Made to Roam: A Guide to Travel Photography

Fostering creativity through a lens. Eyes wide open to the world, index finger poised to “click” another moment into the roll. Travel photography is a pastime for nostalgics and storytellers, unburdened by any formal guidelines or required gear list. Just you and the camera, nothing else needed.

In this guide, we talk through the fundamentals of travel photography, the beautiful simplicity of point-and-shoot, how not to lose yourself in the viewfinder, and unique perspectives of an untrained eye. It’s an extension of the Roamer mindset—taking in the moments that matter, pocketing the good times and documenting the sh*t ones. Memories for life, pinned to the wall to remind us why we travel and to put a face to those who travel with us. Sentimental happy snappers, golden hour obsessives. That’s us.

Written in collaboration with photographers:

Tom Young & Laura Ferrer

Tom: “I love immersing myself in different cultures, exploring places away from the typical tourist traps and trying to seek out the lesser known spots. Hidden coves, local markets, mountain vistas and trails that lead to the unknown give me such a buzz.”

Laura: “For me, travel photography is a way to disconnect and live in the moment. It allows me to see the world with fresh eyes and capture moments that turn emotions into memories. It’s not just about documenting places but about conveying feelings and telling stories through images.”

Tom: “If it’s for work then my essentials are usually two camera bodies (Canon R5 x 2), an RF24-70mm 2.8, an RF 70-200mm 2.8, an RF 50mm 1.2 & a Sigma 35mm. If it’s a trip purely for leisure, I’ll quite often only take my Fuji, a 35mm Pentax film camera & a Polaroid. It’s super nice to pack light & have something accessible for candid moments.”

Laura: “My gear always includes my Sony Alpha 7 III and the 24-70mm lens, which I find to be the most versatile when I’m on the go. One thing that’s always in my backpack, though, is my iPad: I just can’t go without it. Whether it’s for sketching, making moodboards, or planning shoots, it’s essential. Every now and then, I also throw in a film camera to add a special touch.”

At its core, travel photography is about being present, watching the light, framing the shot and capturing a moment that makes you feel something. Awe, inspiration, frustration, happy or sad, they’re all valid. You don’t need a carbon tripod, telephoto lens or big brand camera; just a keen eye and a little space to wander. But getting to grips with the absolute basics of photography can help to elevate the experience and the outcome. Lighting can be a real b*stard:

What is it? ISO controls your camera’s sensitivity to light. A higher ISO allows you to capture more light in darker conditions.

Example: You’re hiking the Laugavegur trail in Iceland, pitched up for the night in the hopes of snapping the Northern lights. If your ISO is too low (e.g., ISO 100), the scene may be too dark, and the aurora won’t appear clearly. Increasing the ISO (e.g., ISO 1600 or 3200) helps brighten the image, making the green and purple hues of the lights stand out against the dark sky. But be mindful, too high an ISO can add unwanted noise to the photo.

What is it? Exposure determines how much light enters your camera, helping balance bright and dark areas of the frame.

Example: You’re snapping a misty valley in the Scottish Highlands at sunrise. If your image looks too dark (underexposed), increasing the exposure lets in more light, giving shape to the rolling hills and low mist. If it looks too bright (overexposed), reducing the exposure helps bring back the rich colours of the sky without losing detail in the landscape’s natural ebbs and flows.

What is it? Shutter speed affects movement. Slow speeds create motion blur, fast speeds cement the moment.

Fast shutter speed (Left): You’re perched on a Cornish cliffside, eyes on a group of surfers as the sets peel off down the headland. Using a fast shutter speed (e.g., 1/1000s) freezes the action, the rider in mid-flow, a clean bottom-turn with ocean spray kicking up off the tail. See example (left) above from our trail running shoot. 

Slow shutter speed (Right): You’re wandering through the quiet backstreets of Lisbon, where yellow trams rattle through the city at dusk. Using a slow shutter speed (e.g., 1/4s) creates a motion blur effect, turning passing trams into golden streaks while the cobbled streets and tiled buildings stay sharp, adding depth and a buzz to the scene. See example (right) above from our trail running shoot. 

No need to get bogged down in the details. A basic understanding of these elements will do the trick and help you adapt to the situation. 

It’s all in the setup. A balanced, natural and engaging image doesn’t always come easy, especially when you’ve only got a few seconds to capture the moment. A few simple techniques can make all the difference (see examples below).

Think of your photo as a game of naughts and crosses. By framing key elements along the lines or where they meet, you create a more balanced composition. Nothing super technical, just a solid guide for that natural yet engaging look.

Look for symmetry in reflections, landscapes, and architecture to create balance. Whether it's a reflection on water or a mirrored building, symmetry adds depth and impact. Also, ensure your horizon is straight; a tilted horizon can make the image feel… out of whack.

Use doorways, trees, or windows to naturally frame your subject. These elements not only guide the eye but also bring context to the image, highlighting the relationship between the subject and its surroundings. Take this beaut from Tom (see example above); the eye is drawn to the subject in the centre as they sit higher in the frame, whilst the left third is busier in contrast to the right. 

Gain a fresh perspective. Try shooting from above, below, or up close for something a little different. Playing with angles can help you make the most of available light. It’s also a bit of lighthearted fun, you never know what might come of it.

Editing shouldn’t feel like a chore. It’s all part of the creative process, subtle tweaks true to the original image… and some:

• Keep it natural: Adjust exposure, contrast, and colours subtly to enhance your image without overpowering it. The key is to highlight the essence of your experience, not create an overly processed look.

• Importance of preserving natural light: Be mindful of how light was originally captured. Enhancing shadows or highlights should feel true to the scene rather than dramatically altering the vibe.

• Embrace imperfections: A little grain, soft light, or natural quirks can add authenticity and depth to your shots. Learn to love it.

• Less is more: Over-editing can strip away the emotion. Keep adjustments light and let the story shine through.

• Use the right tools: Apps like Lightroom Mobile and VSCO are great for quick, subtle edits that enhance rather than alter your photos.

The simple pleasures of shooting on film, nothing’s quite like it. A 35mm camera, maybe found secondhand or passed down a generation—they slow you down, making each “click” that bit more intentional. The quirks, grain, light leaks and soft colours give an authentic quality to the final prints.

A pocket-sized film camera is a great point-and-shoot option for travelling. It’s lightweight, gives character to your images and puts a cap on the number of snaps you can take—usually 24 or 36 exposures (photos). We’re never without one on a Passenger shoot.

Sending your photos off to be developed, that’s all part of it. There’s a real sense of excitement that digital can’t match. You’re more mindful of the moment, less distracted by settings and lens types, and you can just snap one image, pocket the camera and roam on. No more distractions, just the open road. 

Travel photography isn’t about fancy gear or perfect framing. It’s about real-life experiences and working with what you have to hand - the lighting, weather, scenery, subjects etc. Whether shooting on a smartphone, film camera or DSLR, focus first on storytelling. The rest will come. Some of the best shots and most memorable moments happen when you stop worrying about settings and just hit the button.

Always be respectful of people, places and the culture around you. It’s always worth asking for permission and being a little extra vigilant in foreign countries, the candid moments will come but there’s no point forcing it. Here are some ways to be a more responsible photographer on the road:

• Ask before you snap: Not everyone is comfortable being photographed. If you’re taking pictures of locals, especially in small communities, ask for permission first. A simple nod or smile can go a long way.

• Respect sacred and private spaces : Some locations, like temples, sacred sites, or homes, may have restrictions on photography. If in doubt, check for signs or ask a local before taking out your camera.

• Be mindful of cultural norms: What’s acceptable in one place might not be in another. For example, photographing people in traditional dress or ceremonies may be seen as intrusive in some cultures. Take the time to understand local customs before you shoot.

• Avoid disrupting the moment: Travel photography should feel natural, not staged. If you’re capturing a street musician or someone going about their daily life, keep a respectful distance and let the moment unfold without interference.

• Leave no trace: Whether you’re shooting in the wild or a historic town, tread lightly. Stick to paths, avoid disturbing wildlife, and don’t leave anything behind in pursuit of the perfect shot.

• Share with care: If you’re posting your images, consider how they represent the people and places in them. Avoid reinforcing stereotypes, and whenever possible, highlight the beauty and authenticity of the culture positively. Ask yourself if it’s worth adding a location tag, or if it’s best to leave that little patch of paradise a secret for someone else to stumble upon.

• Chase the light : Sunrise or sunset, golden hour delivers (see Laura’s example above). Soft, warm light makes the landscape and portraits pop—it feels pretty magical. Midday sun can be harsh, so look for shade or play with shadows for creative effects.

• Tell a story, not just a shot : Think beyond postcard-perfect. Capture the small moments: local life, textures, and interactions that bring your journey to life. Real people living for the journey.

• Keep it simple: A great photo doesn’t need a complicated setup. Focus on clean composition, interesting perspectives, and natural moments rather than overloading the frame.

• Move around for the best angle: Don’t just shoot from eye level. Crouch low, climb higher or frame your subject through a doorway or treeline to add depth. But don’t get caught up in the charade, it gets boring for everyone else and they’ll make sure to tell you about it.

• Be ready for the unexpected: The best shots often happen when you’re in the moment. Keep your camera accessible, anticipate movement, and embrace spontaneity.

• Think in layers: Foreground, middle ground, and background add depth to your images. Whether it’s a mountain range or a bustling market, layering makes your photo more immersive.

• Less editing, more feeling: Enhance your photos subtly to bring out their natural tones and mood. Over-processing can strip away the authenticity of the moment and make it look like any other piece of Insta fodder.

• Soak up the experience first: Put the camera down now and again. The best travel photos come when you truly connect with a place: capture it after you've taken it in. Open your eyes.

Pass up the busy lookout points, landmarks and tourist traps. Take the road less travelled, sit in a market square and take in the day, or challenge yourself to hike up a local ridge before sunset. In the UK, head to Cornwall’s rugged coastline or Snowdonia’s sweeping mountains in Wales. The Scottish Highlands offer untamed beauty, while New Zealand’s South Island captivates with vast, untouched landscapes. Whether it’s the craggy cliffs of Lofoten or the Isle of Skye’s quiet corners, there’s always something worthy of a “click”.

Get inspired by legendary photographers who have captured the human experience. Look for books by Steve McCurry, such as The Iconic Images,which showcases his renowned photographs from across the globe. Advanture Mag is well worth a thumb-through, we’ve also got a load of travel guides and coffee table staples.

Have a scroll through our Instagram and see whose images spark a little something in you: Kat Craats, Somewhere Wilder, Tom Young, Boone Rodriguez, Brandon Haley, and Amelia Le Brun, to name a few. Ambassadors, Creator Crew or good friends of the brand - all handy with a camera.

Calling all roamers, photographers, storytellers, content creators and community engagers… love escapism and the outdoors? Check out the Roamers Collective.

You’re invited to spread the word, inspire escapism and showcase Passenger products in your own creative and authentic way. Every completed mission earns points, which unlock awesome rewards as well as giving back to the planet.

Go Further, Get More. 

While you don’t need much to take great travel photos, a few essentials can make the journey easier:

• Camera and Lens – Use what you have, but a versatile lens helps for different scenes.

• Bag – A durable, comfortable, waterproof or water-resistant bag keeps your gear safe and accessible. Check out the Boondocker Recycled Camera Bag, alongside our backpacks and hip packs.

• Memory cards and storage – Extra memory cards to never run out of space. A portable hard drive or cloud backup (like Google Photos or Dropbox) to keep your shots safe.

• Tripod – A lightweight tripod for stability, extra batteries for longer days, and a lens cloth to keep your gear clean.

• Notebook and pen – Jot down locations, lighting conditions, or moments you want to remember, especially useful for storytelling through photography.

How can I improve my travel photography?
The best way to improve is by practicing and getting experimental with it. Try different angles, lighting, and compositions to see what works for you. Don’t forget to embrace your surroundings, focus on capturing what speaks to you.

What’s the best way to approach travel photography?
Travel photography is all about the experience. Focus on being present in the moment and letting your surroundings inspire you. Whether you’re capturing a busy city or a quiet landscape, the key is to be intentional with your shot. You don’t need the most expensive gear, what matters is the story you’re telling.

How do I capture authentic moments while travelling?
To capture authentic moments, patience is essential. Take the time to connect with the people and places around you, and allow moments to unfold naturally. If you’re looking for inspiration, follow some of Passenger’s ambassadors and see how they approach capturing genuine experiences on their travels.

What are some editing tips to keep my photos looking authentic?
When editing, keep things natural. Adjust exposure, contrast, and colours subtly to enhance your image, but don’t overdo it. The goal is to highlight the essence of your experience, not to make your photos look over-processed. Lightroom Mobile and VSCO are great tools for making quick, subtle tweaks.

How can I find inspiration for my travel photography?
Inspiration is all around you. Explore remote landscapes, vibrant cities, and the roads less travelled. Connect with fellow photographers and follow their adventures through social media. If you're looking for some classics, seek out books by iconic travel photographers and image-makers.

How can I capture great images if the weather takes a turn?

Embrace the weather rather than avoid it. In rain, use waterproof gear and capture reflections or raindrops. In snow, adjust exposure to avoid overexposure and play with contrasts. Bright sun? Shoot during golden hours or find shade to soften the light. For fog, experiment with depth and reduce exposure to keep images balanced. Adapt to the elements, and you’ll capture unique moments. Trust us…

There’s so much in making a big ol’ stride for the door, grabbing your camera and getting a little lost on purpose. Heading out, embracing the wild, and taking it all in through the lens. You’re sure in for some stunner sunsets, good vibes, and future stories to tell. Why not share your snaps with us?

#MyEscapism