Travel isn’t synonymous with style. In fact, it’s kind of the antithesis. But it needn’t be that way. There’s no secret formula, no hidden recipe and there’s certainly no reason to be strolling around in zip-off cargo pants and jelly shoes.

A few key points to remember:

1. Don’t overthink it

Unless you’re trekking in Nepal or Patagonia or traversing glaciers in Antarctica, wearing “adventure clothing” is mostly unnecessary.

Sure, limited suitcase or backpack space may be prohibitive and multipurpose items like the aforementioned zip-off cargo pants may seem very practical. But if you were wandering the streets of your own city for the day, would you whip out the cargos and hiking boots?

Think about that. If you’re in a city, dress for the city. If you’re at the beach, dress for the beach. Polar fleece isn’t an all occasion fabric. Nor are board shorts an all-occasion pant.

2. These boots were made for walking

Comfortable shoes are very important, yes. You’ll be spending more time on your feet than you usually would, walking cobbled streets, strolling through markets, ducking up rollicking country lanes, but comfort doesn’t necessarily mean jelly shoes.

There are so many comfortable, practical options available now that are appropriate for walking AND looking stylish. After all, you need your comfortable shoes to take from those cobbled streets right into that hidden romantic café you just stumbled upon. If the moment catches you, you don’t want to run home to change your shoes (or worse still, dine in Crocs).

3. Basics are your friend

Limited space is a very real problem. You can’t pack every incarnation of every outfit into that tiny 20kg bag (see point 1 re. zip-offs). So choose simple basics that work together.

It’s amazing how far a few classic white shirts, some simple tees, good jeans, some classic shorts and a basic t-shirt dress will get you. Keep it clean and simple and you will be rewarded with versatility and travel elegance.

4. Stick to natural fibres

You will regret the 100% nylon top – razzle-dazzle though it may be – you bought when you’re sweating it out with the locals on the Indian rail. Similarly, nothing keeps you warm like a good merino layer when you’re traversing the depths of a European winter. Essentially, natural fibres breathe, which is perfect for warmer climates and long days, but also perfect for limited access to washing facilities.

5. Be culturally appropriate

Research where you’re travelling and dress accordingly. In essence, the key to dressing well on the road is blending in and being respectful. That might mean covering up more than usual (think long sleeves), or having a versatile cover all or scarf handy for temples and churches.

6. Bag it up

Handbags and day bags are another integral element of travel wear. You often end up carrying more than you usually would day-to-day while you’re out exploring – cameras, notebooks, sun cream. But that doesn’t mean you need a trekking pack. There are a number of great, easy totes or and simple daypacks available now that don’t scream “I’m travelling and I have lots of expensive gear in my backpack.”

Many people when they travel love to collect souvenirs that will remind them of the perfect holiday or vacation. But the best way to capture and hold on to these beautiful adventures and sceneries is to capture them with the camera on their smartphone or professional camera.

Today, several influencers are into travel photography and make a living out of it. Being a professional travel photographer has many benefits as it allows you to visit different destinations and understand the various cultures and histories of the place and people.

Taking great travel photos requires skill, patience, timing, and a whole lot of practice. Every photographer has a different style that reflects their personality and charisma in each of their photographs.

While clicking a shot is one step, it is also important to learn how to edit your photos. So if you are a beginner and want to step into the limelight, consider using a variety of editing software on Shotkit to enhance your pictures.

Without further ado, let us explore some basic travel photography tips every beginner should know:

Plan Your Shots

As a beginner, you must learn to prepare yourself before you take off on your photographic journey. For instance, before you arrive at your destination, consider researching the location on different social platforms so that you are aware of the places you would like to visit. Once you are aware of them you can take time to prepare yourself and your camera in time for the shot.

Wake Up Early

If you ask any photographer about why you must wake up early, the most common reply you would receive is that you need to make the most of the light. It is one of the most crucial elements that can boost your photograph while traveling and enhance your photos. The morning light is known to help capture some of the most amazing images in the world. Mainly because it is soft, warm, and comforting but also allows you to benefit from fewer tourists around.

Inform the Locals

As simple as it sounds, it is one of the crucial steps of travel photography. Whenever you are traveling and capturing some beautiful photos around the world, language can be a barrier. It is always better to ask permission from the locals before they get offended or disapprove because you are entering their personal space. Asking for permission is a way to be polite and respectful and if they say no, you can just move on to the next destination.

Know Your Camera

Whether a professional or beginner, it is important that you understand the different functions of the camera. Once you get to know your camera inside out, you will be able to switch to the right setting when taking your shot. So make sure that you spend time with your camera and take several practice shots so that you don’t miss out on your desired shot. If you are into phone photography, consider using these smartphones that are suitable to your needs.

Travel Light

One of the best things about travel photography is to travel light. While we know it is important to be prepared for all sorts of situations, it is always advised to carry only the essentials. While it does make sense to carry everything, it can take a load on your back and cause several problems. Also, while you keep removing one piece of equipment after another, the chances of you leaving behind are high. Traveling light will ensure that you are comfortable visiting places and enjoying your photography sessions.

Don’t Ever Forget Your Tripod

Tripods are one of the most important pieces of equipment that can help capture the perfect photograph, according to MakeUseOf.com. Yes, they may add weight to your travel bag but it is worth it. You can use a tripod to capture some amazing landscape shots, moving shots, long exposure shots, or some cool time-lapses. Whether traveling locally or to a foreign, along with your camera and lenses, a tripod is a must-have equipment.

Fill the Frame

Frame, frame, and frame! Every travel photographer was aware of filling the frame. While focusing on the subject is important, each corner section of your photograph plays a vital role. Photographers around the world are constantly looking for ways to improve their photographs and create their style. Each of them uses the frame to produce a unique picture. Some photographers prefer movement or chaos behind the subject and some prefer plain backgrounds. So decide which kind of photographer you are and use the frame to compose a beautiful travel photo.

Protect Yourself

While you are enjoying and exploring different locations it is important to protect yourself and the equipment you carry. The equipment you carry is often very expensive and investing in good travel luggage locks or anti-theft bags can work great in your favor. You should also consider applying for travel insurance that will protect you during your journey in a foreign land. While at it, take a look at the warranty and policies of your gear as well so that you have taken all precautionary steps for your travel photography journey.
Remember…

It is important to cover yourself legally when working in the photography niche, so we would recommend offering photography contracts to clients and people you work with.

After spending more hours on planes than some flight attendants, being exposed to more viruses than many nurses, and losing my sense of direction one too many times, I have almost perfected the craft of traveling. I blend in while visiting foreign cities, decipher street signs written in languages I don’t understand, and zoom through airports, rolling my eyes as if flying was an inconvenience rather than a privilege. So to learn from my mistakes, and also feel comfortable and safe in any corner of the world, here are five tips I swear by when going abroad.

1. Beauty Products are a Must.

The first tip I have for any traveler, and probably the most pertinent, is to always bring beauty supplies. When boarding a dreaded 12 hour flight, I make sure to have a change of clothes, especially underwear, to change into halfway through my journey. Also don’t forget face wipes, a toothbrush, and any other basic products which will make you feel slightly less radioactive and gross. Planes are so dirty: I’m sweaty, spill food and crumbs on my lap, and don’t like touching any surface without wiping it down. So, nothing is better than changing my T-shirt, washing my face, and casually spraying myself with perfume samples at the duty free shop.

2. Research, Research, Research.

Thanks to my mom, who planned family vacations down to the minute when I was growing up, I have learned the importance of researching before going on holiday. Not only do you need to plan activities, restaurants, and hotels, but I also highly recommend researching transportation. Whether it’s finding the cheapest taxi company, utilizing public transportation, or mapping walking routes, I always make sure I know where I’m going when on vacation so I can see the best sites, avoid being scammed, and explore the more local parts of cities.

3. Karen’s Get Their Way.

I have had my fair share of travel disasters, ranging from missed flights, stubborn ticket sales people, and language barriers, but through my stress, I have discovered sometimes pitching a fit goes a long way. When I was traveling alone from Germany to the US and missed my connecting flight to Chicago because of snow in Berlin, I cried to the airline agent until I was put on the next connecting flight and driven to a hotel for the night, free of charge. When I had an eight hour layover in London because of another missed flight, I complained to the flight desk and was given a meal voucher. Especially when the circumstances are out of your control, it is important to know your rights as a traveler and ask for what you want. The worst they can do is say no, and then you can write a steaming review if you’re still irritated.

4. The Secret to Public Bathrooms.

Another travel tip for people with small bladders like me, is to never pay to use a public restroom. Too often I’m exploring an ancient city on the verge of exploding and the nearest bathroom is a nasty outhouse reeking of pee which charges $1 for use; the mountain girl in me would rather squat in the bushes than pay for a UTI. So, keep your eyes peeled for museums, Starbucks, fast food restaurants, and busy restaurants with cleaner and cheaper toilets. If I had a nickel for every time I’ve walked into a McDonalds like I own the place while my family pretended to look at the menu, I could afford a personal port-a-potty.

5. Blending In.

Finally it is helpful to not stand out too much as a tourist. As a foreigner you might be overcharged, stereotyped, and miss out on the local experience just because of your accent. Stereotypically, tourists are affluent members of society, so if you sway away from the social and cultural standards while overseas, locals might take advantage of you. This doesn’t mean everyone you meet in foriegn countries is out to manipulate and deceive, but it doesn’t hurt to keep your voice low, wear conservative clothing in more religious areas, and not flash your Gucci purse in a local market.

Travel bloggers and instagrammers make traveling seem so easy, but many times fail to post the frustrating side of vacations: sweat and body odor, long commutes, upset stomachs, jetlag, and more. Hopefully these five tips will help your next trip be as stress-free as possible. Bon voyage!