You don’t need a fancy camera or a degree in photography to capture those wow moments from your travels. Sometimes, it’s just about being present, noticing the beauty around you, and knowing a few little tricks that help you bring your photos to life. Here’s how to make your travel memories pop on Instagram (and feel proud of what you’re posting):
1. Lighting
One of the most important travel photography techniques to master is lighting, as it can most certainly make or break your photo.
You can strive for every photographer’s dream of the “golden hour” which refers to the moments just after sunrise or just before sunset, when the sun casts a soft, warm light, creating beautiful, natural looking images.
The middle of the day is generally not a good time as the sun high above creates harsh shadows. However, you can use this to your advantage, such as capturing hard architectural shapes and shadows.
Low-light photography is difficult especially if you’re using a phone camera, but it can be so rewarding if it works!
2. Framing
Framing is a great compositional tactic in travel photography and can transform a ‘meh’ photo into an amazing one. When taking a picture of your subject, look around and notice the environment. Are there elements that naturally draw the viewer’s attention to the focal point?
Look for archways, doorways, windows, trees, bushes, or other natural and architectural structures that you can use to frame the overall image and tell a deeper story of where you are.
3. Action shots
If you’re taking photos on your phone, you might not be able to play around with shutter speed or aperture, but you can still certainly capture action shots, be it photos or videos.
Action shots inject a vibrant energy that propels your viewers right into the heart of what’s happening on your adventures. These dynamic snapshots of movement freeze time almost, igniting a sense of being present in this very moment. Some common action shots include jumping, going down a slope and dancing.
4. Close-ups
Sometimes when we take travel photos, we’re so focused on capturing as much as we can, we take very zoomed out photographs full of everything. But capturing close-up shots can serve as a portal to the intimate details that define a destination’s essence.
Each texture, wrinkle, and intricacy becomes a story waiting to be told. Whether it’s the weathered hands of a street vendor, the intricate patterns of local handicrafts, or the dew-kissed petals of a flower blooming in spring, these close-up shots magnify the beauty that often hides in plain sight.
You don’t even need a special camera for this, as these days you can simply purchase a macro lens for smartphones.
5. Perspective
We tend to see the world from one point of view — eye level. Perspective shots, however, completely reshape the way we perceive the world.
By playing with angles, heights, and dimensions, you can unveil hidden narratives within the scenery. Whether it’s the view of a deep valley from atop a mountain, shooting from a low angle, including the foreground, or capturing a narrow alley, perspective adds depth and intrigue to your visuals.
These unique viewpoints challenge conventional perceptions, spark curiosity, and let your audience experience what is perhaps familiar from an entirely fresh vantage point.
6. Reflections
Travel photography doesn’t have to always be about seeing things head on… that’s so boring, isn’t it? Reflection shots are a great way to sneak a glimpse into a parallel universe where reality interplays with its mirrored twin.
Whether on tranquil waters, glistening glass surfaces, or street puddles after it rains, reflections not only amplify the aesthetic allure of your images but also add layers of symmetry and complexity.
7. Composition
Composition is all about balance, harmony, and evoking a sense of order in your visual narrative.
Symmetry is a popular choice for square 1:1 formats on Instagram, drawing your eye directly to the subject in the middle.
In contrast, the rule of thirds (imaginary grid lines that split a photograph in thirds horizontally and vertically) in a 4:3 or 16:9 format injects dynamic energy and sometimes even drama by placing subjects at intersections.
8. Think in Frames
Use windows, arches, doorways, or trees to “frame” your shot. It adds depth and draws attention to your subject naturally. Bonus: it makes everything feel a little more dreamy and cinematic.
9. Add a Human Element
Even if it’s just your feet dangling off a dock or your hand holding a coffee cup, adding yourself or someone else into the frame brings warmth and relatability to your photo. It makes people feel like they’re there with you.
10. Keep It Natural
Overly edited photos can lose their charm. Try to enhance the photo without completely changing the vibe. Apps like Lightroom or VSCO are great for this—keep your colors soft, your tones cohesive, and let the photo breathe.
11. Add a Human Element
Even if it’s just your feet dangling off a dock or your hand holding a coffee cup, adding yourself or someone else into the frame brings warmth and relatability to your photo. It makes people feel like they’re there with you.
In the end, it’s not about likes or followers. It’s about capturing the little moments that moved you, and letting them live on in your gallery and your heart.
So go out, explore, and don’t forget to pause, breathe, and click.