Travel Photography Tip: Don't Forget Your Hotel Room

The hotel room shot is usually one of the first photos I make sure to get right away -- and I usually never actually show it to anyone. Why? Because a hotel room is usually impersonal and generic; in other words, no one really wants to see it. However, I take it anyway just to remind myself of where I've stayed. I usually prefer staying in 5-star accommodations (refer to any of my Las Vegas Hotel reviews), but I chose this rather modest one above because it happened to be directly across the street from Quebec City's Parliament building (as seen through the window). Other than that, it was your typical four-star hotel room.

If you're not staying at a cookie cutter chain hotel, then, by all means, snap away at the charming features of your quaint accommodations. Focus in on decorative knobs and bidets and whatever you fancy. Don't forget balcony/window shots. It'll all be sure to conjure up good memories down the road.

Travel Photography Tip: Food

Unless you're eating out only at McDonald's when you travel, chances are the food you're eating during your vacation is going to be exotic. Whether the ingredients are unique or the presentation itself is just uncommon, make sure to snap it BEFORE YOU START EATING (meals that are about wrapped up are not appetizing). Don't forget drinks (like ones served in coconuts) and street food! If you don't have money to buy, you can probably photograph the window display (at bakeries and such).

Travel Photography Tip: Capture the Signs

The basic rule of thumb is capture things with words: street signs, store names, billboards, bumper stickers, restaurant menus, newspapers, train tickets, etc. Pictures and diagrams themselves can be of interest as well (see the photo above). I found this funny gem while walking the streets of Prague. I can't read it and can only assume it says something along the lines of pick up after your pet, and, oh, by the way, we'll provide you with the baggie.

Travel Photography Tip: Local Wildlife at Eye Level

I think the most common wildlife photos I see are of ducks and pigeons (animals you'd normally see at a park or random tourist attraction). It's fine to take pictures of them; but rather than shooting down at them, try shooting at their eye level (like I did here). I know, I know -- I used a photo of something that was so big it just had to be at eye level with me, but, still, I waited until the hippopotamus submerged before snapping it. This technique also works wonders when photographing tall animals or creatures normally high up (because of it's rare vantage point). So be prepared to go really high or low. ;)

Travel Photography Tip: Local Vegetation

Most people often remember to take photos of flowers when they're on vacation, but other vegetation that could be of interest are local fruits and vegetables, trees (palm, eucalyptus), cacti, bushes, etc. Markets are great places to see what there is to offer in any given location.

Travel Photography Tip: Take Pictures of Souvenirs Instead

Instead of buying souvenirs, I take photos of them. That way, I can take home more souvenirs than I would ever actually buy and they all fit in my luggage! To me, a photo and a souvenir serve the same purpose: to remind me of my trip. If this isn't the same case for you, and if you're absolutely dying to buy a souvenir, by all means, ignore this travel tip.

Travel Photography Tip: Get the Expected Shots

When you travel, there are photos that you are quite simply expected to take. For example, when in Paris, you just have to take a picture of the Eiffel Tower; in Los Angeles, the Hollywood Sign is a must; and in New York, what would a trip be without a visit to the Statue of Liberty (above)? These shots have been done to death before. And, even the "unique" and "creative" ones, too. So, just suck it up, and take the darn, cliche shot. If you don't, not only will you regret not doing it, but you'll have a mutiny (from your friends) on your favorite social network as well.