Traveling gives you plenty of opportunities to take pictures that will chronicle your adventures and experiences from one destination to the next. While smartphones today are capable of capturing images beautifully, their cameras cannot compare to a DSLR camera.
Cameras are heavy, and they are bulky. If you like to travel light, it could be an issue. Likewise, unless you are a professional photographer on an assignment, you do not want to draw attention to your photographic gear. So what kind of camera should you take with you when you travel?
While the final decision rests with you, here are some tips on which camera is suitable for travel photography. These tips assume that you are buying a camera before you go on a trip.
Consider your budget
In choosing the right camera to take with you while you travel, the primary consideration is your budget. According to spotonphotographers.com in Austin recommend buying a DSLR that fits the money you have with you right now. The camera is not the only thing that you are buying. You also have to purchase accessories for your camera. You’ll need a memory card with a high capacity. For your camera’s protection, you need a sturdy, well-padded, and waterproof camera bag.
Moreover, you need a few essential filters and a spare battery. You should also get a lightweight travel tripod to keep your camera stable when you are shooting on areas where the ground is uneven. If the camera you can afford has interchangeable lenses, you should likewise consider the cost of an extra lens.
For a beginner, a budget between $400 and $800 will allow you to get an outstanding entry-level DSLR or a mirrorless camera. You do not have to go beyond $800 unless you are planning to be a pro photographer.
Consider your travel insurance
You cannot discount the fact that traveling involves some risks, as well. Your valuables can be stolen or lost. So, consider the amount you pay for your camera and accessories. Travel insurance policies only cover items that are not very expensive. If you are bringing photography equipment of higher value, you will have to buy premium travel insurance.
Consider the weight of the gear
Your travel habits and the things you want to photograph can help you decide the type of camera you’re likely to buy. Remember that a DSLR camera is bulky and has some weight. If you tend to travel with a minimum of essentials, you can use a smartphone. Otherwise, invest in an action camera, or a small point-and-shoot camera, according to Austin portrait photographers.
If you like a bit more challenge but still want something that is portable and allows you to change lenses, choose a mirrorless camera.
Read product reviews and tips from professional travel photographers. You’ll get an insight into the types of cameras available today and their capabilities, which can help you make a decision on which camera fits your travel needs and your photography goals. SpotOnPhotographers.com gives plenty of photography tips and valuable lessons on this modern art form, to help you carve a place in a world that could bring wonder and inspiration to many.
Lens Options
Consider a travel camera that allows you to swap out lenses so that you can take a variety of shots. However, this would be impossible if you want a compact camera as most models include fixed lenses. Thus, this only applies to DSLR and mirrorless cameras.
The experts over at https://www.colesclassroom.com/ recommend the following lenses:
- Prime lens: This only comes with a single focal length, yet it has excellent focus and sharpness. Sigma 24mm f/1.4 or Nikon AF S NIKKOR 85mm f/1.8G are good for beginners.
- Wide-angle lens: This type of lens is perfect for taking pictures of landscapes and cityscapes because it can take sharp images even with a low aperture range. Examples are Nikon 14-24mm f/2.8G and Sony 16-35mm f/2.8.
- Telephoto lens: This one is suitable when you want to get greater details of your subject, and you can’t physically get closer. Great telephoto lenses include Tamron 18-400mm f/3.5-6.3 and Sony FE 70-200mm f/2.8.
Shutter Rating
Manufacturers conduct durability tests of cameras, including tests for shutter rating. Shutter count refers to the total number of times you press that button throughout the camera’s lifetime. Each time you press the shutter button, the shutter exposes the sensor to capture a picture.
- Several entry-level DLSRs come with 100,000 shutter actuations, whereas high-end cameras can have up to 400,000 shutter counts.
- Mirrorless cameras contain an electronic shutter, which turns the sensor on and off for every pixel.
- Most point-and-shoot cameras don’t have a mirror, and consequently, a shutter rating.
Once you hit the shutter count, the shutter may break from continuous use. If it breaks, you won’t be able to take photos anymore.
Video Capabilities
About 85% of Americans watch videos online. If you want to create a travel vlog, you need a camera with a video feature. Most modern cameras have video capabilities, although the features and quality depend on the type and model of the camera.
If you want to document your travels with your face on the frame, cameras with flip and tilting screens would be ideal. While a video resolution of 1080p is a good starting point, check if your desired model can increase the video resolution up to 4K or 8K.
You can go with 24 to 30 frames per second for general travel. Meanwhile, a camera that can manage 60 frames per second will let you capture slow-motion clips.
Your Type of Travel
Even when knowing the season, travels can end up having unpredictable weather. Aside from that, your itinerary may include different kinds of activities. One moment you’re on top of a snow-packed mountain, then you’re headed to a rainforest the next time.
Hence, you’ll need a travel camera that can withstand elements to protect itself against moisture and dust. There are waterproof cameras that do well for underwater activities, while some have water-resistant capabilities to endure light rain.
Opt for a camera with a weather sealing feature. Additionally, make sure it has a durable strap so that you have extra support when you need your hands to grip rocks or trees.
