“Sometimes I do get to places just when God’s ready to have somebody click the shutter.” – Ansel Adams

The way I see it, summer is an opportunity for 3 months of endless adventure. As summer is around the corner and school is coming to a close, the adventure season is about to take off. So before you board the plane or jump on the boat, be sure to pack your camera.

The key to any summer trip is how you are going to remember it. The easiest way is through pictures. Before you go on your trip, take these tips so you can get the best out of your adventure.

The first key is to be sure to capture some action in your pictures, even if it is subtle. According to Lola Akinmade Åkerström from Matador Network, action adds atmosphere that other shots cannot.

“Travel photographs that always work portray some sort of action,” she said. “It could be a soft glance over a steaming coffee mug or an aggressive rugby match on a muddy pitch… The same concept can be applied to landscapes. A photograph depicting a lush green meadow can easily transform from boring to interesting if you captured a couple grazing white sheep as well. Including other elements in action into your landscape shots will also add a sense of scale in comparison to their backgrounds.”

Second, play with balance and depth. Make your photos “aesthetically attractive” and experiment with depicting distance. You can do this by making the subject sharp and focused with the background gradually fading out.

Finally, try to find a moment that defines the mood of your setting. In order to create the best memories, you need to take best and most defining photos.

For more travel photography pictures and tips, visit Akinmade Åkerström’s article here.

Anyway, enjoy your summer vacation, and let the wind take you wherever you want to go. Also, be sure to check back soon as I will be filling you in on my own adventures.

Bon Voyage,

Ryan