5 Tips for Travel Photography

October 13, 2015

The photograph is of a 25-inch rainbow trout lying exhausted in the shallow waters of the Harper River in New Zealand. Looking at this 10-year-old picture reignites all my senses—the cold water, the morning breeze, the warm sun, the smell of the mountains, and the tug of the trout. Taking this trip down memory lane reminds me why I travel and why I take photographs when I do.

Words and Photos by Chris Corbin
An outdoor enthusiast whose quest for happiness has driven him to create digital brand experiences.

Chris Corbin Photography

Chris Corbin Photography

1. Shoot for Yourself

I enjoy the process of shooting a photograph. I take pictures to remember the journey, but mostly I shoot for myself. I’m the only person that sees 90 percent of the photos I take and it’s these images that bring me some of my greatest joys.

Chris Corbin Photography

2. Keep Learning

I’ve never taken a single photography or videography class, but I’ve spent countless hours watching tutorials and studying styles that fascinate me. There are a wealth of resources online that can help you hone your skills. My favorite is lynda.com. They offer both free resources and subscription services.

Chris Corbin Photography

Chris Corbin Photography

3. It’s Not About the Gear

My most expensive camera costs $600 and it’s called an iPhone. I also have a point-and-shoot camera, but it only cost $500. For me, it’s about seeing the shot—not the lens attached to the camera.

Chris Corbin Photography

4. Simplify

Limiting your camera options actually increases creativity. For example, I shot every frame of the video below using a GoPro Hero 3. Seven thousand photos later and I have an experience that will last a lifetime. I love to shoot photos and video when I travel but I don’t like to carry camera bags. When the gear impacts your shooting decisions, I think you’ve missed the most important piece.

5. Use Your Legs

Because of my commitment to keeping things simple, I end up using my legs to get the shot I want. This has led to some wild detours, but I wouldn’t want it any other way.

As I flip to the next image, I’m quickly reminded of the fun I had. Photos allow me to cement these memories, and for that I’m thankful.

Chris Corbin Photography

Chris Corbin Photography

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Hotel Differences

Trek Travel offers three hotel levels to match your style. Luxury hotels provide elegant, thoughtful touches with exceptional hospitality. Explorer hotels blend modern amenities with local charm in unique settings. Comfort hotels are casual and conveniently located near Trek Travel activities.

Activity Levels

Learn about activity levels here

Level 1:

Road: 1-3 hours of riding. Up to 25 mi (40 km). Up to 1,000 ft (300 m).

Gravel: 1-3 hours of riding. Up to 20 mi (35 km). Up to 1,000 ft (300 m).

Hiking: 1-3 hours of hiking. Up to 5 mi (8 km). Up to 1,000 ft (300 m).

Level 2:

Road: 2-4 hours of riding. 20-35 mi (35-60 km). Up to 2,500 ft (750 m).

Gravel: 2-4 hours of riding. 15-30 mi (25-45 km). Up to 2,000 ft (300 m).

Hiking: 2-4 hours of hiking. 4-8 mi (6-12 km). Up to 1,500 ft (450 m).

Level 3:

Road: 3-5 hours of riding. 25-55 mi (40-85 km). Up to 4,500 ft (1,500 m).

Gravel: 3-5 hours of riding. 20-40 mi (35-60 km). Up to 3,000 ft (900 m).

Hiking: 3-5 hours of hiking. 6-10 mi (9-16 km). Up to 2,000 ft (600 m).

Level 4:

Road: 4+ hours of riding. 40-70 mi (60-110 km). Up to 8,000 ft (2,400 m).

Gravel: 4+ hours of riding. 30-50 mi (45-80 km). Up to 4,000 ft (1,200 m).

Hiking: 4+ hours of hiking. 7-15 mi (11-24 km). Up to 4,000 ft (1,200 m).

What are your trip styles?

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Explore beautiful destinations with a curated blend of guided activities, local cuisine, handpicked accommodations, and itineraries to suit every traveler, from laid-back adventures to luxurious escapes.

Gravel:

Venture off the beaten path to unforgettable places, with fully-supported routes that combine gravel and paved roads in classic Trek Travel style.

Cross Country:

Tackle an epic adventure that takes you point-to-point across mountains, countryside, and more.

Pro Race:

See the pros in action at the biggest cycling events of the year.

Hiking & Walking:

Step into adventure with carefully designed routes, unparalleled hospitality, and deep-routed local connections.

Ride Camp:

Train like the pros in some of their favorite riding destinations.

Self-Guided:

Enjoy a bike tour on your schedule with just your chosen travel companions.

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