Taking better travel photos isn't about your camera gear or following the crowd. It's about seeing differently and being ready to capture moments as they unfold.
Coming to you from Max Kent, this practical video points out that always having your camera on hand is essential, even in ordinary situations. It's not just for preparedness but because keeping your camera close puts you into a photographic mindset, changing how you notice everyday scenes. Kent emphasizes that this approach leads to unique photos you'd otherwise miss. The advice might seem obvious, but its effectiveness comes from simplicity and consistency—something easily overlooked.
The video also challenges the typical tourist approach of snapping well-known landmarks exactly as everyone else does. Kent suggests changing your perspective to find what others don't see. Instead of photographing the entire landmark, focus on unusual angles or details that capture the atmosphere of a place rather than just the sight itself. Shifting your perspective, Kent argues, leads to more captivating photos and develops your ability to observe creatively. While the idea of "thinking outside the box" isn't new, Kent's straightforward examples provide fresh inspiration for capturing places differently.
Another overlooked strategy Kent highlights is shooting at sunrise and sunset. Most travelers photograph during midday when lighting is harsh and locations are crowded. Kent explains that shooting early or late doesn't just offer better lighting—it completely changes the mood. The soft, directional light at these times creates depth and cinematic quality in your photos. People behave differently too, providing scenes with authentic emotion and fewer distractions. Kent acknowledges the difficulty of early wake-ups but underscores the value in the unique atmosphere that mornings and evenings offer.
Kent further encourages deliberately getting lost in new cities. Instead of sticking to tourist paths, wandering without a strict plan reveals unexpected sights and authentic experiences that translate into compelling photographs. Kent advocates choosing random spots on a map or following spontaneous detours to discover scenes you wouldn't have anticipated. This approach captures the true feel of a place, contrasting sharply with generic tourist snapshots. Check out the video above for the full rundown from Kent.
