Having dedicated my life to travel photography – creating a world famous travel photo agency with 1100 photographers working in the far-flung corners of the globe – I know what makes a great travel image. We’re always on the hunt for new talent so here are some of my top tips for all you aspiring travel photographers out there.

1. Let us imagine we’re there. Capture shots that entice your viewer to walk into the frame. The best travel photos make you want to be there.

Couple walking on the beach, Maldives, Indian Ocean, Asia
Couple walking on the beach, Maldives, Indian Ocean, Asia

A chair on the sand facing the water, Barra de Navidad, Mexico
A chair on the sand facing the water, Barra de Navidad, Mexico

2. Visit destinations during a cultural festival or event. Festivals provide great photo opportunities. Don’t forget to book accommodation early and arrive before the crowds though, as these events can get pretty packed – and make sure you find the best shooting positions BEFORE the action happens.

An Afro-Cuban dancer spitting fire at a festival of Afro-Cuban Culture in Guanabacoa just east of Havana, Cuba
An Afro-Cuban dancer spitting fire, festival of Afro-Cuban Culture, Cuba

Feria of Sevilla, Andalusia, Spain
Feria of Sevilla, Andalusia, Spain

3. Find a high vantage point from which to shoot. Whether it’s Prague’s Old Town Hall tower or a hot air balloon in Turkey, you’ll be able to capture stunning views from above. 

Tourist crowds as seen from the Old Town Hall, Praque, Czech Republic, Europe
Tourist crowds as seen from the Old Town Hall, Praque, Czech Republic

Hot air balloon over volcanic tuff rock formations at dawn, Goreme, Cappadocia, Turkey
Hot air balloon over volcanic tuff rock formations at dawn, Goreme, Cappadocia, Turkey

5. Fill the frame with colour. I love colour – it is the essence of travel photography and creates mood and atmosphere in your photographs.

Sari garment factory, Rajasthan, India
Sari garment factory, Rajasthan, India

Colurful houses, corrogated iron facades, La Boca district, El Caminito, Buenos Aires, Argentina
Colourful houses, La Boca, Buenos Aires, Argentina

6. Get up early for the best light. Capture the beautiful light and misty atmosphere of dawn, and get there before the crowds do.

St. Martin's Church on shore of Lake Bled at dawn, Bled, Gorenjska, Julian Alps, Slovenia, Europe
St. Martin’s Church on shore of Lake Bled at dawn, Slovenia

INDIA Uttar Pradesh Varanasi Performing the Ganga Aarti Ceremony at dawn over the River Ganges. India Varanasi Uttar Pradesh Aarti Ceremony River Ganges Faith Hindu Hinduism Tradition Dawn Perform Holy Sacred Sunrise Travel Tourism Holidays Asia Sub-Contin
Ganga Aarti Ceremony at dawn over the River Ganges, Varanasi, India

See part two of Robert’s photography tips

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