8 Travel Photography Tips from People Who Do It For a Living

By Tyler Anderson

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Have a Sunset Strategy

“ The sunset is everyone's favorite thing to photograph, so it can be a challenge to make your shots stand out,” says Eric Rubens . “When shooting at the beach, the key is to check the tides and check the skies. Low tides mean access to remote parts of the coast that most people can’t get to. This is when you’ll find those hard to reach coves and caves that will give you some really unique perspectives. Then I check the clouds. Wispy clouds emphasize color much better than a clear sky will. So if you see low tides and a sky full of wispy clouds, get your camera out, because you’re looking at the winning recipe for a great sunset shot."

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Get to Know the Locals

“Whether it's capturing portraits of your new acquaintances or getting the local scoop on secret spots, communicating with strangers can lead to a whole host of photographic opportunities,” says Chase Guttman , three-time Young Photographer of the Year and author of The Handbook of Drone Photography . So how should you make that first connection? Guttman suggests opening in a language that everyone understands. “A smile goes a long way in breaking the ice and relating to someone in a foreign environment.”

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Forget the ‘Perfect Shot'

It took German photographer Daniel Ernst nineteen months, seven countries, and a one-way ticket to New Zealand to finally “learn to stop worrying about the perfect shot.” Ernst, who is self-taught and has nearly half a million Instagram followers, says allowing for flaws in exposure, grain, or flare is what makes an image feel more real. "Once I let go of this pressure to be perfect, my shots became instantly better and more authentic.”

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Learn to Love Your Own Backyard

“You don’t have to go overseas to practice travel photography,” says Lauren Bath , Australia’s first professional Instagrammer. “I was born in Australia but never appreciated the beauty of my own country until I started to travel it with a camera. Now an old barn I’ve driven past a hundred times could make for a great shot of the Milky Way and morning dew a chance to pull out my macro lens. Just open your eyes and let your camera guide you.”

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It’s All About Perspective

“I think it’s very easy for an amateur photographer to come to a travel destination and capture a particular attraction from a default position,” Guttman says. “Often times, the difference between a shot that we've seen before and one we haven’t is a matter of a few feet. Play with angles: Lying in the grass and shooting upward to accentuate the height of an object or climbing and shooting downward to contextualize your subject are just two examples of how to effectively employ perspective.”

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Go With the Flow

“Landscape, travel, and adventure photography are all a bit of 'you don't know what you’re going to get,'” says Ernst, who has shot for the official tourism boards of Finland , Canada , and the Faroe Islands . “Conditions can be unpredictable, hiking trails may be closed and severe weather might limit what you can do. The best plan is to be open and take it easy." One of his most cherished shots was the result of a happy accident: "Some friends and I had planned to go climbing, but the morning was so foggy I was afraid it would be pointless. Sure enough, when we got to the top there was nothing to look at. We were just about to go back down when the clouds suddenly cleared, revealing this beautiful, hazy light playing off of the mountain. I quickly snapped the shot, and to this day its one of my favorite photos I’ve taken.”

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Stay in the Moment...

“I’m often asked if the camera takes my focus away from the experience but to be honest the opposite is true,” says Bath. “Seeing a destination through a lens makes you acutely aware of what’s going on around you. It enables you to break down the chaos of a new place into smaller, more easily digestible sections. Focusing on capturing the individual pieces of a place, the food for instance, or the people, means I can better appreciate the destination as a whole.”

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...But Remember When to Put the Camera Down

“There’s a fine balance between trying to capture a moment and just enjoying it,” Rubens explains. “Sometimes I’ll shoot hundreds and hundreds of photos, only to get home and realize I didn’t even enjoy the moment because I was frantically trying to capture as many images as I could. These days I make sure I put the camera down for a bit and soak it in. The second I feel like I’m focusing more on the technology than on my surroundings, that’s my sign it’s time to put the gear away and relax .”

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10 great travel photography tips from a professional photographer

Want to be a travel photographer? We asked a pro photographer about the tips and secrets behind taking great travel shots

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Getting paid to travel the world and capture incredible images of people, animals and landscapes is many people’s dream job, but it’s also one of the most competitive and challenging. 

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• The best travel tripods you can get right now

Professional travel photographer Graeme Green gives his practical advice and insider knowledge for improving your photos and getting ahead.

1. Go the extra mile

tourism photography

Life as a travel photographer often means getting out of bed (if there is a bed) when it’s dark and cold. I’ve gone out taking photos while wiped out by illness or after getting no sleep on the wooden floor of a hut. There have been long trudges through snow, sand and swamp, and exhausting journeys on dusty tracks. The unexpected or disastrous often happens. Life on the road is hard to predict, but you still have to get the photos you need. 

A big part of the lifestyle’s appeal is getting to travel to remote, often wild and fascinating locations, meeting new people and having experiences you just can’t get at home – but it takes effort and time. Early starts, tough journeys, and long, hard days in difficult environments are all part of the job. There might be times when you don’t feel like taking photos, when you just want to rest, but missed opportunities always come back to haunt you. You never know what you might miss.

2. Make a plan 

tourism photography

One of my favourite ways to photograph is just to walk, to explore a city or a location without an idea of what I’m looking for or where I’m heading to. You never know what scenes wait just around the next corner for spontaneous photographs. 

But sometimes it really pays to plan, especially if you need to get specific shots for an assignment. Think about what you’re trying to achieve, whether it's a close-up or a wider picture of a whole scene. If you’re photographing a festival or event, you need to take into account what time it will all kick off. If you have one, ask your guide or fixer for details on where exactly things will happen, then plan ahead to make sure you’re in the best possible location. 

It’s especially worth looking around at where the light is coming from. It’d be frustrating to be present at a dramatic moment only to realise you should be on the other side of the room.

3. Always be ready 

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Whether photographing people or wildlife, great photographic moments often pass by once and then they’re gone. You need to always be ready and alert to the action. That particularly means spending time getting to know your camera, experimenting with elements such as shutter speed. 

With some photos, you’ll want what you’re photographing to be sharp and clear, whereas others might look good with a blurry suggestion of movement. Also consider focal points and depth of field; what you want to draw the eye to, and whether you want a person or animal to stand out or to be part of it’s environment. 

You want to get familiar enough with your camera so that you can make changes quickly, almost instinctively. The last thing you want to be doing when something unmissable happens is struggling to find the right settings. 

I usually test my camera in a location ahead of time, while there’s nothing happening, to make sure I have something close to the right settings if and when something does occur. 

4. Take your time 

tourism photography

Time and patience are often the key elements that make the difference between a good photo and a great one. 

You can come across a building that’s going to look brilliant in few hours, when the light hits it right, or you might find a composition you like but it takes a while for all the key features, including people, to line up in just the right way. As tempting as it can be to take the photo as it is and move on, it pays not to accept compromise and to wait for the best possible picture.

Working in Morocco, I found plenty of compositions that I liked a lot, but it sometimes took an hour or more of waiting to get the photos I was really happy with, with people passing by at just the right moment.

5. Get in the thick of the action 

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Great photographs really give the viewer a sense of a place or people. They trigger their curiosity and make them want to know more. 

With adventure travel photography, you need to capture the action and take people there. Whether it’s biking in Vietnam, snowshoeing in Japan or trekking in Mexico, people looking at your pictures have to feel that sense of adventure and excitement. You need to get in the thick of it. 

If you’re spending time with local cultures, you need to communicate a sense of local character, how people live and the surrounding environment. If photographing a sombre religious event or a chaotic carnival, your photos need to capture that atmosphere. 

6. Let people see the real world

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For me, it’s a real turn-off when I see photos online that bear almost no relation to the real world. I don’t, of course, see anything wrong with post-production work to bring out the best in a photo, but I see pictures everyday in which photographers have clearly got carried away with Photoshop or Lightroom ’s settings. 

Our eyes are pretty clever and detect when something doesn't add up. An over-manipulated photo instantly loses credibility, whether that’s intensely oversaturated colours, a lack of shadows, or oddly manipulated pictures with dark, cloudy skies but scenery bathed in sunlight. Pictures like that might get Likes on Instagram but they're likely to be rejected by newspapers and magazine editors. 

For me, it’s more satisfying to capture something real. There are so many remarkable sights in the world without sprinkling digital magic all over them. 

7. Think about the impact of your pictures

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Wherever you go, always treat people with respect. I’ve been shocked by tourists swarming locals with cameras and iPads, treating them like an exotic curiosity, not a person. Whether I’m working with a person or a group for several days or just photographing someone I see on a street, I always check first. Quickly pointing at the camera and asking “OK?” usually does the trick. 

You should also always stop and consider what you’re photographing from an ethical position. Photos can do a lot of good, communicating important stories, but they can also have a negative impact, especially if you become part of cruel or harmful practices. In parts of Asia, some tribal women wear heavy metal chains to give them unnaturally long necks, causing painful physical deformities. What was once a local tradition is now more about someone extracting money from tourists who come to take photos. 

The same goes for wildlife too, whether it's drugged tigers, dancing bears or performing elephants. I don’t want pictures on my memory cards that helped cause any kind of suffering. 

8. Think outside the box 

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It’s possible to get so focused on photographing one thing, the main event, that you miss what else is happening, including other details that tell a story or make for interesting photos. Remember to look away from the viewfinder; often, it’s small details that others might miss or walk by, rather than the obvious main attraction, that bring a story to life. 

Looking around, you can often find interesting juxtapositions between the person or animal you’re photographing and features of the landscape, or perhaps a tower or tree, or even the moon. For one of my favourite wildlife photos from the Falklands, instead of coming in tight on a group of penguins, I zoomed out to show a tiny little cluster of the birds facing an approaching storm, which gave a completely different, and, in my view, more interesting result.

A travel story often requires variety, which means looking around at smaller details, and not just the big, key elements (people, landscapes, animals, buildings, and so on). Details, such as a funny street sign or a unique statue, can add layers to a set of photos and give a fuller idea of a place. 

9. Challenge yourself to find new approaches

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Photography should always be exciting. You never want to get stuck in a rut, repeating the kind of pictures you’ve taken before, or to be satisfied with pictures that are less than your best.  

The more time you spend taking photos, the more rewarding it is to be creative and find your own way of doing things. Working for other people, especially demanding editors, is one way to push yourself further. But you should always be challenging yourself to produce photographs that excite you to look at. Study what other photographers do, including what you like and what you don’t like about their work. 

Most of all, study and critique your work. How could it be improved? Try to push your photography in new directions, whether framing things differently, seeking out interesting light, or just getting yourself into more interesting situations. 

10. Get paid

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Given the sheer volume of photos produced each day, there’s a culture in the media of asking photographers to give away their photos for free. At some point, unless your landlord and local supermarket accept payment in smiles, you need to get paid for your work. 

Getting a job or freelancing for newspapers, magazines and websites means competing against many other would-be professional photographers, so you need to work hard and your photos need to stand out. Build up a portfolio, improve your photography, and work for smaller publications, all of which puts you nearer the front of the line. Having a good social media following and a reputation for being enthusiastic, hardworking and reliable helps. 

You can also work for advertising companies, or sell your pictures via online galleries such as Alamy and Flickr. Many photographers sell prints, give talks, teach photography classes, or lead photography tours and workshops. 

You need to put a value on your work and your time. In every situation, ask: what am I getting out of this? Is it worth my time and expertise? Travel photography is a tough business but an incredibly rewarding one if you can navigate your way.

Read more: The 10 best travel cameras you can buy right now Best travel tripods in 2019 10 ultimate locations for wildlife photographers How to prepare for a safari or wildlife photography trip

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Travel Photography Tips, Ideas, Examples & Jobs

Have a passion for travel photography but not sure how to take it further? This post covers careers, what gear is best, and tips for improving!

Learn | Photography Guides | By Ashley Darrow

Travel photography is one of the most exciting styles of photography, but it can also be one of the most intimidating to get started with.

I’m at my most inspired as a photographer when I’m on the road.

Even when I’m not headed to an exciting new location, I’ve started to think about all of my photography from the standpoint of travel.

This guide is going to give you everything you need to know to get started with travel photography.

I’ll be covering everything from the basics, to the equipment you need, to 20 travel photography tips that will improve how you approach taking photos.

When you’re ready to hit the road, we’ll start our adventure with some travel photography 101.

Table of Contents

What Is Travel Photography?

Defining travel photography can be a little bit challenging as this is one of the most open and free categories of photography.

In general, travel photography involves documenting people, landscapes, and cultures anywhere in the world.

Your travel photography counts whether you have to hike for thousands of miles or you took a 10-minute bus ride from your home.

Travel photography can be done by career professionals working for major magazines like National Geographic or it can be done as part-time freelance work.

Many travel photographers make their money by taking contract work from tourism departments or brands looking for product photography shot on location.

Travel photographers often find themselves working in challenging conditions. There’s a good chance that you’re going to be snapping pics in low light conditions , rough weather, or even half a world away from the comfort of your own bed.

  •  Related: 77 useful travel tips for photographers

What Does Travel Photography Include?

a person sitting on a hill with a backpack.

Image Credit: Sam Forson

Travel photography incorporates countless different styles.

Travel photographers often take landscape photographs, architectural photographs , as well as street photography. It’s also common to see food photography and documentary work being done by travel photographers.

As a travel photographer, your goal is to capture and express the story of a particular time and place. You’ll be giving people a taste of what’s happening in the moment while you’re in a particular location.

How Much Do Travel Photographers Make?

Travel photography is made up of a wide range of styles, but it’s also made up of a wide range of pay rates.

If you’re lucky enough to land a staff photography job with a major magazine, you could wind up with a six-figure salary. However, freelance travel photographers can make as little as around $18,000 a year.

Beginner travel photographers often make even less than that as they start to piece together their career.

Part of your pay as a travel photographer will come in the form of comped travel expenses. It’s pretty common for travel photographers to take a job with a tourism department that includes free transportation and lodging as part of their payment.

Is travel photography in demand?

Travel photography is in high demand.

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This demand is being driven by tourism departments, brands looking for more engaged lifestyle photography , and the rise of social media making travel photography a viable path for a content creator.

There are more people taking travel photos than ever before which means that you’re also going to have a lot more competition despite there being more job openings.

How Do I Become a Travel Photographer?

a man sitting inside of a tent holding a camera.

Image Credit: Kamaji Ogino

Becoming a travel photographer is pretty similar to how you would start up almost any photography career.

If you’re a total beginner, you want to start by mastering the craft of working behind the camera. This means learning how to stay in control of your exposure, frame captivating shots, and just get comfortable taking pictures wherever you go.

Here’s a basic outline of the steps you’ll take to start your travel photography career.

  • Learn your photography basics
  • Identify your travel photography niches
  • Build your portfolio
  • Grow a social media presence
  • Begin reaching out to clients
  • Publish your photography
  • Grow your business by reaching out to bigger clients
  • Continue to promote your work
  • Have fun traveling!

I should note that plenty of travel photographers also crowdfund parts of their career.

Building a presence on social media sites like YouTube and connecting that to your crowdfunding platform of choice is a great way to bring in some additional money.

What Equipment is Needed for Travel Photography?

a wooden table topped with lots of different items including camera gear and passports.

Image Credit: Hiren Lad

In all my years of photography, the one thing I’ve learned is that if there’s anything photographers love nearly as much as taking pictures, it’s talking about their gear.

Whether you see this equipment as the tools of your trade or the raw materials of your art, you’re going to need some equipment to get started with travel photography.

I’m going to cover the standard gear that most travel photographers will gravitate towards, but I’ll also be talking about different setups for film photographers and mobile photography.

I’m going to kick things off with the absolute must: a camera.

You’re not going to get very far in your career as a Travel Photographer without a camera. I’m being a little silly here, but it’s not just as simple as picking up any random mirrorless camera for travel blogging .

So, what camera is best for travel photography?

The absolute best cameras for travel photography are going to be, no surprises here, the latest mirrorless releases from the big-name brands like Sony, Camera, and Nikon.

Those cameras are packed full of the latest features and offer some of the best image quality.

You can also get amazing results, and save money, by picking up older cameras. My Sony a7s II is still my main camera body and my Canon 5D Classic, which was released way back in 2005, still takes pictures that get people asking me “How did you do that?”

You don’t need to spend a lot of money on your travel photography camera. A skilled photographer will be able to take amazing pictures using a point and shoot digital camera from the 90s. It’s craft that makes the photographer, not gear.

Travel photography can also be done with your smartphone. There are plenty of professional photographers out there primarily shooting on smartphones.

I also want to highlight film cameras. Film is the historic origin of our art form. Any film camera from a toy lomography camera to a professional large format camera can help us see our travels in a new way.

With all of that said, there are a few important features that you should look for in a travel photography camera.

  • Weather sealed designs are much more important when you’re trekking through unknown territory than when you’re at home in the studio
  • Your camera should also be ready for the road. Just like your car, you should take your camera in for a tune-up before a long trip
  • Double-check for the specs that matter most to you. For me, that’s low-light performance and color science

Your camera is only half the equation which means we need to take a look at the lenses that will be going on this journey with you.

  • Related: How to choose a camera and what is the best camera for travel photography?

I bet you’re wondering which lens is best for travel photography? You don’t need to worry, I’ll walk you through my top pics for a travel lens whether you’re shooting on a brand-new Sony mirrorless camera or you plan on taking a Canon 5D Classic on the road.

The first place you need to start is by asking yourself the most essential question in photography: What types of pictures do I plan on taking?

Here’s a quick breakdown of my recommendations for travel photography lenses based on my experience for a variety of photographic styles and budgets.

  • Standard Zoom Lens —A standard zoom lens like the classic 24 to 70mm is the go-to travel lens for so many photographers I know. This lens easily handles street photographs, landscapes, and portraits. Pick this to make a flexible one-lens kit
  • Wide Angle Zoom Lens —Wide angle zooms are better suited for photographers who know they’ll be shooting landscapes and architecture. If your wide angle zoom goes up to 35mm, then you can even get away with using that as your every-day lens
  • Wide to Telephoto—These lenses have focal length ranges like 24 to 105mm. They are usually affordable alternatives to pro-level lenses that can still capture stunning images. You’ll want this lens if your main concerns are budget and stylistic flexibility 
  • Telephoto Zoom Lenses —These massive lenses typically top out at 200mm or 400mm focal lengths and are ideal for wildlife, bird, and sports photography. Their size, weight, and cost make them less flexible than other options, but these lenses are a must-have for photographers interested in the styles I just mentioned
  • Pancakes and Nifty Fifties —Pancakes lenses have such a small profile they double as a body cap while the iconic Nifty Fifty is a budget 50mm with a huge fanbase. These lenses are perfect for photogs who want to stay ultralight or for anyone who wants an emergency backup lens.
  • THAT lens —We all have a lens that, despite never getting much use, we just can’t seem to leave at home. Mine is the Helios 44-2. I take that lens on pretty much every trip even if it doesn’t get much use. Allow yourself a little room for that “fun” lens and you might be surprised by how much use it gets over time

I always have at least two lenses on me when I’m traveling—just in case.

I once dropped an expensive prime lens and watched it roll off the edge of a mountain in the desert. Luckily, I had a pancake lens in my bag so the photography trip wasn’t a total loss.

Ever since then, not only do I treat each of my lenses with the utmost care, but I also make sure but I’ve got backup options on hand.

  • Related: How to choose a camera lens

Travel Photography Bag

Just like with lenses and camera bodies, you have a few options to consider when it comes to picking the right travel bag for your next adventure.

Before I get too far into talking about camera bags, here’s the five things I always consider when I’m packing a bag for my next trip.

  • Camera Bag Size —Size is one of the most important things to look at when shopping for a new travel photography bag. You want to find a bag that’s going to comfortably fit all of your equipment without causing too much strain on your back. Sling bags are great for days out in the city with light gear, but you should look for a comfortable backpack if you plan on covering some serious distance with your gear
  • Pack Weight —Here’s a quick piece of advice I picked up from hiking. Your maximum pack weight should only ever be 20% of your total body weight. This means that if you weigh 200 lb, the heaviest your camera bag should ever be is 40 lb. The lighter, the better
  • Features —There are some features that I consider an absolute must have in any of my travel camera bags including rugged build quality, plenty of padding and protection for my gear, and easy access to at least my main camera body and lens so I can shoot on the fly
  • Style —You could buy the most technically perfect travel camera bag, but if you don’t actually like the way it looks you’re never going to take it on a trip. I definitely believe that form should be second to function when it comes to camera bags, but I’d also be lying if I said it wasn’t a huge factor in my camera bag purchasing decisions
  • Your Gear —Your gear is actually going to dictate the type of bag that you’ll be looking for. A travel photographer shooting on a Leica Q2 can get away with a much smaller bag than a photographer shooting with a Canon 1DX

I also typically bring a packable backpack with me as part of my kit. This could be a really lightweight sling bag or something like the Lowepro Runabout.

This lets me leave the bulk of my gear at my hotel when I just want to have a quick trip around a new city taking pictures.

  • Related: How to choose a camera bag

Tripods for Travel Photography 

Tripods are an interesting—and somewhat contested—piece of the travel photography puzzle. I never used to take a tripod with me while traveling and that’s because most of my photography was shot street style which means lightweight and handheld.

However, the more I get into film photography and more interesting exposures, the more I find myself relying on my travel tripod.

My absolute number one pick for an adventure tripod would have to be the Peak Design Travel Tripod . It’s fairly lightweight, intelligently designed, and packs down small enough to fit in most of my bags.

Depending on the type of photography you’re looking to capture, you can also use tripods like a gorilla pod or even just take the tripod you have—even though it might be a little larger and heavier than would be ideal for travel.

This roundup of the 7 best travel tripods is a great place to get started if you’re shopping for something designed for the road.

Do I Need a Tripod for Travel Photography?

I’m going to dig into this mild controversy for just a moment. The question of whether or not you need a travel tripod to begin with is the source of some debate for photographers.

Honestly, the answer is maybe. It really depends on the type of pictures that you’re hoping to capture and your personal style as a photographer.

If you like to run and gun while capturing slices of life on busy city streets, you probably don’t need to bring a tripod with you.

Styles of photography that are highly mobile and rely on fast composition changes typically ditch the added stabilization that a tripod brings because it just slows them down too much.

Tripods might also not work for certain events and organizations. Trying to set up a tripod during a rock concert is a recipe for disaster and some museums won’t even let you bring in a tripod unless you pay their professional photography fees.

Then again, there are a few types of photography that absolutely need a tripod in order to work. Long exposures, shooting in dimly lit situations, and using some telephoto zoom lenses pretty much mandate shooting on a tripod.

The long and short of this is that owning a tripod and learning how to use it will make you a better photographer, but it’s not quite a mandatory piece of your travel photography kit.

The Camera Accessories I Always Forget for Travel Photography!

There are so many small accessories that are vital for digital photography that I find myself constantly forgetting. Far from being little odds and ends, these are essential parts of my kit that I’ve started to just leave in my travel bag so I never have to worry about packing them.

I’m talking about SD cards , microfiber cloths, sensor cleaning kits, and all those other little things that you might not miss until you’re in the field and you’ve got a speck of sand on your sensor ruining your shots.

I’ve started making a checklist that contains all these little items before I pack out. There’s nothing more defeating than being in some beautiful destination and realizing you only have enough space on your memory card for a few dozen more shots.

This is the checklist that I use for your average trip. Feel free to adjust things based on the gear that you use.

  • Sensor cleaning swab x 2
  • Lens cleaning Spray
  • Microfiber cloth
  • Spare camera batteries for each camera
  • Memory cards—one in each camera, extra in the bag
  • External SSD if I’ll need to backup files while traveling
  • iPad for editing, emailing, and posting pics on socials
  • Camera strap
  • Camera body cap and rear lens cap
  • Remote shutter release
  • Chargers and cables

Lighting for Travel Photography 

Lighting is a bit of an interesting topic when it comes to travel photography. We don’t often associate this incredibly mobile genre of photography with the piece of equipment that defines studio work, but there’s some great reasons to take some lights with you on your next trip.

Photographers like Briscoe Park are doing incredible work mixing bold, almost giallo, lighting styles with travel photography. There’s also a wealth of photographers using the dark nights of remote locations as canvases for their light paintings.

I started taking a few small lights with me when I hit the road and it’s definitely pushing my abilities behind the camera.

Lights like the Aputure MC and MC Pro are great for adding lights to portraits, throwing splashes of color into images, or creating other-worldly scenes. The Infinibar or MT Pro, also from Aputure, are solid choices for light painting .

Even something small like the Lume Cube can help gain control over lighting while away from the studio. Just don’t try to haul around your old tungsten lights on your next trip!

Mobile Travel Photography Gear

Before you start thinking travel photography requires a mountain of expensive equipment, you might be reading this article on the only device you need to get started with travel photography.

That’s right, smartphone cameras have come a long way and they are perfectly capable of being your main camera body for traveling adventure photography .

Even though your smartphone is essentially a pocket camera that can surf the internet and make phone calls, you still might want to add some extra gear to make the most out of being a mobile travel photographer.

My biggest recommendation would be to pick up a Moment smartphone case and a few Moment lenses.

These lenses will dramatically change your composition and help make your images look a bit more professional and a bit less like a quick shot on a smartphone.

A lightweight Gorillapod, a photo editing app like Lightroom mobile, and a power bank to keep you charged are a few must-haves.

This might sound a little unconventional, but my smartphone is one of the cameras I use the most. It’s lightweight, can take high quality pictures, and it can be a great budget alternative to expensive cameras because you probably already own one.

I almost never leave the house without throwing one or two Moment lenses in my bag. This is true whether I’m going on a 10-minute walk to the store or I’m about to hop on a 10-hour flight.

Travel Film Photography Gear

Is there any sound more relaxing than the shutter of a film camera when you’re deep in the woods or on top of a mountain ridgeline?

I don’t think so and that’s one of the reasons why I tend to travel with film photography equipment.

Film photography is almost a completely different animal than digital photography. You have to be much more engaged with your subject, composition, and exposure since you only have a few frames before your roll is spent.

Here’s a quick list of the film photography gear that I travel with. Just as a quick note, I’m leaving out things like tripods and camera bags that overlap with digital photography.

  • Gallon zip-top bag to store film
  • Permanent marker to jot notes on the side of a film canister
  • Light meter
  • Film (I always try to bring one more roll than I think I’ll need—just in case)

Read our guide to film photography for more tips.

20 Tips to Help You Improve Your Travel Photography

Want to improve your travel photography? I’ve put together 20 travel photography tips to help you up your game the next time you take your camera on vacation.

These tips are going to cover everything from advice for total beginners to some really interesting things that caught me by surprise while I’ve been on tour with my camera.

Tip 1—Get Comfortable With Your Gear Before You Travel 

a man with a backpack holding a camera.

Image Credit: Amar Preciado

This is my number one tip for travel photography because it applies to experienced photographers as well as beginners. Before you head out on your big trip, take some time to get comfortable with your equipment.

This means packing your camera bag just like you’re going to for your travel photography trip and wearing it around your home city or just walking around your neighborhood.

There’s nothing worse than being hundreds, or thousands, of miles from home only to find out that you actually don’t like that brand new camera bag you bought.

Giving all of your gear a comfortable trial run ahead of time ensures that you don’t run into any sudden surprises while you’re traveling.

I’ve started doing this with all of my travel photography gear and it’s hard to express just how much it’s helped me. Most of the time I’m just adjusting my backpack to make sure it’s got a comfortable fit for a long day of hiking, but there have also been times where I realized that piece of my equipment just wasn’t right for me.

This will also help make things easier when you’re out there taking pictures.

It can be a little stressful to try and line up the right composition in a busy downtown neighborhood of a foreign city. Knowing your gear inside and out will give you a huge confidence boost when you need it the most.

Tip 2—Set Your Travel Photography Intentions 

This might seem like a silly question to ask, but why do you want to do travel photography?

Setting some intentions and being aware of your goals ahead of time is going to help improve your career as a photographer.

If you need some inspiration for your goals, here’s a few that I’ve used in the past.

  • Have at least 5 new pictures that I can turn into prints once I’m home
  • Spend two days on location, day one focuses on lifestyle photography while day two is all about landscapes
  • Get out of my comfort zone and network with other travel photographers shooting the same location

Remember that goals are a lot like onions. They have layers.

Your ultimate goal might be to become a world famous travel photographer with National Geographic calling you every day, but you’ve got to start somewhere.

Let’s say that your goal is to start getting freelance travel photography contracts with tourism departments. You can start from scratch by pretending that you’re on contract to take photos of a particular location.

This will help you with your future goals as well as allow you to build your portfolio in the now.

Tip 3—Always Bring (Your) Camera 

a woman sitting in a car holding a cell phone.

Image Credit: Ketut Subiyanto

Everything starts with the ABCs and for travel photographers this means to Always Bring (your) Camera and always be taking pictures.

You really never know when the right moment is going to strike for your photography. There have been countless moments where I wish I would have had a camera on me to capture a moment that was either beautiful or could have even been historic.

Whether you’re carrying your main camera body, a pocket camera, or even your smartphone, you should always have a camera on you when you’re traveling. Be ready to start snapping pics at a moment’s notice if you spot something that catches your eye.

Worst case scenario, you’ve got another few hundred pictures to sort through when you get home. Best case scenario, you’ve caught the once-in-a-lifetime shot that you might have otherwise missed.

Tip 4—Be Patient with Your Shots

Here’s something that’s happened to me nearly every single time I’ve gone on a travel photography trip.

I’ll be at a historic ruin or in a national park with the perfect shot framed only for there to be dozens of other tourists cluttering up my shot.

When I first started with photography, I didn’t have enough patience just to wait it out. I thought that I would have to spend hours standing at a particular spot waiting for people to disperse.

As it turns out, the longest I’ve really ever had to wait for a shot to clear up has been about a half hour. If you’ve got someone to talk to or a book to read, that’s no time at all.

Don’t pass up on the shots that you want to capture just because there’s something cluttering your frame. Patients will reward photographers every single time.

Pro travel photography tip: Using an ND filter on your camera can let you lower your shutter speed which will cause fast-moving cars and people to “vanish” from your shots!

Tip 5—Learn How to Photograph People 

This travel photography tip can be one of the most challenging to incorporate. Getting comfortable cold approaching strangers takes a lot of social energy.

I know extroverted photographers that have a dozen model release forms printed and ready to go in their backpack. They have no problem chatting up strangers, but it took me some time to build up that confidence.

Here’s a quick template that you can use for approaching strangers for portraits.

Be cheerful and open about being a photographer. You can say something like “I’m a photographer taking portraits today in [Location] and I’d love to take your picture.”

If you’re on a freelance contract or working for a client, feel free to name drop them to give yourself some added credibility.

After snapping their pic, I like to give people my business card, email, or Instagram handle so they can contact me later if they’d like a copy of their photo.

If they say no photos, that’s just business.

It also really helps if you can speak just a little bit of the local language. You’ll be shocked how much more accommodating people can be if you can handle a few lines of the local tongue.

Tip 6—Study Local Laws and Customs 

Photography laws and customs are different the world over. As a travel photographer, you’re going to need to familiarize yourself with local laws and customs—especially when you’re traveling abroad.

Remember that the letter of the law and the local customs might not necessarily be a one-to-one match.

I’m based in the United States and here it’s perfectly legal to take pictures of strangers as long as you’re in a public location. However, social customs dictate that it’s considered rude to take someone’s picture without asking their permission first.

When in doubt, always default to asking permission first. This means asking someone’s permission before taking their portrait or asking permission before taking pictures at a historic site or museum.

Tip 7—Get in Frame 

a woman taking a picture of herself in a car mirror.

Image Credit: Dominika Roseclay

This is something I’m still working on becoming more comfortable with.

When I’m in the studio, I’ve got no problem hopping in front of the lens and doing some self-portraiture. However, once I’m out in the field I’m a little bit reluctant to stand in as my own model.

Travel photography is about telling your story. This means that you’re going to need to get in frame for some of your photographs.

Even if it’s just a few shots of you setting up, traveling to your destination, or getting dinner after a long day of shooting, people want to see the photographer behind the camera.

If you’re traveling with other photographers, why not consider making this a game? Challenge each other to see who can take the most interesting photos of your fellow photographers.

You can even take some quick selfies on location to contrast your professional photography. This will make your self-portraiture a little more intimate and warm while your travel photos show off your full talent.

Tip 8—Scout Travel Photography Locations with Your Smartphone

A great way to dramatically improve your travel photography is to scout your locations ahead of time. Before you haul all of your gear on a quest for the perfect photo, go out there with just a day pack and walk around soaking up the scenery.

Location scouting gives you a strong understanding of what speaks to you as a photographer about this location before you even start pressing the shutter button.

I recommend carrying your smartphone or a point-and-shoot camera when you’re out scouting locations.

This lets you take some test shots of a travel location before bringing all your gear out.

Tip 9—How to Always Pack the Right Lenses

I used to be so worried about not bringing the right lenses on a trip, but it’s been years since I’ve felt like I picked the wrong lens for the job.

Part of this is knowing your lenses inside and out. You should learn the basics of your lenses like aperture, how their focal length compresses an image, and which focal lengths are ideal for different styles of photography.

Lenses like the Sony FE 24-70mm f/2.8  make a great choice for travel. The focal length options on that lens easily handle majestic landscape panoramas and street photography portraiture.

I also recommend taking at least two lenses with you for most travel photography trips. I’ll take one primary lens with me that I plan on doing most of my shooting with and a secondary lens for those “just in case” moments.

Tip 10—Staying Safe While Traveling with Camera Gear 

Being a tourist always carries some risk when it comes to crime. Being a tourist that happens to be carrying $3,000 in photography equipment carries a little bit more risk.

Here’s a few tips that I stick with when it comes to staying safe while shooting with expensive camera equipment.

If you can, try to do your travel photography with a group. Even if you have one other person traveling with you, that company is usually more than enough to deter most would-be thieves.

This might seem a little obvious, but you always want to keep your gear in sight. Unless I know I’m alone in the wilderness, my camera bag is never further than an arm’s reach away.

I’ve got a tip for you that I don’t see a lot of people talking about when it comes to traveling safely with your camera equipment. I like to stay discreet when I’m traveling with my camera gear.

This means I leave the branded Sony strap at home and opt for a much more neutral Peak Design strap . I also throw a velcro patch over things like the LowePro logo on my backpack that might otherwise announce that there’s some expensive camera equipment in there.

If you stay smart and aware of your surroundings, your odds of having an unfortunate encounter while carrying camera equipment will be greatly reduced.

Tip 11—Shoot Some Short Format Video  

We’re all photographers here. This means I can be a little honest with you about shooting short form video.

It might not be your main stay, but social media platforms are putting a lot of emphasis on TikTok style videos. If you can incorporate a little short form videography into your travel photography routine, you’ll have that much better performance online.

There are countless ways that you can build short form video production into your photography routine. You could record a 60 second video demonstrating your setup for the shot or even just an interesting voice over on top of a still image.

Shooting short videos can also be fun. Building this into your photography routine is a great way to improve your skill set while you’re also increasing your social media following.

Tip 12—Find Your Voice by Getting Lost 

Some of the best travel photography stories happen because you get lost. Getting turned around is a great way to change your perspective on things and improve you or travel photography.

This is easily one of the most underrated travel photography tips. Best of all, you can do this from the comfort of your hometown.

Try getting lost on purpose by walking through a neighborhood you don’t usually go to or checking out a city that you might have otherwise overlooked.

While all the other travel photographers are gathered at the tourist traps we’ve all seen a thousand times on Instagram, you’ll be exploring something new while catching refreshing pictures of your travels.

Tip 13—How to Fly With Film 

If you plan on doing some film photography while you’re traveling, you’re going to need to know how to transport your film while traversing through airports safely.

The x-rays used in airport security scanners can damage undeveloped photographic film. The more x-rays undeveloped film is exposed to, the more haze and distortion starts to pop up on the final image.

Film with an ISO 800 and above can be damaged by any airport X-ray machine. Expired and experimental films can also be damaged by x-ray equipment.

Some airports now use more powerful CT scanners. These are often used for checked baggage, but they can also be used for carry-on as well.

CT scanners put out enough x-ray radiation to damage film of any ISO. You should always bring your film with your carry-on luggage in its own zip-top bag.

When you’re traveling through security at an airport, you can ask the security personnel for a hand examination of your photographic film. In my experience, they almost always say yes no matter how busy the airport is.

However, it is at the discretion of airport security and I have had them turn down a hand examination of my film. One trip through an X-ray scanner won’t damage your film, but multiple trips will.

This is why I recommend buying film on location if possible. You can also have film mailed to your hotel or to a friend’s address who lives near where you’re traveling.

Tip 14—Become a Traveler at Home 

Traveling is expensive and it’s not always available for us. However, this doesn’t mean that you have to stop your travel photography plans.

If you’re looking for the true zero-budget way of starting a travel photography career, you have to start in your home city.

While this might not seem exciting at first, keep in mind that the city that you live in is an exotic travel destination for someone else.

Try using all of the  travel photography tips and tricks I’ve talked about in this article while taking pictures of your home city. Even if you live in a sleepy little town, there are compelling stories that you can tell by documenting the life and history of the place you live.

Tip 15—How to Find Travel Photography Inspiration 

No matter what style of photography you’re in, it’s easy to get stuck in a rut. What should you do if you’re running out of inspiration before your next big travel photography trip?

Here are five quick ways I stay inspired and motivated as a photographer.

  • Start following more photographers on social media to see what other people are doing
  • Research historic photographers and get inspired by how they were shooting when our medium was still new
  • Check out international photographers to see how people are shooting across the world
  • Get experimental by looking into the weirder side of photography with things like film soup or databending
  • When I’m heading to a new location, I like to look at the history, upcoming events, and what photographers are shooting for that local

Tip 16—Turn Regular Trips into Travel Photography Trips 

If you’ve always got your camera with you, and you’re always shooting, every trip you go on is a travel photography trip.

A great way to stay active as a travel photographer who has yet to break into the full-time business is to transform every trip you go on into an opportunity for travel photography.

Whether you’re heading across town for a family dinner or going on a work trip, you’ve got an opportunity to do some trouble photography.

Not everything has to be a grand adventure. You could use that trip across town as an excuse to work on catching shots of yourself in transit, for example.

Tip 17—Becoming a Better Photographer 

Every photographer has an area that they can improve on. Whether you’ve always wanted to be one of those photographers who only ever shoots on full manual mode or you’ve been hoping to add sports photography to your travel routine, now’s the time to start working on those skills.

Skills building exercises can be a great activity during your travel photography downtime. You’re not always going to be on the road to an exotic destination and that time in between trips is vital to your success.

Even if you’ve been a professional photographer for decades, there’s still countless things about this art form that you can learn.

Tip 18—Get Your Photos Seen

Now that you’ve got a portfolio of travel photography images, how do you get people to see them?

As with most freelancing gigs, the name of the game is networking. Here’s a few tips for getting your pics in front of more eyes.

  • Be more consistent with social media by posting regularly and using hashtags strategically
  • Enter into photography competitions
  • Ask local shops if you can display your work
  • Get your photos published
  • Reach out to travel agencies, tourism boards, and parks departments for freelance work or partnerships
  • Network with other photographers

As the old saying goes: It’s not what you know, it’s who you know.

Tip 19— Travel Photographer Tips for The Business Side of Things 

Making it as a working travel photographer has gotten harder in recent years, but it’s not out of reach. Here’s a few business tips to help you stay on top of your budding photography career.

Always try reaching out to new clients. Keep in mind that bigger clients are harder to land, but there are plenty of smaller travel destinations that are ideal for a beginner photographer.

You should create a budget for your travel photography work. If you’re just starting out, you don’t need a fancy app. A simple spreadsheet is more than enough for you to stay on top of your money.

You can also try becoming a content creator while you’re working on landing clients. Building up a social media following and generating some income through a site like Patreon can help you stay on the road longer.

Tip 20—How to Tell Your Travel Photography Story 

a camera and a book on a table.

Image Credit: Ena Marinkovic

You’ve reached the end of my travel photography tips. The last tip, and the most important one, that I’m going to give you is some advice on how you can tell your story.

Travel photography is all about storytelling. This means documenting your journey, engaging your audience, and finding your voice.

Taking captivating pictures without context isn’t enough. Your travel photography needs to speak to people on a deeper level and communicate something yet untold about the experiences behind your journeys.

It’s going to take time to figure out how you want to represent your adventures. The best thing you can do is get started today.

Even if you’re just taking travel photos a few blocks from your home, you’ll be breaking the ice and taking those important steps in finding your voice as a storyteller.

What is the purpose of travel photography?

The purpose of travel photography is to share your journey with the world. Travel photographers help to tell the story of not only their adventures, but also the people and places they encounter whether they are traveling around the world or within a few miles of where they grew up.

Is travel photography a good career?

Travel photography can be an amazing career that is rewarding and potentially very lucrative. It can be challenging to get started, but there are countless photographers who do travel photography as both their main job as well as a side gig.

What is the single best lens for travel photography?

The single best lens for travel photography is the wide angle to telephoto zoom like the Sony FE 24-105mm f/4 G OSS Lens. This lens allows you to capture everything from sweeping landscape panoramas to sports and wildlife photography .

Is travel photography a job?

Travel photography can absolutely be a job. You can make money as a travel photographer by freelancing for clients, photographing destination weddings , or working as a photojournalist.

Is GoPro good for travel photography?

A GoPro can be great for travel photography especially if you’re interested in capturing video and using stills from that footage for your photography.

Even though a GoPro is a good choice for travel photography, you’re probably going to be better served by a dedicated camera if your main goal is photo rather than video.

Final Words

I hope this guide gives you everything you need to hit the ground running with travel photography. If you’re an experienced travel photographer, I hope you’ve picked up a few new tricks that can help improve your next adventure.

I’ve tried to cover travel photography from nose to tail in this blog, but I’m sure I left a few things out.

I want to hear your travel photography tips, tricks, and experiences in the comments. If you like this article, make sure to check out my other photography blogs .

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Ashley is a photographer, writer, and film critic. When Ashley’s not writing essays on photography, cinema, and theory, he’s out taking pictures with retro film cameras.

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The Ultimate Guide For Travel Photography: Photographing All 50 States

We receive beautiful photos from our amazing customers all over the United States. This got us thinking about how beautiful, varied, and thought-provoking the people and places of the U.S. are. That’s why we have decided to create the ultimate guide for your travel photography!

In this post, we are going to go over each of the 50 states and take a look at both landscapes and some of the awesome attractions each state has to offer and maybe spark your interest in visiting one or two (or all 50!) and taking some photos yourself. We will also be sharing some photography tips such as the best editing apps and some creative photos you can take on your trip(s). And don’t forget, when you get back home from your travels, head over to our site to frame your amazing photos and keep the memories alive!

Sometimes a state is a  destination….. a vacation spot, a family reunion, a friend’s wedding, etc. Other times  we’re just passing through  to get to our final destination. Or, we happen to find ourselves there for a brief visit because of a business meeting or convention we’re attending. Whatever the reason, let’s explore!

As you will see, there are so many great things to explore around the United States. From unique foods to rich history, and so much more in between. Frame It Easy is even located in Derby, Connecticut, and while we don’t have a storefront that you could come visit, we can assure you that we are working hard to provide our customers with high-quality frames that are simple to design and won’t cost you a fortune. We strive to save you more time (and money!) to experience frameable moments with your loved ones. We take pride in being as “ environmentally friendly ” as possible so that we can do our part to preserve both our local community and beyond. We are proud to manufacture quality, fair, American-made frames, so what better way to preserve your American-made travel memories than display them in a Frame It Easy frame? 🙂

Ok, before we get into all the amazing things each state has to offer, let’s first chat about a few quick travel photography tips.

Travel Photography Tips

Photography — like most art — is pretty subjective, but if you want to make sure you get some awesome photos while travelling, there are a few top things we think you should keep in mind.

  • Pay attention to composition : How you choose to frame your photos (framing in-camera, not the actual picture frame…not yet anyway!) will play a huge part in what the final photo will look like. Be intentional about what elements you choose to include (or exclude) and what you decide is the main focal point.
  • Snap lots of photos from all different angles/distances : Chances are, if you’re traveling, it’s not a spot you’ll get to often, so you might only have one opportunity to capture it all. By taking lots of photos, it will make sure you don’t miss anything!
  • Try to tell a story : Imagine you’re going to share these photos with others to let them know about your trip — what kind of story will the photos tell? Make sure they reflect the emotions, scenery, and culture you experience!
  • Stay present : We know it’s tempting to stage a bunch of picture-perfect shots, but also remember you’re out to enjoy and have fun! While yes, you definitely want to document your trip, don’t let it come at the cost of not actually experiencing things in the moment.

For more great tips, check out these 20 Useful Travel Photography Tips For Improving Your Photos .

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Best Editing Apps To Use

After all your travels and amazing photos, you’ll probably want to print them and display some on your walls. But if your photo needs a little tweaking before it’s ready to hang, don’t fret, there’s an app for that! In our age of ever-growing technologies, we have a variety of app options for photo editing. The days of Adobe Photoshop and Lightroom holding a monopoly over these types of tools are long gone, and there are tons of different options for taking your photo from “not quite there yet” to “display ready” in a few taps or clicks.

There are many different photo editing apps ranging from professional to just for fun, so it’s all about what you are looking to do. For a full list of recommendations, check out The 12 Best Photo Editing App Options for Hobbyists, Pros, and Everyone In Between .

State-by-State Travel Guide

State-by-State Travel Guide: Alabama

Nicknamed “The Heart of Dixie,” Alabama has a lot to offer in the nature department. In fact, it has become a popular place to make movies because of its diverse landscape and environment. (Most recently, “Get Out” was filmed entirely in the state.)  DeSoto State Park  features 25 miles of hiking trails, the 100 DeSoto Falls, and beautiful scenery that brings photographers from all over the world.  Moss Rock Preserve  is a 349-acre preserve described as a “perfect balance between nature and community”. You can also tour over 67 acres of 25 gardens with over 12,000 plants at the  Birmingham Botanical Gardens.  

Alabama is also home to many significant landmarks from the Civil Rights Movement. A visit to the many museums, monuments, and memorials dedicated to the efforts and sacrifices made by many in the fight for equality provides somber opportunities to capture photos that are inspirational reminders for us all. The  Rosa Parks Museum  is located in the state capital of Montgomery. The  Edmund Pettus Bridge  is where Martin Luther King, Jr. and many others began their historic march from Selma to Montgomery.

This is just a little taste of what Alabama has to offer, so if you’d like to add some of your favorite places to visit or things to do, reach out to us! As Lynyrd Skynryd sings in their timeless song Sweet Home Alabama, “where the skies are so blue; Sweet Home Alabama, Lord, I’m coming home to you.” And if you know what the line “Now muscle shoals has got the swampers” means, be sure to share that with us too!

State-by-State Travel Guide Alaska

“The Last Frontier,” “Land of the Midnight Sun,” and “The Great Land” are some of the nicknames of Alaska, our largest (by far) state. Over 2 million tourists visit yearly, attracted by its physical beauty, landscapes, wildlife,   and unique culture.

Alaska for most of us is a “bucket list” item. Almost half of the people who travel to Alaska do so via cruise ships. It’s a perfect way to experience the natural beauty and landmarks of this vast state. Many begin in Anchorage, where 40% of the population lives. It’s a great place to soak up the  natural culture . In warmer months the residents plant thousands of flowers to greet you. It is home to many cultural sites showcasing traditional crafts, dancing, and the dwellings of Alaska’s indigenous people. Imagine capturing these images on film!

Another top destination is the state’s national parks (there are 24). Denali National Park boasts 6 million acres of river valleys, tundras, and mountains. It’s also the only park where you can enjoy dog sledding demonstrations featuring the famous  Alaskan Huskies . A trip to Juneau, the capital, can include a visit to the Tongass National Forest. Within its 17 million acres is the Tracy Arm Fjord featuring spectacular  glaciers, floating ice, whale and seal watching, and fishing . 

No trip would be complete without a stop in Fairbanks, one of the best places on Earth to experience the Midnight Sun and Northern Lights (aurora borealis.) For  70 days , from May 17 through July 27, Fairbanks has  24 hours of sunlight  each day! During Aurora Season, which runs August 21 through April 21, it offers one of the best views of the Northern Lights on clear, dark nights. Your camera will be working overtime!

State-by-State Travel Guide: Arizona

Arizona, nicknamed “The Grand Canyon State,” offers visitors plenty of photo-worthy opportunities to snap the perfect picture for your home or office. And although the Grand Canyon may be its most famous site, it has more parks and national monuments than any other state. But let’s start with the  Grand Canyon ! A river valley that runs 277 miles long and about 18 miles wide with the Colorado River flowing right through it means lots of natural beauty to photograph. Visitors are able to buy day passes and choose to walk or drive through the park, but rafting, hiking, and helicopter tours are also available to park visitors. Or consider taking a hot air balloon ride for a different perspective. The colorful balloons themselves are a photographer’s favorite subject!

Monument Valley , the  Hoover Dam , and  Havasu Falls  are all top destination spots in Arizona that provide stunning scenery to photograph. One of the most popular places to visit is  Sedona , where red sandstone formations, especially on a clear, sunny day, allows you to take visually spectacular pictures.

Arizona cities attract their fair share of visitors too.  Phoenix , the state capital, has the largest privately owned zoo in the U.S. and the city’s botanical gardens are highly acclaimed.  Tucson ,  Flagstaff , and  Tempe  are also hotspots for the tourism industry. On a visit to  Yuma , you can visit (and take some great pics) of a ghost town recreating a typical mining town in the 1800s. Fun Fact: You can stand in four states at once at Four Corners Monument – the point where the boundaries of (in alphabetical order, of course) Arizona, Colorado, New Mexico, and Utah meet. It is the only place in the U.S. where four states intersect. Think of the interesting photographs you and your family and friends can take at the monument!

So, whether you are looking for spectacular natural beauty or some fun family vacation pictures, Arizona provides you with lots of opportunities to take (and frame) photos.

State-by-State Travel Guide: Arkansas

Originally nicknamed “Land of Opportunity” after World War II during a period of industrial growth (nearly 600 new plants were opened), in 1995 it officially changed its moniker to “The Natural State” to reflect the abundance of parks and wilderness areas that include mountains, caves, rivers, and hot springs.

Have you ever wanted to discover diamonds? Well, Arkansas is the only place in the world where you can do it! Diamonds were first discovered in Arkansas by John W. Huddleston and it is currently the only state that produces these gems and allows the public access to them. The Craters of Diamonds State Park in Murfreesboro —  a diamond mine where you can keep what you find  — is a 37-acre site where you first learn about diamonds and other gemstones and then search for your own. It’s truly a one-of-a-kind experience. So of course, don’t forget to document it with your lens!

Hot Springs is a city in the Ouachita Mountains, and after biking, hiking, paddleboarding, or fishing through 5,000 acres of Hotspring National Park you can visit one of the 47 hot springs flowing through it. It’s the first U.S. park set aside for its natural features, and while in most parks you cannot take anything with you it is the only one mandated to give away its natural resource: water! With an average temp of 143 degrees, it is, unfortunately, too hot to bathe in, but visitors are encouraged to touch, drink, and even take some home with you for its healing properties!

After spending time on the mountain, spend some time in one! Blanchard Springs Caverns, located within the 1.2 million acres of the Ozark Mountains, is a three-level cave that can be viewed in its entirety with guided tours. Not only will you see stalactites, stalagmites, and other formations, but you can climb over rocks and slide down red clay mud. They also offer a “Wild Cave” tour for their more adventurous visitors, allowing a peek at some of the underdeveloped parts of the cave. While all other caverns in the national park system are temporarily closed to battle a syndrome resulting in the death of hundreds of thousands of bats, Blanchard Springs Caverns is the only one that remains open to the public.

State-by-State Travel Guide: California

California aptly referred to as the “The Golden State” offers diversity throughout its 163,696 square miles. Stretching for over 900 miles on the Pacific Ocean, there’s no shortage of sunny beaches. There are 21 coastal counties and each one boasts of having the best beaches. And they’re not just for sunbathing. There are hot springs to relax in, piers for fishing enthusiasts, and even theme parks to ride rollercoasters. And the best part about California beaches is the cost….they are all free to the public!

The third-largest state is home to the entertainment industry ( think of the iconic  Hollywood  sign ). Originally named “Hollywoodland” the famous sign was built in 1923 but was later changed to just read “ Hollywood ” in 1949 to represent the entire district. The sign sits on Mount Lee and is spelled out in 45-foot tall white letters that stretch to be 350 feet long. Some of the best places to view it are the Griffith Park Observatory, Hollywood Reservoir, and even Hollywood Forever Cemetary.

Speaking of iconic images, The Golden Gate Bridge and cable cars are familiar to many of us ( think of the opening credits of the equally iconic tv show  Full House .) Fisherman’s Wharf, Pier 39, and Lombard Street attracts thousands of visitors each year. This one city alone has tons of tourist and photo opportunities.

State-by-State Travel Guide: Colorado

When you’re known as the “Colorful State” you can expect a visit to include spectacular scenery to photograph. Colorado, the 38th state to join the Union, is known for its vast and diverse landscape, wildlife, and outdoor activities. There’s no time to be bored in this beautiful state. So pack your bags, and don’t forget to grab your camera — there is so much to capture!

With over 1,000 Rocky Mountain snow-covered peaks it is home to one of our highest national parks. Dubbed “a high-country playground” visitors hike, bike, fish, and camp on over 415 square miles of protected land. It is a high-priority destination for observing wildlife in its natural habitat. Trail Ridge Road located in the park is the highest continuous paved highway in the country where you can travel 4,000 feet in minutes!

Colorado is a ski-lovers dream. With resorts located in Aspen, Vail, Breckenridge, and many other communities, skiing is now a year-round industry. Telluride, once a thriving mining town, became Colorado’s “best-kept secret” in the 1980s when wealthy celebrities came to ski. Today it is home to not only one of the best ski resorts around, but hosts festivals throughout the year, including music, film, wine, and even yoga!

After a long day of skiing, what better way to unwind than head to  Strawberry Park Hot Springs?  Located in Steamboat Springs it offers its visitors natural mineral water springs that reach up to 104 degrees. The area even has its own trademarked snow! Because of its unique low water content, the light, fluffy and dry snow is called “Champagne Powder” and is said to make for some of the best skiing anywhere in the world. It certainly makes for some pretty great photos too.

Connecticut

State-by-State Travel Guide: Connecticut

As the home base for Frame It Easy , we are excited to introduce you to the many photo-worthy attractions our small but mighty state has to offer. Connecticut, the third smallest state in land area, is referred to as either “The Nutmeg State” ( because our earliest inhabitants were so ingenious they actually made and sold wooden nutmegs)  or “The Constitution State” ( technically it was The Fundamental Orders written here, not the Constitution, but let’s not quibble ), but we also boast spectacular seaports and shoreline, world-class casinos, an Ivy League school, and the birthplace of the hamburger!

If you’ve ever seen the 1988 film Mystic Pizza, you know how quaint this shoreline town is. Besides pizza, area restaurants serve some of the freshest seafood around. Mystic Seaport Museum is the largest maritime museum in the United States offering tons of events such as traditional boat building, watercraft classes, and family fun Sundays! Mystic Aquarium is one of two aquariums in America that has sea lions and is home to the only beluga whale in New England. You can also get up close and personal with sea life at the other end of the state at the Norwalk Aquarium.

Connecticut is also home to over 110 (and counting!) wineries and breweries. Located throughout the state, 40 wineries participate in “Passport To Connecticut Farm Wineries,” As you visit each you get your “ passport”  stamped and if you hit a certain number of them within the year you are in the running for prizes. If you visit 35 or more you are eligible to win the grand prize, which last year was a two-week trip to Spain. Not a bad deal for drinking wine!

For entertainment, Connecticut is home to many regional theaters including Goodspeed Musical Theater, Long Wharf, and Bushnell. Many playwrights have debuted their performances on Connecticut stages before Broadway, while others showcase classics and summer stock. Music venues, from open mic nights to top-name artists, can also be found throughout the state. And if gambling is your thing, there are two spectacular casinos to choose from. While there, check out the Mashantucket Pequot Museum and the incredible exhibits tracing the history of Native Americans in New England.

As we said in the beginning, Connecticut is small but mighty! There is so much to do and see, and the best part is you can travel the length of the state in less than two hours. None of the attractions are far away! 

State-by-State Travel Guide Delaware

Delaware is the second smallest state is just 96 miles from top to bottom. At its smallest point, it’s only 9 miles across, and its biggest is still only 35 miles across. The size of the state makes it perfect for…… a road trip!  So let’s get in the car and see what Delaware has to offer.

Starting in the north, our first stop is Wilmington, the largest and most populated city. The city is a hub for museums, restaurants, and gardens, many funded by the DuPont family who made their fortune selling gunpowder. One of their family estates,  Nemours Estate ( reopening May 1st) is an elegant 77-room, 47,000 square mansion located here. The mansion is modeled after Marie Antoinette’s estate and is filled with art, collectibles, and antique pieces. Or get tickets and see a performance at the Grand Opera House. Built in 1871, the 1,208-seat theater now partners with the  Delaware Symphony Orchestra  but also hosts jazz, rock, and even comedy acts. If theater is more your style, two blocks away is  The Playhouse  which regularly presents Broadway tour shows.

If the great outdoors and wildlife interest you, travel southeast along the coast of the Delaware Bay and make stops at areas such as Cedar Swamp Wildlife Area, Woodland Beach, Bombay Hook National Preserve, or Little Creek Wildlife Area for some natural beauty. And don’t forget pictures, of course!

State-by-State Travel Guide: Florida

At the southernmost part of the United States, you will find “The Sunshine State,” otherwise known as Florida. Surrounded almost entirely by water by the Atlantic Ocean and the Gulf of Mexico, it is a top beach vacation destination. Of course, Florida is also synonymous with Disney World and other theme parks. And from the nightlife of cities like Miami to the natural beauty of sites like the Everglades, Florida seemingly has something for everyone. We’ll discuss some of these popular tourist places, but we’re also going to introduce you to what we call “hidden gems” that make for some great photo opportunities to add to your pics with Mickey and Goofey!

As we mentioned, Florida is known for its  theme parks . There are 10 major theme parks in Florida including Walt Disney World, Universal Orlando, Seaworld, Discovery Cove, Legoland, and Busch Garden. And although not technically a theme part, don’t miss a visit to the Kennedy Space Center. Although it would be impossible to visit all the theme parks and see all the attractions in one visit, this gives you the perfect excuse to make another trip (as if you needed one)! 

One of the most popular cities —  Miami  has a lot to offer its guests. Miami is the sixth most populated area in the United States, and here you can get a taste of many of the cultures and flavors that make up our country. From gorgeous beaches to the works of street artists, this vibrant city is alive from dawn to dusk. Now for some of the “hidden gems,” we hinted at. 

Not all of Florida is about the beaches. Some “inland” towns offer a different perspective.  Winter Park  boasts that it has Old World Charm. Along with upscale shopping and dining, it is home to the Charles Hosmer Morse Museum of American Art which displays the world’s largest collection of Tiffany art including jewelry, paintings, and of course lamps.  Mount Dora  is a charming town that is home to several festivals throughout the year, a lawn bowling club, and the oldest continually operating inn in the state.

Florida is also filled with art everywhere. One place to find some of the best art is at  Wynwood Walls  in Miami. The art around the walls contains one-of-a-kind pieces from artists around the world. The art is constantly being changed, with different murals and structures being made, you get to see a variety of cool art pieces.

State-by-State Travel Guide: Georgia

Georgia, otherwise known as “The Peach State” is home to postcard-worthy beaches, panoramic mountains, fertile farmland, and of course peaches! It is the largest producer of this juicy fruit, as well as peanuts and pecans (but somehow “The Peanut State” doesn’t have the same ring to it). To many, it is known as  DawgNation  because of their beloved University of Georgia football team, the UGA Bulldogs. Located in Athens, it is a short distance away from our first stop — the capital of Georgia — Atlanta.

There is something for everyone in this thriving city, but we’ve narrowed it down to some of the best. Take a trip to  Ponce City Market , one of Atlanta’s most popular community hubs, and enjoy local food and drink at the  Central Food Hall . A trip to the rooftop offers an amazing view of the city, and you can even play a friendly game of mini-golf up there. Speaking of drinks, take a quick trip to the  World of Coca-Cola  while here and learn the history of the famous drink which was invented in 1892 — and you can even see how they bottle the drink! Don’t forget the taste test at the end.

For another great perspective of the city, hop on the Ferris wheel at  SkyView Atlanta . Skyview is open daily (and until midnight on the weekends!) and has enclosed cabins with climate-controlled temperatures, making it perfect for any season or weather!

We love finding hidden gems in our travels, and about 45 minutes north of Atlanta we found one in Cartersville. Home to  The Booth Western Art Museum , you’ll find displays of giant murals, statues, photographs, letters from Presidents, and paintings from some of the country’s most profound artists around the country. Kids will enjoy the hands-on children’s gallery. It’s definitely worth the short trip.

State-by-State Travel Guide: Hawaii

Just the name of the state, Hawaii, invokes visions of breathtaking beaches, spectacular surfing, and lively luaus. The Aloha State is a peaceful paradise that draws literally millions of visitors each year. Did you know Hawaii is actually over 100 islands? There are six main islands that each have their own distinct and unique character that we are going to talk about here. Whether it’s for a relaxing, quiet vacation or one filled with tons of activities, Hawaii has got you covered! 

In keeping with the alphabetical order of our series on U.S. states, we will talk about the six main islands in alphabetical order also. Ready for our trip around Hawaii? Let’s go!

tourism photography

Hawai’i , called the  Big Island  because it is twice as large as all the other islands put together, offers tourists hundreds of miles of coastline for swimming, snorkeling, and surfing. Covering 4,038 square miles it has diverse terrain including pristine beaches and lush rainforests.

The most popular tourist attraction is  Volcanoes National Park  which offers guests the opportunity to hike over solidified volcanoes. Currently, there are no active lava flows, but you are still able to see where the lava last flowed in 2018. While on the Big Island, don’t forget to see a Luau Show and experience the local food and culture.

State-by-State Travel Guide: Hiking trails in Hawaii

Kauai,  the oldest of the islands, is known as the wettest place on earth because it gets an amazing 460 inches of rain per year! That’s probably why it is like being in a huge garden of flowers and tropical vegetation. You also may recognize it from the movies. Jurassic Park and Raiders of the Lost Ark are just two that were made here.

You can see a lot of it on the  Kalalau Trail  which is 11 miles long and leads from Ke’e Beach to Kalalau Beach. If you don’t plan to do the whole hike, which is a bit strenuous, at least hike the first two miles as those are the most scenic. If you’re not up for a hike at all, this is the best place to take a helicopter tour. See all the lush vegetation and sweeping beaches from a bird’s-eye view.

Don’t miss the opportunity to snorkel with sea turtles at  Tunnels Beach . Its name comes from the lava tubes that are underwater that create tunnels and caves, which are home to the most colorful sea life creatures you will find. The farther out you go, the more sea life you will encounter. Maybe you’ll get lucky and a sea turtle will come up top and swim alongside you!

State-by-State Travel Guide: Beaches in Hawaii

Just a 45-minute trip by ferry is the island of  Lanai . Although it is the smallest of the six main islands, it is the largest private island in the world, and luckily, unlike other private islands, guests are free to visit at any time! Also known as Pineapple Island it was home to the Dole pineapple plantation until 1992. If you’re looking for a laid-back, quiet respite, this is the island for you.

While relaxing, take a trip to the barren site of  The Garden of the Gods.  What at first glance might seem like only boulders and dust, you can easily get caught up in the history here. First, if you’ve ever been curious about what life on Mars would resemble, this is it! You can only tour the 140 square miles by 4-wheel drive vehicle or mountain bike, but you’ll see towers, spires, and formations throughout what is called a volcanic rock garden. According to a Hawaiian legend, the dry landscape in this area is a result of a challenge between two priests.

State-by-State Travel Guide: Haleakalā Highway

The island of  Maui  often comes out on top of the “best island” in the world poll (although we think they’re all the  best.)  It has the most swimmable miles of beaches and is a top destination wedding and honeymoon spot. Take a scenic drive along the  Haleakalā Highway  which covers 10.67 miles of the Haleakalā National Park. The highway starts at the entrance of the National Park and leads to the summit of Haleakalā with views of the island’s endless beaches.

It is also the breeding grounds for the Humpback Whale, so it’s a great place to do some whale watching. And don’t forget to visit Lahaina Town which is known for not only its great shopping, activities, and restaurants, but the great Banyan tree located in the town square said to be the largest tree in the world.

State-by-State Travel Guide: White sand beaches

Hop on a short plane ride to reach the island of  Moloka’i  and its famous  white sand beaches . Also known as the Friendly Island, it is said to be the most  Hawaiian  because 40% of its inhabitants are of Hawaiian descent.

It is also the least developed as well as the least touristy island, but it’s a great way to get a feel for what the islands were like back before they grew to the hotspots they are today. No building can be built taller than a palm tree, and since there are so few cars there is no need for streetlights. This is a great island to relax on and unwind from all your other adventures while on the islands.

State-by-State Travel Guide: travel photography sunset in Hawaii

Last but not least, you’ll find the world-famous Waikiki Beach (along with 125 other beaches) on the island of  O’ahu.  If you are looking for the chance to experience spectacular sunrise and/or sunset head over to Lanikai, one of the prettiest areas in O’ahu, and hike the Lanikai Pillbox Trail (don’t worry, it’s one of the easier trails) and watch the sunrise over the amazing crystal clear water. For sunset, you can take a Sunset Cocktail Cruise from Waikiki, what better way to take in the view than on the water on a cruise?

Most visitors to Hawaii arrive in the state’s capital, Honolulu, located on O’ahu. The island has many cultural and historical sites to visit, but none is more moving than the  USS Arizona Memorial at Pearl Harbor  which honors the 1,177 US sailors and Marines who died in a surprise attack on December 7, 1941, and commemorates the events of that sad day in American history. 

State-by-State Travel Guide: Idaho

Idaho got its name when mining lobbyist George M. Willing asked Congress to name the new territory after the Native American word for “Gem of the Mountains” and is nicknamed “The Gem State” today. It’s an appropriate nickname since it is home to many unusual attractions or hidden gems, that you cannot experience anywhere else. So although Idaho is a great place to visit whether you’re an outdoor enthusiast, a garden lover, an art fanatic, or even traveling with kids, we’re going to focus on some of the offbeat, quirky, and downright strange sights to see in this Pacific Northwest state.

Ever look closely at a license plate from Idaho? If you have you would know they’re famous for their potatoes. They even have a whole museum dedicated to them. The  Idaho Potato Museum  tells all about the history of their potatoes and potato farming, you can even head to the café to try one of their famous baked potatoes! Don’t miss the largest potato chip that was donated by Pringles. And if you like museums, take a trip to Pocatello to visit the  Museum of Clean . How can you miss exhibits on cleaning products, vacuum cleaners, and personal hygiene? At the other end of the spectrum is  Experimental Breeder Reactor-1  in Arco. The first atomic power plant is now a museum featuring nuclear machinery.

Idaho is also well known for its natural beauty. If you’re a fishing enthusiast there’s Redfish Lake to catch some trout or salmon, and if you’re a skiing enthusiast Sun ValleySki Resort is known as the “birthplace of destination skiing” and ranks high on Forbes World’s Best Ski Resorts list. Sun Valley is also home to the Ernest Hemingway Grave where visitors leave coins, flowers, and even liquor bottles in honor of the iconic author. But if you truly want to get off the beaten path tour  Custer Ghost Town  in Stanley. The once-booming town became deserted after the mining industry dried up, but it is now a historical site where you can tour the schoolhouse, saloon, and other restored buildings.

And last but not least, only in Idaho can you actually visit  The Center of the Universe . That’s what the small town of Wallace declared itself in 2004 and they have a manhole cover to prove it. The logic was if you can’t prove it’s not, then it is! Pretty smart marketing by a town of just under 800 residents.

State-by-State Travel Guide: Indiana

We can’t begin our tour of Indiana without a discussion about how and why it is nicknamed “The Hoosier State” and its residents are called “Hoosiers.” One theory is it was derived from the poem “The Hoosier’s Nest.” But what exactly is a Hoosier? Webster’s dictionary definition is not very complimentary (let’s just say it’s  awkward).  Some believe it can be traced to the Anglo-Saxon word “hoo” which means high or hill. Some say it came from census workers who would call out “who’s here?” Still, others say it was used to refer to the men who worked the canals for a man named Samuel Hoosier.

In the state’s capital, Indianapolis, you will find  Monument Circle  in the heart of downtown, a tribute to the soldiers and sailors of the state and a popular spot during lunchtime and its many scheduled events year-round. You can also go to the top of the observation deck for free if you walk the stairs, but it will cost you $2 if you take the elevator.

The  Indianapolis Zoo  is probably unlike any zoo you have ever visited before. They have a dolphin pavilion, which offers plenty of human-dolphin interaction, up close and personal experiences, and even a 17-foot underwater viewing dome. The zoo is home to over 3,800 animals and more than 320 different species.

Of course, we can’t visit Indiana without talking about the Indianapolis 500-mile race, better known as the  Indy 500 , which is the world’s oldest automobile race still operating to this day. The first race was held in 1911 and the Memorial Day annual event attracts upwards of 250,000 fans each year.

 State-by-State Travel Guide: Iowa

Iowa, otherwise known as The Hawkeye State (said to have come from the Indian scout Hawkeye in James Fenimore Cooper’s  The Last of the Mohicans ) is bordered by the Mississippi River to the east and the Missouri and Big Sioux Rivers to the west. And in between are some pretty cool sights to see, history to discover, and fun facts to learn.

In the top three agricultural producers in the United States (corn, soybeans, and pigs), the capital city of Des Moines has been host to an annual State Fair since 1954 every August that attracts more than one million visitors each year. And every year since 1911 has seen a cow sculpture using more than 600 pounds of butter. For reference, that’s enough to butter 19,000 pieces of toast. And speaking of toast, Des Moines is also the birthplace of the inventor of sliced bread, Otto Rohwedder. 

The capital city has plenty to offer its visitors the rest of the year, and food is one of them! Foodies from all around the world come to visit Des Moines’ food scene. A  Food & Wine  article points out all the cool places to eat and drink around town, including cheese bars, dessert shops, breweries, and even the best convenience store pizzas. And if you need to walk off all that food, head over to the  John and Mary Pappajohn Sculpture Park a 4.4-acre trail around the downtown area featuring sculptures by 25 different artists and touted as one of the best places to take pictures!

In your travels down the coast don’t forget to stop in to visit Cedar Rapids, a hub of art and culture. Another great side trip is to Iowa City for a visit to the University of Iowa, ranked as one of the top 5% of universities in the United States. It has both natural history and art museums, but we love the fact that the trampoline was invented here by gymnast George Nissen. If you feel inspired, the city has several “air parks” for you to try out your tumbling skills.

State-by-State Travel Guide: Kansas

Kansas, otherwise known as “The Sunflower State,” (you can see fields of the state flower throughout), is a midwestern state that has both bustling cities and cattle-filled farmland. Kansas is one of the nations leading agricultural states, which is where it gets its second nickname — “The Wheat State.” So tap your ruby slippers together three times, and let’s go explore Kansas. 

Starting in Topeka, a visit to the state capital building is a great place to explore. A free tour of the building includes a 296-step climb to a cupola to get an amazing view of the town (so your ruby slippers might not work here.) From there you might see Lake Shawnee, a popular fishing, boating, and swimming area often rated the top destination spot in Kansas. When you want to get out of the water, check out the Evel Knieval Museum dedicated to the daredevil whose death-defying stunts made him an American icon.

Wichita is the state’s largest and most populated city, and there is plenty to do here. Botanica, The Wichita Gardens, originally opened in 1987 with four gardens, today covers over 18 acres of land and features over 4,000 species of plants. The Garden also includes an aquatic collection, a butterfly garden, a greenhouse for tropical plants, more than 30 types of Junipers, a massive peony collection, and rock, rose, Shakespearean, woodlands, and sensory gardens. Other tourist attractions include the Museum of World Treasures, Sedgwick County Zoo, and Old Cowtown Museum which recreates life in Kansas in the 1800s. You and the kids can interact with the “citizens” of this old western town by visiting a prison, grabbing a drink at the saloon, or even getting a haircut at the barbershop!

A stop in Kansas City should begin with a Trolley Tour so you can become familiar with all it has to offer. The KC Speedway hosts several NASCAR events each year and has hotels, a casino, and entertainment when there are no races to attend. Sea Life is an aquarium that not only features thousands of marine animals but is also a breeding facility helping to combat extinction. And the kids will love their interactive exhibits while they learn about these fascinating creatures.

State-by-State Travel Guide: Kentucky

Kentucky, otherwise known as the “Bluegrass State” (for reasons unknown) is a Southeastern state known for horse racing, the Louisville Sluggers, moonshine, fried chicken, and more bourbon barrels than residents. Post-It notes were also created in Kentucky, and are still solely manufactured there too. And the famous “Happy Birthday” song was born itself in Kentucky by two Louisville sisters. 

Lexington , a picturesque town with plenty to do, is one of the top destinations when visiting Kentucky. Every year, to kick off spring activities, Masterson Station Park holds a  Kite Fest . You can try your hand at decorating your own kite before flying it in the air, participate in family-friendly activities, and even apply sunscreen…all for free! If you are visiting during early June, boogie your way over to the  Festival of the Bluegrass  where banjos, guitars, and violins entertain long into the night. The festival has been held by local Kentucky families for the past 46 years on a single-stage setup. While a large line-up of American and International musicians play on the stage, you can also enjoy magic shows, browse the hand-made crafts, and enjoy local cuisine from food trucks.

Louisville is home to what is billed as “The Most Exciting Two Minutes in Sports” or “The Run for the Roses” the  Kentucky Derby , a world-famous horse race held at  Churchill Downs . The race has been held uninterrupted since 1875 and is usually held on the first Saturday in May, preceded by two weeks of festivals to celebrate everything horseracing. But Louisville isn’t just bats and horses. The city is a cultural haven with museums, restaurants, indie music, and festivals throughout the year. And don’t forget to have lunch or dinner on the  Belle of Louisville , the oldest Mississippi-style steamboat river cruise.

Kentucky is a place to enjoy the great outdoors, and there are parks, waterways, and nature preserves throughout the state. But for a different kind of “natural” experience, check out  Mammoth Cave National Park,  the longest cave system in the world. Over two million people visit its 405 surveyed miles each year. You can either explore its electrically lit, fenced walkways, or if you’re feeling adventurous crawl along muddy passageways with a lantern. Either way, don’t miss this tour.

State-by-State Travel Guide: Louisiana

“Louisiana – Feed Your Soul” is the state’s newest tourism slogan, and they’re not just talking about food. Sure, sampling cajun and creole-inspired cuisine is a must for visitors. Likewise, as the birthplace of jazz, zydeco, and swamp pop (to name a few of the musical genres you will likely hear) your “soul” appetite will also be well fed. But while most of us are familiar with both the food and music associated with the annual Mardi Gras festival that brings thousands of partying tourists to Louisiana, there is so much more this southwestern state located on the Gulf of Mexico offers. We hope you’re ready to come along for an exhilarating tour around Louisiana! 

State-by-State Travel Guide: Maine

Sure, our northeasternmost state, Maine, has plenty of scenic beaches, national parks, and historic cities, and we’ll get to all of it. But we’re going to start (and end) our tour with food! And since Maine has lots of maritime history, we’ll start with lobster, or “lobstah” as it’s pronounced around these parts. About 90% of lobsters harvested in the U.S. are from Maine, and that’s why you’ll find a “shack” serving these crustaceans just about everywhere in the state. That’s because the waters around Maine are the perfect temperature for lobster breeding. So whether you like them fresh off the boat, in a clambake, on a buttered roll, or steamed, don’t leave without trying one (or two).

With more coastline than California ( 3,478 miles) you are sure to enjoy a day at the beach. Old Orchard Beach is one of the busiest areas, day and night, surrounded by tons of water activities, a historic pier lined with restaurants, gift shops, and bars, and even an amusement park close by. Ogunquit Beach, named by the indigenous Abenaki people meaning “beautiful place by the sea” boasts three miles of dunes, seagrass, and super soft sand that you won’t want to miss. When you need a little break from the sun, you also won’t want to miss taking a tour, either by boat or bike, of the plentiful lighthouses that dot Maine’s beaches.

With names like Bangor, Kennebunkport, and Penobscot, Maine’s tourist destinations are enjoyed by thousands of visitors each year who soak up both the sun and all the splendor the state has to offer. And for those who like to shop, Maine has that covered too. The outlets in Kittery are a favorite, and if you love LL Bean, its flagship store in Freeport never, ever closed (until recent events!)

You can’t leave Maine without stopping into a local bakery to try one of their donuts. Did you know it’s the birthplace of the donut hole? Legend has it that in 1847 16-year-old Hanson Gregory was working as a crewman on a lime-trading ship. The men aboard the ship would always fry the dough in diamond shapes or long strips, but the dough would never fry correctly. That’s when Gregory came up with the idea to cut a hole in the middle for even frying, and the rest is history!

State-by-State Travel Guide: Maryland

There’s a lot of history throughout Maryland, so if you’re interested in visiting colonial towns, national shrines, and military sites, you’ve come to the right place. The state capital, Annapolis, was once the capital of the U.S. and you can get a sense of its proud history by taking a tour of the State House. While in Annapolis you can also tour the U.S. Naval Academy which has been training and educating men to become naval officers since 1845. It wasn’t until 1976 that women were admitted, with 81 inducted that year into the Class of 1980! Another must-see for history buffs is Fort McHenry, where Francis Scott Key was inspired to write the Star-Spangled Banner. You can also honor the fallen at the Antietam National Battlefield, the site of the bloodiest battle of the Civil War.

Maryland has been called “America in Miniature” because of its varied landscape. If you’re interested in hiking, biking, or mountain climbing there are the Allegheny, Blue Ridge, and Monadnocks Ranges. You can paddleboard around the waters of Janes Island, go rafting down the Youghiogheny River, or camp on a deserted island. If it’s an outdoor adventure you’re looking for, Maryland has it.

Speaking of outdoor activities, Maryland’s biggest tourist attraction is the waters of the Chesapeake Bay and all they have to offer. Located in Prince Georges County is the National Harbor, an oceanfront resort with more than 40 restaurants, 160 shops, art surrounding its 350 acres, a Ferris Wheel that brings you 180 feet in the air, and of course plenty of water activities for the whole family. You can even take sail on a pirate ship!

Ocean City is a summer vacation hotspot attracting over 8 million visitors each year! Obviously, beachgoers love it here. And there are three miles of boardwalk that keeps the fun going after the sun goes down with rides, amusements, restaurants, and music. Named America’s best boardwalk by The Travel Channel, you can also rollerblade, bike, or take the tram along the wooden path.

Massachusetts

State-by-State Travel Guide: Massachusetts

Although Massachusetts is technically a commonwealth, and we will recognize it as such, we are still including it in our state guide! Technically, there is no difference, but we will still recognize it for its official name. Although Massachusetts was the sixth state to join the Union, it can claim a lot of  firsts  that happened here: the first state to get a zip code, the first public park (Boston Common), and the “First Thanksgiving” celebration! The size of Massachusetts is small, but the areas that make up the state are so diverse in both the landscape and appeal that each offers unique reasons to visit. Whatever you’re looking for, we think you’ll agree the Commonwealth of Massachusetts is one great place to explore.

The western part of the state is known as The Berkshires, a term given to the area by locals referring to the mountains throughout the region. The small towns and villages of the Berkshires are a popular destination. In the summer you can catch the Boston Symphony Orchestra in concert at Tanglewood and then sit on the deck of The Red Lion Inn in Stockbridge and enjoy a cocktail. During the fall months, you can visit the Norman Rockwell Museum or enjoy farm-to-table cuisine when you’ve finished enjoying the beauty of the foliage that surrounds you. In the winter you can enjoy skiing, snowboarding, sledding, snowshoeing, ice skating, and more at one of the many resorts in the area.

On the completely opposite end of the spectrum, as well as the opposite side of the state, is Cape Cod, a stretch of a peninsula extending into the Atlantic Ocean that is a beach lover’s paradise. The population of the 65-mile area swells to over 500,000 during the summer months as tourists flock to 559.6 miles of coastline offering warm tidal pools to relax in, barrier beaches for surfers, and everything in between. Its famous sand dunes, lighthouses, and sunsets are all sights to see. And you can easily get to Martha’s Vineyard or Nantucket for either a tour or stay on either of these quaint islands.

In between the mountains and ocean, take a trip to central Massachusetts. Springfield has always been known as the town that “everyone has been through, but no one has been to” but that’s changing. MGM Springfield is only a couple of years old and filled with activities from slot machines to exhilarating nightlife, and even a delicious steakhouse from season 14 of Hell’s Kitchen winner, Meghan Gill. Speaking of amazing food, if you find yourself in Springfield in the months of September-October make a stop at the Big E, billed as “New England’s Great State Fair”. While you will find rides, games, and vendors all around the 175 acres of the fairground, you will also find “houses” dedicated to each state in New England, letting you experience life in these states, and even try some of the best food from them as well! Every year, over 1.5 million people attend this fair over the 17 days that it is open! Don’t leave the fair without getting “chowdah” from the Massachusetts house.

We can’t end our tour without visiting the capital, Boston, arguably the most popular city in the state. From sporting events to shopping, cultural attractions to food and drink, there’s no end to the fun in this city! Watch the Boston Red Sox play a home game at Fenway Park, which they’ve been doing since 1912. Tour one of its top schools, such as Harvard, MIT, Boston University, and Berklee College of Music, just to name a few, and see the incredible museums and exhibits they house. Enjoy the beauty of its public parks and the splendor of its seaport, where you can take a harbor cruise, visit a world-class aquarium, or tour a replica of the Boston Tea Party Ship!

State-by-State Travel Guide: Michigan

Michigan, known as the “Great Lakes State” because it is surrounded by four of the five great lakes, was always an easy state to remember in geography class because it’s shaped like a mitten! Michigan also has the longest freshwater coastline in the United States, making it a very popular destination during the summertime. The Upper Peninsula (called the UP) is a popular region for tourists who flock to its 150 waterfalls and heavily forested areas for outdoor recreation in one of its many state parks. While there you can take a boat tour of the Soo Locks, the largest waterway traffic system on earth that allows ships to travel between Lake Superior and the other Great Lakes.

Travel to Western Michigan and check out Grand Rapids, the state’s second-largest city. It has a cool vibe, most likely helped by the many breweries it is home to as well as the Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park. The largest city, Detroit, is in Southeastern Michigan which is the center of the auto industry in the US as well as the world-famous Detroit-styled pizza. Make sure you get a slice or two! Or visit the sprawling city of Ann Arbor, home to the top-ranked University of Michigan. The fourth area, Central/Mid Michigan, includes the capital city, Lansing, and also what is arguably Michigan’s biggest tourist attraction, Frankenmuth. An entire Bavarian Village where the storefronts look like gingerbread houses, over 3 million visitors come to enjoy its family-style fried chicken and the world’s largest year-round Christmas ornament shop.

It is said that you can tell a true Michigander by the way they answer the question, “So, what part of Michigan are you from?” A native will hold up their palm and point to the part of the “mitten” they come from. But there are other ways to tell a true Michigander. For instance, Coke or Pepsi is not important. Here it’s a competition between Vernors, the oldest brand of ginger soda, and Faygo Pop with 50 flavors still made in the original factory from 1935. But the true giveaway of a native of this northern state? If it’s above 30 degrees, they consider that shorts weather!

State-by-State Travel Guide: Minnesota

Minnesota’s current tourism campaign slogan touts “True North, more than just a compass point.” So what’s the meaning behind it? Sure, True North is an imaginary line drawn on the Earth’s surface pointing to the North Pole, but in this sense it’s the striving for ideal happiness, finding your direction in life, and proceeding on the right course to get there. Minnesota Governor Tim Walz proclaims that not only are visitors welcome in his state but after seeing all the state has to offer you might even end up staying. There are distinct regions throughout the state, each offering some unique attractions. So grab a compass and let’s take a tour around Minnesota.

If your idea of happiness is the great outdoors, the Northwest is a great place to start. Over 10,000 lakes, rivers, prairies, and forests make up most of this section offering peaceful solitude while camping, fishing, or just communing with nature. Legend has it that Paul Bunyan and his blue ox Babe created all those waterways with their footprints, and you can snap your picture with larger-than-life statues of them in Bemidji. If you’re into hiking or at least want to be,  Bowstring State Forest  has 51 hiking trails all with different skill levels. The trails equal 107 miles to get different views of the area. In addition to hiking, Bowstring also offers guests boating, fishing, hunting, swimming, and camping at Cottonwood Lake and Moose Lake Campgrounds. 

The central portion of the state is as diverse as it is large. Parts are referred to as God’s Country, due to the high concentration of farmland. At the other end of the spectrum, the Metro area includes the Twin Cities which are densely populated with more than half of the state’s residents. If you’re looking for some great shopping finds head over to the Mall of America in Bloomington. The mall was opened in 1992 and is the largest mall in the US with 4.2 million square feet. Approximately 40 million people visit this mall every year to shop around the 500+ stores located in this mall. So make sure to wear your walking shoes this day, you’re going to need them! 

Mississippi

State-by-State Travel Guide: Mississippi

Next up, we are touring the state of Mississippi. It’s okay, we know in your head you read that as Miss-iss-i-ppi, we did too! Known as “The Magnolia State” for its stunning blossoming trees and fragrant white flowers, you are sure to be greeted by both as well as other natural beauty, historic sites, music, and plenty of Southern Hospitality on a visit to the state! 

Jackson is not only the capital but also the largest and most populous city and a great place to learn about the history of Mississippi. Start at the Old Capitol Building which was built in 1839 but is now a museum featuring artifacts and government-related exhibits since the new State Capitol building was completed in 1903 and also open for tours. 

If you’re a music lover ( and who isn’t)  you will find lots of interesting places to listen and learn about  the  musical history that began right in Mississippi. Sure, Elvis Presley fans have toured Graceland in Memphis by the millions, but did you know the iconic singer was born in Tupelo and you can visit his birthplace? And the state is a Who’s Who of those who made the blues famous. There’s the BB King Museum in Indianola, the Rock & Blues Museum in Clarksville, and the GRAMMY Museum in Cleveland where you can learn all about the legends of the musical genre. 

Of course, Mississippi also has attractions for those whose tastes are less musical and more historical. The Vicksburg National Military Park is a must-see for Civil War buffs. You can take a guided tour of a battlefield and learn the history of the time through the memorials that dot the landscape, as well as take a tour of the USS Cairo, the only remaining example of a City Class ironclad gunboat.

If architecture is more to your liking, there are stunning examples of antebellum mansions that offer tours. There’s the Beauvoir Estate in Biloxi, or Stanton Hall and Rosalie Mansion in Natchez, all giving visitors an up-close look of the opulent furnishings, artwork, and landscaping of these majestic homes. For a more somber but certainly worthwhile experience, you can visit the Civil Rights Museum in Jackson which features eight interactive galleries that share the stories of those who started the movement for the fight for equality in our nation.

Of course, no tour of Mississippi is complete without a shout-out to the River that bears its name. Although it runs through 10 states and conjures up images of life on a riverboat as told by Mark Twain, it makes up most of the state’s western border and can be seen from many vantage points along the way. There’s riverboat gambling as one way to enjoy it. Kayaking is another great way to experience it. But for the really adventurous you can take the 444-mile Natchez Trace bike path all the way to Nashville, Tennessee!

State-by-State Travel Guide: Missouri

As you drive around Missouri, you will see their unofficial state nickname “The Show-Me State” on license plates and elsewhere. While there are several stories behind the origin of the nickname, the one that most people go with now is that people from Missouri are not gullible and often unimpressed, so without hard evidence ( show me)  they won’t believe you. Whether you are looking for cultural attractions in a big city, adventure in a theme park, or communing with nature, come along on our tour as we  show you  some of the best things to do while in Missouri! 

If you only had one day to visit the state, you can hit all three categories of tourist attractions in St. Louis, starting with getting the best view of the entire city from 630 feet above! The world-famous Gateway Arch is located on the west bank of the Mississippi River and you can enjoy the iconic structure from the ground with a stroll through the park on your way to visit the on-site museum and other exhibits or take the tram all the way to the top for a bird’s eye view of the city. Referred to as “the world’s tallest arch”, “the tallest man-made monument in the Western Hemisphere”, and “Missouri’s tallest accessible building”, it stands as the centerpiece of the Gateway Arch National Park and is a must-see!

The Branson area also offers all three categories. Calling itself “the live country music capital of the universe” you are sure to find a variety of entertainment here along the brightly lit 76 Country Boulevard. While most visitors come for the music, there’s lots more to see and do here. Silver Dollar City is not only a major theme park, but it also preserves the 1880s culture of the area with glass-blowing, blacksmithing, and candle-making demonstrations. And as part of the Ozark region, there’s plenty of natural beauty to enjoy in and around its parks, forests, and three crystal clear lakes.

You can’t leave Missouri without trying some Southern barbeque, and Missouri is just the place for it! The annual American Royal World Series of Barbeque in Kansas City is known as the “biggest barbeque celebration and largest barbeque competition in the world”. A four-day event in September that hosts over 500 chefs competing in different categories to feature their bbq, you will also be able to listen to live entertainment, participate in fun activities, and enjoy a spectacular display of fireworks! The city also is home to the Nelson-Atkins Museum of art. It houses many significant works as well as a sculpture garden, both of which are always free!

State-by-State Travel Guide: Montana

Referred to as “The Treasure State,” Montana is well known for its wide-open land, sky-scraping towers, and all the outdoor activities you could ever think of, truly a treasure in nature! Although it is the fourth largest state in the nation, it holds only the 44th spot as the largest population. Montana is filled with what residents and visitors call “out worldly beauty” and is a great stop for all the outdoor enthusiasts on our site. So let’s take a trip around Montana and see all the “treasure” it has to offer!

Glacier National Park is known as the “Crown of the Continent” and for good reasons! Glacier National Park covers over one million acres of land. The park is 1,583 square miles and has plenty of activities for the entire family. When you first arrive, make a quick stop at the visitor center to pick up a brochure and see all the options you have to choose from. There are over 700 miles of hiking trails around the park, so no matter your expertise level, there is a trail for you! The Trail of the Cedars is wheelchair/stroller accessible and is one of the shorter trails, that leads to a beautiful waterfall, so everyone can enjoy it. There are over 700 lakes within Glacier National Park, but only 130 of them are named, and while you won’t get to all of them during your visit, you can still take a dip in one (or two) of them, so don’t forget to pack a swimsuit. If you’re looking for a quiet area to take a quick swim, head over to Lake Five, it has a few docks for easy access to the water, but won’t be overcrowded! 

Montana’s capital, Helena, gives visitors the full past and present experience of the state with all of the attractions the town has to offer. For all the history lovers, you will see buildings, artifacts, and other attractions that have been preserved by the state. The Montana Historical Society Museum is where you will find most of the artifacts from all phases of Montana’s history, especially during the post-gold rush era, as well as paintings, sculptures, and letters by artist Charles M. Russell. 

State-by-State Travel Guide: Nebraska

Nebraska is a state that lies in both the Great Plains and the Midwest. It is known for its abundance of corn, which is also how it got its nickname the “Cornhusker State.” In fact, Nebraska farmers produce well over one billion bushels of corn a year! Nebraska is also known for its two types of land, the hills, known as “The Rolling Plains” in the East, and the large area of rolling sand dunes in the West. Those who have been to Nebraska explain it as the perfect mixed state, between the history and culture and the calm nature areas and bustling city. So let’s go explore the state of Nebraska and all the unique things it has to offer its guests and residents.

With over a dozen parks, not including the National Parks located in the West. you will not run out of things to see if you are a lover of nature. Indian Cave is one of many parks perfect for biking, hiking, camping horseback riding, or even just enjoying a nice picnic in nature. With more than 22 miles of hiking trails, there are trails for hikers of all experience levels. Or you can head to the Indian Cave and explore the carvings on the walls.

If you find yourself in Nebraska during the summer months, Lake McConaughy is a must! It is known as the largest lake in Nebraska, perfect for all water activities, such as fishing, jet skiing, and boating, or you can lounge around on the natural white sand beach and catch some rays! There is also a campground in case you wanted to stay for more than just a day. If you can, try to stay for the sunset, the sun setting over the water is absolutely breathtaking, and something you definitely don’t want to miss.

State-by-State Travel Guide: Nevada

Look closely at the Nevada State quarter and you’ll see one of the state’s nicknames, “The Silver State,” a nod to the mid-1800s when the precious metal was literally being shoveled off the ground causing a population boom to the area. Now also known as the “entertainment capital of the world” thanks to Las Vegas, a two-and-a-half-mile strip of casinos, resorts, theaters, and more, Nevada is really a tale of two landscapes. So whether you are looking for natural beauty or bustling nightlife, or maybe a little of both, swim in clear waters, Nevada is the place for you! Come along as we check out some diverse attractions in the 36th state to join our union.

Let’s start where over 40 million visitors do each year: Las Vegas. They say what happens in Vegas, stays in Vegas, but we’re making an exception and sharing this with you! The Las Vegas Strip has something for everyone, and since it’s open 24/7 you can pack a lot in a short time. Sure, Las Vegas is synonymous with gambling, but there’s shopping, live music, theaters, restaurants, and even amusement parks to keep you entertained. While we suggest wearing comfortable walking shoes, there is a free tram that operates all day to bring guests to and from the major hotels, many of which are “themed” to transport you to the pyramids of Egypt, the gondolas of Venice, or the medieval world of King Arthur. Try not to miss a stop at the Bellagio Fountain. Located on an 8-acre lake in front of the luxury hotel of the same name, you can catch shows every day of the fountains choreographed to music and lights. The lake cost 40 million dollars to build and is one of the most famous free attractions located in Las Vegas. 

Onto the “other” Nevada. The state is home to clear, pristine lakes and stunning mountains. Lake Tahoe is another can’t miss destination. During the summer months, jet-skiing, boating, and para-sailing can all be done. However, if you are visiting during the colder months, skiing, snowboarding, and tubing can also be found around the lake. Or just go to experience the fresh air and breathtaking views. Whatever you plan to do, don’t forget your camera, this is one view you’ll never want to forget.

Speaking of photo opportunities, if you’ve seen pictures of the Hoover Dam, you know how beautiful it is, and those who have visited say that pictures don’t even do it justice! The dam, stretching out 726 feet long and 1,244 feet wide, took over 22,000 people and about 5 years to complete, opening in 1936. Located in the Black Canyon of the Colorado River, you can hike up the hundreds of stairs of the Mike O’Callaghan–Pat Tillman Memorial Bridge to get the best view of the dam and river at 880 feet above. Just think about the pictures you can take! There are also Red Rock Canyon and Death Valley National parks, which despite their names offer more stunning photo ops.

New Hampshire

State-by-State Travel Guide: New Hampshire

New Hampshire is a state in the New England region that packs the best of Mother Nature into its small frame . Known as “The Granite State” referring to the extensive granite quarries, New Hampshire is known for its wilderness, including all the lakes, mountains, and forests. As you drive around New Hampshire, you will see license plates with the state motto “Live Free or Die” on them. This motto was adopted from a speech by General John Stark in 1945 and has been used ever since to claim the resident’s independence, which makes sense since New Hampshire was the first state to claim its independence from England, prior to the Declaration of Independence. New Hampshire is filled with natural beauty, but tons of man-made attractions as well. It is also home to the oldest man-made attraction in the US, the Mount Washington Auto-Road, which was opened in 1861 and leads you to the highest peak in the Northeast.

There are tons of state parks throughout New Hampshire. One of the most well-known however is The Franconia Notch State Park located in the epicenter of the White Mountain National Forest. If you’re looking to spend the day outdoors, this is the place for you! There are endless amounts of activities such as biking, hiking, and fishing. As well as exploring all the amazing views throughout the park. There is also a 15-foot deep pothole that was formed around 25,000 years ago called “The Basin” with rushing water flowing through. You can get fairly close to the water from the trails so don’t forget to bring your camera for photos! There is also a viewing spot from above that is also handicap accessible that has the same beautiful view. 

Take a visit to the perfectly named Castle in the Clouds mansion. The mansion was built in 1914 and owned by Thomas Plant and his wife Olive, after retiring from the shoe industry. The property spanned 6,300 acres and is featured a “16-room Arts and Crafts mansion, stable and six-car garage, two gatehouses, a greenhouse, a golf course and tennis court, a man-made lake, a boathouse on Lake Winnipesaukee, and miles of carriage and bridle trails.” Now, the mansion offers tours, live music events, a restaurant, and rental space for weddings and other private events. 

For those who love the winter months and more specifically Christmas, take a visit to Santa’s Village, a year-round amusement-style park, with Christmas-themed rides, activities, theaters, and live shows. You can even tour Santa’s house, sit in his rocking chair, and take pictures with him, even in the warmest months! Don’t forget to bring your camera for this one, nothing says happy holidays like a picture right at Santa’s Village. 

State-by-State Travel Guide: New Jersey

If you’re looking for a great vacation spot with beautiful beaches, deep forests, and amazing restaurants, take a trip to The Garden State (named after its fertile land) — New Jersey. A great attribute of New Jersey is just about wherever you travel throughout the 7,419 square miles of the state, you can always find something fun to do. Plus, you won’t have to pump your own gas! It’s one of only two states (Oregon is the other) where all gas stations have an attendant waiting to help you. And if you’re a people person, New Jersey is also our most densely populated state with about 1,210 persons per square mile, so you’ll have lots of company.

For many of us, our knowledge of New Jersey has been shaped by the reality TV show Jersey Shore, so let’s start our tour here. There are 141 miles of the Atlantic Ocean coastline and tons of activities to experience, but don’t forget to soak up some rays on one of the many public beaches! It’s a tourism destination for visitors who also flock to the area to enjoy water activities such as kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding, and jet skis. Of course, you can’t go to the Jersey Shore without walking the famous boardwalks that have restaurants, arcades, and amusement parks that open at sunrise and stay open until long after sunset. With activities such as hermit crab races and sandcastle contests, it’s a great family vacation spot.

if you are looking for some “great adventure” make sure to stop by Six Flags in Jackson. Rides for all ages, a safari, and even the chance to meet some of your favorite cartoon characters, the fun is endless at Six Flags. The amusement park has been around since 1974 providing all types of family fun all year long. 

Of course, you can’t leave New Jersey without learning a little bit about its history. Head to Trenton, the state’s capital for all things history! New Jersey State House is the second oldest state capitol in the country, built in 1792. The building has gone through many expansions and in 1999, the dome was restored and covered with 48,000 pieces of gold leaf. You can take a self-guided tour of the building. Another major attraction is the William Trent House Museum. The oldest house in the city belonged to, you guessed it William Trent, the founder of Trenton. The house was constructed in 1719 and has now been turned into a museum filled with 18th-century gardening methods and plants that were popular during this time. Guests can also visit the gardens and have picnics on the lawn. 

State-by-State Travel Guide: New Mexico Badlands

Who wouldn’t want to visit a state billed as “The Land of Enchantment”? New Mexico offers more than its scenic beauty to delight visitors. It is also rich in history, adventure, ruins, culture, and of course some of the best food you will ever eat! For some unknown reason, the 47th state to join our Union doesn’t quite get the recognition it deserves. Between the desserts, mountain ranges, and extraordinary national parks, this is a must-see vacation spot for a unique and unmatched trip. The state slogan “Crescit Eundo” (It Grows as It Goes) was adopted in 1887 from “Book VI,” a Latin book of poems. Referring to the “increasing strength a thunderbolt gradually gains when going across the sky” we think as we explore the beautiful and underrated state of New Mexico you will increasingly fall under the spell of this magical place.

The rich history of New Mexico can be seen in the vast amounts of national parks throughout the state. The Petroglyph National Monument was created from volcanic activity, stretches 17 miles, and holds a variety of cultural and natural resources including five  volcanic cones , hundreds of archeological sites, and an estimated 24,000 images carved by Ancestral  Pueblo  peoples and early Spanish settlers. The White Sands National Park is a stunning landscape of dunes that reach up to 60 feet high, and are constantly changing with the wind. Bandelier National Monument has been called a natural educational museum. But by far the most famous national park (and most visited) is Carlsbad Caverns where you can take a self-guided or ranger-led tour of almost 120 caves. If you’re even more adventurous, there are also special bat tours! Just don’t forget your camera on a trip to any of these parks.

When you come out from the caves, get a bird’s eye view of New Mexico from a hot air balloon at the Anderson-Abruzzo Alburquerque International Balloon Museum either virtually or in the real deal. At the museum, you can learn about the history of hot air balloons starting with the very first flight. For those who prefer to stay on the ground, you can get a taste of the experience from 2D and 4D films. But for those who want the full experience, you can book a flight on a one-hour ride for a truly unique view. If a museum or flying isn’t your thing, you can check out the hot air balloons at the Alburquerque International Balloon Fiesta, the world’s largest hot air balloon festival. More than 80,000 people attend the festival during the nine-day annual event. The tradition started in a parking lot in 1973 with only 13 balloons partaking. Now the event is held in a 365-acre park with more than 500 balloons. In addition to the balloons, there are also live musicians, activities for kids, craft shows, street performers, and tons of vendors! 

Of course, after all of your adventures through New Mexico, you’ll need to cool down. Take a visit to “The Scuba Diving Capital of the Southwest” the Blue Hole, an 81-foot deep natural spring that stays at a constant 62 degrees — perfect for year-round scuba diving. For more adventure, there’s Taos Ski Valley which offers 110 trails, from beginner to expert, but don’t bring your snowboard. It’s one of only four ski resorts in the states that don’t allow it. And if you’re not visiting during the winter months, there’s the Via Ferrato for climbing. Novices can learn from experienced guides, while experts will be thrilled with the challenges and views of the area.

State-by-State Travel Guide: New York City at night

This week we are taking a trip to “The Empire State” otherwise known as New York. As the fourth most populous state in the US, with over 19 million residents and 65 million visitors each year. And there is a good reason for that! There are tons to do throughout the state of New York, from the horse races in Saratoga Springs to exploring the best of nature at Niagra Falls to hiking the Adirondacks, and of course, you can’t forget to pick up a hotdog from one of the hotdogs stands located all around the city! Of course, New York is a big state, and you probably can’t visit all of these places in just one trip, so hopefully, this will help you with where to visit first. 

For our first stop, we hope you are well-rested as this is referred to as “The City That Never Sleeps,” a.k.a. New York City, one of the most iconic places in the world. The city is the hub for fashion, art, culture, sightseeing, and some amazing pizza.  (We may be a little biased to our home state Connecticut’s pizza, so we can’t say NYC has the best in the US — that title belongs to New Haven pizza 😉!)  For our nature lovers, head over to Central Park the perfect all-year-round stop for anyone visiting New York City, especially for the first time. The park covers 843 acres of land in central Manhattan. Throughout the park, you will find 20 playgrounds, 48 fountains, monuments and sculptures, and 36 bridges so you will never run out of things to explore. 

To get the best views of the city, head to the Empire State Building. The 102-story art deco building is the seventh tallest building in New York City and has been around since 1931. Despite the crowd, the view from the top is worth the wait! On a clear day, you will be able to see 1,250 feet below you, so if you’re afraid of heights, this might not be the best option for you. 

Of course, you can’t visit the city without seeing one of the most famous monuments in the world — The Statue of Liberty. Whether you view it from afar or take a ferry ride to view it up close (as long as you have the time, the lines are crazy!) you definitely don’t want to miss this. The statue is a gift from France in 1886 and has been standing tall ever since! You might notice the green tint to her (although some claim its actually he) but it wasn’t always that color. The statue is made out of copper, so it was originally the same color as a penny, but due to oxidation, the statue turned completely green in 1920! 

The next stop is the “Honeymoon Capital,” Niagara Falls, but don’t worry you don’t have to be on your honeymoon to visit. You do however need a raincoat because you will get soaked by the 3,100 tons of water that flows over the 188-foot waterfall at speeds up to 68 mph! Niagara Falls is actually made up of three separate waterfalls, Horseshoe Falls, American Falls, and Bridal Veil Falls, all together forming the second-largest waterfall in the world! It is known as the “Honeymoon Capital” because of the gorgeous views, romantic cruise, and the fact that you can even get married there (remember that one episode of The Office?)! It has been a romantic destination for couples for over 215 years. Don’t forget to pick up your free Honeymoon Certificate while you’re there. 

Last, but certainly not least on our travel guide for New York is Saratoga Springs. Most notably known for the Saratoga Race Course which opened in 1863 and is the fourth oldest racetrack in the US. The thoroughbred horse racing track holds 10-11 races each day from the months of July-September every year. Of course, if horse races aren’t your thing there is still plenty to do around the town. Of course, there are tons of boutiques, clothing stores, and farmers’ markets if you are in the mood to shop until you drop! Grab a bite to eat or a drink at one of the many local bars, restaurants, or breweries. Or head to Saratoga Lake and cool down in the beautiful water, relax on the beach, or head into the water for some activities! 

North Carolina

State-by-State Travel Guide: North Carolina

Let’s head to the home of the Tar-Heels, North Carolina. Known for its beautiful coasts and stunning mountains, our 12th state has the highest mountains in Eastern America. So whether you are visiting to take a stroll along the breezy coastline of its many beaches or hiking up one of its spectacular mountain chains to enjoy stunning views, there is truly something for everyone here! Fun fact: North Carolina has the highest number of Americans moving here than any other state! And we think there is a good reason for that. So come along as we explore all that North Carolina has to offer its visitors, and just maybe you might want to become a resident yourself! 

Let’s start in the capital of the state, Raleigh. The history of the state is what attracts a lot of visitors, so we suggest stopping at the State Capitol building. Built in 1840 and updated throughout the years, both guided and self-guided tours are available (free guided tours on Saturdays) where you can learn about the government and the history of the state. You might be hungry after that tour (and the city is known as a foodie paradise), so if you’re up for it check out the Taste Carolina Gourmet Food Tour, a walking tour that points out historic buildings and monuments along the way to four or five of the best restaurants and establishments in Raleigh.

One of the most well-known cities in North Carolina is Charlotte, nicknamed Queen City. Charlotte is known for its lovely landscapes, family-friendly events, and busy city life! If you are a fan of NASCAR, visiting the Hall of Fame venue might be on the list of “pit” stops for you. The 150,000 sq. foot building is every NASCAR fan’s dream, with interactive racing simulators, a 278-person theater, and a behind-the-scenes look for visitors. If you’re traveling with family, take them to Black Out and test their quick-thinking skills! Black Out is a thinking and strategic game that puts you as an agent on a secret mission. Your team must work together to solve clues, crack codes, and save the world! This escape room is a great way to get your family to work together and have a great time! There are also plenty of museums, attractions (the world’s largest and fastest Giga coaster and manmade whitewater river) music venues, and nightlife. Let’s just say there’s a lot to do in Charlotte!

For a different perspective on North Carolina, take a trip to Wilmington, a city that runs along the Cape Fear River. Don’t let the name scare you; there are lots of things to do that will not frighten you (unless you want to be frightened, and you can take the Ghost Tour for Teens & Tweens)! Walk aboard the Battleship North Carolina, a WWII ship docked in the river. Tour Airlie Gardens and check out its Bottle, Butterfly, and Tranquility gardens. Or stroll along the number one tourist attraction in the city, the 1.75 Riverwalk which offers stunning views along the way.

North Dakota

State-by-State Travel Guide: North Dakota

As you drive through North Dakota you can’t help but notice “The Peace Garden State” on license plates. The motto honors the International Peace Garden, (more about that later) but also pays tribute to the meaning of Dakota in Sioux: “friend, ally”. You will also notice that North Dakota has what seems like an endless landscape for its residents and visitors to explore. Our 39th state is well-known for its stunning natural beauty, so its state and national parks are a must-see! Not only is North Dakota one of the least populated states, but it is also the least visited state in the country. However, this state is filled with natural wonders, and those who don’t give it a chance are really missing out! We get that North Dakota might not be first up on your travel list, but it might make your top ten after we explore the state that has been ranked #1 for quality of life!

As we mentioned, national parks are a must-see, so it’s only right that we start at the Theodore Roosevelt National Park. It’s high on the list of visitors’ most memorable parts of their trip to North Dakota. Named after the 26th President of the United States, who fought for the conservation and preservation of our nation’s resources long before it was “popular”, the park is not only filled with natural beauty but over 500 bison that you will surely see roam free as you drive, hike, or bike through. The park covers over 70,000 acres of land with over 100 miles of trails, wildlife viewing, and hiking. Don’t forget your camera for stunning views of the colorful rock formations of Painted Canyon. Then set up your tent and camp overnight for an amazing end to your outdoor adventure.

Now, as long as you can keep a secret, we’ll take you to the Maah Daah Hey Trail which is known as “North Dakota’s best-kept secret”. Hikers, bikers, and horseback riders all come to explore over 140 miles of North Dakota landscapes. It takes about an average of 10 days to navigate through the entire route, however, there are numerous scenic trails that are better for single-day visits. 

State-by-State Travel Guide: Ohio

Ohio, otherwise known as “The Buckeye State” is a well-known state in the midwest. This week we will be visiting our 17th state to find all the best things to do in whatever area you are visiting, and to find out why it is the seventh most populous state. No matter what part of Ohio you’re traveling to — whether it’s a bustling city like Columbus or a small town like Chagrin Falls — there are tons to do throughout the state, and you are bound to run into some adventure! 

Speaking of adventure, it is only right that we start with Cedar Point, which is considered the “best theme park in the world.” The park sits on 364 acres of land on a peninsula on Lake Erie and has 71 rides, including 17 rollercoasters, 6 of which are higher than 200 feet! It makes sense why the park is often referred to as “America’s Rollercoaster.” Cedar Point is the second oldest operating theme park and averages about 3.6 million visitors a year — making it the most visited theme park in the country. If you’re looking for some thrill, Cedar Point is the perfect place to take the family. 

For all our music lovers, make sure to check out one of the biggest attractions Ohio has to offer — the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in Cleveland. The museum was opened in 1986 and inducts new members each year, some of which include Elvis, Michael Jackson, and B.B. King. The 150,000 square feet attraction sits on Lake Erie and holds tons of original artifacts from musicians, producers, and performers. 

Of course, you can’t take a trip to Ohio without visiting its capital, Columbus. There is a lot Columbus is known for such as having one of the largest universities in North America, one of the country’s most famous zoos, and one of the best park systems, in fact, Columbus is home to over 15 parks. The Franklin Park Conservatory and Botanical Gardens sits on 88 acres of land and is filled with color and life. The park is open year-round and has a new theme for each season! If you are in town on a Sunday, make sure to check out the North Market Farmer’s Market to get a taste of the local food. With over 20 farmers selling their fruits, vegetables, herbs, honey, and even flowers, there is no better way to dive right into the local cuisine. 

State-by-State Travel Guide: Oklahoma

There are a few well-known nicknames for the next state on our travel list. “Sooner State,” “Land of the Red Man,” and “Native American” are a few, but Oklahoma is most commonly referred to as the “Sooner State.” “Sooners” was the name given to those who entered the unassigned territory of Oklahoma before the border was actually opened. In fact, the settlers who legally entered the land on time looked down on the “Sooners,” but that changed when The University of Oklahoma adopted that name for its football team in 1908 and by 1920 the name no longer held a negative connotation. Oklahoma is described as the “authentic gateway to the west” with red dirt, wild animals, and even a running oil well in front of the State Capital building. However, with all the country land, there are still bustling cities like Tulsa and Oklahoma City, and of course, you can’t miss the stretch of Route 66.

The first stop is the State Capitol building located along Lincoln Boulevard in Oklahoma City. The original construction of the building was completed in 1917, but the dome on top of the building was added in 2002. The building covers 452,508 square feet and is home to murals, paintings, and artifacts of Oklahoma’s history. As we mentioned, it is also the only capital building in the world surrounded by working oil wells. One of the oil wells is also nicknamed Petunia #1 because it was drilled in the middle of a sunflower bed. Admission and tours of the building are free so make sure you take advantage of this amazing piece of history! 

While you won’t be able to do the full length of Route 66, you can visit the stretch in Oklahoma, which is the longest part of the highway. There are tons of roadside attractions such as The Oklahoma Route 66 Museum in Clinton, which is a great way to immerse yourself in the history of the highway. You can also enjoy a great meal at the ’50s-themed diner! Don’t forget to stop by the Blue Whale of Catoosa and take a few photos with the 20-foot tall 80-foot long blue whale that has been a major attraction since 1972. The whale quickly became a major attraction for families to picnic, fish, swim, and play, and while you can still visit the whale and enjoy a nice picnic or fish, swimming and playing in the whale is no longer permitted. There is also a gift shop, so make sure to stop in to get a few souvenirs! 

If you’re traveling during the warmer months, take a trip to The Big Splash Water Park located in Tulsa. It is the city’s only water park and has been open since 1984! The park has rides for people of every age, including water rides, and rollercoasters, and the park surrounds an H20 wave pool that is a must-try! There are also live animal shows that you can attend and see all the reduced animals. 

State-by-State Travel Guide: Oregon

The nickname for Oregon comes from its official state mammal — “The Beaver State.” The cities throughout Oregon are described as “trendy, fun, and down-to-earth” but Oregon is also well-known for its endless outdoor adventures: magnificent mountains for hiking and skiing, cascading waterfalls, and beautiful beaches. Of course, the food throughout Oregon is unmatched, as they are known for their bountiful produce and culinary artistry, so there are a few restaurants that are a must-try! Join along as we tour some of the best things to do on your trip to Oregon, and make sure that your pants are a few sizes too large, trust us, you’ll thank us later! 😉

First up on our tour is the Columbia River Gorge. This hiking trail leads to a protected scenic area that overlooks where the Columbia River cuts through the Cascade Mountains. The Columbia River Gorge is the largest national scenic area in the United States and has the perfect contrast between rainforest and desert. While of course, you can do day hiking through the trails, for our outdoor lovers you can also camp overnight! The river canyon is 80 feet long and 4,000 feet deep. 

For all our book lovers, head to Powell’s Books, a historic landmark in Portland — the largest and most populated city in Oregon. The brick-and-mortar bookstore is filled with rows of new and used books in a multi-level building that covers an entire city block! After you’re done picking out the perfect book, head over to Voodoo Doughnut for the perfect treat. The doughnut shop has been making novelty doughnuts for over 17 years. They are known for their eclectic decor and pink boxes and of course their catchphrase “the magic is in the hole.” It’s the perfect treat while you read your new books! 

As we mentioned, food is a huge part of Oregon. They are known for their farm-to-table food such as seafood, chicken, and local dairy cheese. They are also quite famous for the Marionberry Pie which was created at Oregon State University by crossing two different types of blackberries. The Willamette Valley Pie Company in Salem uses about 12 million pounds of Marionberry’s every year by making pies, muffins, jam, ice cream, and even letting guests pick their own Marionberries on the farm! So make sure to stop by and try some Marionberries since they don’t ship well and you won’t get the full effect unless you’re there. 

Pennsylvania

State-by-State Travel Guide: Pennsylvania

Pennsylvania, otherwise known as “The Keystone State” was one of the 13 original colonies. Pennsylvania is known for its rich history because of the significant role it played back in time. The Declaration of Independence was signed here, The Liberty Bell first rang here, and it was the site for The Battle of Gettysburg. There is much more than history, though. Pennsylvania is also known for its architecture, being the chocolate capital of the USA, and of course, the Philly Cheesesteak sandwich, which you definitely can’t leave the state without trying!

Let’s start in the capital of the state, Harrisburg. As we mentioned, there is tons of rich history throughout the state and Harrisburg plays a big role in that. The National Civil War Museum is a must-see for any history buff. It features priceless artifacts, manuscripts, and photos that unveil a different side of the Civil War that you have never seen before. To get the best look at the city, take a ride on the Susquehanna Riverboat Cruise which offers a relaxing and exciting tour of the Susquehanna River and its amazing skyline views.

Remember what we said about being the chocolate capital of the USA? Take a trip to HersheyPark — an amusement park filled with excitement, activities, and of course chocolate, for all ages! It’s located in the town of Hershey, sits on over 90 acres, and continues to expand! There are many rides, restaurants, and shops throughout the park for a fun-filled day for the entire family.

Philadelphia is Pennsylvania’s largest and most popular city, in fact, it is the 5th largest city in the US, but it is quite intimate as well. Take a stroll through Rittenhouse Square, a public park with walking and bike trails, beautiful fountains and other statues, and well-maintained grass for an afternoon picnic, or head to Parc, a restaurant that overlooks the park. Of course, you can’t leave Philly without visiting the Independence Hall and the Liberty Bell, one of history’s most famous symbols of freedom and justice! The Liberty Bell stands tall in front of Independence Hall with a great view of the square.

Pittsburg is known as the “city of bridges” because it is home to 446 bridges. Although you probably won’t be able to visit all of them in one trip, they are still remarkable to see, so if you can plan to see a few, definitely take the time to! The Pittsburg Zoo and PGG Aquarium are some of the top things to do in Pittsburg. It is home to over 8,000 animals both on land and in water including rhinos, giraffes, stingrays, and penguins.

Speaking of Penguins, if you find yourself in town during the hockey season, stop by to see a Penguins game at the PPG Paints Stadium for a fun and exciting evening!

Rhode Island

State-by-State Travel Guide: Rhode Island

Next, we are exploring “The Ocean State” otherwise known as Rhode Island. Although it is the smallest state in size in the United States, there is still plenty to see and do throughout the 1,214 square miles. Between state parks, beautiful beaches, breathtaking views, and historical landmarks, thousands of tourists visit Rhode Island every year to experience all that it has to offer. Rhode Island was the last of the original thirteen colonies to become a state, however, it still holds the title for “firsts” of a few things, such as the first game of polo, the first circus, the first National Lawn Tennis Championship, the first open golf tournament, and the first discount department store. Rhode Island is also popularly known for making silverware and fine jewelry, so you might just find some great souvenirs here!

Let’s start in the capital of Rhode Island, Providence. Providence is one of the oldest cities in the country, with a population of around 180,000. Throughout this quiet city, you will still find plenty of action. Head over to Prospect Terrance Park for the best panoramic view of Providence. You can hike up the trail to get to the top or take a cab if you find yourself there during the Summer heat, but the trip up the hill will be worth it once you see the view! The park was founded in 1869 and has since been labeled as “The Jewel of the City” so you know it’s a must-see! You might be hungry after your hike, and there are plenty of great places to eat around Providence. Hemenway’s has been a Providence staple for over three decades. Here you will find some of the best seafood and is settled along the Providence River. 

Our next stop is Newport located in Narraganset Bay. One of Newport’s main attractions is The Breakers Mansion, the summer cottage of the Vanderbilt family. The mansion was built by Cornelius Vanderbilt in 1895 and truly reflects their wealth. With over 70 rooms, a three-story dining room, ceiling paintings, mosaics, and marble columns to line the hallways. You can take a self-guided tour or you can sign up for the “Beneath the Breakers” tour which brings you through underground tunnels, basement, and boiler rooms. To get the best views and photo opportunities of Newport, head over to the Cliff Walk, a public walking path along the shoreline that gives the best views of the water, the mansions along the water, and of course their famous gardens. The walk starts right at the Breakers Mansion and travels 3.5 miles along Bailey’s Beach. Don’t forget to pack your camera, the views are so breathtaking you won’t want to forget them! 

 Take a ferry ride 9 miles off the mainland to Block Island, a 9.7-square-mile island filled with water activities, hiking, shopping, and of course, some more history. The Mohegan Bluffs, are one of Block Island’s most admired natural wonders. The 200-foot bluffs overlook a beautiful view of the Atlantic Ocean and if you take the stairway of 141 steps down you will be led directly to the secluded beach. 

South Carolina

State-by-State Travel Guide: South Carolina

South Carolina, also referred to as “The Palmetto State,” named after their official state tree, was one of the original thirteen states in the US. The Carolinas were originally one state, but in 1712, they split into two,  North  and South. South Carolina is known for its abundance of peaches, in fact, they grow more peaches than any other state, except for California. Although South Carolina is the 11th smallest state, with a land area of 30,109 square miles, there is still tons to do, and we are going to take you through some of our favorite stops. So pack your bags and make sure to bring your camera, you’re surely going to need it! 

The first stop is the capital, Columbia, named after Christopher Columbus. Columbia is 100 years older than the United States and is well-known for its beautiful historic buildings. Take a trip to see the Governor’s Mansion, one of thirty homes to the governors of South Carolina. The mansion is on 9 acres of beautiful land and while not all the rooms are open to the public, the ones that are, are filled with historic pieces like antique china, furniture, paintings, and historic documents all use d by previous governors.

The next stop is Charleston. Let’s start downtown, on King Street, a bustling and historically significant street named after King Charles II. King Street is over 300 years old and was originally only used as a route to get in and out of town, it was never supposed to be used for commercial use. Now, a redesigned King Street is home to some of the best restaurants, bars, art galleries, shopping, and flourishing businesses. After a long day of exploring the busy street of King Street, take a walk over to Marion Square to enjoy a nice picnic or just relax around the 6.5 acres of green city park. 

The next stop on our tour is Myrtle Beach, a popular vacation spot for more than 14 million people each year. There is a range of activities for families and friends to do around Myrtle Beach. Of course, the beach is a major hot spot, with water activities, games, and only a short walk to the boardwalk for games, rides, and of course, the SkyWheel so you can get the best views of Myrtle Beach! Along the “strip” you will find family-friendly activities, museums, and plenty of restaurants. There is even a Ripley’s Believe It or Not museum that is tons of fun for any age. Another must-do is Broadway at the Beach, an outdoor food, shopping, and activities complex for visitors of all ages. The complex is set on 23 acres around Lake Broadway with plenty of restaurants, food outlets, games, rides, bars, and clubs. And don’t forget to visit The Fudgery for some of the best fudge in the state! 

Another great vacation spot in South Carolina is Hilton Head Island, right near the water for sandy beaches and great water activities, and tons of trails for biking and walking. In fact, many say there aren’t too many reasons for cars on Hilton Head, the island is tiny and is filled with bike trails and no hills, so you can access the entire island on a bike. Ride your bike to the Harbor Town Lighthouse and climb 114 steps to the top to get the best views of the island. After taking some photos at the top, head to the surrounding shops and restaurants, and don’t forget to try some sweet tea. In fact, South Carolina is the only state in the US to grow tea, it doesn’t get fresher than that! 

South Dakota

State-by-State Travel Guide: South Dakota

This week we are taking a tour of the “Mount Rushmore State” otherwise known as South Dakota. South Dakota got its official nickname in 1992 and it appears on its state flag and the commemorative quarter for the state. South Dakota is the perfect place to take your family for beautiful scenery, tons of adventure, and of course, a great way to learn a lot about America’s history. While there is so much to do, you might not be able to fit it all in one trip, but we hope that you find a few special things to do while visiting South Dakota.

The first stop is probably the most famous spot in South Dakota, it is in the state nickname after all. Mount Rushmore National Monument is located in Keystone and features the faces of Washington, Jefferson, Lincoln, and Roosevelt carved into the side of the mountain. It took creator Gutzom from 1927-1991 to create the piece and over 400,000 tons of the mountain was cut out. No trip to South Dakota is complete without making a stop to see Mount Rushmore up close, in fact, about 3 million people visit the mountain each year. 

If you ever wanted to time travel, now is your chance. At 1880 Town you get the full experience of what life was like for South Dakota pioneers. This family-owned and operated heritage village with more than 30 original buildings dating from 1880 to 1920. The museum also holds artifacts from the movie Dances with Wolves and has a 1950s-themed railway dining car with memorabilia-filled walls. The town is well-preserved and gives visitors a life-like trip back in time. 

The Crazy Horse Memorial is another major attraction in South Dakota. This mountain monument is to represent Crazy Horse, Native American war leader of the Oglala Lakota people. The monument was established in 1948 in the Black Hills of South Dakota. The monument has been under construction since the 1940s and visitors are able to watch as the construction takes place and the changes are made. Visitors are able to sign up for a bus tour or can tour the site on their own, including the mountain, the museum, and of course the gift shop. 

Head to the only corn palace in the world in Mitchell, South Dakota. The original Corn Palace was built in 1892 to show off South Dakota’s fine soil so settlers would be more intrigued to stay there. The current building was built in 1912 and features onion-top domes and minarets, and the inside and outside are fully decorated with murals using corn and other grains. 

State-by-State Travel Guide: Tennessee

Next, we are exploring Tennessee, otherwise known as “The Volunteer State.” Tennessee got its nickname after they sent 1,500 volunteer soldiers into battle during the War of 1812. There are tons of things Tennessee is known for, country music, barbeque, a beautiful landscape, and rich history are just a few of those things. Come along as we explore some of the best things to do during your trip to Tennessee. 

The first stop is The Smokies or The Great Smoky Mountains State Park, the number one most visited National Park in the US. The Smokies is the perfect place for all our outdoor lovers with tons of activities throughout the 816.28 square miles. You can go for a scenic drive up the Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail, a 6-mile-long road that leads to a beautiful waterfall. Keep an eye out for the wild bears you may spot on your drive up. There are two different hiking trails for you to choose from, Clingmans Dome and Chimney Tops both leading to great views of the area. 

Next up is the famous capital, Nashville. Nashville is the center of the music scene so it’s a must to visit the Country Music Hall of Fame — one of the largest and most popular music research centers. The museum was established in 1961 and has 142 inductees of groups and solo performers, including Hank Williams, Johnny Cash, Dolly Parton, Brooks & Dunn, and many, many more! The museum features articles of clothing, instruments, cars, and of course, music. If you are a country music fan or just a music fan in general, this museum is a must-see! 

Named after the famous country singer Dolly Parton, Dollywood is a theme park that hosts more than three million visitors each year, it is the largest ticketed attraction in Tennessee. The park is split into ten different themes and has more than 40 rides, including the Dollywood Express which is a train that circles guests throughout the park. Throughout the park, you can also find games, crafts, and live entertainment. 

Tennessee is also home to The Titanic Museum. The museum is built in the shape of the Titanic and features more than 400 artifacts and has over 20 unique galleries that give you the illusion that you are actually onboard the ship. There is even an exhibit for you to feel the temperature of the water from that night. The tours are self-guided so you can experience everything on your own time, and trust us — you will want to take your time through the museum! 

State-by-State Travel Guide: Texas

Next, we are heading to “The Lone Star State” otherwise known as Texas. Texas is the second-largest U.S. state, by both population and area at 268,820 square miles. Texas is considered a melting pot of culture, in fact, Houston is considered the most diverse city in the country. While you won’t be able to visit  all  of Texas in one trip, there is still plenty to see and do, no matter what area you are visiting. So grab your cowboy boots and let’s go explore the beautiful state of Texas. 

Let’s start in the state’s capital, Austin, also known as the live music capital of the world. If you are visiting Austin during the warmer (okay, HOT!) months, any way to cool down will help you beat the heat. The Barton Springs Pool is an outdoor pool filled entirely with water from nearby natural springs with temperatures between 68-74 degrees Fahrenheit year-round. Of course, there are tons of other activities to cool down, like taking a boat ride on Lake Travis or Lake Austin, paddleboarding, and other water activities. You could also take a hike up Mount Bonell to get some of the best views of the area. Just make sure to pack plenty of water, remember what we said about that heat! 

The next stop is Houston. As we mentioned, Houston is considered the most diverse city in the country, with its southern charm, culture, food, and of course its all-around appeal. Home to 2.2 million people, there is tons to do around the city, between parks, shopping, eating, and sightseeing, you will never go bored! Make a stop at the local farmers market, Urban Harvest Farmers Market which runs from 8 am to noon every Saturday, rain or shine. Here you can find fresh produce, flowers, coffee, and cupcakes from local farmers. The farmer’s market originally opened in 2004 and continues to grow. With all that fresh produce, you’ll want to make a delicious meal! Pack that meal for a free outdoor movie at the Miller Outdoor Theater at Hermann Park. The 7.5 acres of land transform into a beautifully illuminated movie theater at night for showings of children’s movies, Shakespeare plays, and everything in between. Covered seating is available or you can pack your own blanket and chairs and enjoy the show from the lawn. 

Dallas is the next city we are visiting. Dallas is one of the coolest cities to explore because of its rich history and great outdoor activities. While many people associate Dallas with the city where JFK was assassinated in 1963, Dallas likes to be known for its other activities. Downtown Dallas is filled with vibrant parks such as Klyde Warren Park, 5.2 acres built over a freeway. The park offers activities such as yoga, meditation classes, Zumba, and even outdoor ballroom dancing, all for free, or just take a stroll around the park and enjoy the views! Of course, you can’t visit Texas without trying some of its famous barbeques. Restaurants like Pecan Lodge, Off The Bone, and 18th & Vine offer samples of their best dishes, so you can try multiple without getting stuffed! 

State-by-State Travel Guide: Utah

Next up is Utah, otherwise known as “The Beehive State” and don’t worry, it’s not nicknamed that because it has a lot of bees! The symbol of the beehive for the state was chosen in 1848 because a bee represents perseverance. Utah is known for its natural beauty with several National and State Parks with beautiful views of the land. Utah is also widely known for its natural rocks and has a vast variety of rocks able to preserve dinosaur fossils. While you drive around Utah, take a close look at their license plate, which states “The Greatest Snow on Earth.” Utah receives a ton of snowfall each year (about 551 inches yearly) and averages a density of 8.5, which in snow terms, is the perfect balance of wetness and fluffiness, so if you are visiting during a snow month, make sure to get a good feel! So come along as we start our tour of beautiful Utah. 

The first stop of the tour is the capital, Salt Lake City. As we mentioned, Utah has “The Greatest Snow on Earth” so of course, our first stop is Utah Olympic Park. The park was built for the 2002 Winter Olympics but still operates year-round and offers both winter and summer activities such as skiing, tubing, bobsledding, rock climbing, a rope course, and zip lining across the park! Another must-see is The Great Salt Lake — the largest saltwater lake in the western hemisphere, just slightly less salty than the Dead Sea. Head to the Great Salt Lake Marina to rent boats and kayaks, or even book a dinner cruise around the lake. 

Utah has 5 National Parks, all worth visiting at least once. Luckily for you, all of the parks are within close proximity to each other, so whether you get up early and tackle them all in one day, or visit each over a few days, it is possible to see them all! The  Arches National Park  features iconic red rocks throughout the park and is home to the world’s largest concentration of natural arches. There are tons of hiking trails that will lead you to get an up-close look at the arches. 

The next park is  Bryce Canyon National Park . The park has a horseshoe shape and apparently has some of the best air quality, which allows for a panoramic view of three states and nearly 200 miles of visibility. 

Next up is  Canyonlands National Park  — Utah’s largest national park. The park is divided into four “districts” — Island in the Sky, Needles District, the Maze District, and the combined rivers, Green and Colorado. Each district offers unique activities to do throughout the park. 

Capitol Reef National Park  is considered one of Utah’s “best-kept secrets” because of its location. It is in the middle of the canyon country, squashed in the middle of two other, more popular parks. Capitol Reef provides beautiful hiking trails, views, and plenty of campgrounds, but the best part is that it is quiet. The park is overcrowded or busy, so it is the perfect escape from everyday life! 

Last, but certainly not least is  Zion National Park  — the fourth most visited national park, with large, towering cliffs, plenty of activities, hiking trails, wide-open spaces, and of course the famous canyon. Hiking trails range from easy to moderate and short to long. Visitors can also try rock climbing for an up-close and personal look at the rocks, as well as biking through the park! 

State-by-State Travel Guide: Vermont

Next up is “The Green Mountain State” formally known as Vermont. It got its nickname from the French meaning of “Vert Mont” which means green mountain. Vermont is filled with tree-filled mountains that actually divide the eastern and western parts of the state. Along with its beautiful foliage, Vermont is also well known for its maple syrup, so make sure to stop at the local diner for some waffles or pancakes! In fact, Vermont is the largest producer of maple syrup, producing over 500,000 gallons each year. If the maple syrup isn’t sweet enough for you, head to Ben and Jerry’s ice cream shop. While the original location which opened in 1978 is no longer open, you can still visit the former location which is represented by a plaque on the sidewalk. So if you are ready to explore the great outdoors and all that Vermont has to offer, come along! 

The first stop is the state’s capital Montpelier, the least populous capital in the world, with less than 8,000 residents. But just because it is a tiny capital, does not mean it doesn’t have plenty to offer its guests. Many visitors love to visit the 16-year-old State House with its shiny gold dome as the pretty focal point of the city. Here you can learn plenty of stories during your tour and learn about the decisions made here throughout the years. After your tour, head to Morse Farm Maple Sugar Works to learn how the maple syrup is made (and of course taste some!) The farm has been in the Morse family for eight generations and it’s not slowing down anytime soon! Visit the museum to learn about how the Morse family learned to tap trees and boil sap and how their farm has grown over the many generations. 

Our next stop is Burlington, a vibrant city located on the shores of Lake Champlain. This is Vermont’s most populous city, and for good reason. Head downtown to Church Street Marketplace, 4 blocks of shopping, food, architecture, and live street entertainment! The outdoor mall also hosts many seasonal events and festivals, there is always something going on here, so no matter what time of year you choose to visit, you will be welcomed with entertainment! Of course, Lake Champlain is something not to miss itself. Head over to North Beach Park for swimming, biking, water activities, grilling, and even camping! Of course, if you are visiting during the winter months, you can still come to see the frozen water and build a snowman in the park. 

Of course, for all our slopes lovers, you can’t visit Vermont without stopping at the mountain. The Killington Ski Area covers over 1,500 acres of skiable terrain and has over 73 miles of diverse trails, so no matter what your skill level is, there is something for everyone! Of course, if you’re not a fan of the snow, you can still visit during the summer months and take a ride on their mountain coaster that whips you through the green mountains or try their Skyeride — a 600-foot long, 100-foot high glider that shows you some unbelievable views of the mountain. 

For some whimsical photo opportunities, head over to Cider Hills Gardens and Gallery, a haven to pursue both Sarah and Gary Milek’s —the owners — passions of gardening and painting. Visitors can take a self-guided tour through Sarah’s magical garden of peonies, daylilies, hostas, herbs, and much, much more! After spending time in the garden (and maybe even purchasing a few plants of your own) head inside to the art gallery to explore artist Gary Milek’s award-winning paintings. You might even recognize a few of the gardens outside. 

State-by-State Travel Guide: Virginia

There a quite a few nicknames that our next state Virginia goes by, “The Old Dominion,” “Mother of States,” and “The Cavalier State” are just a few. The state of Virginia is officially named “The Commonwealth of Virginia,” but for the sake of this post, we will refer to it as Virginia. Located in the Southeastern and Mid-Atlantic regions, Virginia is the 12th most populous state, with over 8.4 million residents. Throughout Virginia, residents and visitors will be surrounded by beautiful mountains with some of the best hiking trails, breathtaking views of nearby lakes, beaches, and plenty of unique attractions. Many visitors come to Virginia each year because of the perfect vacation destination it offers along with its rich history.

First, we will stop in the state’s capital, Richmond. Usually, being a state’s capital, you have some pretty high expectations to live up to, and Richmond is no different. Richmond offers its guests plenty of family fun activities for any age! As we mentioned, Virginia is rich in history. Richmond played a huge part in the American Civil War and they commemorate their role with the American Civil War Museum. It is the perfect stop for anyone who is a history buff, with tons of information, photos, and real artifacts from the Civil War. Speaking of museums, another must-see one is the Edgar Allan Poe Museum. The museum is home to some of Poe’s original writings, artifacts from his life, and an in-depth look at his career. Of course, if you are a writer, what better way to be inspired than to visit the museum of one of the most important and best authors in history? 

Of course, one of Virginia’s main attractions is Virginia Beach, bringing in more than 3 million visitors each year, Virginia Beach is a popular tourist attraction for everyone! Of course, visiting the beach is a must with 35 miles of coastline and a 3-mile boardwalk, you can’t go wrong lounging around the beach. However, there is plenty more to do off the beach! Take a trip to First Landing State Park and hike your way through the 19 miles of trails. The park is 2,888 acres with 1.25 miles of beachfront, but you will find swamps and lakes along your hiking route, along with a beautiful view. You can also learn a little history about Virginia in the museum and through the interactive centers located in the park.

State-by-State Travel Guide: Washington

Next, let’s visit Washington, nicknamed “The Evergreen State” for its vast evergreen forests. Besides being rugged and stunningly beautiful, it is also known for football, being the birthplace of Starbucks, and offering tons of great tourist attractions. Throughout Washington you will find ample opportunity for outdoor activities surrounded by natural beauty, so make sure to pack your hiking boots and of course a camera, you are going to want to take these views back home with you. Located in the Pacific Northwest region, the State of Washington can be quite rainy and cold but nonetheless is still beautiful and worth seeing. 

First, we will visit Olympia, the state’s largest city and capital. Of course, the Capitol Building is a major attraction. The guided tours will take visitors through the many galleries that display tons of artifacts, allow them to view and even touch the 10-ft model of the Capitol Dome, and you can even watch live proceedings of Congress if they are in session! After the Capitol Building, head over to The Olympia Farmers Market — the second largest farmers market in Washington and find everything from fresh produce to crafts and flowers. There is also live entertainment that you can enjoy while there. There is no better way to indulge yourself in Washington’s finest food than to get it right from the source. 

No trip to Washington is complete without visiting its most popular city, Seattle. First, get the best surrounding views from 520 feet high in the Space Needle. If you’re afraid of heights, this might not be the place for you, but with an open-air deck and an all-glass floor, you will see the most incredible views of Seattle. There is also a revolving restaurant up top for you to dine and get amazing 360 views. Not too far from the Space Needle is the Seattle Center, an art, educational, and entertainment center with a mix of parks and other attractions spread across 74 acres. You can even catch live performances in the park! 

If you’re looking for some water activities, head over to Lake Chelan for swimming, jet skiing, kayaking, and much more in the crystal clear water. Throughout the state park, you will also find camping, and hiking trails, and the park also hosts many events throughout the year. There is a bustling nightlife with tons of fantastic restaurants nearby to end your afternoon with, so make sure to immerse yourself in the town. 

Leavenworth is a small yet well-known city in Chelan County that has become a popular tourist attraction for its resemblance to Bavarian, Germany. The Bavarian-style village has lured in guests with its ambiance and charm. With festivals each month, outdoor adventures, and some of the best cuisine around. The Skyline Lake Trail is also located in Leavenworth, and if you think the name sounds dreamy, just wait until you see the hiking trails! The 2.7-mile trail leads up about 1.072 feet with a great view of a beautiful lake the entire way. In the Winter you will also have a view of the ski trails across the highway. Between the fun, you will experience in town and the breathtaking views of the mountains, you can’t go wrong in Leavenworth!

West Virginia

State-by-State Travel Guide: West Virginia

West Virginia, otherwise known as the “Moutain State” got its nickname for obvious reasons — being a part of the Appalachian Mountain system, the state is filled with hills and mountains, some of which we will be exploring today! West Virginia, which is wildly known for its natural beauty, is considered one of the more scenic states. So come along as we explore the great outdoors (and some indoors, too) of West Virginia. 

First, we will visit the capital, Charleston, right in the heart of West Virginia. While West Virginia is known for nature, Charleston gives guests the opportunity to learn more about the state’s history, as well as enjoy city life. Speaking of history, the West Virginia State Museum is a must-see! Here you can learn about the early years of the state, starting with the Native Americans who hunted throughout West Virginia way before it was actually a state. You will also learn more about World War I and the beginning of the coal industry, and how that all lead us to where we are today. When you’re done learning about the history of West Virginia, dive headfirst into the culture at the Capitol Market. Located in former railroad trainyards, the market features a seasonal farmers market outside by local farmers and year-round shopping from other local shops. Here you will find some of the best produce, honey, plants, and even homemade dishware! The best part is, you know you will be supporting a local business. 

Alongside the banks of the Monogahela River is Morgantown, the home of West Virginia University. While this is a college town, there is still plenty to do and see here, so don’t let that scare you off! If you are visiting during the warmer months, the Earl L. Core Arboretum is a must! The 91-acre garden was established in 1948 by Earl L. Core, a professor at the university. The garden is now owned and ran by the university, but is open to the public daily! Along with amazing flowers, the arboretum also features hiking trails and many park benches for guests to sit, relax, and just enjoy nature. After enjoying what nature has to offer, head into town, and stop at one of the many breweries in Morgantown. With over ten breweries to choose from, you have plenty of options to try! Be sure to ask which ones offer tours so you can get an in-depth look to see how some of your favorite brews are made! 

Whether you’re an avid hiker, or just like to do it for fun, West Virginia is known as an “outdoor paradise” so you are sure to find some great trails! Take a trip to Spruce Knob, the state’s highest peak at 4,863 feet high, with an observation tower for some pretty incredible views. Coopers Rock State Forest has more than 50 miles of trails through the vast forest, all leading to some of the best views in the state. For our more experienced climbers, check out the Endless Wall Trail, named after the rock cliffs that line the gorge that provides breathtaking views of the water. Just be sure to pack your camera for the hikes, as they all lead to breathtaking views that you won’t want to forget! 

State-by-State Travel Guide: Wisconsin

Next up is The Badger State, formally known as Wisconsin. Located in the north-central midwest region, Wisconsin is known for its Great Lakes, freezing cold winters, and being known as “America’s Dairyland” because they are the leading producers of all dairy products. The cheesehead being worn at the Green Bay Packers games makes a lot more sense now, right? But there are more hidden gems throughout the state of Wisconsin than just football and cheese! Whether you are a history buff, an outdoor enthusiast, or someone who just loves adventure, you won’t be bored in Wisconsin.

As always, we will start at the capital. Madison, the second-largest city in the state, is considered one of the coolest cities in the country! If you are an art lover or just someone who can appreciate good art, the Madison Museum of Contemporary Art is for you! The museum’s goal is to “provide transformative experiences that educate, reflect, and inspire us as individuals and a community.” With different pieces from different eras, museum exhibitions, and free learning programs, you could spend all day here! Speaking of art, the Olbrich Botanical Gardens is filled with beautiful architecture and breathtaking gardens that cover 16 acres. Once you enter the garden, you will escape into a different world and forget you are still in Wisconsin for a moment, so be sure to take your time exploring all it has to offer. 

Next up is Wisconsin’s most popular city and largest city, Milwaukee. First, take a stroll along the River Walk located next to the Milwaukee River, a quaint area with plenty of shopping, food, and entertainment along the way. You will also see numerous murals on the walls painted by local artists that turn the area into an outdoor art exhibit. After your stroll, head downtown to the Historic Third Ward. What used to be a warehouse district is now an art and fashion district with unique shops, restaurants, and theaters for your entertainment. You will surely enjoy this lively neighborhood with all there is to do and see here. Be sure to stop by the Milwaukee Public Market for some fresh, local food, and of course, try some of their famous cheese. You might even catch a live cooking show! 

There are 15,000 lakes located in Wisconsin, all beautiful in their own way! Most of the lakes are natural; only some were human-made, some are small and wonderful for relaxing and fishing, while others are grand and perfect for a day out on the boat. Elkhart Lake is one of Wisconsin’s oldest lakes and has been a popular family vacation spot since 1860. With water activities, sailboat racing, swimming, and fishing, your family will never get bored! Another popular lake is Castle Rock Lake which sits on 16,640 acres and makes up a few beaches, campsites, boat launches, hiking trails, and a park area. It makes for the perfect summer day with your family and friends. 

State-by-State Travel Guide: Wyoming

Wyoming, which is known as “The Cowboy State” because of its state symbol of a cowboy on a bucking horse, is the 10th largest state, located in the western part of the United States. Millions of people visit Wyoming each year for the natural beauty you will find throughout the state, from towns to mountain tops and even the 7 national parks. For all our nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts, this is the place to be! Who knows, you might even run into some wildlife, so be sure to have your camera charged and ready to go.

The first stop on the list is, of course, Yellowstone National Park, the world’s first national park. Sitting on 2.2 million acres you will find natural landmarks such as Lamar Valley, the Grand Canyon of Yellowstone, the Old Faithful geyser, the Grand Prismatic Spring, the largest hot spring in the US, and much more. Remember the wildlife we mentioned earlier? You are sure to see some here, such as bison, black bears, antelope, elk, and even a bald eagle. While you can drive through the park to experience everything, the best way to get up close and personal and really dive into the park is by hiking the many trails. 

The Flaming Gorge National Recreation Area provides guests with fishing, boating, watersports, and hunting. The lake stretches 91 miles long from Wyoming to Utah and is always cool even in the hottest summer months. Along with water activities, guests can also hike, camp, and spot some more wildlife. While you will have to travel a bit to reach it, Devils Tower National Monument is worth the trip! The large rock rises 1,267 feet above the river and is considered a “geological masterpiece.” You can hike the trails that go around the entire tower, and head into the forest to see the beautiful wildflowers or fish in the Belle Fourche River. You can also head inside to the visitors center to learn about the volcanic wonder and see how the area has changed over the years. 

Located at an elevation of almost 10,000 feet is Medicine Moutain, also known as the Medicine Wheel. The medicine wheel is used as not only a place of sacred ceremony but also for scientific inquiry, built by Native American tribes. The mountain consists of different stone patterns, and while it is covered in snow for most of the year, during the summer you can see the patterns on the ground. Visitors can hike to the top of the mountain to feel the power and energy of this sacred place and also see fantastic views of the area surrounding. 

Wrapping Up Our Tour

State-by-State Travel Guide

As we conclude our state guide tour, we want to say thank you for sticking with us! 50 stops and thousands of amazing things to do and see all across the United States make for endless photo ops. As you can see, the United States is filled with so much adventure and beautiful sites that you may not have realized existed! 

Of course, If you do have any travel photos (or decide to purchase some local art) and you need to frame them, don’t forget to share them with us on  social media ! We can’t wait to see what you design. 

This post first appeared as The Ultimate Guide For Travel Photography: Photographing All 50 States on Frame It Easy - Learning Center for Custom Picture Framing .

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Book cover

Transcending Borders in Tourism Through Innovation and Cultural Heritage pp 803–827 Cite as

Photographs in Tourism Destination Management Research in the Post-COVID-19 Era

  • Argyri Moustaka 3 &
  • Mary Constantoglou 4  
  • Conference paper
  • First Online: 28 April 2022

964 Accesses

Part of the book series: Springer Proceedings in Business and Economics ((SPBE))

Main purpose of this paper is to explore how tourist photography in the post-COVID-19 era can contribute by creating experience value in coastal tourism and in destination management. An important reference is made on how the tourist photography contributes to the upgrading of the tourist product of the area and more precisely on a mass tourism destination in Greece, Halkidiki. Further, the occurrence of the COVID-19 pandemic is studied together with the consequences it generates in the destinations. More specifically, the study undertaken had to answer the following questions: What is the photographic image that tourists form in their minds when visiting Halkidiki? How does a photographic image contribute to a sustainable tourist development? Is there an increase in the display of photos from tourist destinations, in the COVID-19 and in the post-COVID-19 era, due to the greater use of the internet? How influential are photographs for traveling in the post-COVID-19 era? The study took place from March to May 2021 and was undertaken with the use of quantitative methodology. The results of the conducted research show that the creation of photographic images is related to clean and sandy beaches along with natural beauty. In addition, the photographic images can consolidate the tourism of the destination to a satisfactory level. This happens especially nowadays when virtual travel, through images, is boosted due to the pandemic COVID-19. As a general conclusion, photographic images influence the decision for a trip in the post-COVID-19 era.

  • Destination management
  • Photography
  • Decision-making

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Moustaka, A., Constantoglou, M. (2022). Photographs in Tourism Destination Management Research in the Post-COVID-19 Era. In: Katsoni, V., Şerban, A.C. (eds) Transcending Borders in Tourism Through Innovation and Cultural Heritage. Springer Proceedings in Business and Economics. Springer, Cham. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-030-92491-1_48

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21 TRAVEL PHOTOGRAPHY TIPS (Easy Ways to Improve Today)

Here are our best travel photography tips for beginners and intermediates, based on our experience of going from complete beginners to professional travel photographers, and now working in the industry for 8 years.

Picture this.

You finally book a trip to your ultimate bucket list destination.

Antarctica, Iceland, Namibia, Bali, seeing the Aurora Borealis – wherever it is, you’ve waited your whole life to finally visit.

Naturally you are going to want to capture the best travel photos possible of this once-in-a-lifetime adventure to share with your portrfriends and family members, on social media, and maybe even print on the wall at home.

Moments in time or a travel experience that you always want to cherish.

So you’ve splashed out on a new camera based on expert recommendations , and you’re keen to hit the road.

But here’s the problem – you don’t have the faintest idea how to get the same kinds of images you see in postcards or on the internet.

The kinds of travel photos that just pop, stand out from the rest, inspire you to book a flight immediately.

Luckily that’s where we come in.

We’ve been fortunate enough to work as professional travel photographers for almost a decade now, being paid to fly around the world, running photography workshops, take pictures for the tourism industry and tell stories.

And now we want to share our knowledge, secrets and insights from our travel photography journey with you so you can take better travel photos.

In this post you’ll find many of our favourite travel photography tips you need to know to come home with shots you will be proud to show off.

Today is the time to learn. Let’s begin.

Burana Tower Travel Photography Tips

Table of Contents

1) Know Your Camera

2) focus on the golden and blue hours, 3) plan your shots, 4) learn about composition, 5) framing, framing and more framing, 6) move your feet, make them feel comfortable, 8) use a tripod, 9) find the right travel photography gear, 10) be unique, 11) find your voice as a photographer, 13) aperture, 15) shutter speed, 17) bonus – general ideas for camera equipment settings, 18) use manual mode, 19) shoot in raw (if available), 20) learn about post processing, save this pin for later, general travel photography tips for beginners.

To start with let me talk about the general travel photography tips that I feel are not only the most important, but also the most difficult to master.

Developing an eye for photography takes time. Years in fact. It’s a never-ending learning process, but I promise you with practice you will get much better.

And once you start to get the skills for framing and composing a shot, the rest is easy.

Whether you shoot on a dSLR, mirrorless, smartphone or an old film unit, the first travel photography tip is to get to know your camera equipment.

Whatever you have in your camera bag , take the time to read the instructions, play around with all the buttons and camera settings, and spend hours with it in your hand so that it becomes a part of you.

Study the menu so that if you need to change camera settings in the field you’re not spending minutes scrolling through it when timing is critical.

Also don’t forget to learn your camera’s limitations.

Does it perform well in low-light or does the image fall apart? Is it sharp wide open, or do you need to stop down to get the best clarity? Does it have inbuilt image stabilisation?

Ultimately when you pick up your camera you want to feel comfortable and know exactly how it works. Then getting better pictures will come faster and easier.

Armadillo

Light is everything when it comes to travel photography images, and there’s a good chance you’ve already heard about the golden and blue hours.

The Golden Hour is that time when the sun is low in the sky and it throws a magical, warm glow across the scene.

Think the first hour after the sun peaks in the morning, and the last hour or two before the sun drops over the horizon in the afternoon.

The Blue Hour is when the sun is below the horizon and the sky gives off a beautiful blue hue.

If you really want better travel photos, one of the best travel photography tips we can give is to get used to waking up early and stay out late to make the most of these two times of day.

If you’re not a morning person, get used to setting an alarm. Many of the great travel photos of the Taj Mahal and other tourist sites with no one in them for example were taken by people who got there early.

Taking photos in the middle of the day can still result in great shots, but in general you’ll find the blue sky too blown out unless there are some interesting clouds, and on a sunny day you’ll find the lighting conditions can be a bit harsh.

Instead use the middle of the day to get street photography, or scout out photo locations and a vantage point for your sunrise and sunset photos to come back later.

Bonus Tip – Even if it looks like the sunrise or sunset might not be so beautiful, wait around. You never know when the clouds might break or the sky randomly lights up in brilliant colours.

Fitz Roy Sunrise

Before you arrive in your tourist destinations, spend a few hours planning out your shot list of images you want to photograph.

You can get inspiration from Instagram, Google Maps, travel guides, magazines and more.

Make a note of these pictures, and then plan your day around the optimum time to shoot (sunrise or sunset for example).

Doing this will help you nail the shots you want to go, and give you more purpose and direction.

You need to know that all of the best photographers use tools like Google Maps or social media to form a shot list, and you should get used to it too.

Travel Photography Tips

You’ve probably heard about how important it is to compose a shot properly, and I bet if you’ve ever read a photography manual you would have come across the ‘ rule of thirds ‘.

Good composition can be the difference between an average shot and award-winning travel photos.

There’s all kinds of ‘rules’ that theoretically make a photo look nicer, such as not putting your subject in the middle of the shot, don’t cut elements out of the frame, etc.

But right now let’s go a bit into the Rule of Thirds.

This concept is where you divide your image into 9 even squares (many cameras actually have this grid line feature built into their display options).

Then what you do is you place the subjects and points of interest such as a human element along those lines and squares.

Here’s an example of how this looks:

Khongor Sand Dunes Rule Of Thirds

The idea of the rule of thirds is that this is a mathematical idea of what our eyes naturally find pleasing. So it’s good practice to incorporate this method into your shots.

Another thing to look for is leading lines that naturally draw your eye around the photo, as well as different angles and shapes.

Have a river flowing from the side of the shot up to a waterfall on the top left for example, or the foreground bending around, leading the eye towards a church at the top of the photo.

This is a skill that you’ll learn with more practice.

An important thing to remember is that rules are meant to be broken .

Get used to analysing your shots with the rule of thirds, but please don’t use it as gospel if you think a different composition would work.

Adding a human element also brings a lot of interest to a good shot, so place people in your frame.

Street Art Leading Lines

When you look through the viewfinder or LCD screen, don’t just focus on the subject.

Make sure you run your eyes around the entire frame to make sure you’re not accidentally cutting off something important.

Double-check that the top of a mountain is fully inside the frame, or that your friend’s whole body is in the shot as an example.

This isn’t gospel, because sometimes having something cut off from the frame can be good for composition, but you’ll have to be the judge of that.

Also check to see if you can use something natural in the scene to create a frame inside your picture.

Think of looking out a window at a building, or a bent-over tree surrounding a pretty lake.

These can all help make better travel photos.

Framing Tips

This is one of the most important travel photography tips I can give – Move your feet.

Don’t just arrive to a scene and take a shot from the place you’re standing.

Instead take a few minutes to walk around and see if there is a better frame or composition.

Go closer, move back, step to the side, consider your lens’ focal length, etc.

Imagine trying to take that iconic Taj Mahal photo, only to find out later that you were 2m to the left of centre, throwing off that perfect symmetry.

Or maybe if you walk to the river’s edge you’ll be able to incorporate some interesting rocks into the scene instead of just water.

Better yet, take multiple travel photos and fill up those memory cards from the same photo locations so you have lots of options when you get home to see which is your favourite.

Angle Travel Photography Tips

7) Ask People for Permission

Travel photography isn’t all about capturing the most beautiful sunsets and gorgeous architecture around the world.

Travel photography is also about the people you meet. But if you’re a bit shy like me, how do you get those amazing portrait photos without feeling rude?

Simple – just ask for permission.

Asking someone for permission to take their photo is polite and respectful.

If you have had a great encounter with someone, or you just see a great opportunity and want to capture a wonderful portrait, give them a big smile and ask if it’s ok to take their photo.

You’ll find many people are more than happy to pose for a photo if you just ask (just make sure you respect them if they say no).

Silk Travel Photography Tips For Beginners

But what if you want to get a candid shot, with the subject looking natural?

There’s always another way to get these without annoying the person.

Don’t make it obvious that you are taking their photo. Act natural and take lots of photos of the environment around them.

You can also keep your camera down by your side and point the lens in their direction.

If you have a zoom lens, use it. This was you can be on the other side of the street or market and still photograph the person.

Interested in learning more? Join one of our exclusive photography workshops in Antarctica, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan or Mongolia !

Another one of my favourite travel photography tips for portraits is to bring in another element to the shot.

Some people will feel uncomfortable posing for a stranger, but if you can make it about something else they will feel much more at ease.

As an example, maybe ask if they can pose with something in their store like a rug, or ask them to show you their wedding ring.

This way they’ll realise there is more to your photo than just them. This will also add a lot more interesting elements to the shot!

Mongol Man Travel Photography Tips

A tripod is one of the best camera accessories you can have in your camera bag, and really essential for travel photography.

This will allow you to get excellent shots in low light, as well as get creative with your images (like taking long exposures).

These days you don’t always need a massive tripod to travel around with, especially if you want to travel light and are a hobbyist photographer. Look at some of the Joby Gorillapods .

Another good thing about using a tripod is that it will force you to slow down with your photography and put more thought into each shot.

Rather than just pointing and shooting, you will think carefully about where you want to set up your tripod and how you want to compose your shot.

Honestly if you want to become a better travel photographer, you’ll need to invest in at least a small tripod.

Use A Tripod Travel Photography Tips For Beginners

You don’t need to go out and spend tens of thousands of dollars on new travel photography gear to get the best shots.

In fact chances are you already have a perfectly adequate camera right next to you (your phone).

Instead just get what you an afford, and as you grow with your photography style, post production, etc, you’ll learn what camera gear you need as well.

Things like filters, tripods, flashes, prime lenses, zoom lenses, etc will come in time.

For now, all you really need is a camera, memory card and enthusiasm!

Check out our recommendations for the best travel tripods .

There’s nothing wrong with getting those iconic shots of the Eiffel Tower or Machu Picchu to share on social media.

They’re beautiful and are often amazing camera angles of famous places that everyone wants to visit.

But don’t forget to be unique as well! Find a different perspective that hasn’t been photographed a million times.

In fact make it your goal to get a few unique shots that you can be proud of.

Over-expose, under-expose, incorporate motion blue – the only limitation is your imagination!

Be Unique Travel Photography Tips

Just like a writer or musician finds a particular style they like, as a photographer you need to discover your ‘voice’.

Travel photography is such a broad term that can cover just about anything.

Really just taking any travel photos will fit the description, whether it is landscape photography, wildlife photography, architecture, portraits, food or whatever.

Just find a style you love most, and focus on getting better at it.

If you really like black and white photography, then start shooting in black and white! Love taking images of crazy street markets? Then get out there and find them!

Experiment, learn, discover and nurture!

Find Your Voice Travel Photography Tips For Beginners

Technical Travel Photography Tips

While the technical side of using a camera is usually the most overwhelming thing for a new photographer to think about, it’s actually one of the easiest things to master. All it takes is a bit of study and practice.

If you’ve never looked into getting out of ‘Auto mode’ on your camera, then terms like ISO, aperture, white balance and shutter speed will seem completely foreign.

READ MORE: Check out our great article and blog posts featuring our best landscape photography tips !

12) Exposure Triangle of Photography

The Exposure Triangle is a metaphor to explain the 3 elements that allow light onto a sensor.

A camera captures light, and the right amount is needed so that your image isn’t too bright or too dark.

The 3 parts of the Exposure Triangle are aperture, ISO and shutter.

Each one affects how light reaches the sensor in different ways, and getting this combination right is essential to capturing a beautiful image.

Exposure Triangle Travel Photography Tips

If you want more information, I’ve put together this comprehensive guide to understanding the exposure triangle which you should really check out.

For now though I’ll explain these three things briefly, and how they relate to taking better travel photographs.

Aperture is how wide, or small, the blades in your lens are and how much light goes through the lens.

The aperture size is measured in ‘F Stops’, and displayed as numbers. f5.6, f8, f11, f16, etc

A wide aperture (small number – f1.8) lets in more light than a low aperture (big number – f22).

A wide aperture also has a shallowed depth of field than a low aperture. I know it can be a little confusing, but you’ll pick it up the more you play around with it.

If you want the background blurry in your photo, you’ll want a wide aperture. If you want everything in focus, you’ll want a low aperture.

Aperture Travel Photography Tips

ISO is how sensitive your camera sensor is to light. A small number, such as 100, means it’s not very sensitive and therefore needs more light to leave an impression.

A high number, like 6400, means it’s very sensitive and needs only a little bit of light to show up on the sensor.

The higher the ISO, the more noise shows up in a photo. Noise lowers the quality of your image, so in a perfect world you’ll want to keep this as low as possible (unless you’re going to stay out late doing astro and night photography ).

It’s also necessary to raise your ISO if you’re shooting moving subjects (or handheld) indoors.

Milky Way Antarctica Iso Travel Photography Tips

Shutter speed is pretty straight forward – how long it takes for your shutter to open and close. This allows you to freeze a frame, or introduce motion blur.

Want to capture a bird in flight? You’ll want to have a fast shutter (1/4000th of a second for example).

Want to make a waterfall look silky smooth, like you see in so much Iceland photography? Go for slow shutter speeds (3 seconds for example), and check out our guide to waterfall photography tips while you’re at it!

Keep in mind that if you are holding your camera equipment rather than using a tripod, you’ll need to have a fast enough shutter to eliminate your own hand movement.

As a general rule 1/60 of a second is the slowest you should go so your picture doesn’t pick up hand movement. Any slower than that and you’ll probably need a tripod.

Whales Travel Photography Tips

16) Combining All Three for Perfect Exposure

There is no ‘perfect setting’ for aperture, ISO and shutter. It all depends on what you are trying to photograph and the style you’re going for.

Luckily most decent digital cameras have two little tools that will let you play around figure out how all three work together – manual mode and histograms.

Manual gives you complete control over your camera’s ISO, aperture and shutter.

If you change one, nothing else will change, unlike in ‘aperture priority’ mode or ‘shutter priority’ mode.

The histogram is a visual display of light. When the bars are all the way to the left, the image is darker. When they are all the way to the right, the image is lighter.

When most of the bars are in the centre, this is perfectly exposed.

Histogram

The best way to figure out what combinations work best when you’re a complete amateur is to put your camera on “manual” mode, activate the histogram, and play around with the settings.

Pick an aperture (f/8 for example) and point it at the scene. Now look at the histogram.

If the image is too dark, then you’ll need to let more light in. Let’s make the speed slower. See a change?

Now put the shutter back to where it was and instead change the ISO. Make the ISO higher. Is the image getting lighter?

Spend an hour or two playing around with different apertures, ISO and shutter so you get an idea of how each one affects the light hitting the display.

Take note at how drastically things can change if a cloud goes in front of the sun, or you take the camera inside.

This just comes with practice of course, and knowing what settings you want for a particular scene will become second nature

Keep in mind that not all travel photos needs to be perfectly exposed. Sometimes having a darker image looks much better than having one that is nice and bright. You can use your judgement for this.

Low Exposure Travel Photography Tips For Beginners

This is very, very basic and by no means should be read as gospel. There are a million different things that can affect why you would want a faster shutter, or wider aperture. But if you are confused about what to pick for what here’s a quick idea.

  • Landscapes – You’ll want your aperture around f8-f11. You’ll also want your ISO as low as possible. Slow down the shutter accordingly.
  • Portraits – You’ll probably want to photograph your subject to be sharp, but the background blurry to bring focus on the person. Have a wider aperture (say f2.8 for example), and a faster shutter (around 1/160 at the absolute slowest) to freeze the subject. Adjust ISO accordingly.
  • Indoors – Because it is darker inside than outside, you’ll need to let a lot more light into the sensor. Unless you’re using a tripod, keep the speed at around 1/60 as the slowest, and the aperture around f5.6 to start with. Adjust ISO and aperture accordingly.

Of course there’s a bunch of other styles of travel photography that would use different settings, such as astrophotography, architecture, street scenes photography, wildlife photography, etc.

In time you’ll learn what settings work best for each scene.

The best way to get to know your camera and how light works is to have complete control over what settings you choose.

The only way to do this is to shoot in manual mode (shown by the letter M on most cameras).

It will take months of practice, but I promise you that in time you’ll be able to look at a scene and instantly know what aperture, ISO and shutter to use to get the exact style of image you’re looking for.

You can also use aperture priority mode (the letter A on your camera) if you don’t want to make the big leap to manual just yet.

This way you can lock in the aperture you want (f8 for landscape photography, f2.8 for portraits, etc) and the camera will automatically adjust the ISO (although you can control this part too) and shutter to get perfect exposure.

I highly recommend focusing on learning manual settings though until you have it perfected.

Manual Travel Photography Tips For Beginners

When you take a photo on your digital camera, the computer chip inside it takes what you captured on the sensor and converts it into a format that can be easily read. For most cameras, these two formats are RAW and JPEG.

JPEG is a compressed format that the camera creates to save on space. In doing so it ‘locks in’ all the data that it picked up such as the colour and white balance.

RAW files actually saves all the data of what you took and doesn’t compress it.

Most decent digital cameras will give you the menu option of shooting in RAW, and I recommend you use it if you ever plan on editing your photos.

Keep in mind that the file sizes will be a lot bigger (for example on one of our cameras a RAW is 42, while a JPEG is just 20), so you’ll need to have extra memory cards and external hard drive storage.

If you have no plans on editing your photos then shoot in JPEG.

Raw Travel Photography Tips

Some people think that editing your photo is ‘cheating’. But the truth is photographers have been editing their photos ever since photography was invented.

Yes, even your favourite photos in National Geographic have been manipulated in some way.

99% of photos you see in your favourite travel magazines have been edited. Every professional photographer edits their photos to some degree.

The reason is that not all cameras are great at capturing exactly what the eye saw in terms of colour and light.

If you really want to get the most out of your professional travel photography business, you should start playing around with post processing.

Many people have heard of Adobe Photoshop , but it’s a pretty advanced tool that most people wouldn’t ever need to use (until you get more experience).

To start with look at the free apps that you can get on your phone, such as Snapseed, or free editing programs on your computer, like iPhoto or GIMP.

Once you get serious about travel photography and you want to start editing all of your photos that are filling up your memory cards and external hard drive, we recommend purchasing Adobe Lightroom.

If you’re ready to make the jump to using Lightroom and Photoshop, Adobe have a great ‘Creative Cloud’ package, which is what we use for only $10 a month. You can buy it here with a 7-day free trial

Before Editing Travel Photography Tips For Beginners

21) Practice, Practice, Practice

Just like anything, becoming a great travel photographer takes time, and a lot of practice. The only way you can get better is by getting out there taking travel photos!

You don’t even have to travel the world to tourist destinations or have the most travel camera available to be a great photographer.

Borrow some family members to take their portraits, get a friend who is also interested in photography and push each other, or grab your smartphone and go shoot sunset.

Buy whatever you can afford, go for a walk around your city and snap away.

We hope that this general guide on travel photography tips for beginners has been helpful.

Please feel free to reach out to us if you have any other questions. We have a lot of experience working with tourism boards, and would be happy to help you too.

Good luck on your photographic journey, and maybe we’ll see you in National Geographic one day!

DISCLAIMER: Some of the links in this article are affiliate links, which means if you book accommodation, tours or buy a product, we will receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. These commissions help us keep creating more free travel content to help people plan their holidays and adventures. We only recommend the best accommodations, tours and products that ourselves or our fantastic editorial team have personally experienced, and regularly review these. Thanks for your support, kind friend!

Taking Photos Pinterest Image

About the Author - Alesha and Jarryd

Hey! We are Alesha and Jarryd, the award-winning writers and professional photographers behind this blog. We have been travelling the world together since 2008, with a passion for adventure travel and sustainable tourism. Through our stories and images we promote exciting off-the-beaten-path destinations and fascinating cultures as we go. As one of the world's leading travel journalists, our content and adventures have been featured by National Geographic, Lonely Planet, CNN, BBC, Forbes, Business Insider, Washington Post, Yahoo!, BuzzFeed, Channel 7, Channel 10, ABC, The Guardian, and plenty other publications. Follow our journey in real time on Facebook , YouTube and Instagram .

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73 thoughts on “21 TRAVEL PHOTOGRAPHY TIPS (Easy Ways to Improve Today)”

I indeed agree in Know your camera and Plan your shots. These tips would make a good start in achieving your socmed worthy travel shots. And ofcourse, the other tips will surely be useful too. Great post!

Good article but I need to say something about using Manual – it’s not that great. Manual is just a different mode of settings for exposure, little different from either shutter or aperture priority, except these two give you a leg up, to where you’re going anyway. At the end of the day whatever exposure setting you choose will be just a combination of the 3 on the ‘exposure triangle’. Instead of using manual try these other two in conjunction with exposure compensation, which overrides the exposure meter reading. You still need the meter for any exposure anyway, just not necessarily using the value it recommends. It amounts to the same thing, only easier, quicker, and still constraining one of the triangle sides that you want. I use manual for specific unusual objects, such as sun, moon, stars, but during general daytime subjects it’ll be very unusual to hamper yourself by not using the aid provided when there is no advantage.

Your blog has become my go-to source for insightful content.

Thank you so much. So glad to hear. 🙂

Before you go, research your destination and its culture. This will help you better understand the people, customs, and landscapes you’ll be photographing.

I benefited a lot from your post. Thank you

So glad you did. Thank you for stopping by. 🙂

Thanks for sharing all this amazing tips & information. Fabulous post !

You are welcome. We are happy to help. Happy photographing

nice summary of basic photo tips that will improve my shots, thanx!

You are rocking..keep it up your work

Thank you so much. We really appreciate it.

Great article with great tips and i also like the pictures

Thank you so much Alesha and Jarryd for these amazing photography tips! I look forward to putting into practice some of your wonderful ideas and tips! I do so appreciate any tips that I can get to improve my photography. :)) Cheers, Marilyn

I absolutely loved this article! Like you I received my first ‘proper’ camera at 14 and since then have been hooked. I recently purchased a Nikon D750 and am absolutely loving it. Although at the moment I only have two lenses for it I am hoping to be able to afford more soon. What are your favourite lenses?

In my photography I love capturing candid portraits of people I encounter during my travels. I always struggle with the dilemma of getting the perfect candid shot and feeling compelled to ask permission before taking the shot. As a very shy person directing people in images is daunting, but it is something I am striving to work on. It’s nice to read that you are also shy yet manage to capture such incredible images of people.

As I am mostly self-taught, I always love to read technical tips to improve my images. I found the technical side of your post incredibly helpful and wanted to say thank you for taking the time to write such a detailed post. I believe it really helps and inspires amateur photographers like myself.

Glad you liked the article. Thank you for your comment. Keep photographying Caitlyn 🙂

Great tips and awesome photos! I always tell people if they aren’t comfortable with their settings, the #1 way to make sure their images aren’t blurry is to shoot in TV/S (shutter) priority. That way you can prioritize having no hand shake.

Thank you so much. Great advice. Thanks for your comment. 🙂

Awesome tips for everyone and specially to me who loves capturing photos everytime i travel.This one also help me and give me more knowledge on how to make awesome photos and its good because you don’t need to buy expensive camera to have a good quality photos, just your iPhone or smartphone you can make a great photos.

Hi, you are so right. You can take great photos with your phone. Glad the article could help you.

Great article! Do you even bother carrying your camera with you during the day in broad sunlight? I find it’s not worth the hassle for such poor shooting conditions.

Hi Scott, It all depends what we are doing. If we are on a job, we always carry our cameras with us. The midday sun is harsh but you get used to working with it. Especially indoors with the sun coming through the cracks, it can work out really lovely sometimes. When we are travelling on our own time, we don’t usually carry the camera. Happy travels

I really enjoyed reading this post, as I am a beginner in photography as well and it’s always interesting to see what gear other people are using!

I have the Canon Rebel as well, and also love the 50mm lens. It’s just great and is so versatile!

Thanks for sharing.

Glad we could help. Thank you for your comment. Happy photographing,

Great tips guys! Photography is an art so it must be learned properly. A good guide can teach art in a great way. This article is similar to a guide because it is an eye-opener for blooming photographers and travel lovers.

Thank you so much!

Thank you for your comment Glorias. Glad the article could help.

Hello Alesha and Jarryd, not sure to whom I adresse the message to, but I’m guessing Jarryd took the pictures and Alesha wrote about it :p

Anyway, do you guys use any customized Firmware on your DSLR? like the CHDK or Magic Lantern. That’s one question, the other one will be: can’t find any Mobile Phone photography on your blog? can you please refer me to any article that provide valuable info around Mobile phone photography?

Hi Ayoub, The photos and words in the article are a combination of both of us. Usually Alesha is the photographer and Jarryd is the writer.

We use use no customise firmware at all. We haven’t ventured this way as it voids our warranty.

As for phone photography, maybe this is an article we should write. With our phone photos, we do use Snapseed to edit them. But do not take any photos through any apps. All the best

Thank you for the tip regarding phone photography, I mostly use the customized firmware to do timelaps and edit directly on the camera, keep me posted after publishing the new article. (Already subscribed to the weekly newsletter)

Definitely will do. Thank you so much. Happy photographing. 🙂

you are doing a great job

Thank you so much. 🙂

This was really an amazing list of tips, I am a hobbyist photographer and this would really helps me a lot

Glad we could help. Keep up the photographing. 🙂

Great tips Alesha and Jarred. I really liked your golden and blue hours tip. Will try it soon and hope get amazing pics 🙂

Glad we could help. Practise will get you on the right track and before you know it you will be taking amazing shots. We are still learning about photography everyday. We love that you can never stop learning. Thanks Linda.

Some of the best tips I have read so far. Amazing post and captures so much detail. Worth the read for every travel photographer. 🙂 Keep it up.

Thank you so much,. We really appreciate it. 🙂

Priceless tips for amateurs like me. Thanks for sharing. For a long while, I’ve tried to follow the rule of thirds, but the best shots came out when I finally dared to break it. You’re absolutely right about the rules are meant to be broken. Regarding the camera, I agree it doesn’t have to be the most expensive. But sometimes I have a feeling my shots would have been better had I owned a proper camera. What device is the best balance between price and quality?

HI Robin, you’re welcome. We are so happy we could help. Sometimes breaking the rules works out to be better. 🙂 We definitely know what you mean. You do not need to buy the most experience camera. A camera that you can use manual settings, is great as you can start using and playing with aperture, shutter speed and ISO. We started off with a Sony RX100ii and it was great. Compact and a great camera to learn. Here is some articles that may help. https://www.nomadasaurus.com/best-camera-for-travel-ultimate-photography-series/ https://www.nomadasaurus.com/best-camera-accessories-ultimate-photography-series/

Thanks a lot for the great advise! I especially like your explanations about the exposure triangle. I was a bit aware of it before, but never played around with it unless I wanted to change the depth of field (and even then, I did this very rarely). But thanks to focusing more on it, I am starting to get the hang of it. I have taken some very good hummingbird pictures, for example, which never would have been possible if I hadn’t raised the ISO so I can keep the shutter speed fast. Those birds zip around like crazy!

Also, I think one of the most important pieces of advise, and the one I’m struggling with most, is to always look at the whole frame. I am guilty of looking at the main subject and later finding out that I cut off important things on the side or that something weird is in the photo that shouldn’t have been there.

Hi Ilona, so happy the article could help you. That’s amazing you experiment with your hummingbird shots. They are fast birds. By practising photography, you will get better and better. No matter how experienced you are, there are always things to learn. When you come to a scene you want to photograph, stop for a minute look around, walk around and think about what shots you want to take. Obviously this is hard when the subject is moving but great for landscape and street photography. All the best and keep up the awesome work. 🙂

Hi, I took around 500 shots on a trip to Kyrgyzstan recently, some I think are pretty good, but now after reading your tips, I think I will make another trip to that part of the world again soon!

what a great tips especially the lighting part – i also agree that getting up earlier and shooting in the natural sunlight is so great for your photos. talking to the locals and knowing your camera, You guys covered it all

Thank you so much for reading Shama. Glad you liked our article. Natural lighting is the best. Even though sometimes that early morning is hard it is worth it. 🙂

u are absolutely right u don’t need an expensive camera or go to Bali ( although it’s a good idea) to get great photos. it’s just simple common sense and a good eye and you can master photography

Well said. Thank you for your comment and reading Shama. Have a great week.

Thanks a lot for the helpful tips on holiday photos. My partner and I are in Easter Island, irresistible place for photo opportunity. My Nikon D7000 will keep on taking photos on auto mode for the time being until I have had enough practice following your guidelines and the who knows what photos I might produce! Thanks.

Glad we could help Balu. Definitely when you have time, go out and take some photos on manual. Play with the different settings. Before you know it, you’ll only be on manual. At the beginning when I was still learning, I would take a shot on the manual settings I thought and then a shot of the same view on auto in case I messed up. Better safe than sorry. Have a great time in Easter Island. There is so much to do there and learning about the history is amazing. Take care. Alesha

Guys your advice are completely helped me. I was stressed before, i want to travelling at the moment but i hope i can take a good picture cause you know how annoying it will be when we take a picture and then when we are home they are completely bad. So then you have to comeback at the same place again just to take a picture. But this one is helpfull

Hi Fabio, Don’t stress. You are going to bring back amazing photos from your travels. It is all overwhelming at the beginning but it gets easy. When you are shooting, put some time aside and concentrate on what you have learned. It doesn’t matter if it takes you 20 minutes to an hour to get your shot. If their are other photographers around, most of the time that are happy to give you some advice. Let them know you are new. Maybe they will let you know their settings for ISO, aperture and shutter. When it comes to editing, take your time as well. There are many You Tube videos that can help you for free. Have a great time on your trip. Happy travels

Hey Guys, very useful tips especially the Bonus tips.

Keep Sharing!!!

Glad we could help. Thanks for reading.

P(Program) you set either the aperture or shutter and the camera adjusts the other one accordingly to maintain the right exposure. Thanks

Thanks Rezan

I love traveling around the world. I wish to capture some of the beautiful places that I enjoyed. The above tips helped me to improve my travel photography skills. It also helped me to click some of the memorable moments of my travel with my friends and relatives.

Hi Vivek, Glad we could help. It is all about practise. We love having a day to ourselves and just getting out and shooting anything – landscape, cityscape, people or animals. We try to give ourselves a challenge sometimes. It makes it interesting and we are enjoying ourselves. 🙂

Great tips to help out beginners like me. I need to work on to ask people for permission as I get shy sometimes. I love the quote “rules are meant to be broken”!

Thank you Mao. Don’t worry, “asking” will come. Alesha was so shy and I used to take all the people shots. Now she is more confident and really enjoys shooting people. All the best.

THANK YOU . Your very easy to read starter guide to photography was AMAZEBALLS I learnt so much .cheers LIZY

Thank you. Glad we could help. Happy shooting and get creative. 🙂

Hey guys, this is an amazing guide, thanks for writing this up in such detail. As an amateur, I always look for good travel photography tips from other travellers. I left my tripod behind in Thailand and I think this was a huge mistake, I need to get a new one, urgently 🙂

By the way, really enjoy your photos on your blog and Instagram, they are amazing! 🙂

Glad we could help guys. We never used to use a tripod in our early years until we discovered how amazing the shots can be with one in low light and now we have 3. You can rest your camera on something to get a shot but you are limited to positions. Thanks for reading guys. 🙂

thanks for the tips. i’d make one edit: instead of ‘move your feet’ i’d say “don’t be lazy”…move left or right. move forward or back. climb up on something or get down on your knees.

Love it Aaron. You are so right. A little to the left might be the perfect shot or a little to the right and crouching might be the perfect shot. thanks for the input. Have a good one.

I love this post. It is incredibly helpful to all beginner travel photographers like myself! I have only been shooting in manual mode for the past 5 months and have already seen a huge increase in the quality of my photos! But I am always looking to improve. Will definitely be sharing your post

It is crazy how you improve when you start shooting manual. I know Alesha did also. You learn so much about the camera and what it can do, it is incredible. Thank you for reading and all the best with your photography Hayley. 🙂

this guide is amazing, thank you so much for explaining everything in a way an amateur can understand 🙂

Bookmarking the post for future reference!

Cheers, Naddya

Thank you guys. We are glad it is useful for you. 🙂

Wow! Amazing Tips. These tips will help a lot to click great pictures with your camera. Love the point of Shutter Speed. and about RAW.

Thanks for Sharing Helpful Post.

Thank you so much Nitin. Glad we can help. Thank you for reading.

Yeah I agree with you buddy.

Thank you 🙂

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Travel Photography: How to Be Unique in 2022

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Many photographers dream of traveling the world. Using the craft to gain access to places they’ve seen online seems like a dream come true. Having the ability to travel is a privilege a photographer can enjoy if they put time and effort into the craft. However, travel photography has dramatically changed over the years. What was once an opportunity for a select few is now accessible to the masses. So if everyone’s doing it, is it possible to make unique travel photography in 2022?

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The Birth of Travel Photography

Prior to the development of transportation, there wasn’t much of a need for travel photography. When nations fashioned railroads, airplanes became commercial, and nationwide bus routes became manifest, people branched out from their usual vacation spots. As photography evolved and tourism increased, it made sense for publications and travel agents to use pictures to sell the dream to would-be tourists. Fifty years ago, few people had cameras, compared to today’s society where there is one in every pocket. There wasn’t as much tourism either, which meant the opportunity to create never-before-seen travel images felt infinite for those who could make them.

tourism photography

According to Our World Data , in the year 1959, there were only 25 million tourist arrivals around the world. It seems like a big number. However, compared to 2018 figures, which saw 1.4 billion international arrivals, it pales in comparison. Along with the rise in tourism, the growth of the camera market and the rise of the internet have made it easy to create and consume more travel photography than ever. Factor it all together, and you soon realize a world that once felt infinite in terms of exploration now feels tiny.

The Oversaturation of Travel Photography

How many photographs have you seen of the Taj Mahal ? How many images will we see of Machu Picchu? It feels like everything we could photograph has already been shot. Some may argue it’s redundant to consider taking up travel photography, especially if you want to stand out from millions of other people with cameras making the same type of images. The reality, however, is that there’s still plenty of earth to see and share with the world. You just need to modify the way you think.

tourism photography

The way we view travel interests me to no end. Many of our travel choices are based on what we’re told to like, rather than arriving out of a thirst to explore the unknown. Since birth, monuments such as the Effielf Tower, the Taj Mahal, and the Great Wall of China have been billed as the best destinations on earth. Most of the world’s top destinations are dictated to us rather than discovered by us. The reality is that many people leave these spots feeling disappointed. And the consequence of this is that social media and photography portfolios are littered with the same type of travel photography.

Explore the Unknown

One must be prepared to go off the beaten path to change this. You must dare to travel to places that aren’t overwhelmed with tourism and learn that it isn’t always because they have nothing to offer. I believe every city, town, and country has something to provide in terms of visually pleasing spots. Whether it’s local stories in the community or cute pueblos, there are plenty of places in the world waiting for you to explore them. I’m currently in Veracruz, Mexico. There’s a relatively small amount of tourism compared to Quintana Roo, Mexico City, and Oaxaca. I have no clue why, because it’s beautiful. Maybe it’s because outsiders deem the State more dangerous than others, but I can honestly say I feel safe. And it has plenty to offer, from beautiful parks to a lovely city center.

tourism photography

Where I am is just one example. The point is that there are many places one can go with a camera that differ from the tourist hubs others tell us to love. So if you want to be a travel photographer and you want to document in a way others don’t, start planning a trip to a less explored part of the world. Like with any form of travel photography trip, the same rules apply. Research how safe a place is, and connect with locals to get a deeper experience of where you’re visiting. Most of all enjoy seeing places very few people see outside of the local community. Of course, be respectful, and accept you may get a few curious looks. Smile, follow cultural values and create beautiful photographs–there are still plenty of opportunities to be original.

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Inspiration 20 Travel Photographers You Should Know

“My life is shaped by the urgent need to wander and observe, and my camera is my passport.” – Steve McCurry

Intrepid and visionary, photographers have long ventured forth to document their journeys and capture the essence of the places they explore. In celebration of our 2023 Travel Photography Award , (open for entries until the end of August) we’ve curated a list of 20 photographers, past and present, whose inspiring images embody the unique allure of travel.

1. Steve McCurry

Steve McCurry , the esteemed judge of our current Travel Award , is a globally-renowned figure in the world of photography. His remarkable oeuvre encompasses some of the most iconic images of our time and showcases the awe-inspiring beauty and cultural diversity of our planet.

Born in Philadelphia in 1950, McCurry studied cinematography at Pennsylvania State University, after which he worked as a staff photographer for the local newspaper Today’s Post . However, driven by his passion for travel and photography, he embarked on a journey to India, a country that would become synonymous with his name due to the stunning images he captured throughout his career. It was this inaugural trip that sparked the epiphanic realization, “if you wait, people will forget your camera and the soul will drift up into view”, setting the foundation for a remarkable career and some truly captivating images encompassing every corner of the globe.

2. Inge Morath

One of the most influential photographers in the history of the medium, Inge Morath travelled extensively throughout her career, forming close relationships with the places she visited through her absolute immersion in the local culture. The remarkable images she captured, display her wonderful artistry and serve as fascinating mementos of their time, whilst demonstrating the profound potential of color photography long before it gained widespread acceptance.

3. Michael Yamashita

Few photographers convey the sheer joy of travel like Michael Yamashita . Over the past three decades, he has embarked on a journey around the world, capturing breathtaking images of its landscapes and people.

Though, throughout his career, Yamashita has photographed on six different continents, it is his work in Asia that has become particularly renowned. With an Asian Studies major from Wesleyan University and Japanese heritage, Yamashita has become an expert in the region and has photographed extensively in China, Japan, Southeast Asia, and India, capturing images that articulately convey the cultural diversity and stunning beauty of this fascinating continent.

4. Denis Dailleux

Though he has photographed various locations, Denis Dailleux is inseparably linked to Egypt , a country with which he has had a long and complex love affair, that has engendered some truly stunning imagery. His images convey a deep understanding of the Egyptian people and their culture, capturing their humanity and resilience.

He first visited the country in 1992, to join his Egyptian lover whom he had met in Paris a year earlier, and immediately fell in love with the country, captivated by its beguiling beauty and the warmth and generosity of its people.

He spent the next three decades visiting the country (before eventually, living there for several years), capturing its unique essence with love, tenderness, profound respect, and a masterful eye for form, light, and color.

5. Martine Franck

One of the finest practitioners of her time, and, like her husband Henri Cartier-Bresson, a major proponent of the humanist style, Martine Franck spent much of her life traversing the globe, capturing utterly compelling depictions of everyday life with remarkable grace and artistry. Her subjects and locations were as diverse as Tibetan temples, and industrial Northern English towns, whilst she also photographed her homeland extensively, notably in 1976, when she and four female compatriots, were commissioned by La Fondation Nationale de la Photographie to document their countrymen and women on vacation, during which she captured her now iconic photograph ‘Swimming Pool Designed by Alain Capeilleres, La Brusc’.

6. Alex Webb

“Most of my projects seem to start as exploratory journeys with no visible end in sight.” — Alex Webb

Renowned photojournalist, and judge of our 2020 Street Photography Award (alongside his wife and fellow photographer Rebecca Norris-Webb) Alex Webb is a master of capturing the decisive moment, rendering images filled with energy and movement that communicate brilliantly the atmosphere of the scene.⁠ ⁠ While he has photographed extensively in his homeland, Webb is best known for his vibrant and dynamic work in Latin America and the Caribbean. His images capture the region’s unique atmosphere, rich colors, and intricate details, offering a captivating glimpse into this part of the world.⁠

7. Maggie Steber

One of the finest photographers of her generation, Maggie Steber has dedicated her life to documenting some of the most important stories of our time, a mission that has taken her to some 70 countries, and encompassed everything from the African slave trade to natural disasters. Forthright and rooted in compassion, her images, which have graced the pages of many of the world’s most important publications including, National Geographic, The New York Times Magazine, and The Guardian, cut to the heart of the human condition, leaving a lasting impact on viewers worldwide.

8. Frédéric Lagrange

Frédéric Lagrange is a French-born photographer whose breathtaking imagery showcases the dramatic beauty and cultural diversity of our world. Over the last decade and a half, he has traveled extensively, visiting approximately 100 countries across almost every continent, focusing particularly on secluded shores and remote areas, such as the wild and rugged Wakhan Corridor in northeastern Afghanistan. His stunning images, which have been published in The New York Times Magazine, Vanity Fair, Harper’s Bazaar, Vogue, and The New Yorker (among others) evoke a sense of intrepidity and solidify his position as one of today’s most talented travel photographers.

9. Sebastião Salgado

One of the medium’s most masterful living practitioners, Brazilian photojournalist Sebastião Salgado is renowned for his powerful monochromatic images that tell the human stories behind some of the most important issues of our age.

During the course of his near-five decade-long career, he has traversed the globe, capturing extraordinary images, though it is perhaps his depictions of his homeland for which he is best known. In 1986, he travelled to the notorious Serra Pelada gold mine, to photograph some of the 50,000 workers who worked in terrible conditions. His most recent project, the landmark, Amazonia a series of stunning images of the landscapes and people of the world’s largest rainforest captured during a series of trips over the course of six years, is one of his most impressive, communicating the dramatic beauty, incredible biodiversity, and rich cultural heterogeneity of what the photographer calls “paradise on earth”, and thus highlighting the importance of its conservation at what is a crucial tipping point in the fight against climate change.

10. Pia Riverola

One of the best-known travel photographs of recent years, Pia Riverola , is renowned for her dreamy, pastel-hued renderings, which flawlessly capture the very essence of their subject matter.

Whether it’s vibrant flower markets in Mexico City, neon-lit and rain-drenched streets in Tokyo , or the lush landscapes of South American jungles, Riverola ‘s photographs exude a nostalgic and dream-like quality, displaying her masterful understanding of light and inducing a powerful sense of wanderlust.

11. Bruno Barbey

One of the finest photographers of our time, Moroccan-born, French photographer Bruno Barbey, has spent the last five decades travelling the world capturing powerful images that display his unique artistic voice and intrepidity. Over the years he has photographed in Brazil, China, India, his homeland France, and Morrocco, his birthplace, returning on numerous occasions to capture stunning, color-rich images that convey the unique essence of the country.

12. Jimmy Nelson

Judge of our recent Portrait Award , Jimmy Nelson, has dedicated the last ten years to documenting indigenous cultures around the world, which face increasing threats to their traditions and ways of life.

Nelson ‘s adventurous spirit was ignited during his childhood through his father’s work as an exploratory geologist. His first major project involved an epic journey on foot across Tibet in 1987, while seven years later, he documented the newly-opened People’s Republic of China in his acclaimed project “Literary Portraits of China,” which was exhibited in Tiananmen Square before touring globally.

However, it was his subsequent travels around the world to photograph remote cultures using a traditional 50-year-old plate camera, that laid the foundation for the project for which he is best known. “Before They Pass Away”, comprises stunning portraits of 35 different indigenous communities across the globe, capturing their unique traditions and practices in the face of globalization and industrialization.

13. Jim Richardson

Though born in the US, Richardson is immensely proud of his Celtic roots and has spent much of his career focusing on Ireland and Scotland. The latter has been a particularly prominent subject, his fascination with the wild landscapes of the Scottish highlands and the remote islands off its western coastline, engendering a wealth of captivating landscape images that articulate its unique, rugged beauty.

14. Matthieu Paley

French-born Matthieu Paley is one of the finest contemporary travel photographers, whose practice focuses on remote areas, and those communities that call them home.

Working on assignments for National Geographic and other leading publications, he has captured profoundly fascinating photo essays on hunter-gatherers in Tanzania, Greenland’s Inuit and Afghanistan’s Kyrgyz nomads (which he did over the course of a decade), leading to a number of notable awards, including a 2017 World Press Photo award for his portrayal of a Uighur woman in western China.

15. Brooke Holm

The 2nd Prize Winner of our 2018 Color Award for her breathtaking depiction of an Icelandic landscape, Australian-American artist Brooke Holm is one of the most exciting emerging proponents of travel photography. Inspired by satellite imagery and therefore, captured almost invariably from above, her depictions of some of the world’s most beautiful natural scenery are akin to paintings. Rich in color, texture and form, they offer a divergence from conventional viewpoints, showing the natural world at scale, in an attempt to subvert traditional anthropocentric narratives and advocate for coexistence with our environment and its inhabitants.

16. Galen Rowell

Equal parts adventurer and photographer, Galen Rowell spent the majority of his extraordinary life traversing some of the world’s most lofty areas, and capturing stunning landscape images that convey the beauty of the subject.

Throughout his career, Rowell undertook assignments for prestigious publications like LIFE and National Geographic, fearlessly venturing into remote and unforgiving locations, capturing them with unmatched artistry that still resonates today. His work not only showcased the natural wonders of these landscapes but also left a profound impact on the field of photography, inspiring generations of landscape photographers and ensuring his legacy lives on through his work.

17. Ami Vitale

Considered one of the most important conservation photographers of her generation, Ami Vitale has spent her career travelling the globe, traversing more than 100 countries and capturing stunning images that illuminates the often-overlooked heroes and communities whose efforts to protect wildlife and the natural world are truly inspiring. A Nikon Ambassador and regular contributor to National Geographic, Vitale has received numerous awards and commendations over the years, among them a Lucie Humanitarian Award and numerous World Press Photo prizes, which stand as a testament to her dedication and talent in her field. 

18. Jody MacDonald

Few can rival Jody MacDonald when it comes to intrepidity. The award-winning adventurer and photographer has visited over 100 countries and spent a decade travelling the globe on a 60-foot catamaran, on an expedition to uncover the most remote and untamed corners of the planet. Working on assignment for National Geographic and other leading publications, or commercial projects for the likes of Patagonia and Red Bull, MacDonald has photographed some of the harshest and most difficult-to-reach corners of the earth – from the Sahara to the Himalayas – capturing stunning images that communicate the wild beauty of our world.

19. Evelyn Hofer

Few, if any photographers in history captured the essence of cites in the manner of Evelyn Hofer , the enigmatic German-born photographer who, throughout her impressive career, travelled the world photographing its landscapes and people with rarely-matched grace and artistry.

Whether it was Dublin, Paris, Florence, or the cities of her adopted homeland, the United States, Hofer’s photographs capture the essence of the subject. Underpinned by a masterful understanding of form, light, and color, today they stand as timeless testaments to her artistic vision and her ability to reveal the profound beauty that exists within the tapestry of our world.

20. René Burri

                                                                                 

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These Photos Show The Timeless Appeal Of Travel And Tourism

“Now that travel has opened up, you can access more places and see more things. Our definition of travel photography has changed.”

Pia Peterson

BuzzFeed News Photo Editor

A woman wears a dress and floral headpiece in front of the Leaning Tower of Pisa in a midcentury photo

A woman at the Leaning Tower of Pisa, Sept. 20, 1951

Under lockdown, travel photography fueled our jealousy, longing, and admiration. For travelers back in the 1800s, photographs were important in another way: “You might have gone to that place, but you couldn't take a picture of it, so you buy one to show people back home,” said Jamie Allen, an associate curator at the George Eastman Museum in Rochester, New York.

An upcoming exhibit looks at the museum’s extensive collection of travel and tourism images through the years. Lilyan Jones is the project cataloger for the Alden Scott Boyer Collection at the Eastman Museum. Working with the museum’s photography collection, she goes through over 13,000 items that were given to the museum, some of which range from the very beginning of photography to the 1950s.

“I chose this theme because at the time I was starting to work on this, we were stuck inside. I thought it would be nice to look at pictures from all over the world,” Jones told BuzzFeed News. “There are a lot of early views of Egypt, people climbing the pyramids; there's also early views of India and Japan and even Niagara Falls.”

Four people climbing up the pyramids in Egypt

"L'entree de la Grande Pyramide," circa 1875, from the album Berlin to Cairo

The George Eastman Museum was named after the creator of the Kodak company. Eastman was a pioneer in film and photography, and the museum fittingly claims to be the world’s first focused solely on photography.

“Early travel photography was going to be seen by people who weren't able to travel themselves,” Allen said. “Now that travel has opened up, you can access more places and see more things. Our definition of travel photography has changed.”

Allen said the goal of the exhibition is to pull gems from the museum’s collection that don't typically get shown. Of the 450,000 total items in the photography department, she said, “some of these photographs don't get to see the light of day. There are photographs by Ansel Adams that are more surprising, and this gives you an opportunity to look at other things that a photographer did than just what they’re famous for.”

She added, “Tourist sites weren't so prescriptive back then. In the early days, you wouldn’t have your own camera, so the person who is making the image is a professional photographer, and you're purchasing that image from them or from a store.”

Here, we looked at some of our favorites from this show, which include photographs from over 100 years ago.

A person in a hat stands on a steep ledge overlooking the Grand Canyon, holding a camera

Photographer Alvin Langdon Coburn at the Grand Canyon, taken by Fannie E. Coburn, 1911

A child sitting on a water fountain, a child sitting on a raised platform, and a smiling woman leaning against a monument and nursing a baby

The US's geographic center in Kansas, photographed by Jim Alinder, 1973

The Arc de Triomphe in Paris in an 1800s photo with no people present

The Arc de Triomphe in Paris, photographed by Louis-Désiré Blanquart-Évrard in 1851

Two side-by-side images show a man in a hat looking through a clearing at Niagara Falls

The American Falls of Niagara Falls, 1859

A group of four people, one with a walking stick, descending Mount Vesuvius

"Descending Vesuvius," taken by Raymond K. Albright, circa 1890

A panorama of the Grand Canyon with multiple photos stitched together

"One Hundred and Five Years of Photographs and Seventeen Million Years of Landscapes; Panorama From Yavapai Point on the Grand Canyon Connecting Photographs by Ansel Adams, Alvin Langdon Coburn and the Detroit Publishing Company," 2007

A group of men in hats, one playing guitar in the center, one looking at the camera in the far right

A man playing guitar in Aguascalientes, Mexico, taken by an unidentified photographer, 1890

A man stands near a doorway in China near two other men, one standing in shadows, on an otherwise empty street of storefronts

"Physic St(reet) Canton," taken by John Thomson, 1868–1872

A panoramic view of Hong Kong Harbor, with several boats, ships, and other vessels on an expansive body of water, stitched together between three photos

"Hong Kong Harbor. Taken From Above the City," photographed by Lai Fong, circa 1868, from the album "Photographs - Japan, China"

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10 Tours to Turn Travelers Into Photographers

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By Shivani Vora

  • Aug. 29, 2017

There’s travel photography, and then there’s traveling for photography.

An increasing number of travel companies and hotels today offer learning excursions and tours aimed at aspiring photographers, spanning a few hours to a few weeks.

Janine Yu, an adviser at the New York City-based travel company Indagare , said that because of photo-sharing apps like Instagram, more and more people are taking up photography as a hobby.

“The travel industry is catering to this growing interest in a fun way,” she said. “After all, what more enjoyable way to learn how to improve your camera skills than by exploring a great destination at the same time?”

Below are 10 tours, trips and hotels to bring out your inner Ansel Adams.

A Photo Safari at andBeyond Kichwa Tembo Tented Camp , Masai Mara, Kenya Learn how to take frame-worthy images with the new photo safari at this camp, in an area rich with game, including wildebeest, lions and hippos. Guests can book the safari for as little as a half-day or for up to several days and are lent the equipment they need, including a camera with a Nikon 600 mm lens. The safaris are led by a naturalist who is also a skilled photographer, and they take place in a jeep equipped with electrical charging stations for the cameras, 360-degree swivel chairs with camera mounts for long-lens stability and a fully stocked bar. Prices from $275 for a half-day. Camp rates start at $330 per person, per night, including all meals, game drives and transfers. (AndBeyond’s Grumeti Serengeti Tented Camp and Serengeti Under Canvas offer similar tours.) Book at andbeyond.com .

Strabo Photo Tours Aspiring photographers have their pick of more than 50 trips a year from this travel company specializing in photography vacations, which are offered in six continents (only Antarctica is excluded) and run the diversity gamut. Trips to Slovenia’s glacial lakes and vineyards and to the Monteverde Cloud Forest in Costa Rica are two examples. Most journeys last 10 days to 14 days, and all are led by a professional photographer as well as a local guide; there are usually 4 to 12 travelers on every itinerary. From $2,595, including accommodations, some meals, daily photography lessons and destination tours. Book at phototc.com or by calling 607-756-8676 .

Vermejo Park Ranch , Raton, N.M. Owned by the media mogul and conservationist Ted Turner, this property, a 585,000-acre expanse of terrain ranging from shortgrass prairie to alpine tundra, offers themed photography packages three times a year. Each is for four nights and led by a professional photographer, but their focus varies. The September package, for example, covers shooting the elk-mating season. Prices from $3,500 a person, inclusive of accommodations, all meals and nonalcoholic beverages and non-guided activities such as horseback riding. Book online at vermejoparkranch.com or by calling 877-288-7637 or by emailing [email protected] .

Quasar Expeditions Photo Safari Galápagos Cruises The Galápagos Islands are renowned for abundant wildlife like iguanas and green sea turtles, and these seven-night cruises, offered nearly monthly, supply a chance to photograph the animals up close. The naturalist guides turned photographers who lead the cruises run nightly briefings where they review guests’ photos and teach them techniques to get the best shots for the animals they will likely see the following day. Also, guests disembark the boat early to get sunrise shots of the islands and come back to the ship in the early evening so that they can capture sunset images of the islands, too. Prices from $4,620 a person. Book by calling 800-247-2925 or emailing [email protected] .

Manhattan Architecture Photography Tour , New York City Hit some of New York City’s top architectural landmarks such as Grand Central Terminal, the Chrysler Building and the New York Public Library with this three-hour tour from TripAdvisor. Led by a photographer, participants will learn how to work with lines and angles to bring these buildings to life, and also learn how to photograph architectural interiors. This tour is offered several times a week and scheduled in the afternoon to take advantage of the sky’s changing colors. From $100 a person. Book online at tripadvisor.com or by calling 855-275-5071 .

Paris Night Photo Tour , Paris The already picturesque City of Light becomes even more photogenic at night, and this three-hour private tour, tailored to every skill level, is an opportunity to learn how to capture it after dark. A photographer teaches travelers techniques for shooting famous landmarks like the Eiffel Tower and Place de la Concorde and also shares tips on taking images of common sights in the city like boats sailing along the Seine River. 180 euros for the first person and 30 euros for each additional person for up to a total of four people. Book online at aperturetours.com/paris-night-photo-tour

PhotoWalks Freedom Trail Tour , Boston This 90-minute tour is a photography class and history lesson in one. A photographer who is also a historian leads the excursion to famous sites associated with the American Revolution such as Boston Common, the Benjamin Franklin statue and the building where the Boston Tea Party meeting took place. In all, participants visit more than a dozen spots and learn the best camera settings and angles to capture keepsake images of the iconic attractions. Prices from $40 a person. Book online through viator.com or by calling 888-651-9785 .

Belmond La Résidence d’Angkor , Siem Reap, Cambodia Set in the heart of Siem Reap, this property has an in-house photographer who leads daylong excursions allowing travelers to photograph a variety of scenarios in the town and its surrounding area. The trip starts off on a longboat down the Kompong Phluk water village and includes a kayaking excursion around Tonle Sap lake and a trip to a food market to shoot pictures of local delicacies. The tour is $300 for two people and includes a car with a driver. Guests can also book the two-night Zooming in on Cambodia package, which includes accommodations, the tour and a three-day pass to the Angkor Wat temple complex. From $1,400 a person. Book online at belmond.com/la-residence-d-angkor-siem-reap/ .

Photography Tours of Ireland It doesn’t matter where in Ireland you’re visiting or how adept at photography you are — the Dublin-based travel company Adams & Butler has a team of professional photographers throughout the country and can arrange for photography tours at every skill level. Possibilities include Dublin by night for after-dark shots, the mountains and lakes along the Ring of Kerry at sunset and the sprawling estates throughout the countryside by day. The company can also arrange for camera loans. From $300 for two people for a full-day tour. Book by calling 800-894-5712 or emailing [email protected] .

Art & Clarity Adventures , Napa Valley Get an insider’s view of the touristy Napa region with the three- or six-hour photography tours, run by the photographers Janna Waldinger and Lowell Downey. The tours take you through Napa’s hilly terrain and vineyards but also touch less-frequented spots such as the woods and along Napa River; participants learn about camera settings, depth of field and how to properly frame the subjects they are shooting. And if you they have a particular interest, such as nature or architecture, Ms. Waldinger and Mr. Downey can tailor the tour accordingly. Prices from $99 to $500, depending on the length of time and number of people. Book by calling 707-480-4003 or by emailing [email protected] .

An article on Sept. 3 about photography tours referred incorrectly to the type of camera used on a tour offered by and Beyond Kichwa Tembo Tented Camp. It is a camera equipped with a Nikon 600-millimeter lens, not a Nikon 600-millimeter camera. (There is no such camera.)

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COMMENTS

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