A few weeks ago, we shared some info on the photography
tours that Insight Vacations has recently added to their collection. Since
then, we’ve met the professional photographer who will be on hand during one of
those trips, James Smith. James, who also writes a travel/photography blog (we’re
partial to this
post about travel agents!), talks with us today about photography tips and
his favorite places to shoot in Europe. James has worked in the travel industry
for years as a cruise ship photographer and videographer. Now, he’s sharing his
knowledge with guests who are passionate about improving their own vacation
photography.
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| photo: Insight Vacations |
What camera equipment is worth the baggage fees?
It entirely depends on what kind of photography you're
interested in. There are some remarkably good pocket cameras that can make some
excellent prints. Even some mobile phones are more than capable. However to get
the most of your images, I would bring a digital SLR camera, a mid-range lens
(the one that came with the camera will be fine) and a flash for portraits and
evening events. A tripod is very useful for low-light shots where the exposure
is slower and can blur the photo. It's also great for making panoramic
landscape images that need to have a steady horizontal axis. There are lots of
tripods that are both lightweight and compact.
They say the best time to shoot is dawn and dusk, for the
subtle lighting conditions. Will there be concessions made during the tour to
make sure photographers have a chance to shoot during these times?
Great photos are achievable at any time of day, though the
strongest contrasts are when the sun is at its lowest. There will be times
after the tours for shopping and photography.
The guests can feel free to get up bright and early before
breakfast to get a few shots in, though they should be careful not to miss the
coach!
Do you have any tips or easy changes that people can make to
bring their photos to the next level? What are some common mistakes or pitfalls
that budding photographers should avoid?
(1) Never delete a
photo from the preview on the back of your digital camera; wait until you see
it full size. It might be worth saving or editable to become something special.
(2) Always have a spare battery, memory card/film and lens cloth. (3) Take
plenty of shots and shoot your subject from different angles. Move around
it/them and pick your favourite.
In the destinations of the tour you’re part of, what are
your favorite scenes & subjects to shoot?
I'm really looking forward to Rome. Although I've been
previously while working for Princess Cruises, it's such a beautiful city and
there's enough to keep a Photographer of any level busy for years. I'll have to
bring a few memory cards, plenty of batteries and keep snapping. The Vatican
often stop people bringing tripods and big equipment in, though the common
digital SLRs are so common-place I wouldn't expect any issues.
Thanks for taking the time to speak with us, James!
For more information on this trip, call your FROSCH travel agent, or visit froschvacations.com.
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