5 Lessons I’ve Learned as a Traveling Photographer
5 Lessons I’ve Learned as a Traveling Photographer
Travel and photography have a way of teaching you lessons you never expect. Over the past few years, I’ve had the chance to shoot in places as different as the busy streets of New York City and the quiet trails of Glacier National Park. Along the way, I’ve learned that photography isn’t just about capturing an image — it’s about embracing the experience. Here are five lessons I’ve learned as a traveling photographer that I hope inspire you, whether you’re into photography, travel, or just love a good story.
1. That Gut Feeling? Listen to it
You'd be surprised at the places you'll find yourself at just the right time, when you let your intuition lead. Maybe you'll find a new piece of gear, stumble into a meant-to-be connection, or learn a useful tidbit for your upcoming shoot. Even if the place or person you're feeling pulled to seems super far away, lean into it. Go. Call them. Travel photography is all about rolling with the punches and letting the moment lead.
Found myself in New York City -
I booked the flight months in advance at the whim of a trip proposal.
The timing revealed itself as meant to be months later when a big photoshoot I shot was featured in an event the same week I was already going to be in the city. I modeled for an iconic NYC photographer, created content for some brands, and much more all because I listened to my gut.
2. Human Emotion is what makes a photo.
It’s easy to think the mountains or the city skyline are the stars of the show, but it’s always the people who bring a photo to life. Every single human face has a story and a unique display of beauty. Tapping into the ability to connect with the person, couple, or moment you are shooting and letting it MOVE you, is key to good art. The connection between a couple, the nerves of a bride just before walking down the aisle, the laughter of a group on a road trip — these are the moments that stick. A beautiful backdrop is important, but the heart of travel photography is telling human stories.
Film shot from a wedding I traveled to in Chicago, Illinois. The photo is blurry and the light is questionable, but the subject of the emotion in the photo really make it standout as a memorable shot.
3. Bring only what you NEED, challenge yourself.
As tempting as it is to bring every lens and gadget, I’ve learned that less really is more. I shoot on a very heavy camera - the Canon R5, and unfortunately the weight deters me from wanting to bring it around in my daily life. Hiking into Sawtooth or Banff with a full gear bag is not fun. Now, I bring a small kit with the prime gear I know I’ll actually use. Traveling light forces you to be more creative, to look at angles differently, and to trust your instincts instead of hiding behind your gear.
I was hired onto this shoot just two days before it was happening. A big deal - private jet, big name local celebrities, and media exposure.
I taught myself how to use a flash THE NIGHT BEFORE the shoot.
Showed up after some meditation and intention setting feeling prepared and I killed it. Push yourself.
4. Every Location Has Its Own Story
Part of what excites me about traveling with my camera is that every place has its own vibe and narrative. Shooting in New York feels fast, bold, and cinematic, its got an OLD history, with a fun vibe. Shooting in Glacier feels quiet, expansive, and natural. As a photographer, the fun of taking a photo isn’t just to make it look cool — it’s to capture the essence of where I am. That mindset has changed how I approach every shoot, from a backyard wedding to a national park adventure.
Film from Chicago during my one day of city exploration. I was blown away by the uniqueness of the city, and really put in effort to capture it as authentic as possible.
There is beauty in every location, event, moment.
5. Photography Is About Connection, Not Perfection
Maybe the biggest lesson I’ve learned is that photography isn’t about perfect lighting or flawless poses. I've struggled with some form of OCD for a few years now, and this drives me to want every photo to be perfectly composed and structured. The truth is, its not about this at all. It’s about the storytelling of THE MOMENT — between the people in the photo, between me and the client, and between the viewer and the final image. Some of my most meaningful photos are slightly messy, candid shots that carry real emotion. Shoot how the moment calls for.
A chance shot of an elderly hindu man enjoying the morning sun in Banff National Park. I could have convinced myself not to take this shot because of the “messy” or “not aesthetic” background featuring the hotel. But I took it anywasy and it remains one of my favorite shots from the trip, rich with a story.
