Vacation Photos

“Wow these are your vacation photos?” The answer is yes! Today, lets explore the idea of bringing home some great vacation photos. I will share ideas, techniques, and basic gear to ponder prior to heading out on that next vacation. Create your very own souvenirs, the best kind!

Plan

Plan. Start to think beyond buying a new camera. New gear is neat, no doubt about that. However that brand spanking new camera might not take the great vacation photos you have in mind. It is the person behind the camera, along with knowledge, and practice that add up to great vacation photos.

To begin with, think about the where, and why of your travel plans. What exactly is the draw to the area? Architecture, landscape, wildlife, family, or just the relaxation factor.

For example, prior to a trip to Ecuador, I knew I wanted to take photos of birds. The initial problem, I was not good at it. Practice is the answer. Digital photography allows for hours of practice at little cost, only the time put in. Prior to the trip I put in a few hours photographing regular birds, crows, seagulls you name it. As a result, practice and working out the kinks pays off in the end. Less time is spent adjusting settings, or just plain guessing.

Pack

Gear, gear and more gear….what to take and more importantly, what to leave behind! Prior to the trip, take some time to contemplate what it is in your particular set up that is easy, and produces results. Specifically, the go to set up for you! Personally, I am a big fan of the wide range lens. A number of brands produce lenses in the 28-300mm range that produce high image quality throughout. In addition, a wide lens is always handy, something in the 17mm area. Further, money and space can be saved by only packing one set of filters. Purchase filters for the largest lens and use a step up ring. Frequently, I will only take a good polarizing and ND filter.

Finally, the handy stuff! In addition to the usual extra batteries, memory card, lens pen and what not, a waterproof point and click is always a must for me! Handy dandy, dust proof, shatter proof and always ready to go these little cameras can produce some great results!

Shoot and Have fun!

Above all, shoot and have fun! This is vacation! Although one can get all caught up in getting that “perfect shot”, It is my belief that photography ultimately should be fun and rewarding!