Photos capture specific moments, helping us preserve those special memories long after the occasion has passed. It’s no wonder many of us take loads of pictures on vacation when we’re enjoying unique and different experiences! Modern smartphones have made it easier than ever to take good photos while traveling, but we have a few tips to ensure your snaps best capture your adventures. (For the camera folks out there: our tips also work for digital and film cameras!) Follow our advice for frame-worthy vacation photos you’ll cherish for years to come.
Get Familiar with Features
Before your trip, familiarize yourself with your phone’s camera settings. Make a point to experiment with the various features to learn what works best for different types of shots. (This advice also applies to those who want to use a camera!) If you have the time, do a mini photoshoot at home or take a photo walk in your neighborhood.
The regular camera mode should be fine for most photos, but you may want to switch it up to get a different effect. For shots of people and close-up objects, portrait mode makes your subject pop by blurring the background. When snapping epic scenery, the panorama setting can capture the whole scene. Pro tip: you can also use it vertically!
Think in Threes
Anyone who’s taken a photography class has learned how the rule of thirds can improve your picture’s composition. But you don’t have to attend art school to understand this simple concept! When framing your shot, imagine it is divided equally by three vertical and three horizontal lines. (Some phone cameras have a grid setting to do this for you and divide your frame into nine squares.) Placing your subject at one of those intersections results in a much more dynamic and engaging photo.
Of course, there’s an exception to every rule, and some photos look great with a centered subject! This technique often works with symmetrical scenes, such as traditional architecture or a long road lined with trees.
Look at the Light
Lighting is crucial to how your vacation photos turn out. In most cases, you don’t want to shoot into the light. That puts the light behind the subject, leaving you with an exposed background and faces (or objects) darkened by shadows. Instead, turn your subject or adjust your position so the light is behind you. An exception to this rule? When you want a darkened subject, such as someone’s silhouette in front of a sunset.
You can get nice photos at any time of day, but there’s something extra special about the golden hour (the hour after sunrise and before sunset). If your itinerary allows, take some photos during these times to take advantage of the soft, flattering light. If you’re taking night shots, try to avoid using your flash if possible—ambient light almost always looks better. Look for street lights or try “night mode” on your phone.
Don’t Forget About Faces
Encountering stunning scenery can cause you to start snapping away, but don’t forget to get pictures of your travel companions, too! We recommend getting some shots of your beautiful surroundings first and then asking people to get in the photo. You want to capture the scene and the folks you’re making memories with.
For particularly amazing shots of your loved ones, try to anticipate special moments, such as a child’s first time seeing the ocean. And don’t forget to include yourself in group shots! Don’t be embarrassed to whip out a selfie stick or ask a stranger to take your picture. (The same goes for if you’re traveling solo!)
Custom Frame Your Favorites
Once you’re back from vacation, looking through your photos can be a fun way to relive your favorite moments. Pick out a few extra special pictures to custom frame so you can enjoy those memories every day! Looking for more advice? Check out Frame Your Vacation Photos in 5 Easy Steps.
