Travel Photography: It's my absolute favorite style of photography to shoot!
Seeing the world through the lens is such a marvelous way to share your experiences with friends and family. But the idea of taking to the streets of Morocco or Nepal with a bag full of precious and pricey camera equipment can be a bit daunting to the female traveler.
Here are my key tips for feeling confident and secure as a female travel photographer!
Tip 1: Travel with Someone you Trust
I've had plenty of experience of solo travel, and every time I wish I had someone to have my back. When I'm alone in a crowded medina or a busy city street, my anxiety shoots through the roof. It's not paranoia, but it is the self-defense mindset that women must carry with them wherever they go. So when in doubt, find someone to walk with you when you have your camera in tow. Remember, there is safety in numbers! If you are alone and being followed, find a group of people and interject yourself into their community. It's a bit awkward, but it is better than being alone and feeling unsafe!
I booked my last international solo trip for photography through Intrepid Travel because I wanted to feel at ease and be able to enjoy my trip stress free! I always had a group of great people around me, which made me feel confident and relaxed as I traveled by car, bus, train, plane, and camel around Morocco.
Tip 2: Grab a Cross Body Camera Strap
The medinas of Morrocco can change from quiet to hectic in the blink of an eye. When people are approaching you from all directions in a frenzy, you want to make sure your camera is securely attached to your body. Just like you would use a cross-body purse when traveling other than a shoulder bag, you will want to invest in a cross-body camera strap to secure your camera!
Tip 3: Get Close or Shoot From Afar
When it comes to portrait photography, I like to either spend some time with my subject and make a connection with them or shoot with a telephoto lens from afar. Building a connection with your subject will give you a sense of security and make your photographs really stand out. That being said, as a female photographer, it is imperative that you use your gut when it comes to getting to know your subjects. If you have a funny feeling about the situation or person, there is a reason! Don't ignore it. If you're not feeling brave at the moment, go for a telephoto lens and capture some action shots.
Tip 4: Lock Your Camera Backpack
My rule of thumb for traveling abroad is to have at least two locks on my camera bag at all times. Even if they aren't engaged, I find having a big red lock gives a pretty good warning to curious pickpockets in crowded areas. On public buses or in restaurants, I make sure to engage my locks if my camera bag is sitting next to me (better yet, stick your camera bag on your lap or under your feet). I invested in an F-Stoppers camera backpack that provides two layers of protection for your camera gear, allowing you peace of mind that no-one will be able to reach into your bag and walk off with your gear.
This blog isn't intended to dissuade any adventurous female photographers from making epic solo trips or experiencing life, but it is important that us ladies stick together! The world doesn't have to be a scary place, but that sometimes we find ourselves in sticky situations that feel threatening. So the next time you are out and about with a camera and dreams of a great adventure, keep an eye out on your surroundings, and trust your gut!
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