and post the photo.

– Post photos with no explanation. Pick a photo that provides just enough information to make your readers wonder what you were doing that day, but not so little that they can’t figure it out at all.

– The Mobile Gnome: Many people have opted for variations on Web-based gnome projects. Take a gnome from your neighbor’s lawn, and post or send them pictures of it from all the attractions and cities you visit. The same can work for other objects such as stuffed animals.

– Take a single, distinctive hat — maybe a Vancouver Canucks beanie or a Phillies cap — and wear it in every photo you post or share.

– Post a photo of the entry ticket for whatever attraction you visited that day — and nothing more.

The possibilities are endless, so long as you follow the cardinal rule: Don’t bore anyone!

Social Media

This is probably the most popular spot to share trip memories these days, whether you’re filtering your favorite snaps on Instagram or making your Facebook friends jealous with status updates from the beach. While it’s easy enough to dump every one of your vacation photos into a big album on Facebook, we’d encourage you to consider some of the strategies above to avoid overwhelming your followers with a huge wall of pictures to wade through. Same goes for your status updates; less is more.

On Instagram, be sure to tag your photos with a location or hashtag so it’s easy for your followers (and for you!) to sort through the images from a particular trip. Again, don’t post every shot you take — focus on one or two a day that will wow your followers or tell a story. If you just can’t choose, consider waiting a few weeks after your trip to post a few more under the #tbt (Throwback Thursday) hashtag.

Twitter is a platform that lends itself to more frequent posts, though the 140-character limit will keep you from getting too verbose. Fight the temptation to post every little detail about your day. Instead, Twitter is the perfect place for quick insights, snapshots and humorous takes on what you’re seeing and doing.

Track Your GPS Coordinates

On a recent hike in the Cascade Mountains, a friend took along a GPS system for very practical reasons — that is, so as not to get completely lost. What he did when he was finished hiking each day, however, was pure high-tech travel blog: he uploaded the record of where he had hiked that day to a Web application that mapped out the entire route, and then sent the link to the map to his friends. It worked like a charm; he had his entire office tracking the hike on a daily basis, and it became the water cooler topic of the week back home.

If you are not GPS’d to the hilt like this guy was, you can simply post the GPS coordinates of the attraction or place you most enjoyed that day, and let folks dial it up on a map to figure out what you were up to. I did this on a trip that went from Bordeaux through Biarritz into Bilbao and back. Folks followed the progress of the trip routinely and quietly, but when we stopped in a tiny fishing village for three days, our email boxes exploded with questions — where are you, why did you stop, should I visit there too? (Even beyond the topic of this article, this was a great example of the power of simply stopping amidst so much moving, and a completely unexpected highlight of sharing our travels.)

You can do something similar for free at Travellerspoint.com without even needing GPS coordinates; just put in the names of the cities and towns you’re visiting, and it’ll create your customized map. You can attach photos and blog entries as well.

Matt Harding isn’t the only one with a novel approach to sharing his travel videos. On a hitchhiking trip across the U.S. a few years ago, a guy named Benjamin Jenks asked locals to pose behind him as he took selfies in each of his various pit stops, then knitted them all together into a five-minute video. (Check out the video on YouTube .)

Another approach I have seen is to video a long walk in silence, replicating the experience of arriving alone as a stranger in a strange town. An Indian visitor to my folks’ home town on the New Jersey coast turned on his video camera when he got off the train into town, and wordlessly videoed the bus ride and walk to the house of the friends he was visiting. He turned off the video as the front door opened; while you had to be able to endure a very mundane video absolutely lacking a punchline, the effect was an experience much like that of arriving in a small town in Europe for the first time, where everything is strange and new, despite seeming utterly familiar.

You don’t have to become a YouTube sensation to share your travels with your friends. Here are some choice venues for your travel dispatches:

Blogging Sites: The most popular all-purpose blogging sites include WordPress.com , Blogger.com and Tumblr.com . These can accommodate almost any of the approaches above. You may also want to try sites designed specifically for travel blogs, such as TravelBlog.com .

Photography Sites: In addition to Instagram, you can easily turn your travel photojournal into an online gallery at any of the big photo hosting sites, such as Flickr.com , Snapfish.com , Shutterfly.com , SmugMug.com and more. Many of these sites also provide photo printing services in case your mom wants a photo of you running with the bulls in Pamplona for the fridge.

Video: YouTube is the obvious choice, but Vimeo and Vid.me are among many other sites that also provide video hosting services.

Your Own Website: This can be a lot more work, but the upside of this approach is that folks always know where to find you, they don’t need a login (as they might at some photo sites), and very few other people will see your videos if you prefer not to become a YouTube sensation like Matt. Not everyone is looking for global fame and sponsored trips; some of us just want to show our friends our vacation pictures.

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• #Luxury travel
• #Unusual Moscow
• #Jewish Heritage
• #Russian traditions

Best spots in Moscow for photo maniacs

• #Special Interest
• #Photospots
• Capturing the Kremlin and central Moscow: the higher, the better

Of course, pictures of the Kremlin shot from the Red Square are no doubt iconic and must-have, but they are taken by thousands of tourists every day and can hardly make a wow-effect on your friends on Instagram and other social networks.

Another problem with shooting from Red Square is that the photos do not fully represent the scale of the medieval fortress of Kremlin. So, you need to make some steps further and higher to catch the right shot. You’ll be surprised by the fact that the panoramic views of the Kremlin are pretty easy to get. We have four hints for you: Zaryadie, Ritz Carlton, Patriarch bridge, and Radisson riverboat.

If you want to not only make beautiful photos but also to learn something interesting about the history of Russia, we recommend an individual tour of the Kremlin. You can order it online here .

First, go to Zaryadye, which is located right next to the Red Square, behind the St Basil’s Cathedral, on the closest Moscow river bank. The most impressive views over the Kremlin are unfolded from the so-called Flying bridge of Zaryadye and Glass Dome building in the back part of the park.

Zaryadye is the new place of attraction in Moscow. It’s a landscape park, opened in September 2017 by the Moscow government on the hill where the giant soviet hotel ‘Rossiya’ located before its demolition in the early 2000-s. As a bonus, you’ll get an incredible view over one of Stalin’s skyscrapers, located on the opposite bank of Moscow river — the so-called Vysotka at Kotelnicheskaya, used as a residence of many Russian famous people and officials.

• The roof of the Ritz Carlton Hotel

This option is ok only in case if you’re ready to pay the average bar bill of over 2500 rubles (about $40). Visit the O2 Lounge Bar on the roof of the Ritz Carlton Hotel, where all the global celebrities take their Moscow pictures, from Angelina Jolie to Robert Downey Jr.

But such photo investments seem to pay off immediately. The deck of the bar makes an excellent panorama point for the Kremlin walls and towers, the Historical Museum, the Great Kremlin Palace, and the Kremlin cathedrals. All these landmarks are not too far away, which makes them perfectly recognizable, even in the background.

• The Radisson riverboat

This hint will be useful in case you’re traveling to Moscow in the cold season. River transportation in Moscow doesn't stop in winter. Many enclosed and heated tourist yachts with panoramic windows and ice-breaking equipment can be found in the Moscow River. For instance, one of the most recognizable is the flotilla Radisson.

Their route goes past all the main sights of pre-revolutionary and Soviet Moscow – from Stalin's skyscrapers (Ukraina hotel and Vysotka at Kotelnicheskaya) to the Kremlin and the Novodevichy Convent. It is possible to go out to the open deck and take photos of you and your family or friends against a backdrop of the city’s lights and their reflection in the river. The cruise lasts 2.5 hours. You can book a tour with a car roundtrip transfer from your hotel to the pier and back: book online here

• Patriarch bridge

The bridge is located further from the Kremlin, than Zaryadye or Ritz Carlton, so the Kremlin walls on your photos will look smaller. The brighter side of walking through the bridge is that you can do more fabulous pics of the Moscow river and city center landscapes. The Moscow river and the pretty recognizable giant statue of Peter the Great are ideally viewed from the bridge. Be prepared that it’s a famous and popular pedestrian area for tourists all over the world so the bridge may be crowded.

Also, the bridge is a part of a long promenade which leads from the Christ the Saviour Cathedral through the Balchug island to the opposite bank of the Moscow River, where another pedestrian area — Museon embankment — is ready to joy you with its cafes, cozy lawns and impressive views over the river flow, ducks and boats.

• Moscow City

The best spot to shoot the famous Moscow business downtown is located on the Taras Shevchenko embankment. To get there you need to come to the metro stations Vystavochnaya or Delovoi Tsentr, then go to the Bagration bridge (use the metro navigation, the path is tricky), cross the bridge — and voilà! You’ve reached the best spot for shooting, posing, sending selfies, and Instagramming.

• Ponds and orangeries

There are two ponds in Moscow, that deserve your attention in summer: the Chistye ponds (actually there is only one pond, but it’s worth it) and the pond in Gorky Park, which is full of small boats and catamarans. Both lakes are lost between the green alleys and are drowning in all the shades of green. Those are the perfect spots to catch the moment of peace amid the madness of big city life.

• Banya: Russian steam bath read
• Luxurious travel to Moscow: best places to visit read
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• Russian Souvenir: what to bring home from a trip to Russia read
• The Top 10 Unusual Things to Do in Moscow read
• Christmas Festival in Moscow read

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A History of Moscow in 13 Dishes

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Travel Itinerary For One Week in Moscow: The Best of Moscow!

I just got back from one week in Moscow. And, as you might have already guessed, it was a mind-boggling experience. It was not my first trip to the Russian capital. But I hardly ever got enough time to explore this sprawling city. Visiting places for business rarely leaves enough time for sightseeing. I think that if you’ve got one week in Russia, you can also consider splitting your time between its largest cities (i.e. Saint Petersburg ) to get the most out of your trip. Seven days will let you see the majority of the main sights and go beyond just scratching the surface. In this post, I’m going to share with you my idea of the perfect travel itinerary for one week in Moscow.

Moscow is perhaps both the business and cultural hub of Russia. There is a lot more to see here than just the Kremlin and Saint Basil’s Cathedral. Centuries-old churches with onion-shaped domes dotted around the city are in stark contrast with newly completed impressive skyscrapers of Moscow City dominating the skyline. I spent a lot of time thinking about my Moscow itinerary before I left. And this city lived up to all of my expectations.

Travel Itinerary For One Week in Moscow

Day 1 – red square and the kremlin.

Metro Station: Okhotny Ryad on Red Line.

No trip to Moscow would be complete without seeing its main attraction. The Red Square is just a stone’s throw away from several metro stations. It is home to some of the most impressive architectural masterpieces in the city. The first thing you’ll probably notice after entering it and passing vendors selling weird fur hats is the fairytale-like looking Saint Basil’s Cathedral. It was built to commemorate one of the major victories of Ivan the Terrible. I once spent 20 minutes gazing at it, trying to find the perfect angle to snap it. It was easier said than done because of the hordes of locals and tourists.

As you continue strolling around Red Square, there’s no way you can miss Gum. It was widely known as the main department store during the Soviet Era. Now this large (yet historic) shopping mall is filled with expensive boutiques, pricey eateries, etc. During my trip to Moscow, I was on a tight budget. So I only took a retro-style stroll in Gum to get a rare glimpse of a place where Soviet leaders used to grocery shop and buy their stuff. In case you want some modern shopping experience, head to the Okhotny Ryad Shopping Center with stores like New Yorker, Zara, and Adidas.

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To continue this Moscow itinerary, next you may want to go inside the Kremlin walls. This is the center of Russian political power and the president’s official residence. If you’re planning to pay Kremlin a visit do your best to visit Ivan the Great Bell Tower as well. Go there as early as possible to avoid crowds and get an incredible bird’s-eye view. There are a couple of museums that are available during designated visiting hours. Make sure to book your ticket online and avoid lines.

Day 2 – Cathedral of Christ the Saviour, the Tretyakov Gallery, and the Arbat Street

Metro Station: Kropotkinskaya on Red Line

As soon as you start creating a Moscow itinerary for your second day, you’ll discover that there are plenty of metro stations that are much closer to certain sites. Depending on your route, take a closer look at the metro map to pick the closest.

The white marble walls of Christ the Saviour Cathedral are awe-inspiring. As you approach this tallest Orthodox Christian church, you may notice the bronze sculptures, magnificent arches, and cupolas that were created to commemorate Russia’s victory against Napoleon.

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Unfortunately, the current Cathedral is a replica, since original was blown to bits in 1931 by the Soviet government. The new cathedral basically follows the original design, but they have added some new elements such as marble high reliefs.

Home to some precious collection of artworks, in Tretyakov Gallery you can find more than 150,000 of works spanning centuries of artistic endeavor. Originally a privately owned gallery, it now has become one of the largest museums in Russia. The Gallery is often considered essential to visit. But I have encountered a lot of locals who have never been there.

Famous for its souvenirs, musicians, and theaters, Arbat street is among the few in Moscow that were turned into pedestrian zones. Arbat street is usually very busy with tourists and locals alike. My local friend once called it the oldest street in Moscow dating back to 1493. It is a kilometer long walking street filled with fancy gift shops, small cozy restaurants, lots of cute cafes, and street artists. It is closed to any vehicular traffic, so you can easily stroll it with kids.

Day 3 – Moscow River Boat Ride, Poklonnaya Hill Victory Park, the Moscow City

Metro Station: Kievskaya and Park Pobedy on Dark Blue Line / Vystavochnaya on Light Blue Line

Voyaging along the Moscow River is definitely one of the best ways to catch a glimpse of the city and see the attractions from a bit different perspective. Depending on your Moscow itinerary, travel budget and the time of the year, there are various types of boats available. In the summer there is no shortage of boats, and you’ll be spoiled for choice.

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If you find yourself in Moscow during the winter months, I’d recommend going with Radisson boat cruise. These are often more expensive (yet comfy). They offer refreshments like tea, coffee, hot chocolate, and, of course, alcoholic drinks. Prices may vary but mostly depend on your food and drink selection. Find their main pier near the opulent Ukraine hotel . The hotel is one of the “Seven Sisters”, so if you’re into the charm of Stalinist architecture don’t miss a chance to stay there.

The area near Poklonnaya Hill has the closest relation to the country’s recent past. The memorial complex was completed in the mid-1990s to commemorate the Victory and WW2 casualties. Also known as the Great Patriotic War Museum, activities here include indoor attractions while the grounds around host an open-air museum with old tanks and other vehicles used on the battlefield.

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The hallmark of the memorial complex and the first thing you see as you exit metro is the statue of Nike mounted to its column. This is a very impressive Obelisk with a statue of Saint George slaying the dragon at its base.

Maybe not as impressive as Shanghai’s Oriental Pearl Tower , the skyscrapers of the Moscow City (otherwise known as Moscow International Business Center) are so drastically different from dull Soviet architecture. With 239 meters and 60 floors, the Empire Tower is the seventh highest building in the business district.

The observation deck occupies 56 floor from where you have some panoramic views of the city. I loved the view in the direction of Moscow State University and Luzhniki stadium as well to the other side with residential quarters. The entrance fee is pricey, but if you’re want to get a bird’s eye view, the skyscraper is one of the best places for doing just that.

Day 4 – VDNKh, Worker and Collective Farm Woman Monument, The Ostankino TV Tower

Metro Station: VDNKh on Orange Line

VDNKh is one of my favorite attractions in Moscow. The weird abbreviation actually stands for Russian vystavka dostizheniy narodnogo khozyaystva (Exhibition of Achievements of the National Economy). With more than 200 buildings and 30 pavilions on the grounds, VDNKh serves as an open-air museum. You can easily spend a full day here since the park occupies a very large area.

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First, there are pavilions that used to showcase different cultures the USSR was made of. Additionally, there is a number of shopping pavilions, as well as Moskvarium (an Oceanarium) that features a variety of marine species. VDNKh is a popular venue for events and fairs. There is always something going on, so I’d recommend checking their website if you want to see some particular exhibition.

A stone’s throw away from VDNKh there is a very distinctive 25-meters high monument. Originally built in 1937 for the world fair in Paris, the hulking figures of men and women holding a hammer and a sickle represent the Soviet idea of united workers and farmers. It doesn’t take much time to see the monument, but visiting it gives some idea of the Soviet Union’s grandiose aspirations.

I have a thing for tall buildings. So to continue my travel itinerary for one week in Moscow I decided to climb the fourth highest TV tower in the world. This iconic 540m tower is a fixture of the skyline. You can see it virtually from everywhere in Moscow, and this is where you can get the best panoramic views (yep, even better than Empire skyscraper).

Parts of the floor are made of tempered glass, so it can be quite scary to exit the elevator. But trust me, as you start observing buildings and cars below, you won’t want to leave. There is only a limited number of tickets per day, so you may want to book online. Insider tip: the first tour is cheaper, you can save up to $10 if go there early.

Day 5 – A Tour To Moscow Manor Houses

Metro Station: Kolomenskoye, Tsaritsyno on Dark Green Line / Kuskovo on Purple Line

I love visiting the manor houses and palaces in Moscow. These opulent buildings were generally built to house Russian aristocratic families and monarchs. Houses tend to be rather grand affairs with impressive architecture. And, depending on the whims of the owners, some form of a landscaped garden.

During the early part of the 20th century though, many of Russia’s aristocratic families (including the family of the last emperor) ended up being killed or moving abroad . Their manor houses were nationalized. Some time later (after the fall of the USSR) these were open to the public. It means that today a great many of Moscow’s finest manor houses and palaces are open for touring.

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There are 20 manor houses scattered throughout the city and more than 25 in the area around. But not all of them easily accessible and exploring them often takes a lot of time. I’d recommend focusing on three most popular estates in Moscow that are some 30-minute metro ride away from Kremlin.

Sandwiched between the Moscow River and the Andropov Avenue, Kolomenskoye is a UNESCO site that became a public park in the 1920’s. Once a former royal estate, now it is one of the most tranquil parks in the city with gorgeous views. The Ascension Church, The White Column, and the grounds are a truly grand place to visit.

You could easily spend a full day here, exploring a traditional Russian village (that is, in fact, a market), picnicking by the river, enjoying the Eastern Orthodox church architecture, hiking the grounds as well as and wandering the park and gardens with wildflower meadows, apple orchards, and birch and maple groves. The estate museum showcases Russian nature at its finest year-round.

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If my travel itinerary for one week in Moscow was a family tree, Tsaritsyno Park would probably be the crazy uncle that no-one talks about. It’s a large park in the south of the city of mind-boggling proportions, unbelievable in so many ways, and yet most travelers have never heard of it.

The palace was supposed to be a summer home for Empress Catherine the Great. But since the construction didn’t meet with her approval the palace was abandoned. Since the early 1990’s the palace, the pond, and the grounds have been undergoing renovations. The entire complex is now looking brighter and more elaborately decorated than at possibly any other time during its history. Like most parks in Moscow, you can visit Tsaritsyno free of charge, but there is a small fee if you want to visit the palace.

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Last, but by no means least on my Moscow itinerary is Kuskovo Park . This is definitely an off-the-beaten-path place. While it is not easily accessible, you will be rewarded with a lack of crowds. This 18th-century summer country house of the Sheremetev family was one of the first summer country estates of the Russian nobility. And when you visit you’ll quickly realize why locals love this park.

Like many other estates, Kuskovo has just been renovated. So there are lovely French formal garden, a grotto, and the Dutch house to explore. Make sure to plan your itinerary well because the estate is some way from a metro station.

Day 6 – Explore the Golden Ring

Creating the Moscow itinerary may keep you busy for days with the seemingly endless amount of things to do. Visiting the so-called Golden Ring is like stepping back in time. Golden Ring is a “theme route” devised by promotion-minded journalist and writer Yuri Bychkov.

Having started in Moscow the route will take you through a number of historical cities. It now includes Suzdal, Vladimir, Kostroma, Yaroslavl and Sergiev Posad. All these awe-inspiring towns have their own smaller kremlins and feature dramatic churches with onion-shaped domes, tranquil residential areas, and other architectural landmarks.

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I only visited two out of eight cities included on the route. It is a no-brainer that Sergiev Posad is the nearest and the easiest city to see on a day trip from Moscow. That being said, you can explore its main attractions in just one day. Located some 70 km north-east of the Russian capital, this tiny and overlooked town is home to Trinity Lavra of St. Sergius, UNESCO Site.

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Sergiev Posad is often described as being at the heart of Russian spiritual life. So it is uncommon to see the crowds of Russian pilgrims showing a deep reverence for their religion. If you’re traveling independently and using public transport, you can reach Sergiev Posad by bus (departs from VDNKh) or by suburban commuter train from Yaroslavskaya Railway Station (Bahnhof). It takes about one and a half hours to reach the town.

Trinity Lavra of St. Sergius is a great place to get a glimpse of filling and warming Russian lunch, specifically at the “ Gostevaya Izba ” restaurant. Try the duck breast, hearty potato and vegetables, and the awesome Napoleon cake.

Day 7 – Gorky Park, Izmailovo Kremlin, Patriarch’s Ponds

Metro Station: Park Kultury or Oktyabrskaya on Circle Line / Partizanskaya on Dark Blue Line / Pushkinskaya on Dark Green Line

Gorky Park is in the heart of Moscow. It offers many different types of outdoor activities, such as dancing, cycling, skateboarding, walking, jogging, and anything else you can do in a park. Named after Maxim Gorky, this sprawling and lovely park is where locals go on a picnic, relax and enjoy free yoga classes. It’s a popular place to bike around, and there is a Muzeon Art Park not far from here. A dynamic location with a younger vibe. There is also a pier, so you can take a cruise along the river too.

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The Kremlin in Izmailovo is by no means like the one you can find near the Red Square. Originally built for decorative purposes, it now features the Vernissage flea market and a number of frequent fairs, exhibitions, and conferences. Every weekend, there’s a giant flea market in Izmailovo, where dozens of stalls sell Soviet propaganda crap, Russian nesting dolls, vinyl records, jewelry and just about any object you can imagine. Go early in the morning if you want to beat the crowds.

All the Bulgakov’s fans should pay a visit to Patriarch’s Ponds (yup, that is plural). With a lovely small city park and the only one (!) pond in the middle, the location is where the opening scene of Bulgakov’s novel Master and Margarita was set. The novel is centered around a visit by Devil to the atheistic Soviet Union is considered by many critics to be one of the best novels of the 20th century. I spent great two hours strolling the nearby streets and having lunch in the hipster cafe.

Conclusion and Recommendations

To conclude, Moscow is a safe city to visit. I have never had a problem with getting around and most locals are really friendly once they know you’re a foreigner. Moscow has undergone some serious reconstruction over the last few years. So you can expect some places to be completely different. I hope my one week Moscow itinerary was helpful! If you have less time, say 4 days or 5 days, I would cut out day 6 and day 7. You could save the Golden Ring for a separate trip entirely as there’s lots to see!

What are your thoughts on this one week Moscow itinerary? Are you excited about your first time in the city? Let me know in the comments below!

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24 comments.

Ann Snook-Moreau

Moscow looks so beautiful and historic! Thanks for including public transit information for those of us who don’t like to rent cars.

MindTheTravel

Yup, that is me 🙂 Rarely rent + stick to the metro = Full wallet!

Mariella Blago

Looks like you had loads of fun! Well done. Also great value post for travel lovers.

Thanks, Mariella!

I have always wanted to go to Russia, especially Moscow. These sights look absolutely beautiful to see and there is so much history there!

Agree! Moscow is a thousand-year-old city and there is definitely something for everyone.

Tara Pittman

Those are amazing buildings. Looks like a place that would be amazing to visit.

Adriana Lopez

Never been to Moscow or Russia but my family has. Many great spots and a lot of culture. Your itinerary sounds fantastic and covers a lot despite it is only a short period of time.

What was their favourite thing about Russia?

Gladys Parker

I know very little about Moscow or Russia for the\at matter. I do know I would have to see the Red Square and all of its exquisite architectural masterpieces. Also the CATHEDRAL OF CHRIST THE SAVIOUR. Thanks for shedding some light on visiting Moscow.

Thanks for swinging by! The Red Square is a great starting point, but there way too many places and things to discover aside from it!

Ruthy @ Percolate Kitchen

You are making me so jealous!! I’ve always wanted to see Russia.

Moscow is in my bucket list, I don’t know when I can visit there, your post is really useful. As a culture rich place we need to spend at least week.

DANA GUTKOWSKI

Looks like you had a great trip! Thanks for all the great info! I’ve never been in to Russia, but this post makes me wanna go now!

Wow this is amazing! Moscow is on my bucket list – such an amazing place to visit I can imagine! I can’t wait to go there one day!

The building on the second picture looks familiar. I keep seeing that on TV.

Reesa Lewandowski

What beautiful moments! I always wish I had the personality to travel more like this!

Perfect itinerary for spending a week in Moscow! So many places to visit and it looks like you had a wonderful time. I would love to climb that tower. The views I am sure must have been amazing!

I was lucky enough to see the skyline of Moscow from this TV Tower and it is definitely mind-blowing.

Chelsea Pearl

Moscow is definitely up there on my travel bucket list. So much history and iconic architecture!

Thumbs up! 🙂

Blair Villanueva

OMG I dream to visit Moscow someday! Hope the visa processing would be okay (and become more affordable) so I could pursue my dream trip!

Yup, visa processing is the major downside! Agree! Time and the money consuming process…

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The Rick Steves guide to life

Travel mogul. philanthropist. legal weed champion. the real rick steves is so much more complex than who you see on tv..

EDMONDS, Wash. — At first glance, it is hard to tell that Rick Steves is protesting.

In the center of his hometown, America’s favorite travel host is perched on the edge of a fountain roundabout engaging in some friendly civil disobedience. As cars circle the intersection, Steves smiles and waves, looking more like an Elf on a Shelf than an angry picketer. This is his way of reminding people he wishes they’d stop driving here.

Steves’s family moved to Edmonds when he was 12, and the 68-year-old is still happy to call it home. Rather than relocate to his beloved Europe, he dreams of bringing some European sensibilities to the edge of the Puget Sound, less than 20 miles north of Seattle.

When he’s not traveling around Europe, writing about Europe or running his multimillion dollar European tour company, the prolific TV host and author likes to squeeze in some local activism. The roundabout routine is his push to block off Edmonds’s very American Main Street for pedestrians. If you squint at it, you can see what Steves sees: this would be the perfect place for a lively town square.

“I like a lot of things about Europe but I love the urban energy of Europe. I love the piazza,” Steves said in a wistful tone you might recognize from PBS. “We don’t have a piazza.”

Unfortunately for Steves, the voting majority of the city does not love the idea of parking their SUVs farther away to shop. So despite his Boy Scout enthusiasm, the most famous man in Edmonds must keep up the perch-and-wave. This is not his only crusade.

Spend any amount of time with Steves, and you’ll encounter a total ham who loves a zany bit. But if you ask him about serious issues like car-free zones, he’ll bring up other causes that are dear to him: affordable housing, supporting the arts, creating senior centers for the elderly to age with dignity.

He’s anti-Trump and pro-cannabis. He does not care if that is bad for business.

The average Rick Steves fan has likely missed this side of him. On TV they see an always-sunny history lover who makes going abroad feel approachable for the average American. That’s an incomplete picture, like thinking you know Paris because you’ve seen the Eiffel Tower on YouTube.

Meet him in Edmonds, and he’ll fill in the rest.

It may look like a lot of gallivanting, but being Rick Steves takes a lot of work.

He spends three months of the year overseas, researching, writing, recording, refining tours, updating guidebooks. If he’s not planning or producing content, he’s often doing promotional events across the United States. This year Steves is celebrating the 40th edition of his first book, “Europe Through the Back Door.” Over the course of his career, he’s built a privately held company that generates $120 million in revenue a year, published 110 books, filmed 12 seasons of “Rick Steves’ Europe” and produced more than 750 podcast episodes.

“It’s just like coordinating a three-ring circus,” Steves said.

That is: really fun, sort of exhilarating and extremely complicated. To pull this off, Steves does not observe the French 35-hour workweek. He’s a workhorse with a reputation for keeping a frenetic pace year-round.

“It’s more of an American work culture,” Amy Duncan, Steves’s communications director, told me. “He’s an unapologetic capitalist but he is also a socialist.”

He makes enough money to fly first class, but he only sits in economy, claiming he doesn’t mind being cramped.

“It never occurred to me that I’m suffering,” he said. “As long as I’ve got an aisle and a seat that reclines, I’m happy.”

Actually, Steves believes airlines should only have one class. It’s part of his egalitarian worldview. He’s also anti-points and anti-miles, refusing to sign up for airline loyalty programs because he believes they bully us into complicating our lives.

Steves also enforces a self-imposed “ carbon tax ” on his tour company, which takes more than 30,000 people to Europe annually. For every customer, Steves invests $30 to atone for emissions created by their flights between the United States and Europe. Last year, that added up to $1 million donated to a portfolio of organizations, Steves said.

“I don’t need to be a slave to the quarterly profit statement. I want to be around and profitable in 10 years from now in a world that you can travel in that’s stable,” Steves said. “This is a smart investment and it’s an ethical expense that I should pay for.”

Rick Steves will tell you he’s motivated by making money; the more he can earn, the more good he can do with it.

“Vicarious consumption, that’s one of my things,” Steves said.

After amassing a windfall from the 2001 George W. Bush tax cuts for high earners, Rick Steves donated $1 million to support the local symphony and performing arts center. In 2005, he used retirement savings to buy a 24-unit apartment complex for the local YWCA’s use as transitional housing for women and children. He figured he’d eventually sell the complex and live on the earnings. About a decade later, he changed his mind and donated the complex valued at $4 million.

He also gave more than $4 million to help build the Edmonds Waterfront Center, a vibrant gathering place for seniors where his daughter had her wedding in 2021. And he gave another $2 million for a similar center in the nearby city of Lynnwood, which broke ground in mid-April .

“Rick puts his money where his mouth is,” said Nancy Leson, a former Seattle Times food critic who used to let Steves’s daughter babysit her son. She’s appreciated his regular presence in the community, like hosting events for local politics at his house and shopping at the farmers market .

“He changed travel,” local resident Karen Howe said on her way into the Waterfront Center with a friend. She’s used Steves’s guidebooks for years. “He’s introduced us to places that most of us would never think of going.”

Rick Steves hasn’t won his piazza battle, but he has brought European touches to Edmonds. At the Rick Steves’ Europe headquarters, there’s an E.U. flag hanging from the mocha brick facade. And gargoyles that drain rainwater, just like at the Notre Dame cathedral.

“Gargoyles scare away evil spirits,” Steves points out, unable to suppress his inner tour guide.

Here Steves employs more than 100 people: editors, audio producers, tour specialists and cartographers such as Dave Hoerlein, his first employee. That’s excluding the fleet of guides and drivers he contracts across the pond to shepherd tour customers.

Inside, he bounds through a maze of cubicles, his neck craned forward, always at an eager pace. His 6-foot frame appears leaner than previous seasons of his life, but his signature look is familiar. No, not khakis and a button-down. That’s vintage Rick. These days, he wears dark jeans and a button-down, plus a thin scarf and leather sneakers.

During a day of meetings, Steves’s fjord-blue eyes lit up at the minutia of the business. He went over new maps with Hoerlein. He and longtime co-author Cameron Hewitt addressed problems like finding a “less glitzy” stop on the Amalfi Coast that’s not Sorrento. They discussed whether a place is worth visiting after it’s gotten too popular, and Steves indulged in some gallows humor.

“It’s going to be like holding the corpse of a loved one who just died,” he said.

His critics argue the “Rick Steves Effect” can turn a charming village, restaurant or museum into a tourist magnet. Matthew Kepnes, the travel writer behind the blog Nomadic Matt , points to the Swiss town Zermatt, which he says Steves put on the map, and has since dealt with overtourism . You’re bound to bump into groups with Rick Steves guidebooks in Italy’s increasingly crowded Cinque Terre.

Whether Steves is actually to blame for changing a place is up for debate. There are plenty of destinations he’s covered that haven’t been inundated with swarms of Americans (see also: Gdańsk).

Steves says he assesses whether a place wants tourism, if it can handle it gracefully. If they don’t or can’t, he may mention it but not promote it.

He has faith — maybe too much — that his clients share his values.

“Does [my work] change the personality of a town? It can. Am I a dramatic impact on Europe? No,” he said.

“There’s a handful of places I really promote aggressively that I’ve had a serious impact on, but otherwise ... my travelers are the kind of people that take only pictures and leave only footprints ... they’re good travelers.”

You don’t have to spend much time in Edmonds to see why Rick Steves never considered leaving.

The city — population roughly 42,000 — sits on a majestic inlet. You can get to a major international airport in about an hour. The community is so courteous, it has an “umbrella share” program in case people forget their own on a rainy day. As Steves walks around town, he greets people by name. He lives within walking distance to both his favorite diner and a pétanque court, the French answer to Italian bocce. He plays bongos at his church on Sundays.

In 1967, Richard “Dick” Steves moved the family here because he was worried about Rick Junior.

“I was hanging out with dangerous kids and going down the wrong trail,” Steves said. Seriously.

His dad, an Army veteran, got by in the upscale suburb as a piano technician and importer. When Steves was 14, his parents dragged him on a work trip to Europe to visit piano factories; it was a radical experience that sparked his lifelong passion for travel.

Back in Edmonds, Steves started teaching piano, eventually turning his savings into trips abroad of his own — not only to Europe, but Turkey, Nepal, Afghanistan. He went to college nearby, earning degrees in European history and business from the University of Washington, where he played in the Husky Marching Band.

After graduation, Steves figured he could keep up his routine: give piano lessons during the school year, then travel during the summer. He started teaching travel classes in the same recital hall where his piano students performed. This was back when there was no internet and few guidebooks to consult for trip planning.

The classes were a hit. At 25, Steves turned his lecture materials into a 180-page book, and self-published “Europe Through the Back Door,” in 1980.

Four years later, he hosted his first European minibus tour group, serving as both bus driver and guide.

His businesses have evolved — his bus tours now take up to 28 travelers, a number Steves says is a sweet spot between making the tour more affordable yet enjoyable for customers and profitable for the company. But his mission has remained the same: to be the best resource for European travel and help Americans travel better.

“I just focus on that and I love it,” he said. “It takes my life out of balance — which is not good — but it lets me do a lot of stuff that I believe in and that’s good.”

Steves has been open about the challenges of being a travel mogul. As he built his empire, he was also raising a family. Being “married” to both took a toll. In 2010, Steves and his wife, Anne, divorced after 25 years of marriage.

Up the hill from his junior high, Rick Steves’s modest beige home offers a window into his many lives. There are family photos on the walls, from older relatives to his baby grandson, Atlas. He hosts political fundraisers on the sprawling deck. A painting of Kerala, India, nods to one of his favorite countries (people forget Steves did four editions of “Asia Through the Back Door”).

Next to his grand piano, there’s a stuffed creature that Steves calls his “Silver Fox” baring its teeth and wearing novelty sunglasses with cannabis leaves on the lenses — a nod to two of his interests: taxidermy and marijuana activism.

“It’s the civil liberties … it’s the racism … everything about it is wrong,” he said of keeping weed illegal.

As for the toothy fox, Steves doesn’t do typical souvenirs anymore, but he makes an exception for stuffed animals.

“The wooden shoes and the pewter Viking ships are so obvious,” he said. “I like to do something a little more organic and a little more striking and it takes me back there — I like it.”

He’s a very good piano player. He can also play the sousaphone and the trumpet — which he did regularly during the pandemic, performing taps for his neighbors at sunset.

Covid-19 was a nightmare for the travel business, but a miracle for Rick Steves’s love life.

After running in the same social circles for years, he and Shelley Bryan Wee, a prominent local bishop, started dating at the end of 2019. They had a lot in common. Both are progressive Lutherans. Both are divorced with adult children. But neither worked a typical 9-to-5, and one of them spent three months of the year in Europe.

Then lockdown happened. Steves, who couldn’t remember if he’d ever had dinner in the same place 10 nights in a row, spent 100 nights at the same table with Wee. It solidified their relationship.

“Shelley is a constant,” Steves said. He still struggles with the balancing act between work and love.

When the stars align and they’re both in Edmonds, Wee cooks, and Steves plays sous chef. They walk Jackson, Wee’s labradoodle, creating their own version of the passeggiata, Italy’s traditional evening stroll. They play table tennis before dinner.

When the world reopened, they started traveling together. They’ve made time for a few big vacations: a trip to Morocco, where they were caught in a windstorm that blew the windows out of their car; a luxury barge cruise through Burgundy, France, “that was embarrassingly expensive,” Steves confessed, followed by a week hiking in the Swiss Alps; and another hiking trip between remote lodges on Mont Blanc.

Before their first trip, Steves edited the contents of Wee’s suitcase, because packing light is part of his philosophy.

“What do you say?” she asked. “You’re talking to Rick Steves.”

Editing by Gabe Hiatt. Additional editing by Amanda Finnegan. Design editing by Christine Ashack. Photo editing by Lauren Bulbin. Videos by Monica Rodman. Senior video producer: Nicki DeMarco. Design by Katty Huertas. Copy editing by Jamie Zega.

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Bad behavior: Entitled tourists are running amok, defacing the Colosseum , getting rowdy in Bali and messing with wild animals in national parks. Some destinations are fighting back with public awareness campaigns — or just by telling out-of-control visitors to stay away .

Safety concerns: A door blew off an Alaska Airlines Boeing 737 Max 9 jet, leaving passengers traumatized — but without serious injuries. The ordeal led to widespread flight cancellations after the jet was grounded, and some travelers have taken steps to avoid the plane in the future. The incident has also sparked a fresh discussion about whether it’s safe to fly with a baby on your lap .

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Colorado Avalanche | PHOTOS: Colorado Avalanche best Winnipeg Jets…

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Colorado avalanche | photos: colorado avalanche best winnipeg jets 6-3 to advance to the second round of nhl playoffs.

Colorado Avalanche left wing Artturi Lehkonen (62) celebrates his goal against the Winnipeg Jets with teammate Colorado Avalanche center Casey Mittelstadt (37) in the second period during game five of the First Round of the 2024 Stanley Cup Playoffs at the Canada Life Centre in Winnipeg, Canada on Tuesday, April 30, 2024. (Photo by Andy Cross/The Denver Post)

Winnipeg Jets center Mason Appleton (22) tries to get ahold of the puck against Colorado Avalanche defenseman Devon Toews (7) in front of Colorado Avalanche goaltender Alexandar Georgiev (40) in the second period during game five of the First Round of the 2024 Stanley Cup Playoffs at the Canada Life Centre in Winnipeg, Canada on Tuesday, April 30, 2024. (Photo by Andy Cross/The Denver Post)

Winnipeg Jets left wing Nikolaj Ehlers (27) collects the puck against Colorado Avalanche center Casey Mittelstadt (37) in the first period during game five of the First Round of the 2024 Stanley Cup Playoffs at the Canada Life Centre in Winnipeg, Canada on Tuesday, April 30, 2024. (Photo by Andy Cross/The Denver Post)

Colorado Avalanche right wing Mikko Rantanen (96) scores against Winnipeg Jets goaltender Connor Hellebuyck (37) in the third period during game five of the First Round of the 2024 Stanley Cup Playoffs at the Canada Life Centre in Winnipeg, Canada on Tuesday, April 30, 2024. (Photo by Andy Cross/The Denver Post)

Colorado Avalanche right wing Valeri Nichushkin (13) celebrates with Colorado Avalanche right wing Mikko Rantanen (96) after Rantanen scored against Winnipeg Jets goaltender Connor Hellebuyck (37) in the third period during game five of the First Round of the 2024 Stanley Cup Playoffs at the Canada Life Centre in Winnipeg, Canada on Tuesday, April 30, 2024. (Photo by Andy Cross/The Denver Post)

WINNIPEG, CANADA - APRIL 30: Colorado Avalanche defenseman Devon Toews (7) fires a shot against Winnipeg Jets right wing Nino Niederreiter (62) in the first period during game five of the First Round of the 2024 Stanley Cup Playoffs at the Canada Life Centre in Winnipeg, Canada on Tuesday, April 30, 2024. (Photo by Andy Cross/The Denver Post)

Winnipeg Jets defenseman Colin Miller (6) crashes into Colorado Avalanche left wing Zach Parise (9) in the second period during game five of the First Round of the 2024 Stanley Cup Playoffs at the Canada Life Centre in Winnipeg, Canada on Tuesday, April 30, 2024. (Photo by Andy Cross/The Denver Post)

Colorado Avalanche goaltender Alexandar Georgiev (40) keeps his eyes on the action in front of him as Colorado Avalanche defenseman Sean Walker (26) collects the puck against the Winnipeg Jets in the first period during game five of the First Round of the 2024 Stanley Cup Playoffs at the Canada Life Centre in Winnipeg, Canada on Tuesday, April 30, 2024. (Photo by Andy Cross/The Denver Post)

Colorado Avalanche head coach Jared Bednar gives directions during a stoppage in play against the Winnipeg Jets in the third period during game five of the First Round of the 2024 Stanley Cup Playoffs at the Canada Life Centre in Winnipeg, Canada on Tuesday, April 30, 2024. (Photo by Andy Cross/The Denver Post)

Colorado Avalanche center Nathan MacKinnon (29) chases the puck in front of Winnipeg Jets goaltender Connor Hellebuyck (37) in the first period during game five of the First Round of the 2024 Stanley Cup Playoffs at the Canada Life Centre in Winnipeg, Canada on Tuesday, April 30, 2024. (Photo by Andy Cross/The Denver Post)

Colorado Avalanche right wing Mikko Rantanen (96), Valeri Nichushkin (13) and Sean Walker (26) celebrate Nichushkin’s goal against the Winnipeg Jets in the first period during game five of the First Round of the 2024 Stanley Cup Playoffs at the Canada Life Centre in Winnipeg, Canada on Tuesday, April 30, 2024. (Photo by Andy Cross/The Denver Post)

Colorado Avalanche defenseman Cale Makar (8) on a scoring chance against Winnipeg Jets goaltender Connor Hellebuyck (37) in the second period during game five of the First Round of the 2024 Stanley Cup Playoffs at the Canada Life Centre in Winnipeg, Canada on Tuesday, April 30, 2024. (Photo by Andy Cross/The Denver Post)

Colorado Avalanche right wing Mikko Rantanen (96) is defended by Winnipeg Jets defenseman Josh Morrissey (44) and Winnipeg Jets goaltender Connor Hellebuyck (37) in the first second during game five of the First Round of the 2024 Stanley Cup Playoffs at the Canada Life Centre in Winnipeg, Canada on Tuesday, April 30, 2024. (Photo by Andy Cross/The Denver Post)

Colorado Avalanche center Ross Colton (20) grimaces after getting hit in the second period during game five of the First Round of the 2024 Stanley Cup Playoffs against the Winnipeg Jets at the Canada Life Centre in Winnipeg, Canada on Tuesday, April 30, 2024. (Photo by Andy Cross/The Denver Post)

Colorado Avalanche right wing Mikko Rantanen (96) celebrates after scoring a goal against Winnipeg Jets goaltender Connor Hellebuyck (37) in the third period during game five of the First Round of the 2024 Stanley Cup Playoffs at the Canada Life Centre in Winnipeg, Canada on Tuesday, April 30, 2024. (Photo by Andy Cross/The Denver Post)

Dejected Winnipeg Jets players react after the Colorado Avalanche defeated the Jets 6-3 in game five, winning the First Round of the 2024 Stanley Cup Playoffs at the Canada Life Centre in Winnipeg, Canada on Tuesday, April 30, 2024. (Photo by Andy Cross/The Denver Post)

The Colorado Avalanche players greet goaltender Alexandar Georgiev (40), right, after defeating the the Winnipeg Jets 6-3, winning game five and the First Round of the 2024 Stanley Cup Playoffs at the Canada Life Centre in Winnipeg, Canada on Tuesday, April 30, 2024. (Photo by Andy Cross/The Denver Post)

Colorado Avalanche goaltender Alexandar Georgiev (40) greets Winnipeg Jets goaltender Connor Hellebuyck (37) in the handshake line after the Avalanche defeated the Jets 6-3 in game five and winning the First Round of the 2024 Stanley Cup Playoffs at the Canada Life Centre in Winnipeg, Canada on Tuesday, April 30, 2024. (Photo by Andy Cross/The Denver Post)

The Colorado Avalanche beat the Winnipeg Jets 6-3 in Game 5 of the First Round of the 2024 Stanley Cup Playoffs on Tuesday night, April 30, 2024, at the Canada Life Centre in Winnipeg, Canada. With the win, the Avalanche won the series 4-1, and advance to the second round of the playoffs.

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Midwest tornadoes cause severe damage in Omaha suburbs

The Associated Press

Gopala Penmetsa walks past his house after it was leveled by a tornado near Omaha, Neb., on Friday. Chris Machian/Omaha World-Herald via AP hide caption

Gopala Penmetsa walks past his house after it was leveled by a tornado near Omaha, Neb., on Friday.

OMAHA, Neb. — A tornado plowed through suburban Omaha, Nebraska, on Friday afternoon, damaging hundreds of homes and other structures as the twister tore for miles along farmland and into subdivisions. Injuries were reported but it wasn't yet clear if anyone was killed in the storm.

Multiple tornadoes were reported in Nebraska but the most destructive storm moved from a largely rural area into suburbs northwest of Omaha, a city of 485,000 people.

Photos on social media showed heavily damaged homes and shredded trees. Video showed homes with roofs stripped of shingles, in a rural area near Omaha. Law enforcement were blocking off roads in the area.

Hundreds of houses sustained damage in Omaha, mostly in the Elkhorn area in the western part of the city, police Lt. Neal Bonacci said.

Police and firefighters are now going door-to-door helping people who are trapped.

Omaha Fire Chief Kathy Bossman said crews had gone to the "hardest hit area" and had a plan to search anywhere someone could be trapped.

"They're going to be putting together a strategic plan for a detailed search of the area, starting with the properties with most damage," Bossman said. "We'll be looking throughout properties in debris piles, we'll be looking in basements, trying to find any victims and make sure everybody is rescued who needs assistance."

Damaged houses are seen after a tornado passed through the area near Omaha, Neb., on Friday. Chris Machian/Omaha World-Herald via AP hide caption

Damaged houses are seen after a tornado passed through the area near Omaha, Neb., on Friday.

Omaha police Lt. Neal Bonacci said many homes were destroyed or severely damaged.

"You definitely see the path of the tornado," Bonacci said.

In one area of Elkhorn, dozens of newly built, large homes were damaged. At least six were destroyed, including one that was leveled, while others had the top half ripped off.

There were dozens of emergency vehicles in the area.

"We watched it touch down like 200 yards over there and then we took shelter," said Pat Woods, who lives in Elkhorn. "We could hear it coming through. When we came up our fence was gone and we looked to the northwest and the whole neighborhood's gone."

His wife, Kim Woods added, "The whole neighborhood just to the north of us is pretty flattened."

Dhaval Naik, who said he works with the man whose house was demolished, said three people, including a child, were in the basement when the tornado hit. They got out safely.

KETV-TV video showed one woman being removed from a demolished home on a stretcher in Blair, a city just north of Omaha.

Omaha Police Chief Todd Schmaderer said there appeared to be few serious injuries, in part because people had plenty of warning that storms were likely.

The exact link between tornadoes and climate change is hard to draw. Here's why

"We not upon by a sudden storm," Schmaderer said. "People had warnings of this and that saved lives."

The tornado warning was issued in the Omaha area on Friday afternoon just as children were due to be released from school. Many schools had students shelter in place until the storm passed. Hours later, buses were still transporting students home.

Another tornado hit an area on the eastern edge of Omaha, passing directly through parts of Eppley Airfield, the city's airport. Officials closed the airport to aircraft operations to access damage but then reopened the facility, Omaha Airport Authority Chief Strategy Officer Steve McCoy said.

Severe weather damage to Eppley Airfield in Omaha, Neb., can be seen from the Lewis and Clark Monument in Council Bluffs, Iowa on Friday Anna Reed/Omaha World-Herald via AP hide caption

Severe weather damage to Eppley Airfield in Omaha, Neb., can be seen from the Lewis and Clark Monument in Council Bluffs, Iowa on Friday

The passenger terminal wasn't hit by the tornado but people rushed to storm shelters until the twister passed, McCoy said.

Flight delays are expected Friday evening.

After passing through the airport, the tornado crossed the Missouri River and into Iowa, north of Council Bluffs.

Nebraska Emergency Management Agency spokesperson Katrina Sperl said damage is just now being reported. Taylor Wilson, a spokesperson for the University of Nebraska Medical Center, said they hadn't seen any injuries yet.

Before the tornado hit the Omaha area, three workers in an industrial plant were injured Friday afternoon when a tornado struck an industrial plant in Lancaster County, sheriff's officials said in an update on the damage.

The building just northeast of the state capital of Lincoln had collapsed with about 70 employees inside and several people trapped, sheriff's officials said. Everyone was evacuated, and three people had injuries that were considered not life-threatening, authorities said.

Sheriff's officials say they also had reports of a tipped-over train near Waverly, also in Lancaster County.

Two people who were injured when the tornado passed through Lancaster County were being treated at the trauma center at Bryan Medical Center West Campus in Lincoln, the facility said in a news release. It said the patients were in triage and no details were released on their condition.

The Omaha Public Power District reported that nearly 10,000 customers were without power in the Omaha area.

Daniel Fienhold, manager of the Pink Poodle Steakhouse in Crescent, Iowa, said he was outside watching the weather with his daughter and restaurant employees. He said "it looked like a pretty big tornado was forming" northeast of town.

"It started raining, and then it started hailing, and then all the clouds started to kind of swirl and come together, and as soon as the wind started to pick up, that's when I headed for the basement, but we never saw it," Fienhold said.

The Weather Service also issued tornado watches across parts of Iowa, Kansas, Missouri, Oklahoma and Texas. And forecasters warned that large hail and damaging wind gusts were possible.

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Former President Donald Trump returns to court for his Stormy Daniels “hush money” trial.

Trump was fined $9,000 for repeated gag order violations, and the judge threatened him with “incarceratory punishment” if “necessary and appropriate” should Trump continue to violate the gag order.

The judge also allowed Trump to have May 17 off from the trial to attend his son Barron’s graduation.

What to know

• Trump meets with construction workers who erupted into chants of ‘USA!’ before ‘hush money’ trial
• Jonathan Turley: Alvin Bragg has his Trump trial, all he needs now is a crime
• Earlier live coverage: Why Pecker paid $30K for doorman’s phony story about Trump having illegitimate child

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