Travel has always been one of the most inspiring parts of photography for me. There’s something about being in a new place, surrounded by unfamiliar streets, cultures, and people, that makes you see the world differently. But as exciting as it is, traveling with a camera comes with its own set of challenges. Between packing gear, navigating crowded spaces, and balancing being present with documenting the moment, it takes a bit of practice to get it right.

Pack Smart, Travel Light

The first lesson I learned: you don’t need to bring everything. Lugging around a huge camera bag not only slows you down, but it also makes you stand out more than you want to. I usually bring one or two lenses that cover a range of what I know I’ll be shooting. A versatile prime, like my 35mm, is often my go-to because it keeps things simple, compact, and forces me to move with the scene, which I appreciate because having the best gear makes it too easy, and you forget to think about it. 

Stay Present While Shooting

It’s easy to get so caught up in chasing photos that you forget to experience the place itself. I’ve found that the best approach is to set aside certain times just for shooting, and other times where I put the camera away completely. That way, I’m not stuck behind a viewfinder the whole trip, and I still come home with images I love. Sometimes it's hard to tell when the best time is to have your camera ready, so sometimes it's good to just have it, and if you see something, quickly go for it.

Embrace the Unexpected

Travel never goes exactly as planned, and that’s part of the magic. Maybe the landmark you wanted to see is under construction, or the weather turns gray and rainy. Instead of getting discouraged, shift your perspective. Bad weather can make for moodier, more cinematic shots, and detours often lead to more authentic experiences. Some of my favorite travel photos have come from situations I didn’t plan for at all.