The Traveling Photographer: The Basics

Learn how to photograph your journey like a professional, without dispelling any of the magic of the experience, with Strobist.com founder David Hobby.

Introduction

• Introduction
• A roadmap for the course

1. Before You Pack: Big-Picture Considerations

• The three axes of this series
• Pro tip: Be a thinking photographer
• Why do you take pictures?
• The trip should come first
• Pro tip: Every possession is a burden
• The difference between traveling pros and traveling amateurs

2. Gear and Planning

• Choosing your gear wisely
• Pro tip: Lenses in and be aware
• Research and planning strategies
• Pro tip: Pray for bad weather
• Travel logistics: What to carry, what to check
• The physiology of travel
• Cell phone options and essential apps
• Washing clothes on the road
• Circadian rhythm
• Pro tip: Drop everything for amazing light
• Balancing travel with travel photography

3. Travel Photo Taxonomy

• Types of travel photos: An overview
• The vacuum picture: For just remembering
• The moment picture: Taking time to craft an image
• The trophy picture: The one for your wall
• Pro tip: Restrictions lead to creativity

4. Tips for Interacting with People

• The camera as a gateway to meeting people
• To focus on people, know your gear
• Carry a pocket portfolio and give a print
• Watch your body language and make eye contact
• Pro tip: The best way to meet people
• Pro tip: Be a chameleon

5. After You Shoot

• One approach to managing photos on a trip
• After you return