10 Tips for Taking Better Amateur Travel Photos

by Rebecca Pickett

One of the reasons I love travelling so much is that I enjoy seeking and capturing my experiences and sharing them with others. We all want to show people the amazing things we delightfully chance upon with our eyes, and often we do that to inspire others to experience this incredible world too.

You don't need any expertise in photography to take good photos. Providing you can recognize a good subject when you see one, understand the 'rule of thirds', see symmetry in a shot, balance your elements, and get a straight horizon, then you are well on your way to taking great pics. If you mess up - there are always filters and cropping tools!

With a good compact camera and/or a trusty smartphone, the photography possibilities are endless. Just stepping out your own front door provides a multitude of material, such as colourful street art, local characters, iconic landmarks, contrasting scenes, nature and light.

Here are some examples of travel pics I took on a recent trip to the US, and some tips for taking great shots:

1. Experiment.

The stark contrast between this wire fence shielding the famous Brooklyn Bridge, and misty Manhattan skyline beyond, makes for a dynamic shot.

2. Use Borders.

This retro style border compliments the Art Deco style of New York's Rockefeller building and Saks on Fifth Avenue.

3. Balance Your Elements.

Use lines and angles to create a vibrant shot like this one of the Radio City Music Hall's neon lights.

4. Use Depth and Symmetry.

These element of depth and symmetry really help this classic image of New York's cabs along Park Avenue come alive.

5. Look Up!

Don't be afraid to take pics from different angles to get a more dramatic effect, like this snapshot of "Wisdom" at New York's Rockefeller Centre.

6. Use Filters.

The enhanced lights of the ferris wheel on LA's Santa Monica pier at dusk are electrifying.

7. Step Outside the Norm.

Famous landmarks, such as San Fransisco's Golden Gate Bridge, can be just as impressive when captured up close.

8. Alter an Imperfect Shot.

This image was unfocused, so I blurred the entire surrounds of this spiral staircase at Alcatraz to create a softer, more mysterious look.

9. Look For Contrast.

The simple contrast between the bright red bricks and blinding white snow captures the beauty of New York's West Village perfectly.

10. Have Fun!

Let your photos reflect your personality. If you see something you like, take a pic!

The best photos can be spontaneous, hurried, colourful, blurred... Just like life itself! Remember to experiment, and be as creative as you wish.

The world is an amazing place, but nobody can capture it quite like you - and your camera!

Rebecca Pickett works in adventure travel, and is a writer. She has trekked in the Himalayas, sailed in the Caribbean, stood on the ice of Antarctica and been on hundreds of adventures in between.

Want to make your own travel Square Photo Cards? Or how about a beautiful travel Photo Book?