Being a travel photographer can be one of the most rewarding and adventurous jobs in the world (I may be biased but it is incredible).

There are so many incredible landmarks, animals and people to photograph around the world that it can catapult your portfolio into something ground-breaking.

Take a look at some of my top travel photography tips and please get in touch with any of your travel photography tips you wish to share with the Travel Instruction community.

Invest in Equipment

Spending thousands on equipment isn’t the be-all and end-all of great photography because if you have no skill, nothing will truly help but getting the right kit is key.

Having the basic equipment is vitally important so make sure you’re getting the best you can buy and build up your camera from there.

Get Up Early

The saying ‘the early bird catches the worm’ couldn’t be more true for travel photography because you just can’t beat that light and tranquillity of early mornings.

Remember the golden hours- one hour after sunrise and one hour before sunset to capture some of your best work yet.

Get Inspired

Go on long walks, do some google searches and speak to the locals. There will be so much that hits you when travelling from smells to tastes and sights it can be a hit to the senses so soak it all in and let it direct your work for you.

Don’t Imitate

It can be so easy to copy and imitate your favourite photographers but doing this will work well in the short run but once you make it big time, it can come back to haunt you and you’ll struggle to make your mark.

Speak to the Locals

Not only is this good etiquette but the locals will know the best locations, where to find the wildlife and how to capture the country you’re in.

You’ll be able to learn so much from the locals so really dedicate time to understanding them and their country.

Get off the Beaten Track

Everyone has seen magnificent photography of the landmarks but what isn’t documented is what will get you noticed!

Again, speak to the locals find out where to go and just explore the area you’re in, coming away from the tourists and overly captured locations.

Pack light

Photography equipment isn’t light so compromise on the rest of your stuff.

Reduce the number of clothes, toiletries you take and just bring it back to basics and don’t forget a smaller backpack for the days you’re just heading out with the camera.

Take Your Time

Travelling is first and foremost an experience you should appreciate so don’t try to cram everything into one and really take the time to appreciate where you are.

You won’t get that perfect shot first time around and it may take a few days but in time it will come so take your time because no good work comes from rushing.