Travel photography tips from our nationally renowned “Silver-to-Silicon” Seminar:

1. Even though airport X-ray machines claim not to fog film, X-ray exposure is cumulative. If taking several flights on your trip, several nominal X-ray exposures will cause damage.

2. Film inspection is at the discretion of the local airport authorities and pursuant to security measures.

3. Present film for airport inspection, unpackaged, in clear plastic bags, to increase your odds for a manual inspection. If all your film is under ISO 800, they won’t hand inspect. Always carry a few dummy rolls of ISO 1600 or 3200 in the bag.

4. When in airports, on public transportation or just sitting in a park, wrap the camera bag strap around your leg.

5. Bring extra batteries for camera and flash. Better yet, rechargeable batteries; however, make sure your converter kit is of the proper voltage or wattage for the charger.

6. When walking on sidewalks, carry your camera bag, purse, etc. on the shoulder that is away from curb, to prevent snatchers and slashers on bikes and scooters from stealing them.

7. Bring wrapped candies, bubble gum, paper flags or ballpoint pens for kids in exchange for pix. Don’t hand out coins…you’ll be swarmed with kids and won’t have enough of the same denomination for all.

8. When photographing children, crouch down to their eye level. They’ll respond better.

9. Green-card or register all photo equipment at airport customs – arrive early to do so.

10. A quick photo quality rule – When using an SLR digital or film camera: when the sun is behind you, use a polarizing filter. When the sun is in front or to the side of you use a lens hood/sunshade, the size recommended for the lens in use. Point-and-shoot cameras: some accept polarizers and hoods/sunshades. If not, use your hand to block glare if it is seen in the viewfinder.

11. Heavy duty type cases call attention and broadcast to thieves that they may contain expensive cargo. One photographer who routinely checks his super-telephoto camera lenses in a “high tech” case has it painted in camouflage green and has stencilled on the outside…“soil samples.” Of course it also is locked with a combination padlock.

12. If you have a bad back, instead of a shoulder bag for your photo gear, use a fanny pack, back pack or rolling backpack (like a Lowepro® Road Runner).

13. Never ship your film in checked baggage. They use strong X-rays to check for explosives and can severely fog or ruin your film.

14. If traveling to many different destinations, always take a picture of a sign bearing the name of the town or historical site. It’s a great first shot in your album and identifies your following images.

15. Pack a mini tripod... they’re indispensable for night shots and self portraits. If you don’t have one and want a shot of yourself, be careful before asking a stranger to take the picture. They may not speak your language or not understand what you want…and walk away with your camera. If they’re willing to comply, show them where to stand, making sure the background is included!

16. When carrying your camera around your neck or in a bag over your shoulder, beware of snatchers. To avoid snatchers, carry your camera over your shoulder with the lens pointed inward and carry your camera bag over your shoulder and neck. Many camera bags have belt loops. When used in conjunction with the strap you gain extra security.

17. Rule for landscape shots – place the horizon line in either the upper or lower third of the frame. If in the middle, the photo is boring and amateurish.

18. For excellent cultural and people shots, visit the markets…go in the morning when they’re open and buzzing with activity. You’ll see lots of colour and people at work buying and selling in an interesting environment. Candid shots are easy to get but often it’s a good idea to ask permission if you want a subject to pose or look at the camera. Be polite, smile, and if possible, ask permission in their language. And, say thank you.

19. The best time to photograph people and places is early to mid-morning and mid to late afternoon. Avoid mid-day... shadows tend to be harsh and unflattering for people and landscape detail becomes dull.

20. After making a purchase in a store or market, ask to take their picture. In a way, the subject owes you, as you have made a purchase. But, only do so if you think it will make an interesting photo. This method also works for tour guides, cab drivers, waiters, etc...

21. If you have rented a car and are touring, be sure to add extra time for ‘photo opportunity stops.’

22. When photographing a person and they indicate that they do not want to be photographed, put your camera down immediately and gesture back that you understand. For all you know, they may have religious or personal reasons which you must respect.