- Research the destination beforehand and use local resources to uncover insider tips.
- Take care of yourself before a photoshoot with treatments such as botox and facial services.
- Scout out potential locations ahead of time and create a backup plan.
- Pack the proper equipment, supplies, batteries, memory cards, and cleaning supplies.
- Get familiar with different lighting situations and make contingency plans for unforeseen events.
When planning a travel photoshoot, preparation is key. From deciding your destination to scouting out the perfect locations, there are many steps you can take to ensure the success of your shoot. Here are five helpful tips for prepping for a travel photoshoot that will set you up for success.
1. Research Your Destination and Its Photogenic Spots
The first step in any successful travel photography shoot is doing some solid research on the destination you will be visiting. Take the time to look at photographs of the area and familiarize yourself with the landscape, architecture, and people. This will help you plan for potential shoots and create a shot list that includes specific compositions and scenes you want to capture during your Trip.
Here are a couple of things you can focus on when preparing for your journey:
Utilize Local Resources
During your research phase, take advantage of any local resources that may be available to you. Contacting the tourism board or local photographers can provide invaluable tips for finding and capturing great shots in the area. They may also have access to sites and events closed off to general tourists. Ask questions and get as much information as possible to make your photo shoot smoothly.
Do Self-Care Before any Photoshoots
Before you embark on your journey, take care of yourself. A photoshoot requires physical and mental energy, so it’s important to be rested and in top condition. Consider taking advantage of a reliable botox service before your trip to reduce wrinkles and help you look refreshed for close-up shots. A botox service can give you a natural, youthful look and make it easier to capture great portraits.
You could also benefit from a facial treatment to help open pores and eliminate impurities in your skin. Additionally, drink plenty of water the day before and the morning of the photoshoot to keep your skin looking hydrated and healthy.
Scout Out Locations
Once you’ve researched, scout the locations where you want to shoot. This will help you plan for lighting and other variables that could affect the quality of your images. Visit each site at different times of day to get an idea of the lighting and how it changes with time.
Create a Backup Plan
No matter how much planning you do, there’s always the possibility that something unexpected could happen during your travel photography shoot. Make sure to create a backup plan in case you need to switch locations or adjust your shooting schedule
2. Prepare Proper Gear and Supplies for the Trip
As any seasoned traveler knows, packing light is vital. But when it comes to your photography gear, you must be extra mindful of how and what you pack to ensure that all your equipment makes it to the destination in one piece. Research the weather conditions where you’re going and plan accordingly (you might need a rain cover for your camera bag in a particularly wet environment). And if you’re flying, double check your airline’s policies about carrying on photographic equipment.
3. Create a Reasonable Shot List and Checklist
Once you know the general area you’ll be shooting in, map out different potential locations and note what shots you can get at each one. This will help you plan your shoot and maximize your time to photograph.
4. Get Familiar with Different Lighting Situations
When planning a travel photography shoot, always remember to take into account the different types of light that you might encounter. It’s important to practice shooting in various lighting conditions, from the harsh mid-day sun to the softer early morning and late afternoon glow. This will help ensure you capture beautiful images regardless of the time of day or weather.
5. Make Contingency Plans for Rainy Days or Unforeseen Events
To ensure your travel photography shoot goes off without a hitch, you must ensure you have all the necessary supplies. Bring plenty of extra batteries and memory cards, so you never run out of juice or storage space in the middle of a shoot. It’s also a good idea to carry some basic cleaning supplies (such as lens wipes) in case your equipment gets dirty or dusty.
To Wrap It Up
No matter where you’re shooting, properly preparing for a travel photoshoot can make all the difference in your results. Make sure you plan and have all the necessary supplies packed and ready before you start photographing. This will help ensure that your trip is as enjoyable.
