Over the past four years, I’ve traveled more for photo sessions. While traveling to cover photo sessions I’ve learned the do’s and dont’s and what works best.
Here are My top 10 tips that I have put together to help you while traveling and to make sure you’re ready for your photo sessions.
1. YOUR GO TO CAMERA + A BACKUP CAMERA.
I’ve carried a backup camera for many years now, But if you don’t have a backup camera don’t stress. It’s just good to have two just in case something happens to the first.
2. LENSES.
I don’t like to carry a ton of lenses. I try to fit everything in my bag without it being a ton of weight on my back. My go-to lenses for travel is my wide angle lenses along with all in one lenses. 18-500mm (all around lens). I also bring my favorite lens which is is my 105mm 1.4 (Nikon) that is super sharp and perfect for getting that beautiful shoots. My third choice of lens depends on the type of photography I’m going to be doing.
3. REFLECTOR.
Even though I don’t always use it, I still bring along one for those just in case moments.
4. BELT HOLSTER.
If you don’t have one, I suggest getting one because it makes things easier while photographing. I currently wear one camera around my neck and have one camera on my hip. You can also holster your lens making it easier and faster to change them.
5. BATTERY CHARGER AND BATTERY.
This should be a no brainer, but there have been times I have forgotten it and had to search all over for a camera store to replace it while traveling. Which is time consuming and costly, So be sure to pack yours.
6. PLENTY OF SD CARDS/CF CARDS.
If you are wondering if your images get damaged going through the security check at the airport, they are okay. Your images will stay intact. Its still good to keep a backup for cards just in case one goes bad (this is a rare case) and also because if you shoot a lot and run out of space, it’s hard to find more at the last minute in a new place.
7. SD/CF CARD CASE.
You need to have a place to put all your cards, so I recommend getting a SD/CF card holder. I prefer a waterproof one.
Bonus Tip - Gum and Chapstick - This tip may not have anything to do with photography but they are must haves.
8. EXTRA LENS CAPS.
Am I the only one that loses these things? If you haven’t already, invest in some backups, especially while traveling. These things have a habit of going MIA.
9. A GOOD CAMERA BAG.
You will need a good size camera bag that is going to keep all of your equipment safe and fit everything in it. I have a Lowepro backpack style bag that I love. I store my lenses and main camera on the backside of the backpack and my reflector, SD cards, chargers, and backup camera on the top portion of the backpack. If you have a small laptop or iPad , it has a place for that too! I am all about being able to fit as much as I can in the bag so I’m not lugging a ton around.
10. YOUR CAMERA AND SECURITY CHECK.
If you’re traveling via air plane. You will usually have to take out your camera so they can run it through the machine. Your camera will be fine as well as your SD cards.
Now, go enjoy your travels and be sure to take a LOT of pictures!