7 Basic Holiday Photography tips for Beginners
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Loading... - Colin Drakos
- 24 May 2023
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As the holiday season approaches once again, many people will be getting their cameras ready for capturing memorable moments. Whether you're dusting off your old camera or considering purchasing a new one, this article aims to provide you with valuable tips to improve your photography skills, prevent mishaps, and encourage thoughtful composition.
Embrace Individuality
At popular tourist spots, you'll often find numerous individuals clutching their cameras, flocking to the same locations and capturing the same cliché shots. It wouldn't be surprising to witness certain areas suffering from erosion due to the countless number of people standing in the same spots to take pictures. Here's a unique suggestion: how about a tripod manufacturer permanently fixing one of their best-selling models in place, so everyone can capture the exact same image? All joking aside, it's more rewarding to venture off the beaten path and discover unconventional perspectives for your photographs. If you're part of a guided tour and the coach stops, take a moment to explore the surroundings and find a better vantage point. Coaches often stop at lay-bys that may not offer an ideal view due to obstructing shrubs, trees, or litter. By exploring alternative viewpoints, you'll avoid capturing the same pictures as everyone else, leaving those generic shots for the postcard shop.
Seek Inspiration
Speaking of postcards, they can provide excellent inspiration for your photography. Professional photographers capture these postcard-perfect shots, highlighting not only the well-known beauty spots but also the lesser-known hidden gems. When you visit an unfamiliar village or town, it's worthwhile to browse the local postcards and see what previous photographers have discovered. Plan your itinerary accordingly, including those locations, and capture your own unique versions of these iconic scenes. Use their ideas as a starting point for your own creative compositions, and apply them to different locations. Moreover, with the internet accessible almost anywhere, you can also conduct online research before your trip or at your hotel, gathering inspiration and ideas for your upcoming photographic adventures.
Pay Attention to Details
There are several simple tips that can greatly enhance the quality of your photographs. Before pressing the shutter button, take a moment to examine the viewfinder. Look for potential issues such as objects like trees or lampposts unintentionally appearing to grow out of people's heads, tilted horizons, or fingers obstructing the lens. Additionally, be mindful not to cover the flash when taking indoor pictures. Using a tripod will help maintain straight horizons, and you can even purchase Hot Shoe Bubble mounts that attach to your camera's hot shoe to ensure proper leveling.
Dealing with Harsh Sunlight
If you're fortunate enough to have sunny weather during your photography outings, it can create challenges. The high position of the sun can cast harsh shadows and create excessive contrast, resulting in details being lost in the shadows or washed out highlights. To overcome this, make use of your camera's built-in flash. The flash isn't just for parties and indoor settings; it can be utilized to reintroduce details into shadow areas and add a twinkle to people's eyes, known as a catch-light. Use the flash when you observe a pronounced dark shadow under the nose and chin.
Beach Photography Precautions
If you're planning to enjoy the sun and the beach, be mindful of the potential hazards for your camera. Saltwater and sand are not friendly to cameras, and any contact can lead to disaster. Consider investing in a specialized waterproof housing that allows you to take pictures while protecting your camera. Alternatively, you could purchase a waterproof camera or opt for a single-use splashproof camera. When not in use, always keep your camera and lenses safely stored in a camera bag to minimize exposure to sand and sea spray. A regular backpack will typically offer sufficient space to accommodate your camera gear and any additional accessories you may need for a day at the beach.
Capturing People
While traveling abroad, you'll likely encounter fascinating individuals and be tempted to photograph them in their natural environment. However, it's important to respect their privacy and be mindful of local cultural norms. Some people may be willing to pose for photographs, but it's essential to understand the cultural context and seek permission before pointing your lens at someone. Many tourist trips offer opportunities to visit villages set up to showcase the authentic local life, where photography is encouraged. If you plan to venture further afield, conduct thorough research before your trip to ensure you approach photography in a respectful and culturally sensitive manner.
Protect Your Investment
Lastly, if you own an expensive camera, it's crucial to ensure that it is adequately covered by insurance. Accidents happen, and the last thing you want is to damage or lose your camera without proper coverage. Verify that your insurance policy includes protection for your camera against damage and theft, providing you with peace of mind during your photography adventures.
