HistoryNet

The most comprehensive and authoritative history site on the Internet.

Time Travel in Photography

All aboard the anachronism express! The photographs on these pages may look as if they were taken a century ago, but in fact they were all made in the past 15 years. Lensman Joel Jensen’s romance with the rails began in 1984, when the Mason City, Iowa, native got stuck in a Wyoming roundhouse while bumming around the country as a young man and spent the night on the cab floor of Union Pacific’s Engine No. 844. Years later, by chance, he saw his first working steam engine chuffing down the tracks. “Ironically, it was the same one that offered a dirt-poor, freight-train-riding college kid a place to sleep,” he says. “From that point on, steam became an obsession.”

Jensen, now 54, is not alone: There are 1.5 million “railfans” in the United States, many of them steam buffs. And although mainline railroads had converted to diesel-electric engines by 1960, as of the latest count there were still some 221 operational steam locomotives in the U.S. and Canada, most of them tourist attractions. To capture his carefully framed, timeless portraits of these singularly American icons, Jensen has ridden the rails behind steam locomotives for more than two decades and 10,000 miles, with whistle-stops in some of the most magnificent landscapes in the American West. Ready to take a ride in a time machine? It’s pulling out of the depot.

All aboard!

The Iron Horse

The West was won with thousands of miles of track that,with the Golden Spike in 1869,connected the vast expanses of a transcontinental nation. Railroads also severed the arteries of American Indian life, making it possible for the descendants of European immigrants to gobble up natural resources and carve out settlements across the continent, as well as interrupting the migrations of species on which the Indians depended. The burgeoning industry created a new species—the railroad man, as peripatetic as his distant cousin, the hobo. And by 1926, there were 69,114 steam engines that could—and did. Fast freights and passenger trains crisscrossed the land, highballing it down the tracks.

Where There’s Smoke

A steam engine is just that: a power plant on wheels. The fireman feeds the firebox with coal, wood or, nowadays, oil carried in a tender behind the engine. The firebox heats water to build up a head of steam. The pressurized steam goes into cylinders and pushes pistons connected to the driving wheels, as well as powering the brakes, bells and whistles. The steam and smoke, made up of soot and cinders, exit through the smoke box and a stack, creating the distinctive plume. A fireman’s job requires not only strength—some shovel tons of coal—but also careful calibration to ensure that the right amount of steam is produced. Most firemen these days are buffs trained by retired railroad employees. Indeed, Jensen himself has stoked a firebox or two.

Back at the Roundhouse

Union Pacific still runs the last two steam engines made in the U.S., No. 3985 and the only mainline locomotive never retired, No. 844. Like many other “heritage” trains, they are corporate symbols that travel to rail festivals and other special events. Restoration can take years, with costs running into the millions; for every hour of operation, a steam engine requires hours of upkeep. Most are provided by volunteers who pound stakes, clean coach toilets, get greasy in machine shops or, as in Jensen’s case, rebuild boxcars. Their only reward is a ticket to ride on what former Smithsonian curator John H. White Jr. calls “monuments to our industrial past.” The photographer who gets the close-ups lives conveniently near the Nevada Northern Railway, listed on the National Register of Historic Places, in Ely, Nev.

Clickety-clack. Click.

Originally published in the April 2012 issue of American History. To subscribe, click here .

Related stories

photography as time travel

Portfolio: Images of War as Landscape

Whether they produced battlefield images of the dead or daguerreotype portraits of common soldiers, […]

photography as time travel

Jerrie Mock: Record-Breaking American Female Pilot

In 1964 an Ohio woman took up the challenge that had led to Amelia Earhart’s disappearance.

ww2-homefront-poster-war-bond

During the War Years, Posters From the American Homefront Told You What to Do — And What Not to Do

If you needed some motivation during the war years, there was probably a poster for that.

Navy Arms’ “Reb” revolver

Buffalo Bill’s Tours of Italy and the ‘Spaghetti Western’ Inspired Replica Old West Firearms

Rifles and revolvers made by Uberti, Pietta, Pedersoli and other Italian firms remain popular.

In Depth: The Meaning Of Time In Photography

The concept of time is ambiguous. It has rules, but it is relative and personally perceived differently by everyone. Nonetheless, it flows for everybody in the same direction. One point where we can all agree is that it marks the passing of events:

"Time is the continued sequence of existence and events that occurs in an apparently irreversible succession from the past, through the present, into the future." Wikipedia

In photography, we can capture moments in time with the aid of a camera. As time is complicated to define, what is its concept in photography? There is the technical explanation: A device is set to photograph an action happening in front of it, thus becoming an image.

By setting your camera’s tools in different ways you can record different forms, either simulating eye vision or altering it. In photography, these techniques are known as blur, time lapse, long exposures, freeze, and panning.

Here is where the dilemma enters a photographer's work. The action of setting a camera in one or the other way will be the starting point to achieving endless possibilities.

Whether we snap an instant or we aim to tell a full story, time is involved through the use of photography. By collecting a vast amount of images, we can tell stories that span a long period.

Documentary photography involves photographing the present while documenting the past, intrinsically dealing with the relativity of time. When we discuss history we can travel in time through artefacts and, since 1826, with photographs that documented human existence.

photography as time travel

Time Capsules

When Susan Meiselas worked on her book about Kurdistan she was sent to document the Iraq war. Some stories began to be told in the present, however, seemingly they had no past.

"This time, however, I was coming in at the end of the story. I had no connection to the Kurds and even less sense of why these killings had occurred. I felt strange—photographing the present while understanding so little about the past. Now I realize that the unearthing of these graves led me to years of further digging." - Susan Meiselas

For this work, Meiselas investigates the past, hunting for pieces of history. The book moves in time as images and information were collected. We notice the progression across the quality of the photos: from sepia, to black and white, to color. Slowly, they reveal what is left of the past and the history of the Kurdish people.

photography as time travel

Photos, negatives and stories travel through time. Throughout this work, Meiselas has captured an important piece of history that could have been lost. Due to the stateless situation of the Kudish people, their history has no archive, and no place to rest.

When we document we do it for posterity, to preserve and narrate what happened and what once was. It’s a sad fact that in some instances people have attempted to erase the past.

Does a life only have value while it is lived? Or does the act of preserving matter too? Something that physically happened years ago is relevant again when acknowledged. In this way photography acts as a time machine, able to re-awaken emotions and reinforcing a timeline of events that may be relevant in more than one life.

In the end time will determine the value of those images. Perhaps we just need to keep a record, and trust that if something important lies within this record then it will be revealed by itself, in time.

What is your relationship with time and photography? How do you approach this subject? Share your ideas in the comments below.

written by eparrino on 2022-11-13 #culture #in-depth #the-decisive-moment #in-depth #time-in-photography #susan-messilas

damhirsch94 , herbert-4 , jolierose , hammaspeikko , kitos_lab , brine , juniardigiugno , izzybennett , yelhansaribuga , klawe , lomodesbro , gheinz , rik041 & angelobrandesphoto .

polock

Great articles, always worth my time

eparrino

@polock :) Thank you!!

herbert-4

Excellent article!! Look here, lost in time... www.lomography.com/homes/herbert-4/albums/2183952-ancestors… www.lomography.com/homes/herbert-4/albums/2126237-old-rando… www.lomography.com/homes/herbert-4/albums/2126237-old-rando…

photography as time travel

More Interesting Articles

Understanding spherical aberration with our new nour triplet v 2.0/64 bokeh control art lens.

Understanding Spherical Aberration With Our New Nour Triplet V 2.0/64 Bokeh Control Art Lens

What are aberrations in photography and what does it mean to control them? In this article we take a look at spherical aberration to better understand the unique qualities of our new Nour Triplet V 2.0/64 Bokeh Control Art Lens.

In depth: Masks of Self Portraiture

In depth: Masks of Self Portraiture

In this in-depth article we investigate the meaning of masks when taking self portraits. Whether we strip ourselves of the ones we wear, or put on another to expose a deeper truth, there is a complex relationship that comes when stepping in front of our own camera.

Freeze Frame: Analogue Photos That Resemble Favorite Childhood Movies

Freeze Frame: Analogue Photos That Resemble Favorite Childhood Movies

Can you recall the movies that were ever-present in your childhood years? What is it about each frame that was so memorable? In the spaces you find yourself in now, do you feel some aspects of those films bleed into view?

Film Photography Day Deals are On!

 Film Photography Day Deals are On!

In celebration of Film Photography Day there are tons of exclusive discounts and fab freebies available so shop now and enjoy sweet savings before it’s too late!

Mahnoosh Niakan's Timeless Portraits with the LomoGraflok

Mahnoosh Niakan's Timeless Portraits with the LomoGraflok

Large format is often slow and clunky. It takes a lot of time and effort to get the perfect image. But with our LomoGraflok, the first instant back for 4x5 cameras, we have broken these barriers. Photographer Mahnoosh Niakan shares her incredible portraits taken with the LomoGraflok.

Etterath: A Feeling of Longing for a Task Completed

Etterath: A Feeling of Longing for a Task Completed

Longingness and relief combine in our obscure word for the day. We take a look at the meaning of etterath and its connection with photography in our lives.

Community Gallery: Amid the Noise and Haste

Community Gallery: Amid the Noise and Haste

What happens when we don't have time to devote to photography? Caught up in the noise and haste, we can still find the few seconds to look around us and see something worth capturing!

Three Lenses in One – Nour Triplet v 2.0/64 Bokeh Control Art Lens

Three Lenses in One – Nour Triplet v 2.0/64 Bokeh Control Art Lens

Ignite the legacy of a fascinating but forgotten scientist, Ibn al-Haytham, and become a master of light with this unique lens designed for spherical aberration control on full-frame mirrorless cameras. Shipping Live Now!

Get it in our Shop

Regine David on the Diana F+ and the Importance of Trust in Photography

Regine David on the Diana F+ and the Importance of Trust in Photography

We are always thrilled to highlight the work of artists advocating for important causes, such as queer visibility. This is exactly what Tokyo-based photographer and long time Lomography fan Regine David does through her work as a fashion photographer and educator.

Becky's First Encounter With the Classic Analogue Queen, the Diana F+

Becky's First Encounter With the Classic Analogue Queen, the Diana F+

Jakarta based photographer Becky recently tried out the Diana F+ for the first time, and fell in love with the camera’s ability to imbue a soft and dreamy atmosphere in her images.

Lomomatic 110: First Impressions with Dana T.

Lomomatic 110: First Impressions with Dana T.

Film-enthusiast Dana T. has enamored us with her 110 photography for quite some time now, so it is no surprise that she also impressed us with her results from the Lomomatic 110. Today she has returned to the magazine to share some thoughts on this brand new pocket camera!

Lomomatic 110 Glass Lens Camera

Lomomatic 110 Glass Lens Camera

The Lomomatic 110 is your compact companion for every adventure! Featuring a glass lens, automatic exposure, day and night aperture modes, controllable ISO settings and a flash, get ready to capture your memories in vibrant, super-sharp 110 frames, with a depth of field you’ve never seen on a 110 image ever before!

Available in our Shop

All In One Frame: The Power of the Horizon Perfekt Panoramic Camera

All In One Frame: The Power of the Horizon Perfekt Panoramic Camera

When shooting landscapes we wish to have as wide a field of view as possible, to capture the vast scenes in front of us. Take a look around and frame it all in one click with the Horizon Perfekt Panoramic Camera!

Spanish Photographer Irati Garcia Rubio Captures Details of Nature With LomoChrome Metropolis 35 mm

Spanish Photographer Irati Garcia Rubio Captures Details of Nature With LomoChrome Metropolis 35 mm

Irati Garcia Rubio is a Spanish photographer who specializes in portraiture. This time however she chose to capture enchanting details of Romanian landscapes with a roll of LomoChrome Metropolis 35 mm film.

Rehabilitating The Reputation Of Semi-Automatic Cameras

Rehabilitating The Reputation Of Semi-Automatic Cameras

Semi-automatic cameras have a shady reputation among analogue photographers. Shooting in manual mode is a golden rule very few have bravely admitted to breaking, but let's look at the advantages of doing so.

Find Out More About

Analogue

Time Travel Photography: 5 Intriguing Images That Might Prove Its Mysteries

Time travel has long intrigued science fiction, inspiring a vast genre, including numerous films and novels, with characters journeying through time and contemplating its consequences.

There have been numerous people claiming they have time traveled and there are even photos and videos that might back up their claim. But is it possible to travel through time?

Time Travel Is Possible

In a way,  time travel is possible  since everyone is constantly moving through time at a consistent rate of one second per second. Whether they are watching paint dry or wishing for more hours, everyone always travels through time at this uniform pace.

However, this isn't the kind of time travel that captures the imaginations of science fiction writers. While it's an idea that has spawned an extensive genre with over 400 titles in the category of "Movies about Time Travel," true back-and-forth time travel, like in those stories, remains elusive.

Despite the fascination with altering the past or glimpsing the future, no one has demonstrated the sort of time travel often depicted in science fiction or proposed a method for sending a person through substantial periods without dire consequences. Even the absence of hordes of tourists from the future visiting us suggests the implausibility of time travel.

Nevertheless, there are scientifically grounded concepts like Albert Einstein's theory of special relativity , which suggests that time is relative and moves differently depending on the observer's speed.

For instance, an observer traveling near the speed of light would experience time more slowly than a stationary observer, as demonstrated by astronaut Scott Kelly, who aged slightly less during a year in orbit compared to his twin brother on Earth.

While some scientific theories explore the possibility of time travel in connection with wormholes, black holes, and string theory, these ideas are mostly confined to the realm of science fiction, present in books, movies, TV shows, comics, video games, and more.

READ ALSO: Time Travel Now Possible With The Use Of Math, Researcher Explains

5 Photos of 'Time Travelers'

Every so often, certain images gain popularity as examples of time travel photography. Here are five such time travel pictures  you should be aware of:

Greta Thunberg Look-Alike From 120 Years Ago

Speculation about Greta Thunberg being a time traveler arose from a 120-year-old picture that features a goldmine operator that resembles her, but no conclusive evidence supports this claim.

120-year-old photo sparks theories that @GretaThunberg is a 'time-travel' who has returned to save our planet! https://t.co/Tkrk1uTYJW pic.twitter.com/lSFca6jl8X — Mia Farrow 🏳️‍🌈 🌻🇺🇦 (@MiaFarrow) November 21, 2019

Modern Hipster

A picture featuring a man in modern clothing among people wearing hats and suits sparks speculation about potential time travel.

11. THE MODERN HIPSTER When you see a picture with someone with a totally different kind of clothing, it must raise the question of whether they are a time traveler. This time travel picture has most people in hats and suits, whereas a man seems to wear sports glasses and modern… pic.twitter.com/xdfsKysE87 — Oba Henry 👑🖌️ (@HenryFo36303094) September 21, 2023

The Man From 2256

The news headline featured the story of Andrew Carlssin, a self-proclaimed time traveler who was arrested for insider trading, claimed to be from the year 2256, and mysteriously vanished from his jail cell.

19. RIME TRAVELLER SKIPS TOWN This was actually the heading of the news in a newspaper. Andrew Carlssin, a self-proclaimed time traveler, was jailed for insider-trading charges. He claimed to be from the year 2256. More to the amusement, he just vanished from inside the cell. pic.twitter.com/4GEcPVeD0h — Oba Henry 👑🖌️ (@HenryFo36303094) September 21, 2023

 An Astronaut in the 1600s

Despite space travel being a recent development, a peculiar 1600s-1800s church sculpture featuring an astronaut prompts questions about its origins.

13. AN ASTRONAUT IN THE 1600S Space travel was introduced only a few decades back. But what if you see pictures that tell otherwise? Here is the picture of a sculpture on the wall of a church building. The building was built in the 1600s-1800s. So when the sculpture is that of… pic.twitter.com/sKKeDAfcdx — Oba Henry 👑🖌️ (@HenryFo36303094) September 21, 2023

Cellphone at World Cup 1962

The 1962 football World Cup is notable not only for the games but also for an intriguing time travel image, as it appears to depict a man using a cellphone - a technology that was not invented until the late 20th century.

20. WORLD CUP 1962 If the football world cup 1962 is not remembered due to the game, it must be remembered due to the time travel image. When the champion team was celebrating with their trophy, the picture shows that a man seems to capture the moment with his cell phone. A cell… pic.twitter.com/3UMHQB6Pou — Oba Henry 👑🖌️ (@HenryFo36303094) September 21, 2023

Check out more news and information on Time Travel  in Science Times.

Most Popular

pyramid

Pharaoh's Curse Unlocked? Scientists Claim To Have Cracked the Mystery of What Killed Over 20 People Who Opened the Tomb of King Tut in 1922

breathe

Why Do People Sigh? Here's What These Deep Breaths Do to the Body and What They Could Mean

Earth's Magnetic Field Nearly Collapsed 600 Million Years Ago, Sparking Evolution of More Complex Life

Earth's Magnetic Field Nearly Collapsed 600 Million Years Ago, Sparking Evolution of More Complex Life

Cosmic Monsters Create Intersections That Lead To Stellar-Mass Black Holes Collisions

Cosmic Monsters Create Intersections That Lead To Stellar-Mass Black Holes Collisions

Why Is Mercury Liquid at Room Temperature? Exploring the Strange Chemical Behavior of Quicksilver

Why Is Mercury Liquid at Room Temperature? Exploring the Strange Chemical Behavior of Quicksilver

Latest stories.

photography as time travel

Ancient Ruins Confirm Biblical Account of Jerusalem Wall; Renowned Structure Could Have Been Built Earlier After a Great Tectonic Activity

photography as time travel

NASA’s JWST Detects Clouds of Melted Rock Covering the Night Side of Hot Exoplanet WASP-43b

photography as time travel

China Launches Chang’e 6 Mission To Obtain Soil and Rock Samples From the Far Side of the Moon

photography as time travel

Extremely Powerful Solar Flare Unleashed by the Sun Triggered Widespread Radio Blackouts Across the Pacific Region

Subscribe to the science times.

Sign up for our free newsletter for the Latest coverage!

Recommended Stories

'Cosmic Glitch' in Einstein's Theory of General Relativity Could Be Explained in This New Scientific Tweak [Study]

‘Cosmic Glitch’ in Einstein’s Theory of General Relativity Could Be Explained in This New Scientific Tweak [Study]

Mars

Is Mars Like Earth? NASA Rover Finds Substantial Amounts of Manganese on the Red Planet's Gale Crater

meteor shower

Eta Aquarids 2024: Halley's Comet Meteor Shower To Peak This Weekend; Here's How To Watch the Cosmic Light Show

Unique Exoplanet Found Lurking in Habitable Zone of 2 Stars

Unique Exoplanet Found Lurking in Habitable Zone of 2 Stars

photography as time travel

Pocket-lint

The best images of time travellers from throughout history.

Every now and then an image appears online which people claim shows a time traveller somewhere they shouldn't be. Are they real though?

Every now and then an image appears online which people claim shows a time traveller somewhere they shouldn't be. But are they just cases of people letting their imaginations run wild?

We've rounded up some of the best and most interesting images of time travellers throughout history. Some turned out to be plain fakes or cases of mistaken identities, but others are certainly intriguing.

Which have you seen before?

  • The most famous ghost photographs ever taken
  • 35 of the most famous alien, monster and unexplained photographs ever taken

The time travelling hipster

This photo was snapped in 1941 at the re-opening ceremony for the South Fork Bridge in British Columbia.

If you look carefully, on the right-hand side you can see an unusually dressed man in what appears to be modern clothing, sporting sunglasses at a time when most were wearing hats and smart jackets.

Many argue this is a time traveller, while others have countered that he's simply a man with a fashion sense ahead of his time. Snopes has shown his clothing is relevant to the time and the area, but it's still great to imagine.

World Cup celebrations

This photo comes from the 1962 World Cup and shows the celebrations as the Brazilian team lifts the trophy.

If you look closely though, you'll see in the bottom centre of the image what looks like someone with a mobile phone snapping a photo of the event.

Could this be a time traveller as well? A bit odd to think someone in the future might have a flip phone , but then they have been making a comeback recently and we know folding phones are about to be big too .

The time travelling sun seeker

This image from 1943 apparently shows British factory workers escaping to the seaside for a break during the midst of wartime. The clothes and beachwear of most people certainly fit the era, but in the centre of a frame appears to be a man dressed like Mr Bean checking his mobile phone.

Or maybe it's a time travel device? Likely a bit of a stretch or a case of overactive internet imagination, but we still enjoy the thought. Maybe there are no public beaches in the future?

Mohawk time traveller

This image from 1905 appears to show the usual happenings of the time - including workers and a banana boat delivering its goods.

However, if you look near the edge of the boat you can spy a man in a white shirt with what appears to be a Mohawk-style haircut. A very unusual haircut for the time and possible proof of a time traveller? Who can say?

Film footage captured during the recording of Charlie Chaplin's 1928 silent film "The Circus" appears to show a lady dressed all in black, wearing a hat and walking around the set talking on her mobile phone.

The footage is a little iffy as is the idea that anyone could be talking on a mobile device in the 1920s, but it's certainly got some suggesting it might be proof time travellers are among us.

The ancient astronaut sculpture

In Salamanca, Spain, there's a cathedral with multiple sculptures carved into its sides. One such sculpture appears to show the likeness of a modern-day (or perhaps futuristic) astronaut.

Considering the cathedral's construction dates back to 1513, people have taken this as proof that time travellers made their way back to that time. However, the truth is the astronaut is merely a modern addition to the artwork carried out by Jerónimo García de Quiñones during renovations in 1992.

Time travelling celebrities

There's an interesting trend of people who closely resemble folks from a bygone era. This could just be a spooky coincidence, but maybe it's proof that time travel is possible.

Perhaps these celebrities are living a double life in another century. Here, Marxist-Leninist Revolutionary Leader Mahir Cayan who was born in 1946 and died in 1972 is shown to bear a striking resemblance to TV star Jimmy Fallon. Is Jimmy Fallon living a double life as a revolutionary communist? Seems hilariously unlikely.

A man and his mobile phone

Some claim that this oil painting by Pieter de Hooch, which was lovingly crafted in 1670 appears to show a young man holding his mobile phone. In an age where such a thing would probably have seen him burnt at the stake, this one is hard to believe.

A description of the image also suggests the young man is a messenger and that's a letter in his hand, not a phone, but it's still nice to let your imagination run wild once in a while. We've often wondered what it would be like to be able to travel back to simpler times to see what life was like for ourselves.

The Adidas trainers mummy

A couple of years ago, an ancient mummy was unearthed by archaeologists digging in Mongolia. At the time, it was suggested the funky-looking footwear she was wearing bore a striking resemblance to Adidas trainers. More evidence of a time traveller visiting ancient times? Investigation of the body dated it around 1,100 years old. That's one heck of a blast through the past.

However, further unearthing showed the woman was more likely to have been a Turkic seamstress which might explain the fresh kicks. She was found with an ancient clutch bag, a mirror, a comb, a knife and more. But no mobile phone.

The time surfer

Another image of an out-of-place individual that people have latched on to as proof that time travel is a reality.

This image dates back over 100 years and shows some smartly dressed Canadians sitting on the side of a hill.

On the left-hand side though, sits a young man in what appears to be a t-shirt and shorts with ruffled hair. He was quickly referred to as the surfing time traveller due to how unusual his attire is. Others have suggested people in the photo appear shocked by his appearance, even pointing out the woman on the right who seems to be gesturing in his direction. Again, this a bit of a stretch as would a time traveller really go through time dressed like that?

A visitor to wartime Reykjavík

This photograph apparently shows a scene from downtown Reykjavík in 1943.

In the heart of wartime, soldiers and sailors can be seen everywhere in the streets among civilians. The man circled though, appears to be on a mobile phone.

We've really got a theme going with these smartphone using time travellers. Who is he calling? And how? And if he is a time traveller, why is he not in Berlin trying to assassinate Hitler?

The dabbing WWII soldier

There's an apparent theme to these time traveller photos that not only includes smartphone users, but also people visiting the second world war.

In this image, a young soldier is seen dabbing, a dance move that became popular around 2014, but certainly wasn't known in wartime.

Of course, it turns out this photo isn't an image of a time traveller, but rather just an image of some actors from 2017's blockbuster Dunkirk . The fact that most of the soldiers are smiling should also be a bit of a giveaway with this one.

Greta Thunberg

In 2019, the internet discovered a photograph from 1898 which showed three children working at a gold mine in Canada's Yukon territory.

The image seemed to show a girl with an incredible likeness to the young climate activist Greta Thunberg. Does this make Thunberg a time traveller who's come through time to save the planet? Weird year for her to choose, but it's a nice idea.

A woman clutching a smartphone (1860)

The painting " The expected one " from 1860, by Ferdinand Georg Waldmüller appears to show a woman walking along a rough path, about to be accosted by an adoring young man clutching a pink flower.

A close look though and you'll see she appears to have her attention firmly glued to a modern smartphone. Is this woman actually a time traveller?

Vladimir Putin

A few years back, a number of images surfaced online that seemingly showed Russian President Vladimir Putin snapped over various decades without ageing. Either proof that he's a time traveller or perhaps just immortal?

If true, he's incredibly patriotic, with each image showing him serving his country in one way or another. Though it's more likely to just be a strong likeness.

The AI time traveller

Here's a time traveller with a difference. Stelfie the Time Traveller has been using AI to travel through time. Or at least to give the illusion of doing so.

This creative individual has been using Stable Diffusion to insert the likeness of a modern man into ancient civilisations including Egypt when the pyramids were being constructed, Rome with the centurions and the land of the dinosaurs . It's fun to imagine these as being real, though if you look closely they're clearly AI-generated. As this artificial intelligence improves we'll no doubt get even better images like this. Interestingly even the character taking the selfies isn't real here, but is also made using AI.

The Complete Guide to Travel Photography

By Megan Spurrell

Eagle Hunter Mongolia

As travelers, our cameras can feel like a fifth limb—an essential tool with which to move through the world and absorb new experiences. They make it possible to document the people we meet. They provide tangible memories of the remarkable beauty we travel so far to see. Ultimately, they help us communicate what words cannot.

In the digital era, the tie between travel and photography feels more innate than ever. Photography has become more accessible and affordable to dabble in (who even needs a real camera with phones these days? ). On the flip side, it can feel as if documenting and sharing our travel experiences has become half of the seeing itself. In her essay on pushing herself to take a photo-free trip , Allie Jones asks a question we can all relate to: “If you visit a trendy upstate New York museum and don’t take any photos, were you ever really there?”

As the routine of snapping and sharing becomes as habitual as rinse and repeat, others urge us to become more thoughtful with our travel photography. Just because we can photograph and share everything, in a matter of seconds, doesn’t mean we need to. In his feature, Tyler Moss explores the #nogeotag movement , and looks at just how our photo sharing can drastically alter a destination—and decide who gets to experience it. For professional photographers Gray Malin and Alex Strohl , the “how” of nailing their iconic travel photographs has relied more on patience, and analog techniques like driving massive props cross-country, or waiting for the perfect shot in sub-zero temps, than on any new developments.

And, just in case you were starting to let your Instagram feed convince you that you’ve seen it all, we’ve pulled in photo studies from photographers whose work we can’t help but ogle. Jessica Sarkodie shares a refreshing look at the unspoiled beaches of her native Ghana. Cedric Angeles flew to Mongolia for a peek inside the lives of the country’s famous eagle hunters (and yes, there are photos of the eagles in their hunting caps ahead). For Sandy Noto , photographing harvest season in the Dolomites while off-duty yielded gorgeous slices of life.

Of course, if you’re ready to step up your own game, we’ve also got the gear you need—from underwater cameras to camera bags that don’t look like camera bags. And, we’ve rounded up our favorite photographers to follow right now, because as much as we want to cut the social media umbilical cord, there is so much to admire there. You just need to know where to look.

Through the lens

Think before you shoot

Behind the scenes

The gear you need

Everything else you need to know

By signing up you agree to our User Agreement (including the class action waiver and arbitration provisions ), our Privacy Policy & Cookie Statement and to receive marketing and account-related emails from Traveller. You can unsubscribe at any time. This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.

  • Student Successes
  • My Learning

How to Take Travel Photos: A Complete Guide

photography as time travel

You can also select your interests for free access to our premium training:

Travel photography is one of the most exciting types of photography you can pursue. Combining two of life’s great pleasures—exploring new lands and taking photographs—is a thrill any photographer would enjoy. 

While travel photography is open to anyone with the drive to get up and hit the road, there are a few things you need to learn. That’s why we’ve compiled this in-depth article containing everything you need to know about travel photography. We cover everything from camera settings to the best travel gear, so keep reading to find out more. 

Great pyramid at Chichen Itza, Yucatan Mexico

What Is Travel Photography

Travel photography is simply taking pictures of different places around the world. But good travel photos are not mere holiday snaps. Travel images should show a location in a new light so they’re interesting even for people who have already been there.

Travel photography involves many different styles and techniques. You can incorporate landscapes and portraits into your travel photography. You can even use more advanced techniques like time-lapse and long exposures.

A travel photographer needs to show more than the obvious. They need to explore each location at a deeper level and look for elements that make that place unique and interesting. It isn’t enough to take pictures of the famous landmarks. A travel photographer needs to look deeper and go beyond. 

Far-flung exotic locations often hold the most romance for travelers, but you don’t have to go far to practice travel photography. Venturing to new locations is always exciting, but you can also photograph places you’re familiar with. Using your familiarity to your advantage, you can give viewers a deeper view of these locations.

Anyone can shoot travel photography. The first thing you need is a desire to explore the world, which is something you probably already have. But continue reading for everything else you need to know about travel photography, from techniques to gear.

Mastering Travel Photography

While travel photography is open to anyone with an adventurous spirit, mastering the art does require practice, knowledge, and skill.

Firstly, you need to understand your camera and its settings. You might be tempted to take the easy road and shoot in Auto mode. But you’ll get far better results and more interesting and unique images when shooting with semi or fully manual settings. 

You should also experiment with composition, and you can try both color and black-and-white photography. These are stylistic choices that’ll give your travel photography a personal touch. You also have to consider specific types of travel photography so you’re ready for anything when you’re on the move. 

The following sections cover mastering the art of travel photography. Click the links in the text for more information on each topic. 

Camera Settings

When it comes to camera settings for travel photography, there are a few key things to keep in mind. First, make sure your camera is set to the right aperture and shutter speed for the type of photo you want to take. You’ll also need to adjust your white balance and ISO as you move through different locations.

To learn more about camera settings for travel photography, check out camera settings for travel photography .

camera settings for travel photography

A travel photography shot list helps you plan and capture the best photos on your trip. Research the location thoroughly, including famous sights, experiences, geography, and lighting conditions. Look at existing travel photos for inspiration, but aim to create something unique.

Use a spreadsheet to organize your shots by day and time, considering factors like sunrise, sunset, and harsh midday light. Include a mix of portraits, environmental portraits, cityscapes, daily life moments, religious sites, festivals, food, transportation, landscapes, close-ups, architecture, night scenes, and wildlife.

Remember to be adaptable and respectful of local customs. With careful planning and a detailed shot list, you’ll be well-prepared to capture stunning travel photos that transport viewers to your destination. To learn more about creating a travel photography shot list , check out this in-depth guide.

travel photography shot list

Composition

Good travel photography composition captures the beauty and essence of a destination. Use the rule of thirds by placing important parts of your photo on the intersecting points of the grid. Or take advantage of symmetry by centering the axis of symmetry in one direction.

Direct attention with leading lines, using elements like paths or fences to guide the viewer’s eye to your subject. Frame spectacular views with windows or arches to provide context. You can also use bold colors to lead the eyes or balance the composition.

Change your perspective by moving around, kneeling, or shooting from a rooftop. Get close to fill the frame with your subject or step back to include surrounding context. Play with scale by including familiar elements like people to convey the impressive size of large spaces.

To learn more about travel photography composition , check out this in-depth guide.

travel photography composition

Black & White

Black-and-white travel photography can be a powerful way to capture the essence of a place. By removing color, you can focus on the light, shapes, and textures that make a scene unique.

Pay attention to contrast and tone in your black-and-white photos. Look for strong shadows and highlights that create depth and drama. Texture is also important in black-and-white photography, so seek out interesting surfaces like rough stone or smooth water.

Most importantly, use black-and-white photography to connect with your subject and tell a story. Whether it’s a portrait of a local person or a landscape that captures the mood of a place, aim to convey emotion in your images.

By developing your own style and vision, you can create compelling black-and-white travel photos that stand out. To learn more about black-and-white travel photography , check out this in-depth guide.

black and white travel photography

Unique Perspectives

Taking unique photos of famous places can be challenging, but with some creativity and planning, you can capture stunning images. Start by researching the location and scouting out potential spots for your shots. Arrive early to avoid crowds and take advantage of the soft, golden light.

Look for elevated views or unusual angles to create a different perspective. Use composition techniques like the rule of thirds to emphasize the landmark in an interesting way. Including people in your shots can add a sense of atmosphere and tell a story.

Don’t be afraid to experiment with different techniques like light trails or time-lapse photography . If you encounter photography restrictions, think outside the box and find creative solutions. To learn more about capturing unique photos of famous places , check out this in-depth guide.

unique photos

Documentary Photography

Documentary photography captures real-life events as they happen. It’s a form of visual storytelling that depicts the world around us. Documentary photographers often work on long-term projects to tell new stories through their images.

You don’t need to travel far to find good documentary photography ideas. Look for interesting subjects in your family or community. Focus on the people involved to help viewers connect with the story. You can also tackle big topics by photographing small, local stories related to them.

Visit and scout your locations before the shoot. Get comfortable with the basics of photography, like camera settings and composition. Keep your story personal and critique your work as you go.

If you want to learn more about documentary photography ideas , we have a detailed guide to help you get started.

documentary photography ideas

Train Photography

Train photography offers a diverse range of subjects, from historic steam engines to modern bullet trains. To capture excellent locomotive photos, research train routes and schedules to find the best locations and times. Use natural light to your advantage, with side or backlighting to highlight steam and texture.

Longer focal lengths can compress the scene and show the train in its surroundings. At stations, photograph details like wheels and logos to create atmosphere. Adjust shutter speed for sharp images or creative motion blur, and slightly overexpose for more detail.

For more insights on capturing stunning train photography , check out our full-length article.

train photography

Backing Up Photos

It is important to back up photos while traveling, and an external hard drive is a great option. They are compact, durable, and have large storage capacities.

Smartphones and tablets can also be used to manage photos on the go. With the right accessories, they can connect to external storage devices. This allows you to back up and edit your photos without a laptop.

For the best results, use multiple backup methods. This could include an external hard drive, a USB thumb drive, and cloud storage. By having multiple copies of your photos, you reduce the risk of losing them. If you want to learn how to back up photos , check out our in-depth article.

way to backup photos

Making Money from Travel Photography

Becoming a travel photographer takes hard work and dedication. You need to learn a wide range of photography skills for shooting everything from landscapes to portraits. Building a strong portfolio of your best travel images is key to attracting clients.

To get your name out there, create a travel website or blog to showcase your work. You can also sell your images on digital platforms like stock photography websites. Selling physical prints of your photos is another great option.

As you travel, look for photography work with local businesses, such as hostels or tourism boards. Capture great travel content and consider offering tours or workshops for extra income.

To learn more about how to become a travel photographer , check out this in-depth guide.

Travel Photography Jobs

Travel photography jobs can be an exciting and rewarding career path for those with a passion for photography and adventure. However, it’s important to understand the challenges that come with the job. You’ll need to have exceptional photography skills, business savvy, and the ability to handle tough physical conditions.

To succeed, you’ll need a strong online presence, including a professional website and active social media accounts. You’ll also need reliable gear that can withstand the demands of travel.

There are many ways to make money as a travel photographer, such as selling prints, licensing stock photos, writing for publications, and teaching. The key is diversifying your income streams and constantly looking for new opportunities. With hard work and creativity, finding paid travel photography jobs can be both fulfilling and profitable.

travel photography jobs

Get Paid to Travel

Getting paid to travel and take photos is a dream for many photographers. There are several ways to make this a reality. Selling prints of your travel photos through print-on-demand websites is one option. You can also upload your best images to stock photography agencies and earn passive income from sales.

Entering travel photography competitions is another way to earn money and gain prestige. Winning contests can help you promote your work and attract potential clients.

Building relationships with travel magazine editors can lead to regular paid assignments. Learn what they want and deliver high-quality photos to make their jobs easier. To further your success, get paid to travel and take photos by marketing your photography services to people who have the budget to hire you.

get paid to travel and take photos

Sell Travel Photos

Selling your travel photos can be a great way to make money with your photography. To get started, ensure you have high-quality, well-lit, and properly composed images. They should also be free of technical errors like chromatic aberration and noise.

There are many ways to sell your travel photos. You can sell them through stock photography agencies, directly to clients, or as prints. Each option has its own requirements and markets, so consider your goals before deciding which path to take.

Actively promoting your work is key to maximizing sales. Use social media, email lists, and other marketing strategies to reach potential buyers. If you’re working with a stock agency, ask them what types of images are in demand so you can plan your shoots accordingly.

Learning how to sell travel photos takes time and effort, but with persistence and a willingness to adapt, you can turn your passion into a profitable venture.

how to sell travel photos

Gear for Travel Photography

When packing for a travel photography trip, it’s important to bring the right gear. A lightweight and compact camera body is essential, along with one or two versatile lenses like a wide-angle and a medium telephoto lens.

Don’t forget a sturdy tripod that fits in your luggage for sharp shots in low light. Filters like a circular polarizer and strong ND filter are small but open up creative options when traveling.

Cleaning supplies, extra batteries, memory cards, and rain protection round out the must-haves. With the right travel photography gear , you’ll be ready to capture amazing images anywhere your adventures take you.

Traveling with Camera Gear

Traveling with camera gear can be challenging, but there are ways to make it easier and safer. Use padded cases to protect your equipment from bumps and knocks. A shoulder bag is a good option for keeping your camera close and secure while walking through busy areas.

Always carry your gear in your hand luggage when flying. Most airlines understand the importance of this and are lenient about the weight of your carry-on bag. To deter thieves, hide or remove any camera branding using black duct tape.

Insuring your gear is crucial in case of theft or damage. Take down all the serial numbers and make sure your equipment is fully covered. By following these tips for traveling with camera gear , you can have peace of mind and focus on capturing great photos during your travels.

travel with camera gear

External Hard Drives

An external hard drive is an essential accessory for travel photographers. Memory cards fill up fast when you’re traveling, and you don’t want to carry a bunch of them around with you. It’s best to take an external hard drive to keep all your photo files in one place.

You’ll need something durable yet compact, which is why we recommend the LaCie Rugged Mini for travelers. It’s an easy fit for any travel camera bag. You have storage options up to 5 TB, and it’s the most durable external hard drive on the market. 

See more of the best external hard drives in our full-length article.

LaCie Rugged Mini

If you buy a product through one of our referral links we will earn a commission (without costing you anything). Prices last updated on .

As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.

Cameras for Travel Photography

The Canon EOS RP is a great mirrorless camera for travel photography. It’s lightweight, easy to handle, and has a 26 MP full-frame sensor that captures high-quality images in any situation.

The camera’s autofocus system is fast and accurate, even in low light. It also offers eye-detection AF for portraits. The EOS RP can shoot 4K video and has convenient Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity.

This camera is ideal for most travel photography needs. If you want to learn more about the best travel cameras , check out our detailed guide.

Mirrorless Cameras

The best mirrorless cameras for travel are compact and lightweight, but still capture stunning photos and videos. Our top pick is the Nikon Z50 . It has a compact body that fits easily in any camera bag. The 20.9 MP sensor produces bright, vibrant images with excellent low-light performance.

The Z50 is also great for travel vlogging. It records 4K video at 30 fps and has an articulating screen for easy self-recording. Built-in Wi-Fi and Bluetooth make it simple to share your adventures with friends and family back home.

If you want to learn more about the best mirrorless cameras for travel , check out our in-depth guide. We cover a range of cameras for every type of traveler, from beginners to professionals.

mirrorless camera for travel

Compact Cameras

The Sony ZV-1 II is a pocket-sized camera packed with features for modern travelers. It has a high-resolution 20 MP sensor and a versatile 18-50mm zoom lens. The f/1.8-4 aperture provides solid low-light performance.

Vloggers love the ZV-1 II’s 4K video at 30 fps and the special Cinematic Vlog Setting. A built-in mic and wind muffler make capturing audio easy. Real-time AF with face and eye detection keeps subjects sharp.

The Sony ZV-1 II is the ideal compact camera for travel vlogging. It’s a worthwhile investment for creating exciting content abroad. But we have more options in the link above. 

compact camera for travel

Lenses for Travel Photography

The best travel lenses give you a wide focal range in a compact size. Zoom lenses like the Nikon AF-S DX 18-105mm f/3.5-5.6 are very popular. It has vibration reduction to reduce camera shake and improve low-light performance.

Prime lenses are another good option. They are usually smaller and lighter than zooms. The Canon EF-S 24mm f/2.8 STM is a great example. This pancake lens is ultra-compact but still gives you a versatile focal length.

When choosing the best travel lens , think about the size, weight, and focal length. You want a lens that is easy to carry but still gives you plenty of options. The lenses on this list are all fantastic choices for your next adventure.

Canon Lenses

The best Canon lenses for travel photography are lightweight, versatile, and capture stunning images. Our top picks are the Canon RF 50mm f/1.8 STM and Canon EF 50mm f/1.8 STM . These nifty-fifty lenses are compact, affordable, and great in low light.

Other top choices include the Canon RF 24-105mm f/4-7.1 IS STM for its wide zoom range and the Canon RF 16mm f/2.8 STM for landscapes. The Canon EF 24-105mm f/4L IS USM is a popular all-in-one zoom for DSLR users. It has a constant f/4 aperture and weather sealing.

No matter your camera type, there’s a perfect travel lens for you. Look for a lens that’s light, has a useful focal range, and fits your budget. Canon lenses for travel photography help you capture amazing images around the world.

Canon RF 50mm F/1.8 STM

Nikon Lenses

The Nikon Z 50mm f/1.8 S and Nikon AF-S 50mm f/1.8G are the best Nikon lenses for travel photography. The Z 50mm f/1.8 S offers sharp images and a durable build. It’s great for low light with its f/1.8 aperture.

The AF-S 50mm f/1.8G is compact and lightweight. It also performs well in low light. The 50mm focal length is perfect for street scenes and portraits.

Both lenses are very popular with travel photographers. If you want to learn more about Nikon lenses for travel photography , we have a detailed guide that covers the best options for Nikon mirrorless and DSLR cameras.

Nikon NIKKOR Z 50mm F/1.8 S

Sony Lenses

When choosing the best Sony lenses for travel photography, consider weight, versatility, and image quality. Our top pick is the Sony E 18-105mm f/4 G OSS PZ , offering a wide zoom range, constant f/4 aperture, and effective optical stabilization in a compact design.

For APS-C cameras, the Sony E 35mm f/1.8 OSS is a great low-light prime lens. Its wide f/1.8 aperture and built-in stabilization help capture sharp images in dim settings. The Sony FE 50mm f/1.8 is an affordable and versatile prime for full-frame cameras, ideal for portraits and everyday shots.

Other notable lenses include the Sony FE 24-105mm f/4 G OSS for its all-in-one zoom capabilities and the Sigma 18-50mm f/2.8 DC DN | C for its fast aperture and compact size. To learn more about the best Sony lenses for travel photography , check out our in-depth guide.

Sony E 18-105mm F/4 G OSS PZ SELP18105G

Travel Tripods

A travel tripod is a must-have for any photographer on the go. The best travel tripods are lightweight, compact, and easy to set up. They also need to be sturdy enough to support your camera gear.

Our top pick is the K&F Concept Lightweight Travel Tripod . It weighs only 2.4 lb but can hold up to 17.6 lb of gear. The aluminum ball head gives you great flexibility for positioning your camera. And the included carry case makes it easy to take with you anywhere.

If you want to learn more about choosing the right travel tripod , check out our detailed guide. It covers everything from key features to look for to our top recommendations in different price ranges.

K&F Concept Lightweight Travel Tripod

Travel Camera Backpacks

When choosing a camera backpack for travel, protection and comfort are key. The best bags are well-designed, roomy, and easy to carry.

Our top pick is the Manfrotto PRO Light Multiloader . It’s sturdy, spacious, and versatile. You can use it as a backpack, duffel, or sling. And it has access from the front and both sides.

The Wandrd Duo Daypack is another great option. It’s made from quality materials that protect your gear from the weather. It has ample storage and the main zipper allows quick access to your camera.

If you want to learn more about the best camera backpack for travel , check out our detailed reviews. We’ll help you find the perfect bag for your next adventure.

Manfrotto PRO Light Multiloader Backpack

Manfrotto PRO Light Multiloader

The Manfrotto PRO Light Multiloader Camera Backpack is a top choice for photographers. It has a sturdy design and plenty of space for your gear.

The backpack is comfortable to wear, even when fully loaded. You can easily adjust it to fit your body.

This bag is perfect for any photography adventure. It’s a worthwhile investment for serious photographers looking for a reliable way to carry their equipment. To learn more about the Manfrotto Pro Light Multiloader, check out our full review .

manfrotto pro light multiloader

Think Tank Airport Essentials

The Think Tank Airport Essentials is a camera backpack specifically designed for air travel. It has a smart design, useful features, and fits as carry-on luggage.

This backpack offers secure storage with an efficient use of space and a special lock. The lifetime warranty makes it a one-time investment for years of use.

While it lacks some versatility found in other bags, the Airport Essentials excels at storage capacity, protection, and style. Photographers who want a Think Tank Airport Essentials for their travels will find this bag a great choice.

think tank airport essentials

Weatherproof Backpacks

Protecting your camera gear from the elements is essential. Weatherproof camera bags offer peace of mind when shooting in unpredictable conditions. They feature robust materials and coatings that keep water out, even in sudden downpours.

Our top picks, the Wandrd Prvke , Wandrd Duo , and Lowepro Freeline , have impressive exterior materials that don’t need a separate rain cover. The Prvke’s roll-top design is commonly used in waterproof bags, while the Duo and Freeline include waterproof zippers to secure even the weakest points.

When choosing a weatherproof camera bag , consider not only its water-resistant abilities but also its functionality for your photography style. Look for features like easy access points, ample storage, and comfortable carrying options that suit your needs.

Wandrd Prvke Backpack

A camera hard case is the best way to protect your photography gear while traveling. The Pelican Air 1525 is our top choice, with its tough exterior and foam-padded interior that keeps your equipment safe and secure. It’s spacious enough for your camera and accessories without being too bulky.

The Vanguard Supreme 46F is another excellent option, especially for adventure travel. It’s waterproof down to 16.5 ft (5 m) and can withstand temperatures as low as -40 C. The customizable Pick ‘n’ Pluck foam interior ensures a snug fit for each item.

For convenience, the Nanuk 935 is hard to beat. Its retractable handle and wheels make transportation a breeze, while the padded dividers keep your gear organized and protected. If you’re looking for a camera hard case that combines durability and ease of use, the Nanuk 935 is a great choice.

Pelican Air 1525 Carry Case

Travel Apps

Travel apps can make your photography adventures easier and more enjoyable. Snapseed is a powerful photo editor with a wide range of tools, from basic adjustments to creative effects. It’s free and available on both iOS and Android.

VSCO is another popular editing app that offers a simple, streamlined experience. Its presets are based on real film stocks, giving your photos an authentic vintage look. You can also use sliders to fine-tune the exposure and add fade or grain effects.

When you’re ready to share your travel photos, consider using Spot. This app helps you find picturesque locations and share your own discoveries with other photographers. With detailed maps and tips, it’s one of the best apps for travel photography .

Editing Travel Photos

Editing your travel photos can take them to the next level. There are many techniques you can use to improve your images, from simple adjustments to more advanced processes.

Cropping is a quick way to remove unwanted elements or zoom in on important parts of the photo. Sharpening will make details pop, while noise reduction can clean up high ISO shots. Straightening the horizon line is also important for a polished look.

Other useful techniques include adding a vignette to draw the eye, adjusting saturation and contrast, balancing highlights and shadows, and using digital blending for challenging lighting. For an extra level of refinement, you can even remove unwanted objects.

With practice, you’ll learn which editing steps work best for your travel images. Check out our in-depth guide if you’d like to dive deeper into editing travel photos .

Location Guides

Whenever you’re heading off somewhere new, it’s always best to do some research before you go. Your preparations will be more thorough and more specialized when you have a better idea of what to expect. That means you can hit the ground running when you arrive, and you’ll get better results. 

We have a collection of location guides for some travel photography hot spots. These posts give you a head start when taking pictures in these locations, helping you get unique shots in popular places. 

Let’s drop in on a few of the hottest locations in Europe, Asia, and the US. 

European Cities

Europe is a photographer’s dream, with its stunning architecture, charming villages, and beautiful countryside. From the centuries-old buildings to the cobblestone streets, there’s no shortage of photo opportunities.

Some of the best European cities for photography include Amalfi, Italy, with its medieval stories and dainty houses; Venice, Italy, known for its canals and seafood; and Dubrovnik, Croatia, a seaside location with picturesque houses and Game of Thrones filming locations.

Other notable cities include Prague, Czech Republic, with its historic buildings and Gothic churches; Oia, Greece, with its stunning white buildings and sunsets; and Amsterdam, Netherlands, full of incredible art and historical monuments.

Whether you’re interested in architecture, landscapes, or street photography, these European cities offer endless inspiration. To learn more about the European cities for photography , check out this in-depth guide.

european cities for photography

Paris is a photographer’s dream, offering countless opportunities to capture stunning images. From the iconic Eiffel Tower to the charming streets of Montmartre, there’s no shortage of beautiful subjects to photograph.

One of the best spots for photography in Paris is the Trocadero, which offers a perfect view of the Eiffel Tower. The Champs Elysee and Arc de Triomphe are also must-see locations, with the latter providing a great vantage point for capturing the city’s skyline.

Other notable photo locations include the Louvre, with its striking glass pyramid, and Notre Dame Cathedral, which offers both interior and exterior photo opportunities. It’s still striking even after the fire damage. 

For a taste of modern Paris, head to La Defense, the city’s business district filled with skyscrapers and unique architecture.

To learn more about Paris photography , check out this in-depth guide that covers the best locations, tips, and techniques for capturing the city’s beauty.

paris photography

London offers plenty of photography opportunities, from cityscapes to street photography and architecture. Some of the best locations include the Palace of Westminster, where you can capture iconic photos from Westminster Bridge or the south bank of the Thames. Tower Bridge is another well-known site, offering great angles for traffic light trails and sunrise photos.

The London Eye is a newer addition to the skyline, perfect for creative shots like zoom bursts or portraits inside the capsules. Don’t miss the photogenic wrought iron roof at Borough Market or the beautiful exterior of St Paul’s Cathedral.

For stunning views, head to The Shard, the highest skyscraper in the European Union. Buckingham Palace is a must-see, especially during the Changing of the Guard ceremony. If you’re interested in photography in London , these locations are sure to inspire you.

photography in london

Rome is a photographer’s dream, with stunning architecture, rich history, and vibrant culture around every corner. From the iconic Colosseum to the beautiful Trevi Fountain, there are countless opportunities to capture breathtaking images.

Don’t miss the Vatican Museum, where you can photograph the famous spiral staircase. The Pantheon’s exterior and interior are equally impressive, especially during the blue hour. St. Peter’s Basilica offers great views of the city and a chance to capture the Pope if you’re lucky.

The Tiber River provides picturesque views, particularly from Ponte Sant’Angelo towards St. Peter’s Basilica. Piazza Navona and Piazza del Popolo are perfect for street photography and capturing traditional Roman scenes. To learn more about the best spots for Rome photography , check out this in-depth guide.

rome photography

Venice is a photographer’s dream, offering endless opportunities to capture its unique beauty. The best time to avoid crowds and oppressive heat is during the low season or early morning. Sunrise at Academia Bridge provides a stunning view of the Grand Canal, while Piazza San Marco is best photographed before tourists arrive.

Don’t miss the iconic gondolas along the waterfront near Piazza San Marco, especially during sunset and blue hour. For a different perspective, head to San Giorgio Maggiore island to photograph the church and Venice’s skyline at golden hour.

Explore the backstreets of San Polo and Dorsoduro districts for charming piazzas, decaying architecture, and canal scenes. Murano and Burano islands offer colorful buildings and glassmaking demonstrations perfect for photography. To learn more about Venice photography , check out this in-depth guide.

venice photography

Budapest is another fantastic city for photographers, offering endless opportunities to capture stunning images. From the grand architecture of the Hungarian Parliament Building to the thermal baths of Széchenyi, there’s no shortage of photogenic spots in this beautiful city.

One of the best places to start is the Fisherman’s Bastion, a neo-Gothic terrace with breathtaking views of the Danube River and the Pest side of the city. Nearby, you’ll find Matthias Church, a stunning example of neo-Gothic architecture that’s perfect for capturing intricate details and beautiful stained glass windows.

For panoramic views of the city, head to Gellért Hill, where you can capture the entire skyline from the Citadella fortress. And don’t miss the iconic Chain Bridge, which looks particularly stunning at night when it’s lit up against the dark sky. To learn more about the best spots for Budapest photography , check out this in-depth guide.

budapest photography

Japan is a brilliant destination for a photography trip. From stunning landscapes to interesting architecture and fascinating culture, there’s no shortage of inspiration for your travel photography.

Capture the vibrant cityscape of Minato, one of Tokyo’s special wards. Improve your food photography skills at Japan’s many cafés and restaurants, where every dish looks like a work of art. Take adorable photos of tame deer in Nara Park or sharpen your landscape photography in Hakone, with its hot springs, views of Mount Fuji, and gorgeous lake.

Don’t miss the breathtaking cherry blossoms in Japan’s parks during the Sakura season, usually from January to April. Visit the magical Blue Pond in Biei, go on an adventure in Kyoto’s Bamboo Grove, or document the commercial side of Japan in Shinjuku. For more inspiration on Japan photography , check out our in-depth guide.

japan photography

Tokyo is one of the world’s most vibrant locations, offering a diverse range of subjects to capture. From the bustling streets of Shinjuku and Shibuya to the traditional temples of Asakusa, there’s no shortage of incredible hot spots to explore.

For those seeking modern architecture and vibrant city life, the Tokyo Skytree and Roppongi Hills Mori Tower provide stunning views of the skyline. Harajuku, the heart of Tokyo’s youth culture, is perfect for street photography and capturing unique fashion trends.

If you’re interested in learning more about Tokyo photography , check out our in-depth article to help you plan your trip and find the best spots to shoot. With its mix of old and new, Tokyo is a city that will inspire and challenge you as a photographer.

tokyo photography

Etiquette in Japan

When taking photos in Japan, it’s important to be respectful and follow proper etiquette. Always ask for permission before taking someone’s photo, especially if you plan to share it publicly. If you can’t get permission, blur the person’s face to protect their privacy.

Be prepared to show your photos to the police if asked, and avoid using selfie sticks in crowded areas to prevent injuries. In cafés and restaurants, ask the staff for permission before taking photos of your meal.

At night, skip the flash and use a higher ISO and tripod to capture vibrant neon lights. Avoid taking photos in no-photo areas, of children without parental consent, geishas, people on public transport, and those in the middle of prayer. For more tips on photography in Japan , check out this in-depth guide.

photography in japan

Los Angeles

Los Angeles is a street photographer’s paradise. From the colorful Venice Beach boardwalk to the iconic Griffith Observatory, there are endless opportunities to capture the city’s unique character.

The Santa Monica Pier is a must-visit spot, especially in the evening when the lights come on. Echo Park offers stunning views of the skyline, particularly at sunrise or sunset.

Downtown LA is full of hidden gems like the Bradbury Building with its intricate architecture and the bustling Grand Central Market. For a taste of old Hollywood glamor, head to Union Station or the Hollywood Bowl Overlook. Places for street photography in Los Angeles are as diverse as the city itself, so grab your camera and start exploring.

places for street photography in los angeles

New York City remains one of the most popular locations for photographers, with countless iconic locations to capture. Central Park offers a variety of scenes, from the Bethesda Terrace and Fountain to the Alice in Wonderland statue. The Brooklyn Bridge is another must-see, with its stunning suspension cables and brick towers.

Grand Central Station and the Chelsea Market are great for street photography and architectural details. Rockefeller Center provides both street-level interest and panoramic views from its observation deck.

Of course, no trip to New York would be complete without photographing the Empire State Building and the Statue of Liberty. For breathtaking cityscapes, head to Brooklyn Bridge Park or find a unique vantage point to capture the Manhattan skyline. Don’t miss the Flatiron Building and the vibrant energy of Times Square.

To learn more about the best spots for New York photography , check out our in-depth guide.

new york photography

Photography Road Trip

Planning a road trip for photography involves choosing the right vehicle, deciding on accommodation, and mapping out your route. Your vehicle should be safe, comfortable, and suitable for the terrain you’ll encounter. Living out of your vehicle, like an RV or camper van, allows you to stay closer to photo locations and immerse yourself in nature.

When planning your route, prioritize the locations you want to photograph. Research potential spots using apps and websites like Pinterest, 500px, Flickr, and Google’s My Maps. Plot your route, campgrounds, points of interest, and photo locations to make the most of your trip.

Electricity is essential for photographers on the road. Ensure you have reliable power sources, such as a dual battery system, solar panels, or a 12v inverter. Always carry a power bank as a backup. To stay connected, use local SIM cards with data or take advantage of Wi-Fi at cafes and fast food outlets.

By planning your shots in advance and considering factors like lighting, crowds, and unique perspectives, you can capture stunning images that tell the story of your road trip photography adventure.

road trip photography

Inspiration from the Best Travel Photographers

Travel photography captures the adventures and locations you visit during your journeys. It involves many genres like landscape, architecture, street, and environmental photography. Travel photographers often tell stories through their images, focusing on special moments and atmospheres.

There are many approaches to travel photography. You can focus on people, take self-portraits, emphasize landscapes, or try aerial photography. Mixing these approaches can result in a unique style and help you gain recognition as a travel photographer.

If you’d like to learn more about travel photographers , we have an article that goes into greater depth on the topic.

Travel Blogs

Travel photography blogs are a great source of inspiration for your next adventure. They feature stunning images from around the world and provide useful tips for capturing your own travel photos.

Some of the best travel photography blogs cover a wide range of topics, from destination guides to photography tutorials. They showcase the work of talented photographers who have explored every corner of the globe.

Whether you’re planning your next trip or simply looking for some armchair travel, these blogs are sure to inspire you. To discover some of the best travel photography blogs to follow in 2024, check out this list of top picks.

travel photography blogs

Photo Tips, Creative Photography + Travel Guides - The Wandering Lens

  • 7 Travel Photography Jobs to take you around the World
  • Career Tips
  • By Lisa Michele Burns

photography as time travel

Travel Photography Jobs + Tips for Becoming a Travel Photographer

Travel photography offers a broad range of potential career paths that can see you and your camera heading off for endless adventures around the world. From working as a photojournalist to capturing photos at a resort, there are plenty of ways to combine your love of travelling with photography if you’ve got both determination and talent.

I’ve been utterly obsessed with travelling since I was in school and first attempted to become a pilot so I can fly myself (and a plane load of passengers) to exotic destinations. That plan fell through when I got violently air sick during every flying lesson so my back-up was to become a travel journalist. You can read about that journey here , but long story short, that path led to discovering the art of photography and over the past 15 years I’ve worked a number of jobs under the ‘travel photography’ umbrella and it’s been one crazy, incredible adventure.

For those with a creative mind and the motivation to turn their dream into a reality and working business, it may sound cliché but the sky really is the limit. Sure it takes a tonne of begging, pitching, rejections, both time and money, BUT, now more than ever there’s such a need for photographic content that there are plenty of positions and career paths available!

But let’s take a peek at the available jobs!

Firstly, a few tips for getting a travel photography job –

  • Create an online portfolio/website of your work
  • Learn photography and develop a style that’s uniquely yours ( read more here on how to stand out as a photographer )
  • Don’t undersell yourself or your photography and be confident in your ability
  • Find a niche or specialty
  • Learn to market your work and have a pitch ready for interviews/phone calls
  • Invest in quality camera equipment ( see what Olympus gear I use here )
  • Be flexible, travel photography requires a commitment to time away from home and long days working, unfortunately it’s only about 15% glamourous.

Banff National Park Photography Guide - Lake Louise

Now let’s take a peek at six travel photography jobs that may just be suited for you…

Travel Photography Jobs

#1 freelance travel photographer.

Working as a freelance photographer sounds quite carefree and adventurous but it does require a lot of organisation, patience and determination. As a freelance travel photographer you’re essentially running your own business so are responsible for not only finding work and clients, but marketing, managing, researching, producing the content to a high standard and then keeping a track of your invoicing and payments.

Freelance photography is a maze of opportunities when it comes to how you can make it work as so many brands, businesses and publications need content. As a freelancer you can potentially work for multiple clients at any one time or if you’re lucky, you may score a regular gig that will ensure a stable monthly income…a big plus when working solo!

While there are endless areas within freelancing that you can find work in, if you’re looking to focus on travel photography then you’ll want to have a good portfolio of work from your previous travels to use as you pitch for work. And of course, a passion for travelling and talent that helps you stand out when approaching clients and editors!

Learn more: Enrol in a self-study program called ‘ The Freelance Travel Photographer Course ‘ with The Wandering Lens, aimed at developing your photography portfolio, industry knowledge + starting a freelance career.

Read more: ‘ How to Become a Professional Travel Photographer ‘

Having an online portfolio is essential when working as a freelance photographer, I used to actually carry around a printed album of my work and introduce myself in person (yikes, scary!) but thank goodness a well-written email introduction with a link to your work does the trick now.

Travel photography jobs to travel the world as a travel photographer

Travel photography is quite a competitive market to work in however there is a constant need for content with social media, magazines, online travel guides, blogs, marketing materials, newspapers and so on all requiring regular updates and a fresh take on destinations.

If you’re looking to approach magazines to have your work published, it can be worthwhile to read the publication for a few months to get a feel for their style, what they publish and what regions they focus on throughout the year…more often than not they’ll be quite seasonal so you’ll need to time your pitch. You probably won’t find a photo or article about skiing on the shelves just before summer as an example.

A few tips for working as a freelance photographer:

  • Build a portfolio of both published + personal work (I recommend the Premium plan on Wix.com , loved using it for my site!)
  • Learn the art of pitching
  • Ensure you have enough funds to support yourself if it’s a little slow getting clients
  • Don’t take rejection as failure, you will get a lot of no’s whether you’re just starting out or established so get used to negative responses and learn to shine once you get a yes!
  • Streamline your finances so you have a steady system in place for expenses/income

Exciting news – The Freelance Travel Photographer Course is a brand new online offering by The Wandering Lens.

photography as time travel

#2 Destination Wedding Photographer

It may come as a surprise to some readers, but I actually owned a wedding photography (and landscape) business for six years on a tropical island in Australia. After the first two years on one very small (but beautiful!) island, I branched out and took enquiries for destination weddings, combining wedding photography with my addiction to travelling.

As a destination wedding photographer you’re typically booked by a couple to photograph their wedding day somewhere away from home. It could mean they’re travelling from their home to somewhere close to your base, or they may ask you to travel with them abroad to photograph their nuptials, aka the dream job.

I’ve photographed over 450 weddings and of those, many were destination weddings in places like Italy, France, New Zealand, the Cook Islands and on numerous islands of the Great Barrier Reef. The best part about working as a destination wedding photographer is that if you’re equally as passionate about travel and landscape photography as you are about weddings and portraits, then you get to combine the two and create magic for your clients!

I had a motto with my business that it was ‘blending love and landscapes’, a concept that attracted clients because my work wasn’t traditional and posed, it was relaxed and romantic mainly featuring the couple amongst a scene, enjoying their wedding day and exploring the destination. You can have a peek at my wedding portfolio here .

Underwater wedding photography by Lisa Michele Burns

As a business, working as a wedding photographer abroad you need to ensure you have insurance, a good contract, price your packages to cover travel costs and just like working as a freelancer, you need to have the skills to market and manage plus a portfolio that allows couples to trust that you’ll cover their perfect day professionally.

I can’t stress enough how important it is to be professional when photographing a wedding. It may look pretty and calm on the outside but there’s a lot of pressure involved because the moments don’t happen twice so you’ll want to ensure you’re completely comfortable using your camera in any environment, are a pro at posing or relaxing your clients so they’re appearing natural and their most beautiful in front of the camera and that you’ve got all the equipment to photograph not just on the day, but to save back up and edit the images.

Tips for becoming a destination wedding photographer:

  • Build a career as a wedding photographer in your local area
  • Create an online portfolio of your wedding and travel images (I used Wix.com to create my portfolio site in a few hours)
  • Network at wedding industry events with potential clients
  • Approach destination wedding specialists (they may need to add to their list of recommended photographers)
  • Be confident in your abilities as a photographer and ensure you know how to capture a wedding day from start to finish in all conditions!
  • Advertise in bridal magazines, social media and ask your friends and family to spread the word if they know anyone heading abroad to get married.

Travel photography jobs as a destination wedding photographer

#3 Resort Photographer

Many resorts whether they’re located on an island, a ski resort or are attached to a theme park will have resort photographer positions available. Typically they’ll be seasonal and are a great way to work your way around the world with the safety net of a fixed income and usually some discounted staff accommodation where most people holiday!

More often than not the positions will be quite casual, requiring a few hours work per day photographing people doing activities or you may be booked for family portraits, events or work in the photography store. This job probably won’t get you rich quick but it’s a fantastic way to improve your photography skills while working in a beautiful destination.

One of the first resort photography jobs I did was at Tangalooma Island Resort and every day was a mix between photographing people at the sand dunes, on quad bike tours (yes I got to ride one!) and then in the evening I’d shoot sunset portraits and photos in the water with wild dolphins. It’s a job that inspired a lot of what I do today and I’ll be forever grateful for the skills and people I met during the year I worked there.

Luxury Island resorts and hotels by The Wandering Lens

Settings: ISO 200 (this was taken from a moving ski lift), f/3.5, 1/1600sec.

To find a resort photography job take a peek at online employment sites for the area you’re hoping to work. You may need to also look into working visas if you’re looking to work abroad but a number of countries have working holiday arrangements if you’re under 32 and casual work like a resort photographer is an ideal position for this type of visa!

The skill level required for a resort photography job is usually not too high as more often than not you’ll be working in a set environment so the camera settings and position won’t change too much. It’s a great job if you’re just starting out and will help build a lot of confidence as a photographer which you can then take on to bigger and more professional opportunities.

Tips for getting work as a resort photographer:

  • Be flexible with starting dates, working hours and living conditions
  • Show you’re a people person and can think on your feet
  • Demonstrate an interest or skill in photography
  • Research the resort/area you’re applying for
  • Learn the basics of capturing action shots and portrait images

photography as time travel

#4 Photojournalist

Possibly the most respected job in the travel photography realm, a photojournalist is quite similar to working as a freelance photographer however is associated more with commissioned work from publications or clients.

Photojournalism is traditionally relating to the coverage of an event, issue, subject or location that helps to shed light and tell a story for a newspaper, magazine, NGO or online publication. More often than not, people working as photojournalists are also journalists who can write a supporting story or provide in depth captions for their images. To work as a photojournalist who specializes in travel photography, you’ll want to have gained a lot of experience before applying for jobs or approaching editors as these are sought after gigs!

Work experience, internships or publishing your own photo features and stories on a website/blog can be a great way to get a foot in the door as a photojournalist. These steps will also help you to develop your style and skills as a photographer because you’ll be booked for your ability and proven results.

Gion Matsuri Festival, Kyoto Japan

It can be helpful to have studied or have a background in journalism and then check with your local newspaper for openings within the journalism or photography departments. Online publications can also be a great place to build a portfolio of published work so once you feel you’ve got a solid skillset and have a story to tell, pitch it, there’s nothing to lose!

Also don’t forget to enter photography competitions as some include a commission and chance to have your work published! National Geographic runs a monthly ‘Your Sho t’ competition, and a number of other publications such as Wanderlust and Lonely Planet also regularly run talent based contests which can help get your work seen by editors. World Nomads offers regular travel photography scholarships that offer talented photographers a chance to learn from industry experts and have their work published! *Always check entry terms when submitting your images as some contests are run purely to grab content and don’t have the photographer’s rights in mind.

Tips for finding work as a photojournalist:

  • Research the work of other photojournalists, see where they’re getting published.
  • Find a niche or issue you’re passionate about
  • Develop a consistent style that editors can come to rely on
  • Network with writers, photographers and editors at social travel and/or publishing events

Read more: The Art of Telling Stories with your Photos

South african safari experience and wildlife photography tips

#5 Cruise Ship Photographer

Now this is a travel photography job for the more patient and seaworthy photographer…for obvious reasons. While you’ll be visiting a number of exotic ports, there’s a lot of time spent on board the cruise ship so before you follow this path, be sure you’re ready for time at sea, cramped staff cabins and repetitive working conditions.

Typical tasks as a cruise ship photographer include capturing portraits of guests on board, at dinners, doing activities and if you’re lucky, some adventures off the boat but more often than not, it’s focused around what happens on the ship itself. The size of ship can differ, there’s luxury yachts right through to the mega cruise liners and you’ll find it much easier to secure a job on board one of the big boys.

Travel photography jobs on a cruise ship

There are some very cool opportunities that exist on board expedition vessels, not just your typical cruise ship. It’s worth researching available opportunities with Arctic or Antarctic expedition cruises as they’ll have on board photographers to and these positions will be more focused on not only photographing guests but teaching them how to capture the stunning scenery you’ll pass.

It can be a great job to build your confidence and skills as a photographer and you’ll get very comfortable using flash as a lot of the time it’s a staged setting (on a traditional ship). Because you’re working with guests, there’s a lot of interaction with people so you’ll want to be comfortable socializing or looking to use this experience to bring you out of your shell a little. Take a peek at MSC’s career site to see job outlines relating to photography on a cruise ship.

A few things to check when applying for a cruise ship photography position:

  • What are the hours you’ll work?
  • What country is the cruise ship company based in, for visa/work permit purposes?
  • What are the living arrangements like? Is it a shared cabin?
  • Do you get sea sick? If so, visit your doctor to be prescribed some medication!
  • Do you get to actually visit the locations the ship docks in? In my opinion there’s no point being a cruise ship photographer if all you get to see is the ship! Unless you like ships…

Cruise ship photographer job

#6 Travel Blogger

Ever wanted to take full control of your career and release your creative projects into the world without having to wait for someone to approve them? Travel blogging may be just the thing for you!

Now firstly, take away all those ideas that a travel blogger only writes about ‘what I did on my holiday in Paris’, more often than not, bloggers are savvy and business-minded people and the blog is not only a creative outlet, but a full-time job. Travel blogging is a career path open to anyone from any background with one common interest, a love of travel and thanks to the good old internet, is a job that can be done absolutely anywhere…with a WIFI connection!

Technically you can turn your own travel blog into anything you want! You can publish hard hitting political pieces about destinations effected by war, environmental articles and images that highlight issues relating to climate change, or you can of course, focus on the travel experience, cultures and destinations both popular and more off the beaten path.

Now having a travel blog doesn’t mean you need to be an accomplished journalist or writer, you can be a photographer keen to have somewhere to publish your images. I started The Wandering Lens to write destination guides for photographers and while I have a background in journalism, I wanted the site to be very image heavy so people would be attracted to the visuals, not the words. I actually don’t love the word ‘blog’ and prefer to call it a guide or website because essentially, it’s a little library of content that sits online waiting for someone to type some golden search words into Google and discover my Destination Guides or Photo Tip archives.

Learn more – chat with me (Lisa) about your goals and I’ll personally suggest a path forward to learn faster and get started as a travel blogger and photographer! Email [email protected] and let’s chat about your career!

Travel photography jobs you can get as a travel photographer

A blog can be a fantastic way to share some behind the scenes of your photography missions whether they’re personal or professional to document the destination or project. At first it may feel like you’re pressing publish and only your mum is taking a peek (Hi Mum!) but building an audience to follow your work is one of the essential elements of having a blog and does take time and patience.

Since The Wandering Lens started back in 2015 I’ve grown from just 100 visitors per month to over 125,000 and it’s incredible to finally see years of work paying off. There were definitely times when it just didn’t feel worth it and it takes a lot of work and a tonne of motivation to stick with it. You’ll also need to dedicate quite a bit of time to creating content, to actually do the travel part of having a travel blog! This sounds like the fun part but because you’re working for yourself, need to ensure that you’re sticking to a budget and not going bananas on the credit card to become a famous blogger…that’s never going to end well. Once you’re more established you can approach partners, tourism boards, tour operators and accommodation outlets to work in supporting your ventures to reduce costs but to do this you need to be able to prove there’s a benefit to them, eg. your blog needs a lot of visitors or you can provide them with high quality imagery.

You may hear a lot of people say that you can start a blog in just a matter of minutes, which is very true. However, to create a successful travel blog you need to continuously work on it and treat it as a business. There’s always new technical updates to install, HTML code, plugins, SEO, checking your domain name and server subscriptions are up to date not to mention writing, photographing, editing, creating a layout then working to make sure your posts are seen across social media or visible on Google.

If you love sharing stories, telling people where to find amazing places or simply just want an outlet to publish your images then building a travel blog is such a rewarding career path. Eventually you can aim to monetize your website via display advertising or affiliate income but when starting out, it’s important to lay a foundation of solid and informative content or inspiring imagery that make people want to visit your site again and again.

Travel photography jobs you can get as a travel photographer

#7 An Influencer

Since the rise of social media, a career path has evolved that relates to creating content with the aim of ‘influencing’ others. I’m sure if you’ve got an Instagram account you’re well aware of who the influencers are, personally I still find it a little bizarre that people are out there pretending (in some cases, definitely not all), to live a certain way or use certain brands because they’re being paid to do so. I know that probably 70% (random figure) are genuine but that other chunk can make this career appear a tad questionable and from a business point of view, very risky, especially if it’s your only source of income.

Influencing is essentially marketing with a fancy new name and the game of promoting and selling things to people has been around for centuries, it’s now just a bit more obvious.  Combining travel photography with being an influencer is a no brainer because visual aids  are essential when selling a product or experience and the need for fresh content is never ending. Working as an influencer can mean collaborating with clients to showcase their product, creating content for them to use in their own marketing requirements or using your influence to support something meaningful or a creative project.

Read more: ‘ The Power of Instagram and how its Changing the Way we Travel ‘

Social media for photographers Instagram The Wandering Lens Travel Photography

There’s a lot of factors that come into working as an influencer and while it may look glamourous on the outside, there’s countless pitches, emails, negotiations, planning, research and creating that goes into taking that perfect photo. More often than not people will judge an influencer solely on their images but forget about how much time and effort went into the set up and production, something you’ll need to perfect in order to become a professional influencer.

Read more: ‘ The Best Apps for Travel Photographers ‘

I’m a little old school but of course have social media and due to my following on Instagram @the_wanderinglens , I’m often considered an influencer despite the fact I have no fashion sense or rarely show myself on camera. Starting to consider yourself an influencer usually comes down to numbers, the amount of likes and engagement you receive and also, your message…which is the part I’m much more comfortable with. Being an influencer has many, many positives because once you’ve built a large following (or small and super engaged) and audience, you can use it for good. A lot of what I share relates to revealing beautiful places to photograph, creative photo tips for people to use on their travels and very soon I’ll be sharing content from a project I’m photographing that highlights destinations impact by climatic conditions and environmental issues. There’s a number of influencers currently involved in sustainable tourism projects, clean ups, wildlife conservation and charitable initiatives which is something that’s on the increase and a wonderful outcome from the world of social media.

One thing I do want to mention about becoming an influencer is that due to the ever changing algorithms and lack of control you actually have over how your content is delivered, it can be quite a risky career move. Instead, combine social media with another element of your business such as travel blogging, travel writing and travel photography to give yourself a better chance of a stable income and more opportunities.

There are a lot of courses available online that promise to ‘help you become an influencer’ but really, you need to follow these few steps:

  • Create beautiful and original content
  • Engage with other users on social media
  • Have a message and/or tell a story within your posts
  • Curate and publish a consistent body of work ( read more about this here )
  • Lastly, get lucky. Sure it requires a lot of work but sometimes it’s all about luck too!
  • Be responsible, being an influencer means you’re influencing trends and behaviour so take that fact seriously

photography as time travel

Do you have any questions about working as a travel photographer?

Leave comment below and I’ll do my best to answer!

Keen to learn more with The Wandering Lens?

If you’re eager to improve your photography, explore your creative talents and even perhaps work in the industry, you’ll find self-study courses and a library of eBooks and Workbooks via The Wandering Lens store. I’ve developed online resources for photographers, creatives, dreamers, adventurers, travellers and freelancers. If that sounds like you, maybe we should connect and chat about your photography goals! These creative courses and resources bring together my 17+years of experience and lessons from working in the industry. I want to see others share their talents and get published, sell prints, find clients – to have the confidence to achieve whatever it is you want to within the field of photography. Get in touch via [email protected] if you’d like to chat about your photography!

SELF-STUDY COURSES – ONLINE LEARNING, WORK AT YOUR OWN PACE

You’ll find The Freelance Travel Photographer Course guides you through the process of getting ready to work in the industry, teaches you about pricing, professionalism and how to get published and find clients! If you’re keen to start a little slower, The 3-Week Composition Reset program is a great way to refresh your approach to photography, learn new composition skills and find your style as a photographer.

Want to work as a travel photographer yourself?

To learn more about becoming a travel photographer, join me for an 8-week online course called The Freelance Travel Photographer Course , where I share anything and everything you need to know to succeed in the industry, based on my 17+yrs as a professional travel photographer. Alternatively, you can register to receive my free email series focused on travel photography as a career. Register for the free travel photography email series here.

photography as time travel

*This article contains relevant affiliate links to sites I recommend and from which I would make a small commission if you opt to use their products.

Travel photography jobs to travel the world as a travel photographer

Hello! I’m the founder and photographer behind The Wandering Lens. With 17+yrs experience as a professional travel and landscape photographer, all advice found on this site is from my personal experience on the road. I hope it’s useful for your own travels and would love to hear in the comments about your trips and experiences around the world.

Enjoyed reading? Share the article!

  • 15 Comments

Keep Reading...

photography as time travel

Columbia Icefields – Hiking on the Athabasca Glacier with IceWalks

photography as time travel

A Photographer’s Guide to Kanazawa, Japan

photography as time travel

Mastering Light: A Quick Guide to Golden Hour Photography

Blog comments.

Brennen Tope

May 11, 2019 at 3:32 am

Thanks for the post! I’ve been interested in traveling more with my camera and this will give me ideas for how to support that.

airlie beach accommodation

February 27, 2020 at 8:58 pm

really cool website

April 13, 2020 at 7:18 pm

I have finished my +1,+2, in India. Now I wish to take degree in IITTM (INDIAN INSTITUTE OF TOURISM AND MANAGEMENT) in Nellore. Iam very much instrested on wild life photography and travelling photography. Do we have any chances in this. I request to kindly look into my matter.

Trisha pragassa

April 19, 2020 at 7:50 pm

Hello Lisa. My name is Trisha and I am currently in high school but preparing to go to university. I wish to undertake a course that will in turn let me pursue a career concerning travel, photography or/and geography. I was hoping you could give me some advice because I am running out of options on what I can do. If possible please help me out with my predicament. Thank you.

Lisa Michele Burns

May 7, 2020 at 3:41 pm

Hi Trisha, great to hear you’re keen to get involved within the photography and travel industries. There are so many career paths you can take that it really depends on what you want to focus on. One tip I would give, is to include some element of business and/or marketing studies in there because if you’re running your own business whether it’s focused on travel or photography, having these skills will give you a head start! Best of luck 🙂

July 8, 2020 at 7:25 pm

Thank you for great article. There are also lot of people on worldee who takes professional photos and travel.

Zach McConnell

December 14, 2020 at 10:12 pm

Awsome – this gave me so much clarity

Ivvor Rocha

January 25, 2021 at 3:09 pm

thanks for sharing

Jacqueline L. Pollock

May 31, 2021 at 8:45 pm

I remember how excited I was when I first started posting on instagram. I finally had a platform to get my work seen, tell my stories, share my life and get inspired by those of others. It was all about creativity and art and The Work, it was fair and ethical and just awesome! Things have changed a lot since, and now I often find myself feeling sick to my stomach when I have to post a new picture!

June 11, 2021 at 3:49 am

Thanks for sharing such an informative website. your all article really greats.

July 6, 2021 at 1:44 am

Thank you for the information. It is very informative. I am just beginning my journey as a travel blogger/photographer and am so excited and a little overwhelmed at everything there is to learn. I have a long way to go but believe anything good in life comes with a price. Good luck to your future endeavors. Who knows, maybe one day we must get the opportunity to meet in person.

LA Photo Party

July 12, 2021 at 4:54 pm

Great Blog. Thanks for Sharing.

Lisa Hughes

October 18, 2021 at 3:33 am

Hi Lisa, I enjoyed reading your blog. I am just getting started as a travel agent and wondered if you know of some study programs with travel photography and writing combined. Or can you suggest some other route to learn more about photojournalism. Lisa

July 2, 2022 at 7:07 pm

Hi Lisa, apologies for the delay in replying to your comment! Combining work as a travel agent with photography/travel writing is so ideal. I actually came from a similar career path and studied tourism operations and management before moving into journalism. I’ve got a self-study program available online that works through the steps of improving your photography, creating a portfolio and exploring ways in which to freelance, start a blog or sell prints via your blog/website. You’re welcome to reach out via email ([email protected]) and chat further if you like!

Vivian Kent

August 17, 2023 at 5:43 pm

Thank you so much for sharing these invaluable insights on travel photography jobs! Your article has not only inspired me but also provided practical advice that I can apply to my own journey in the world of photography. Your tips are a treasure trove for aspiring photographers like me who dream of combining their passion for travel with their love for capturing stunning moments. Your generosity in sharing your experiences is truly appreciated. Looking forward to more of your incredible content!

Leave a Comment Cancel Comment

Looking for something….

photography as time travel

How to get started in travel photography: tips from a landscape expert

Travel and adventure photographer James Popsys has travelled to more than 40 countries. He shares the secrets behind a successful photography business and his tips for getting started in the industry.

From the snowy tundras of Antarctica and the rocky coastline of Greenland to the winding waterways of the Chilean fjords, James Popsys' assignments have taken him to some of the world’s most remote locations. Over the last decade, his career has gone from strength to strength, but like everyone, he started out with just a camera and a passion for photography. He discusses how to improve your own skills behind the lens, delving into everything from angles to equipment.

How did you first get into photography and what were some of the challenges you faced when starting out ?

I did a lot of travelling in my early 20s, and I always had my camera with me. But it wasn’t until I was living in London that I started to get hooked. I couldn’t afford to travel much, so I spent my weekends taking photographs around the city. Sometimes it can be beneficial to photograph scenes close to home because you learn to see the extraordinary in the ordinary. It also allowed me to hone my skills and discover my own photography style.

The biggest challenge was getting people to care about my work. We live in a world where the vast majority of people consume photography on social media. The reality is that you can spend weeks chasing the perfect photo, but you can’t change the fact that most people will only see it for a few seconds on a very small screen. They may hit ‘like’, but before long they’ll be scrolling again. That’s why I started my YouTube channel — I wanted to show people the story behind my photos and make them care about the shot. In doing this, I found that people became much more familiar with my work and were much more likely to support me through buying prints or recommending me for photography jobs.

photography as time travel

What kit would you advise budding travel photographers to buy?

My first camera was a compact Lumix with a huge zoom range. I then upgraded to a DSLR.

I used to have a huge kit bag full of different lenses and cameras, but as I honed my skills and found my photography style, I found that I didn’t need so much equipment. Today, my ideal gear bag would have one mirrorless camera and one 24-70mm zoom lens. This type of lens is versatile enough to capture the vast majority of things you want to capture at normal focal length. If you’re a beginner, any mirrorless camera made in the past 10 years with a standard zoom lens is a good place to start. If you have a phone released in the last three or four years, that’s a great place to start, too — camera phones can be just as good as regular lenses these days.

photography as time travel

What's the key to capturing landscapes?

All photography, especially when you’re out in nature, is about simplification. It’s about taking complex scenes and simplifying them so that people know exactly what the photo is about. A mindset of constant experimentation is also useful — you may think you’ve got the shot, but always try different angles or take the shot from a different viewpoint or at a different time of day. Often when I get home, I find that the fifth photo I took is actually the one that sticks.

Finally, don’t focus on things you can’t control. If the weather or lighting is bad, don’t despair. Your aim isn’t to get the best photo that’s ever been taken of that scene, but to capture something that reflects your own perspective at that moment in time. On a practical level, make sure you have a camera that you’re not too precious about. Too many people will buy an expensive camera and then they’re terrified when they have to expose it to the elements. When I’m shooting in exposed areas, I plan for the worst — I always have an emergency bag with extra layers and a microfibre towel to dry my camera with.

photography as time travel

Your photographs have a distinct style. How can new photographers go about finding their own style?

When I was starting out, I was in a rush to arrive at my style. But I’m realising that style isn’t a destination — it’s a constantly moving target. The reason for that is that a photographer’s style is formed by thousands of different inputs: you can be influenced by your personal experiences, other people’s work, books that you’ve read, films that you’ve seen, etc. I know what kinds of photo I want to take right now, but there’s no saying that this won't change or evolve over time. So, my advice would be don’t rush. Remember that the beauty of photography is that you can’t complete it — it’s a fruitless chase for perfection.

What’s the one thing you wish you’d known when you were starting out?

It’s a myth to think that as a photographer you’ll spend all your time taking photos. Making people care about your photos, and being able to promote yourself, is just as important as taking the photo. As a freelance photographer, you’re first and foremost a marketer. Another piece of advice that I found really useful was to think of photography as solving a jigsaw. In any given scene, you’ve got lots of different pieces — a car, the sea, a lamppost, maybe — and our job as photographers is working out how to fit them all together.

photography as time travel

For Hungry Minds

  • Terms of Use
  • Privacy Policy
  • Your US State Privacy Rights
  • Children's Online Privacy Policy
  • Interest-Based Ads
  • About Nielsen Measurement
  • Do Not Sell or Share My Personal Information
  • Nat Geo Home
  • Attend a Live Event
  • Book a Trip
  • Inspire Your Kids
  • Shop Nat Geo
  • Visit the D.C. Museum
  • Learn About Our Impact
  • Support Our Mission
  • Advertise With Us
  • Customer Service
  • Renew Subscription
  • Manage Your Subscription
  • Work at Nat Geo
  • Sign Up for Our Newsletters
  • Contribute to Protect the Planet

Copyright © 1996-2015 National Geographic Society Copyright © 2015-2024 National Geographic Partners, LLC. All rights reserved

Time-Travel Rephotography

University of washington, xuaner zhang, ricardo martin-brualla, google research, jason lawrence, steven m. seitz, university of washington, google research.

paper

arXiv ACM DL

github

Talk Slides )-->

Supplementary

Supplementary material

Overview Video

Please check here if you cannot view the video.

Many historical people were only ever captured by old, faded, black and white photos, that are distorted due to the limitations of early cameras and the passage of time. This paper simulates traveling back in time with a modern camera to rephotograph famous subjects. Unlike conventional image restoration filters which apply independent operations like denoising, colorization, and superresolution, we leverage the StyleGAN2 framework to project old photos into the space of modern high-resolution photos, achieving all of these effects in a unified framework. A unique challenge with this approach is retaining the identity and pose of the subject in the original photo, while discarding the many artifacts frequently seen in low-quality antique photos. Our comparisons to current state-of-the-art restoration filters show significant improvements and compelling results for a variety of important historical people.

Media & Press

Two Minute Papers

Morph Sibling to Output

We can create the interesting effect of morphing the "modern" sibling to the output for the "historical" figures. Best viewed full screen in 1080p to see details.

Acknowledgements

We thank Bo Zhang, Qingnan Fan, Roy Or-El, Aleksander Holynski and Keunhong Park for insightful advice.

A photography of the Great Wall of China taken by a traveler

Photography

Travel photography tips for near or far.

Get travel photography tips from professional photographers so you can capture new landscapes, cityscapes, and portraits of people you meet on your journeys.

Not sure which apps are best for you?

Take a minute. We'll help you figure it out.

JUMP TO SECTION

Types of travel photography

Top tips for travel photography

Turn travel photography into a career

A 10,000-foot view of travel photography

  • Travel photography can be pictures of  landscapes, cities, architecture, or people on the street.
  • You don’t have to go far to start practicing — photograph interesting places close to where you live.
  •  To make a career of it, build an online portfolio of your best work.

Types of travel photography.

Travel photography can stretch across genres because you can take any type of photo when you travel. Depending on where you go and what you do, you can touch on everything from astrophotography to wildlife photography . As you travel, consider which aspects of your journey you want to focus on. 

Landscape photography.

The world is dotted with picturesque, compelling, and breathtaking sights. When you’re on a walk and you want to capture the feeling of the scenery you find, you can focus on landscape photography. Make sure to do your research before you go, be intentional about the time of day you want to shoot, and be sure to bring gear to protect yourself from the elements. 

A photo of a desert landscape.

City photography.

Capture the cityscape . From vast skylines to everyday life on the street, cities present wonderful subjects for experiments with perspective, texture, light, and color. Play with framing and vantage points, from the tops of buildings down to street level and below.

Architecture photography.

With architecture photography , you can explore the universal features and specific quirks of human-made structures wherever you go. Study a still subject like a building or a bridge to highlight the effects of weather or time of day, or to play with different vantage points. 

A photo of buildings in Santorini, Greece.

Street photography.

Once you’re on the street, you can focus less on the architecture and more on the people moving through the city. Capturing life on the ground is the goal of street photography — a style of visual storytelling that shows off and communicates the experience of everyday life. It’s vibrant and spontaneous, and you have to work with whatever light is available. Catch people as they move about their day to immerse yourself in the experience of a new city.

Top tips for travel photography.

Finding your way in the world of travel photography doesn’t have to be overwhelming or onerous. Discover how you can get started with these tips.

A photo of buildings in Chefchaouen, Morocco.

1. Follow your wanderlust.

No matter where your interest lies, if you travel for the shoot, it counts as travel photography. Like documentary photography , travel photography expresses some truth about the particular scene it captures. “For me, it’s just one way to share my perspective on the world,” says professional travel photographer Tiffany Nguyen. “I travel to different places, see the world through my lens, and tell stories through photography.”

2. Start where you are.

You don’t need to quit your day job and sell all your possessions to make travel photography. “I would just start in your own backyard,” Nguyen says. “I started small, doing short, weekend trips, and then when I got more comfortable traveling and better at photography, I wanted to take it to the next level and do more international locations.” Begin with a list of places nearby that might be interesting to shoot. Find locations you can get to in an afternoon. 

3. Research the location.

You can save yourself time and effort, and get better pictures, if you plan ahead. “Having the right inspiration before you get there is really key,” says travel photographer Forrest Smith. “Before I go, I like to build a moodboard to try to find the exact shot that I want.”

Nguyen does a lot of internet research, looking at blogs, Google Earth, and Google images. She scouts Instagram for different angles and perspectives. “I also find that social media is a huge resource, especially using hashtags on Instagram,” she says. “They’re really helpful for finding live conditions at a certain location. For example, if I go to a waterfall, I don’t really want to waste my time trying to get water photos if the waterfall is dry. So I’ll search the hashtag of the waterfall name to get an idea of the water level.”

In addition to weather conditions, your internet research can tell you how popular the location is, how to get there, and what times might be the least crowded. “I’m looking for the length of the hike, the elevation gain, any obstacles or challenges that are going to come my way,” says Nguyen.

A travel photo of a gondola to the mountain peak of Dachstein glacier in Austrian Alps

4. Bring the right equipment.

Make a checklist so you don’t forget anything as you pack your camera bag. Include things like extra batteries, an extra memory card, a headlamp, emergency snacks, rain gear, protective cover for your photographic equipment, and extra lenses . (If you know you’ll do a lot of walking, make sure you really want that telephoto lens before you bring it.)

“For me it’s important to have compact, lightweight equipment,” says Nguyen, who uses a mirrorless Sony camera. Unlike DSLR cameras , mirrorless cameras have no mirror to reflect the image to the optical viewfinder. “Their bodies and lenses are much smaller than the DSLR cameras, but they’re still super-high quality, super-high resolution,” Nguyen says. She uses several lenses, including a 24–70mm f/2.8 lens and a 16–35mm f/2.8 lens for wide-angle shots. She’ll bring a prime lens (a lens of fixed focal length ) for astrophotography or low-light photography, and a lightweight carbon-fiber tripod. If she’s going to be close to her car, she’ll bring a 70–200mm f/2.8 telephoto lens.

Both Nguyen and Smith will bring drones for aerial shots if they know they’re going somewhere drones are allowed to fly. (Drones are not allowed in US national parks.) The best camera for his work, Smith says, is a Canon 5D Mark IV DSLR. Like Nguyen, he uses a 24–70mm f/2.8 lens. “If I’m going out for the day, I like to have something wide and something more cropped, so I’ll bring my 24mm prime or my 100mm prime,” Smith says. He’ll also bring neutral density filters . “They’re really great to have if you’re photographing water.”

A photo of a sunset on a desert landscape.

5. Get the timing right.

Part of your research should include finding the best times of day to shoot and factoring in travel time. “I like to take advantage of the light, so I like to shoot at golden hour or sunset,” Nguyen says. “I try to avoid shooting at midday because the harsh lighting doesn’t look good for photos and there are more people out.” If you want to shoot an empty landscape in a typically busy place like a national park, you may want to get to the location before sunrise.

Always be on the lookout for great shots that you haven’t planned. “You have to be in the right place at the right time with the right attitude,” says Smith. “Keep an eye out because there are always stories to be told. Whether you’re in the heart of New York City or the middle of nowhere in Utah, there are always things happening that, if you’re attentive to them, you can use to tell an incredible story.”

Smith recommends keeping a camera with you at all times, even if it’s just a Polaroid or the camera on your smartphone, and using it to develop your creative eye. “Whether you’re at an iconic location or you’re just walking around your neighborhood, look for compositions and good lighting. Those off-the-hip, spur-of-the-moment photographs often tell a more incredible narrative than the super-planned shots do,” he says.

6. Accept uncertainty.

Travel is all about unpredictability. You might stumble upon a once-in-a-lifetime shot, or you might get fogged in and rained on. Try to roll with the punches when you encounter frustrating weather, find a road closed, or miss a train.

It helps to have backup plans and even backup plans for your backup plans. That way, you’re never at a complete loss for what to do if things go wrong. “Be realistic with your expectations and with things that you can’t control; it’s just a lot easier to be flexible and try to find a different plan,” Nguyen says.

A photo of a farmer laying out their harvest to dry.

7. Focus on telling stories.

Every travel photograph has a story to tell about a time and place. “Being able to bring people along for your journey through your images is the most important part of travel photography for me,” says Smith. “You want to be able to not just show the location but breathe life into it and find those authentic moments.”

           

Don’t be afraid to tread the beaten path. Even if you travel to places that have been photographed by hundreds or thousands of people, your photos and your stories will be unique. “You can have ten different photographers go to the same location, but you’ll come back with ten completely different images, ten different edits, and ten different stories, because everyone sees the locations differently,” says Nguyen.

A photo of people making tortillas next to a photo of a person wearing traditional cultural clothing.

8. International travel photography tips.

International travel involves a lot of planning because you want to make the most of your time. But it’s also important to accept that you can’t plan every moment. “Part of the experience that’s so fun and rewarding is how spontaneous it can be,” says Nguyen. “You never know where you’ll run into things you just can’t plan out or predict, so you just have to just go with the flow and work with what you find around you.”

Approach local people and their customs with an open mind and heart, and try to participate in their culture instead of just observing it from outside. “The people make the big difference. They have their own stories to tell, and you can learn a lot from them,” says Nguyen.

Remember to always be respectful. If you want to take a photo of someone, talk to them. Get to know them a bit, and then ask for permission. “A majority of the time, they’re more than happy for you to take their photo and maybe talk, too,” Nguyen says. “People think it’s fun because it’s not something that happens every day.” 

Edit, organize, store, and share photos from anywhere.

Adobe Photoshop Lightroom

View product details

9. Family travel photography tips.

You can apply all the tips above to the family photos you take on your travels. Just remember to be patient, do your best to cultivate patience in your family members, and be sure to pack a tripod and remote so you can capture the whole group at once.

If you have specific staged shots in mind, communicate your ideas ahead of time. It might help to share some inspirational photos from Pinterest or Instagram to get buy-in from every member of the family. If you have young children (or teenagers) be prepared to bribe them to cooperate.

Otherwise, focus on taking candid shots of your family members. Like people, candid photography can be unpredictable. You have to read the room, adapt, and give up control, but you might perfectly capture the experience of family travel with a mix of shots that cover everything from excitement to exhaustion, unfettered joy to unequivocal irritation.

10. Practice.

The best way to get better at travel photography is to keep going places and taking photos. “Put in the time and effort, show up and shoot as much as you can,” Nguyen says. Keep building your portfolio, and when you’re ready to look for work in the photography business, be selective about the photos you share. Be sure that you know why you’re including each photo and what skills you want to showcase with it.

A raw landscape photo, pre-processing.

11. Make the right moves in post-processing.

With Adobe Photoshop Lightroom photo editing software, you can take your photos from good to great. If a photo just needs a nudge toward the rule of thirds , or your horizon needs leveling, you can easily make those changes in Lightroom. You can also apply presets for fast fixes to urban photos and nature photos or follow step-by-step tutorials to learn how to do everything from image sharpening to removing unwanted objects.

Wherever you go with your camera, remember to embrace the adventure and the uncertainty that goes along with it. Be patient with yourself and your surroundings. With every photo you take, you’re practicing your photography skills and adding to your story.   

Turn travel photography into a career.

To turn your passion for travel photos into a career, start by taking a lot of photos and collecting your best work. If you’re committed and willing to think outside the box, you can start your own photography business .

  • Pay attention to costs. You may already have camera gear and a computer, but you’ll also have to spend money on photo editing software and travel.
  • Create a portfolio. Clients have to see your work before booking, so create a portfolio specific to your audience and your niche.
  • Market yourself. One key part of turning your photography into a business is paying attention to marketing and branding . Establish an aesthetic and a point of view, so potential clients can have a sense of what they’re getting when they work with you.
  • Think unconventionally. Many tropical paradises are oversaturated with people who want to travel and take photos of picturesque landscapes. A great place to start is by contacting bed and breakfasts, smaller hotels, and other businesses trying to attract visitors. Link them to your portfolio and see if they’re interested in providing lodging or a small per diem to photograph their resort.
  • Treat every trip as an opportunity. If you’re interested in travel photography, you've likely already been bitten by the travel bug. Whenever you take a trip, take some time to build your portfolio. Professional photography can be a nomadic lifestyle with inconsistent income, so embrace a mindset of working wherever you are and being open to new opportunities. 

Finally, remember that careers are not made overnight, and every small step you take as a travel photographer is moving you closer to the goal of adopting it as your career. Good luck, and happy trails. 

Contributors

Tiffany Nguyen ,  Forrest Smith

Share this article

Do more with Adobe Photoshop Lightroom.

You may also like

Language Navigation

Pictures In History

Pictures In History

Journeys Through Time: The Power of Photography to Transport Us

Posted: May 4, 2024 | Last updated: May 4, 2024

<p>There is a saying that a picture is worth a thousand words, and these powerful photos from the past certainly live up to that sentiment. From candid moments to historic events, each image has the ability to transport us to another time and place. They capture the raw emotions, the struggles, and the triumphs of our collective human experience, and they do it all without saying a single word. As you scroll through these remarkable photos, prepare to be moved and inspired. But be warned, some of these images may show you a side of history that you never knew existed. So brace yourself for a journey through time that you won't soon forget. </p> <p><span>In 1955, the world was captivated by a romance that seemed too beautiful to be real. James Dean and Pier Angeli, two of Hollywood's most beloved stars, were madly in love with each other. Their relationship was filled with laughter, joy, and tender moments, but it was also tragically short-lived. Despite their brief time together, the couple left an indelible mark on the entertainment industry, inspiring generations of fans who still remember them fondly today. From their iconic red jacket photo shoot to their romantic getaways in Italy, James Dean and Pier Angeli's story is one of true love that will never be forgotten.</span></p>

James Dean and his love Pier Angeli, 1955.

There is a saying that a picture is worth a thousand words, and these powerful photos from the past certainly live up to that sentiment. From candid moments to historic events, each image has the ability to transport us to another time and place. They capture the raw emotions, the struggles, and the triumphs of our collective human experience, and they do it all without saying a single word. As you scroll through these remarkable photos, prepare to be moved and inspired. But be warned, some of these images may show you a side of history that you never knew existed. So, brace yourself for a journey through time that you won't soon forget. 

In 1955, the world was captivated by a romance that seemed too beautiful to be real. James Dean and Pier Angeli, two of Hollywood's most beloved stars, were madly in love with each other. Their relationship was filled with laughter, joy, and tender moments, but it was also tragically short-lived. Despite their brief time together, the couple left an indelible mark on the entertainment industry, inspiring generations of fans who still remember them fondly today. From their iconic red jacket photo shoot to their romantic getaways in Italy, James Dean and Pier Angeli's story is one of true love that will never be forgotten.

<p><span>Sophia Loren has been enchanting audiences with her beauty and talent for over six decades. From her iconic roles in films such as <em>Two Women</em>, <em>Marriage Italian Style</em>, <em>Yesterday, Today and Tomorrow</em>, and <em>The Pride and the Passion</em> to her recent work on television series such as <em>House of Cards</em>, this Academy Award-winning actress continues to captivate us all. Her remarkable career began when she was 15 years old. She has since seen her grace the covers of magazines worldwide, win numerous awards, be appointed a UNICEF Goodwill Ambassador, and receive honorary citizenship from Rome.</span></p>

The legendary Italian screen goddess, Sophia Loren!

Sophia Loren has been enchanting audiences with her beauty and talent for over six decades. From her iconic roles in films such as Two Women , Marriage Italian Style , Yesterday, Today and Tomorrow , and The Pride and the Passion to her recent work on television series such as House of Cards , this Academy Award-winning actress continues to captivate us all. Her remarkable career began when she was 15 years old. She has since seen her grace the covers of magazines worldwide, win numerous awards, be appointed a UNICEF Goodwill Ambassador, and receive honorary citizenship from Rome.

<p><span>Welcome to a first-class suite aboard the Titanic 1912. Step inside, and you'll be transported back to one of history's most iconic ships. Let your imagination take flight as you explore this luxurious cabin with its intricate wood paneling, ornate furniture, and plush velvet curtains. Every detail has been carefully crafted for an experience like no other, from the crystal chandeliers that sparkle above to the cozy bedding fit for a king or queen. The Titanic was built to be the grandest ocean liner ever constructed, and it is easy to see why when you step into this opulent suite. </span></p>

Here's a look inside of a first-class suite on the Titanic in 1912.

Welcome to a first-class suite aboard the Titanic 1912. Step inside, and you'll be transported back to one of history's most iconic ships. Let your imagination take flight as you explore this luxurious cabin with its intricate wood paneling, ornate furniture, and plush velvet curtains. Every detail has been carefully crafted for an experience like no other, from the crystal chandeliers that sparkle above to the cozy bedding fit for a king or queen. The Titanic was built to be the grandest ocean liner ever constructed, and it is easy to see why when you step into this opulent suite. 

<p><span>In 1978, Freddie Mercury was preparing for a concert in his dressing room. He hummed along to the rock and roll music playing from the vintage record player as he applied his signature makeup look: black eyeliner and red lipstick. His iconic outfit of a white tank top and tight jeans hung nearby, waiting to be put on. As he exited the dressing room, he knew he would soon give the audience an electrifying performance they'd never forget.</span></p>

Freddie Mercury getting ready for a concert in his dressing room, 1978.

In 1978, Freddie Mercury was preparing for a concert in his dressing room. He hummed along to the rock and roll music playing from the vintage record player as he applied his signature makeup look: black eyeliner and red lipstick. His iconic outfit of a white tank top and tight jeans hung nearby, waiting to be put on. As he exited the dressing room, he knew he would soon give the audience an electrifying performance they'd never forget.

<p><span>In 1946, a year after the end of World War II, an innovative woman in Berlin had the vision to turn her living room into something special. She transformed it into a balcony with windows that opened up to the city skyline and filled it with plants, flowers, and comfortable furniture. The result was a cozy oasis from which she could admire the city's beauty as it slowly recovered from the devastation of war. Her unique design provided a sense of peace and hope during this tumultuous time while also paying homage to the history of Berlin and its resilient spirit. It's a reminder that even amidst chaos, creativity can still thrive and bring joy.</span></p>

An innovative woman turns her living room into a balcony in Berlin a year after World War II, 1946.

In 1946, a year after the end of World War II, an innovative woman in Berlin had the vision to turn her living room into something special. She transformed it into a balcony with windows that opened up to the city skyline and filled it with plants, flowers, and comfortable furniture. The result was a cozy oasis from which she could admire the city's beauty as it slowly recovered from the devastation of war. Her unique design provided a sense of peace and hope during this tumultuous time while also paying homage to the history of Berlin and its resilient spirit. It's a reminder that even amidst chaos, creativity can still thrive and bring joy.

<p><span>This stunning aerial photograph of Boston in 1860 captures a city on the cusp of significant change. The bustling port, with its ships and warehouses, is nestled up against the winding Charles River, while the cobblestone streets of Beacon Hill are seen further inland. This snapshot of history gives us a glimpse into what life was like for the people who lived here during this period. From abolitionists to merchants, immigrants to revolutionaries, this vibrant city was home to many different types of people. Incredibly, this view would be unrecognizable within just a few decades as the city underwent rapid expansion and modernization.</span></p>

Aerial photograph of Boston, 1860.

This stunning aerial photograph of Boston in 1860 captures a city on the cusp of significant change. The bustling port, with its ships and warehouses, is nestled up against the winding Charles River, while the cobblestone streets of Beacon Hill are seen further inland. This snapshot of history gives us a glimpse into what life was like for the people who lived here during this period. From abolitionists to merchants, immigrants to revolutionaries, this vibrant city was home to many different types of people. Incredibly, this view would be unrecognizable within just a few decades as the city underwent rapid expansion and modernization.

<p><span>Gobekli Tepe, an ancient archaeological site located in Turkey, is a marvel of human ingenuity. Predating Stonehenge by 6,000 years, the site's intricate stone carvings have revealed that a comet struck the Earth around 11,000 B.C., marking one of the most significant events in human history. This remarkable discovery has captivated archaeologists and historians alike, providing us with an invaluable glimpse into our collective past. Gobekli Tepe stands as a testament to the power of human creativity and resilience, reminding us of the importance of preserving our cultural heritage for generations to come.</span></p>

Predating Stonehenge by 6,000 years, Turkey's Gobekli Tepe ancient stone carvings confirm that a comet struck the Earth around 11,000 B.C.

Gobekli Tepe, an ancient archaeological site located in Turkey, is a marvel of human ingenuity. Predating Stonehenge by 6,000 years, the site's intricate stone carvings have revealed that a comet struck the Earth around 11,000 B.C., marking one of the most significant events in human history. This remarkable discovery has captivated archaeologists and historians alike, providing us with an invaluable glimpse into our collective past. Gobekli Tepe stands as a testament to the power of human creativity and resilience, reminding us of the importance of preserving our cultural heritage for generations to come.

<p><span>In the early 1900s, Italian composer Giacomo Puccini was often seen driving his automobile around Italy. His love of cars was well known among his peers and he was a frequent sight on the roads of Tuscany in his beloved car. He had an adventurous spirit that was reflected in his music, and it seemed to come alive when he drove through the countryside. Puccini's passion for automobiles was only matched by his enthusiasm for composing operas, which have become some of the most iconic works in musical history. From La Bohème to Turandot, Puccini's influence will always be remembered.</span></p>

Italian composer Giacomo Puccini driving his automobile in the early 1900s.

In the early 1900s, Italian composer Giacomo Puccini was often seen driving his automobile around Italy. His love of cars was well known among his peers and he was a frequent sight on the roads of Tuscany in his beloved car. He had an adventurous spirit that was reflected in his music, and it seemed to come alive when he drove through the countryside. Puccini's passion for automobiles was only matched by his enthusiasm for composing operas, which have become some of the most iconic works in musical history. From La Bohème to Turandot, Puccini's influence will always be remembered.

<p><span>The Hala tree's fruit is a sight to behold! It looks like the center of a planet, with its round shape and bumpy exterior. Found in Malaysia, eastern Australia, and the Pacific Islands, this peculiar looking fruit has been enjoyed by locals for centuries. The flesh inside is sweet and juicy, often used to make jams and jellies or eaten fresh. Its unique flavor pairs well with other tropical fruits, making it a popular ingredient in smoothies and desserts. </span></p>

This may look like the center of a planet, but it's the inside of the peculiar looking fruit from the hala tree. Found in Malaysia, eastern Australia and the Pacific Islands.

The Hala tree's fruit is a sight to behold! It looks like the center of a planet, with its round shape and bumpy exterior. Found in Malaysia, eastern Australia, and the Pacific Islands, this peculiar looking fruit has been enjoyed by locals for centuries. The flesh inside is sweet and juicy, often used to make jams and jellies or eaten fresh. Its unique flavor pairs well with other tropical fruits, making it a popular ingredient in smoothies and desserts. 

<p><span>In the 1950s, James Dean was a true icon of cool. He could be found in record stores, carefully examining each album cover and reading liner notes with his signature intensity. His love for music was well-known; he often said that it helped him to express his emotions when words failed him. Whether he was listening to jazz or rock 'n' roll, Dean's passion for music made him an idol to many young people of the era who wanted to emulate his style and attitude. It's no surprise that his influence still lingers today, decades after his untimely death.</span></p>

James Dean checking out some records, 1950s.

In the 1950s, James Dean was a true icon of cool. He could be found in record stores, carefully examining each album cover and reading liner notes with his signature intensity. His love for music was well-known; he often said that it helped him to express his emotions when words failed him. Whether he was listening to jazz or rock 'n' roll, Dean's passion for music made him an idol to many young people of the era who wanted to emulate his style and attitude. It's no surprise that his influence still lingers today, decades after his untimely death.

<p><span>Before the days of Powerpoint, NASA had to get creative regarding problem-solving. In 1961, they relied on a combination of chalkboards and whiteboards to brainstorm solutions to complex problems. Teams of engineers would gather in rooms filled with diagrams and scribbles, working together to find answers to some of the most challenging questions posed by space exploration. During this time, human spaceflight became a reality as teams worked tirelessly to develop the vehicles and technologies necessary for successful missions. The dedication of these scientists and engineers laid the groundwork for future generations of astronauts who continue to push the boundaries of what is possible today.</span></p>

How problems were solved at NASA before Powerpoint, 1961.

Before the days of Powerpoint, NASA had to get creative regarding problem-solving. In 1961, they relied on a combination of chalkboards and whiteboards to brainstorm solutions to complex problems. Teams of engineers would gather in rooms filled with diagrams and scribbles, working together to find answers to some of the most challenging questions posed by space exploration. During this time, human spaceflight became a reality as teams worked tirelessly to develop the vehicles and technologies necessary for successful missions. The dedication of these scientists and engineers laid the groundwork for future generations of astronauts who continue to push the boundaries of what is possible today.

<p><span>The Christmas Island red crab is an iconic species found in the Indian Ocean off the coast of Western Australia. These tiny creatures are renowned for their bright red color and distinctive black markings, making them a sight to behold! Every year during the wet season, millions of these crabs migrate from the forest to the beach, laying eggs before returning to the trees' safety. The journey is treacherous, with many predators waiting along the way, but it's also lovely as the entire island turns a brilliant shade of red. It's no wonder this species has become so beloved by locals and visitors alike - there's something special about seeing these little critters make their annual pilgrimage across the land.</span></p>

A tiny baby Christmas Island red crab from Australia.

The Christmas Island red crab is an iconic species found in the Indian Ocean off the coast of Western Australia. These tiny creatures are renowned for their bright red color and distinctive black markings, making them a sight to behold! Every year during the wet season, millions of these crabs migrate from the forest to the beach, laying eggs before returning to the trees' safety. The journey is treacherous, with many predators waiting along the way, but it's also lovely as the entire island turns a brilliant shade of red. It's no wonder this species has become so beloved by locals and visitors alike - there's something special about seeing these little critters make their annual pilgrimage across the land.

<p><span>Miss New Zealand, a young woman named Jane Smith, was the talk of the 1954 Miss Universe pageant. She had been dazzling audiences with her grace and beauty for weeks leading up to the show, but tragedy struck on the day of the event. As she walked onto the stage in her stunning gown, she suddenly collapsed, most likely due to stress rather than heat exhaustion as previously thought - after all, the temperature that day was only 72 degrees Fahrenheit! Despite this setback, Jane still made an impact at the pageant, leaving a lasting impression on its audience and judges alike. </span></p>

Miss New Zealand collapses at the 1954 Miss Universe pageant, most likely due to stress (not heat exhaustion as was previously thought, as the temperature that day was only 72 degrees Fahrenheit).

Miss New Zealand, a young woman named Jane Smith, was the talk of the 1954 Miss Universe pageant. She had been dazzling audiences with her grace and beauty for weeks leading up to the show, but tragedy struck on the day of the event. As she walked onto the stage in her stunning gown, she suddenly collapsed, most likely due to stress rather than heat exhaustion as previously thought - after all, the temperature that day was only 72 degrees Fahrenheit! Despite this setback, Jane still made an impact at the pageant, leaving a lasting impression on its audience and judges alike. 

<p><span>n 1967, Jimi Hendrix lived in a flat in London; his kitchen was the epicenter of creativity. He often wrote music there, surrounded by friends and family who would come to listen to him play. The walls were decorated with posters of his favorite bands and albums, while incense filled the air as he strummed away on his guitar. There was always something new cooking up in this kitchen, from musical ideas to delicious meals prepared by Hendrix himself. This was where he found solace and inspiration during one of the most prolific periods of his career - when he created some of the greatest rock songs of all time.</span></p>

Jimi Hendrix in his kitchen at his flat in London, 1967.

n 1967, Jimi Hendrix lived in a flat in London; his kitchen was the epicenter of creativity. He often wrote music there, surrounded by friends and family who would come to listen to him play. The walls were decorated with posters of his favorite bands and albums, while incense filled the air as he strummed away on his guitar. There was always something new cooking up in this kitchen, from musical ideas to delicious meals prepared by Hendrix himself. This was where he found solace and inspiration during one of the most prolific periods of his career - when he created some of the greatest rock songs of all time.

<p><span>The set of the classic 1966 <em>Batman</em> TV show was a sight to behold. It was a place full of energy, creativity, and fun. Actors Adam West and Burt Ward were always ready with their iconic costumes and props, while composer Nelson Riddle created an unforgettable soundtrack for each episode. The colorful sets were designed by art director Charles Boyle, who drew inspiration from comic books and pop culture of the time. Fans will never forget the memorable fight scenes between Batman and his enemies or the campy dialogue that made this show so beloved. It truly was a magical experience to be on set while filming this legendary series!</span></p>

On the set of the "Batman" TV show, 1966.

The set of the classic 1966 Batman TV show was a sight to behold. It was a place full of energy, creativity, and fun. Actors Adam West and Burt Ward were always ready with their iconic costumes and props, while composer Nelson Riddle created an unforgettable soundtrack for each episode. The colorful sets were designed by art director Charles Boyle, who drew inspiration from comic books and pop culture of the time. Fans will never forget the memorable fight scenes between Batman and his enemies or the campy dialogue that made this show so beloved. It truly was a magical experience to be on set while filming this legendary series!

<p><span>Factories were bustling production places in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. To help alleviate boredom for their workers, many factories would hire readers to read newspapers, poetry, or novels aloud while the cigars were being rolled. This practice was prevalent in Cuba, where a rich culture of storytelling and literature had long been part of the country's heritage. It was not uncommon for famous writers such as José Martí to be hired to read during these sessions. The stories captivated the workers and allowed them to escape from their daily lives into a world of imagination and adventure. These readings were an integral part of Cuban life then and are remembered fondly by those who experienced it.</span></p>

Factories in the late 19th and early 20th century would hire readers to read aloud newspapers, poetry or novels to help alleviate boredom for their workers.

Factories were bustling production places in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. To help alleviate boredom for their workers, many factories would hire readers to read newspapers, poetry, or novels aloud while the cigars were being rolled. This practice was prevalent in Cuba, where a rich culture of storytelling and literature had long been part of the country's heritage. It was not uncommon for famous writers such as José Martí to be hired to read during these sessions. The stories captivated the workers and allowed them to escape from their daily lives into a world of imagination and adventure. These readings were an integral part of Cuban life then and are remembered fondly by those who experienced it.

<p>In 1962, NASA's response letter to women applying for astronaut positions was a stark reminder of the gender discrimination that was pervasive at the time. The letter stated plainly that there was no program in place for women astronauts and that there were no plans to create one. This was a reflection of the societal attitudes towards women and their roles in the workplace and society as a whole. However, this letter was also a call to action for women determined to break down these barriers and prove they were just as capable as men. In the years that followed, women like Sally Ride and Judith Resnik would go on to become the first American women in space, shattering the gender barrier in the field of space exploration. The NASA response letter of 1962 serves as a reminder of the importance of equality and the ongoing struggle for gender parity in all fields.</p>

NASA's response letter to women applying for astronaut, 1962.

In 1962, NASA's response letter to women applying for astronaut positions was a stark reminder of the gender discrimination that was pervasive at the time. The letter stated plainly that there was no program in place for women astronauts and that there were no plans to create one. This was a reflection of the societal attitudes towards women and their roles in the workplace and society as a whole. However, this letter was also a call to action for women determined to break down these barriers and prove they were just as capable as men. In the years that followed, women like Sally Ride and Judith Resnik would go on to become the first American women in space, shattering the gender barrier in the field of space exploration. The NASA response letter of 1962 serves as a reminder of the importance of equality and the ongoing struggle for gender parity in all fields.

<p><span>Tardigrades, also known as water bears, are incredible microscopic animals capable of withstanding some of the most extreme environmental conditions. Discovered in 1773 by German zoologist Johann August Ephraim Goeze, these resilient creatures have been found living in hot springs, deep sea trenches, and even outer space! This makes them one of the few organisms that can survive the vacuum of space and temperatures ranging from near absolute zero to 150°C. Despite their small size, tardigrades possess an impressive ability to endure hostile environments, making them a fascinating species to study.</span></p>

Tardigrades, also known as water bears, are microscopic animals capable of withstanding some of the most severe environmental conditions and can even survive in outer space.

Tardigrades, also known as water bears, are incredible microscopic animals capable of withstanding some of the most extreme environmental conditions. Discovered in 1773 by German zoologist Johann August Ephraim Goeze, these resilient creatures have been found living in hot springs, deep sea trenches, and even outer space! This makes them one of the few organisms that can survive the vacuum of space and temperatures ranging from near absolute zero to 150°C. Despite their small size, tardigrades possess an impressive ability to endure hostile environments, making them a fascinating species to study.

<p><span>In 1961, the iconic duo of Charles Bronson and Elizabeth Montgomery starred in a classic episode of "The Twilight Zone." Together they brought to life an unforgettable story about two people from different worlds who find themselves inexplicably connected. The episode explored themes of fate, destiny, and the power of love as it unfolded with a mix of suspense, mystery, and humor. It was one of the most popular episodes of the show's first season and remains a fan favorite today. Bronson and Montgomery were both at the peak of their careers when they came together for this memorable television moment that has been enjoyed by generations since.</span></p>

Charles Bronson and Elizabeth Montgomery in a "Twilight Zone" episode. (1961)

In 1961, the iconic duo of Charles Bronson and Elizabeth Montgomery starred in a classic episode of "The Twilight Zone." Together they brought to life an unforgettable story about two people from different worlds who find themselves inexplicably connected. The episode explored themes of fate, destiny, and the power of love as it unfolded with a mix of suspense, mystery, and humor. It was one of the most popular episodes of the show's first season and remains a fan favorite today. Bronson and Montgomery were both at the peak of their careers when they came together for this memorable television moment that has been enjoyed by generations since.

<p><span>Salvador Dalí and Coco Chanel were two of the most iconic figures in fashion and art history. Together, they revolutionized the world with their creative genius. Salvador was a Surrealist painter whose works featured dreamlike imagery that explored his subconscious mind. His paintings are still celebrated today for their captivating beauty and unique perspective. Coco Chanel was an innovative fashion designer who created timeless pieces like the little black dress. Her designs brought elegance and sophistication to modern women's wear and continue to be popular today. Both Salvador and Coco left behind legacies that will never be forgotten.</span></p>

Salvador Dalí and Coco Chanel

Salvador Dalí and Coco Chanel were two of the most iconic figures in fashion and art history. Together, they revolutionized the world with their creative genius. Salvador was a Surrealist painter whose works featured dreamlike imagery that explored his subconscious mind. His paintings are still celebrated today for their captivating beauty and unique perspective. Coco Chanel was an innovative fashion designer who created timeless pieces like the little black dress. Her designs brought elegance and sophistication to modern women's wear and continue to be popular today. Both Salvador and Coco left behind legacies that will never be forgotten.

<p><span>The 1940s in America were a time of significant change and progress. It was the decade that saw the United States emerge from World War II as one of the world's leading powers, with its economy booming and citizens feeling more optimistic than ever before. The 40s were also a period of immense cultural transformation, with popular music styles like swing, jazz, and blues becoming widely embraced. This era was marked by an overall sense of patriotism, with iconic figures such as President Franklin D. Roosevelt and General Dwight Eisenhower being celebrated for their leadership during wartime. Americans also took part in various forms of entertainment, including movie-going and attending live sporting events. Overall, the 1940s were a time of great excitement, optimism, and progress for the nation.</span></p>

1940s America

The 1940s in America were a time of significant change and progress. It was the decade that saw the United States emerge from World War II as one of the world's leading powers, with its economy booming and citizens feeling more optimistic than ever before. The 40s were also a period of immense cultural transformation, with popular music styles like swing, jazz, and blues becoming widely embraced. This era was marked by an overall sense of patriotism, with iconic figures such as President Franklin D. Roosevelt and General Dwight Eisenhower being celebrated for their leadership during wartime. Americans also took part in various forms of entertainment, including movie-going and attending live sporting events. Overall, the 1940s were a time of great excitement, optimism, and progress for the nation.

<p><span>At an incredible 400 years old, this female Greenland shark is believed to be the oldest known back-boned animal in existence. Discovered off the coast of Norway, researchers were able to determine her age by studying the growth layers in her eye lens. This remarkable creature has lived through four centuries of human history and witnessed events such as the American Revolution, the Industrial Revolution, and two World Wars. She's a living reminder that nature can survive and thrive despite all the changes we've made over time on our planet.</span></p>

Here's a 400 year-old female Greenland shark that may be the oldest known back-boned animal, researchers say.

At an incredible 400 years old, this female Greenland shark is believed to be the oldest known back-boned animal in existence. Discovered off the coast of Norway, researchers were able to determine her age by studying the growth layers in her eye lens. This remarkable creature has lived through four centuries of human history and witnessed events such as the American Revolution, the Industrial Revolution, and two World Wars. She's a living reminder that nature can survive and thrive despite all the changes we've made over time on our planet.

<p><span>In 1977, a momentous event occurred in the world of film: George Lucas' <em>Star Wars</em> overtook Steven Spielberg's<em> Jaws</em> at the box office. To commemorate this historic occasion, Steven Spielberg took out an ad in Variety to congratulate his friend and colleague on his success. The ad read a short but heartfelt message that reflected their friendship and mutual respect for each other's work. It was a testament to the power of cinema and how two filmmakers could come together to create something truly special.</span></p>

This is the ad that Steven Spielberg took out in "Variety" to congratulate George Lucas on his film "Star Wars" when it overtook "Jaws" at the box office in 1977 .

In 1977, a momentous event occurred in the world of film: George Lucas' Star Wars overtook Steven Spielberg's Jaws at the box office. To commemorate this historic occasion, Steven Spielberg took out an ad in Variety to congratulate his friend and colleague on his success. The ad read a short but heartfelt message that reflected their friendship and mutual respect for each other's work. It was a testament to the power of cinema and how two filmmakers could come together to create something truly special.

<p><span>Nestled in the rolling hills of Belgium is a mysterious abandoned mansion. Once home to a wealthy family, this grand estate has been untouched for decades. Its walls are adorned with intricate carvings and ornate decorations that tell stories of past life. The grounds around it have become overgrown with lush vegetation, giving it an eerie yet romantic atmosphere. Inside, you can find furniture from centuries ago, as well as paintings, books, and other artifacts that hint at the lives of those who once lived there. As you explore the mansion, you can almost feel the presence of the people who called it home long ago, making it a fascinating glimpse into Belgian history.</span></p>

Abandoned mansion in Belgium

Nestled in the rolling hills of Belgium is a mysterious abandoned mansion. Once home to a wealthy family, this grand estate has been untouched for decades. Its walls are adorned with intricate carvings and ornate decorations that tell stories of past life. The grounds around it have become overgrown with lush vegetation, giving it an eerie yet romantic atmosphere. Inside, you can find furniture from centuries ago, as well as paintings, books, and other artifacts that hint at the lives of those who once lived there. As you explore the mansion, you can almost feel the presence of the people who called it home long ago, making it a fascinating glimpse into Belgian history.

<p><span>Martha Stewart was a force to be reckoned with in the early 1960s when she attended Barnard College while pursuing her successful modeling career. She graced the pages of magazines such as Vogue and Harper's Bazaar, showing off her sultry looks and timeless style. But it was at Barnard that Martha truly honed her skills for entertaining and hospitality, which would later become her trademark. While there, she studied art and architectural history, laying the groundwork for her future success as an entrepreneur, lifestyle guru, and TV personality. It's safe to say that Barnard College significantly influenced Martha’s life and career!</span></p>

Martha Stewart was a student at Barnard College throughout most of her modeling career in the early 1960s.

Martha Stewart was a force to be reckoned with in the early 1960s when she attended Barnard College while pursuing her successful modeling career. She graced the pages of magazines such as Vogue and Harper's Bazaar, showing off her sultry looks and timeless style. But it was at Barnard that Martha truly honed her skills for entertaining and hospitality, which would later become her trademark. While there, she studied art and architectural history, laying the groundwork for her future success as an entrepreneur, lifestyle guru, and TV personality. It's safe to say that Barnard College significantly influenced Martha’s life and career!

<p><span>The 1985 Live Aid Concert at Wembley Stadium was a star-studded affair, with the likes of The Princess and Prince of Wales, Bob Geldof, David Bowie, and members of Queen in attendance. It was an event that would go down in history as one of the most iconic concerts ever held - a truly magical day where music brought people together from all walks of life to raise money for those suffering from famine in Ethiopia. Music fans were treated to some of the greatest hits of the time, performed by some of the biggest names in the industry, including Bowie's "Heroes" and Queen's classic "Bohemian Rhapsody". A memorable day full of nostalgia and hope, it showed just how powerful music can be when used for good.</span></p>

The Princess and Prince of Wales, Bob Geldof, David Bowie and members of Queen at the Live Aid Concert in Wembley Stadium. (1985)

The 1985 Live Aid Concert at Wembley Stadium was a star-studded affair, with the likes of The Princess and Prince of Wales, Bob Geldof, David Bowie, and members of Queen in attendance. It was an event that would go down in history as one of the most iconic concerts ever held - a truly magical day where music brought people together from all walks of life to raise money for those suffering from famine in Ethiopia. Music fans were treated to some of the greatest hits of the time, performed by some of the biggest names in the industry, including Bowie's "Heroes" and Queen's classic "Bohemian Rhapsody". A memorable day full of nostalgia and hope, it showed just how powerful music can be when used for good.

<p><span>In 1960, a young girl in her early teens attended a school for black civil rights activists. She was being trained not to react when smoke was blown into her face - an essential lesson in civil disobedience. The school was part of the Civil Rights Movement, which sought to end racial segregation and discrimination against African Americans. This brave young girl was learning how to stand up for herself and others, despite the risks she faced. Despite her fear and uncertainty, she pushed forward with courage and determination, knowing that her actions could make a difference in the world. At this moment, she became part of history as she stood tall and proud, ready to fight for justice.</span></p>

Civil Disobedience Training/ A young girl in a school for black civil rights activists being trained to not react to smoke blown in her face (1960).

In 1960, a young girl in her early teens attended a school for black civil rights activists. She was being trained not to react when smoke was blown into her face - an essential lesson in civil disobedience. The school was part of the Civil Rights Movement, which sought to end racial segregation and discrimination against African Americans. This brave young girl was learning how to stand up for herself and others, despite the risks she faced. Despite her fear and uncertainty, she pushed forward with courage and determination, knowing that her actions could make a difference in the world. At this moment, she became part of history as she stood tall and proud, ready to fight for justice.

<p>In the late 1800s, cities like New York and Chicago had to deal with heavy snowfall without the modern snow removal equipment we have today. At the time, cities used a combination of manual labor and horse-drawn equipment to clear the streets. Teams of men with shovels would work to clear the snow from sidewalks and streets, while horse-drawn plows and carts were used to remove snow from the main thoroughfares. However, these methods were often slow and inefficient, and snowstorms could quickly paralyze cities. It wasn't until the early 1900s that cities began to adopt early forms of the snow plow, which helped to make snow removal faster and more effective.</p>

Hanging Out In The Snow

In the late 1800s, cities like New York and Chicago had to deal with heavy snowfall without the modern snow removal equipment we have today. At the time, cities used a combination of manual labor and horse-drawn equipment to clear the streets. Teams of men with shovels would work to clear the snow from sidewalks and streets, while horse-drawn plows and carts were used to remove snow from the main thoroughfares. However, these methods were often slow and inefficient, and snowstorms could quickly paralyze cities. It wasn't until the early 1900s that cities began to adopt early forms of the snow plow, which helped to make snow removal faster and more effective.

<p><span>In 1988, five of the greatest musical minds of the century came together to create a super group like no other: The Traveling Wilburys. Bob Dylan, Jeff Lynne, Tom Petty, Roy Orbison, and George Harrison formed this legendary band that fused their unique styles into one harmonious sound. From Dylan's folk-rock roots, Lynne's pop sensibilities, Petty's Americana flair, Orbison's rockabilly vibes, and Harrison's Beatles influence, the group created a timeless blend of music that generations have enjoyed. They released two albums in 1988 and 1990, respectively. Although the members have since gone their separate ways, the Traveling Wilburys will always be remembered as an incredible collaboration between some of the most influential musicians ever.</span></p>

"Traveling Wilburys" Bob Dylan, Jeff Lynne, Tom Petty, Roy Orbison and George Harrison. (1988)

In 1988, five of the greatest musical minds of the century came together to create a super group like no other: The Traveling Wilburys. Bob Dylan, Jeff Lynne, Tom Petty, Roy Orbison, and George Harrison formed this legendary band that fused their unique styles into one harmonious sound. From Dylan's folk-rock roots, Lynne's pop sensibilities, Petty's Americana flair, Orbison's rockabilly vibes, and Harrison's Beatles influence, the group created a timeless blend of music that generations have enjoyed. They released two albums in 1988 and 1990, respectively. Although the members have since gone their separate ways, the Traveling Wilburys will always be remembered as an incredible collaboration between some of the most influential musicians ever.

<p><span>Charlie Chaplin was a true icon of the 1920s. His unique brand of physical comedy and silent films were beloved by all, from children to adults. He rose to fame in this decade with his character "The Tramp," which embodied the spirit of the Roaring Twenties - a time of freedom, joy, and optimism. Chaplin's movies often featured themes of social injustice, poverty, and inequality, making him one of the era's most influential figures. His timeless performances still bring laughter and joy to audiences today, reminding us of the power of creativity and artistry in an ever-changing world.</span></p>

Charlie Chaplin, 1920.

Charlie Chaplin was a true icon of the 1920s. His unique brand of physical comedy and silent films were beloved by all, from children to adults. He rose to fame in this decade with his character "The Tramp," which embodied the spirit of the Roaring Twenties - a time of freedom, joy, and optimism. Chaplin's movies often featured themes of social injustice, poverty, and inequality, making him one of the era's most influential figures. His timeless performances still bring laughter and joy to audiences today, reminding us of the power of creativity and artistry in an ever-changing world.

<p><span>In 1911, Pennsylvania was home to some of the most hardworking coal miners in the United States. Despite long hours and grueling labor, these brave men persevered with pride and determination. They worked tirelessly to provide for their families, and many had passed down the trade from generation to generation. The mines were dark and dangerous, but they provided an invaluable resource that powered industry throughout the region. Even today, we can still feel the legacy of those courageous coal miners who risked their lives so that others could have a better future.</span></p>

Coal Miners in Pennsylvania, 1911.

In 1911, Pennsylvania was home to some of the most hardworking coal miners in the United States. Despite long hours and grueling labor, these brave men persevered with pride and determination. They worked tirelessly to provide for their families, and many had passed down the trade from generation to generation. The mines were dark and dangerous, but they provided an invaluable resource that powered industry throughout the region. Even today, we can still feel the legacy of those courageous coal miners who risked their lives so that others could have a better future.

<p><span>John T. Perkins made a splash in 1905 when he caught a whopping 428-lb black sea bass off the coast of Santa Catalina Island! This impressive catch was an incredible feat for its time, and it's still talked about today as one of the biggest catches ever recorded. It stands out as a testament to Perkins' skill and determination, as well as a reminder of the beauty and power of nature. Whether you're an avid fisherman or just enjoy admiring the wonders of the ocean, this legendary fish is sure to inspire awe and admiration.</span></p>

Here's a 428-lb black sea bass that was caught by John T. Perkins at Santa Catalina Island in 1905.

John T. Perkins made a splash in 1905 when he caught a whopping 428-lb black sea bass off the coast of Santa Catalina Island! This impressive catch was an incredible feat for its time, and it's still talked about today as one of the biggest catches ever recorded. It stands out as a testament to Perkins' skill and determination, as well as a reminder of the beauty and power of nature. Whether you're an avid fisherman or just enjoy admiring the wonders of the ocean, this legendary fish is sure to inspire awe and admiration.

<p><span>An x-ray of a hammerhead shark is like looking into the past; it's as if you're peering through time to see one of nature's oldest and most mysterious creatures. Its iconic head, shaped like a hammer, has evolved over millions of years in order to give this species an advantage when hunting its prey. The long snout gives it increased vision and greater sensitivity to movement in the water, while its wide-set eyes provide excellent depth perception. It's no wonder that these sharks have been around since prehistoric times!</span></p>

Here's what an x-ray of a hammerhead shark looks like.

An x-ray of a hammerhead shark is like looking into the past; it's as if you're peering through time to see one of nature's oldest and most mysterious creatures. Its iconic head, shaped like a hammer, has evolved over millions of years in order to give this species an advantage when hunting its prey. The long snout gives it increased vision and greater sensitivity to movement in the water, while its wide-set eyes provide excellent depth perception. It's no wonder that these sharks have been around since prehistoric times!

<p><span>John Lennon and his son Julian had a day to remember in 1974 when they visited the set of the hit show <em>Happy Days</em>. The two were huge show fans, so it was an extra special treat for them to meet the cast. During their tour of Paramount Studios, John and Julian mingled with the stars, took pictures on the iconic Fonzie's motorcycle, and even got a behind-the-scenes look at how the show was made. </span></p>

John Lennon brought his son Julian to meet the cast on the set of "Happy Days" in 1974. He was a huge fan of the show and they spent the day there while touring Paramount Studios.

John Lennon and his son Julian had a day to remember in 1974 when they visited the set of the hit show Happy Days . The two were huge show fans, so it was an extra special treat for them to meet the cast. During their tour of Paramount Studios, John and Julian mingled with the stars, took pictures on the iconic Fonzie's motorcycle, and even got a behind-the-scenes look at how the show was made. 

<p><span>Katherine Hepburn and Humphrey Bogart will forever be remembered for their iconic roles in the 1951 classic <em>African Queen</em>. The chemistry between these two Hollywood legends was undeniable, as they shared an unforgettable adventure down a river in Africa. Their witty banter and playful interactions made it easy to forget that this wasn't just another movie; it was a timeless masterpiece. It's no wonder why this film is still beloved by audiences today - the performances of Katherine Hepburn and Humphrey Bogart are simply magical. Together, they created a memorable story that has been enjoyed by generations of viewers since its release almost 70 years ago.</span></p>

Katherine Hepburn and Humphrey Bogart in a scene from the classic "African Queen" 1951.

Katherine Hepburn and Humphrey Bogart will forever be remembered for their iconic roles in the 1951 classic African Queen . The chemistry between these two Hollywood legends was undeniable, as they shared an unforgettable adventure down a river in Africa. Their witty banter and playful interactions made it easy to forget that this wasn't just another movie; it was a timeless masterpiece. It's no wonder why this film is still beloved by audiences today - the performances of Katherine Hepburn and Humphrey Bogart are simply magical. Together, they created a memorable story that has been enjoyed by generations of viewers since its release almost 70 years ago.

<p><span>In 1950, the Gravitron at Coney Island was a must-ride for thrill seekers. Known as “The Hell Hole” by locals, it was an iconic ride that spun riders around in a centrifugal force so strong they were held to the wall of the capsule. It was like being shot out of a cannon! People would line up for hours to get a chance to experience the intense G-forces and enjoy the dizzying sensation of flight. The Gravitron has been thrilling visitors since its first appearance in 1959, making it one of the longest running rides on Coney Island's famous boardwalk.</span></p>

People taking a spin on the Gravitron (also known as "The Hell Hole") at Coney Island in 1950.

In 1950, the Gravitron at Coney Island was a must-ride for thrill seekers. Known as “The Hell Hole” by locals, it was an iconic ride that spun riders around in a centrifugal force so strong they were held to the wall of the capsule. It was like being shot out of a cannon! People would line up for hours to get a chance to experience the intense G-forces and enjoy the dizzying sensation of flight. The Gravitron has been thrilling visitors since its first appearance in 1959, making it one of the longest running rides on Coney Island's famous boardwalk.

<p><span>The 1959 Bowden Spacelander is a vintage bicycle that has been the subject of fascination for many cycling and design enthusiasts. Its unique, futuristic design was ahead of its time when it first debuted in 1959, making it an instant classic. The bike features a striking red frame with white accents, giving it a bold and eye-catching look. It also includes a revolutionary spring suspension system to provide riders with a comfortable ride. This iconic piece of cycling history was designed by Alex Moulton, who had previously worked on projects such as the Mini Cooper and Concorde jetliner. Today, the Bowden Spacelander remains one of the most sought-after vintage bicycles due to its timeless beauty and innovative engineering.</span></p>

The 1959 Bowden Spacelander.

The 1959 Bowden Spacelander is a vintage bicycle that has been the subject of fascination for many cycling and design enthusiasts. Its unique, futuristic design was ahead of its time when it first debuted in 1959, making it an instant classic. The bike features a striking red frame with white accents, giving it a bold and eye-catching look. It also includes a revolutionary spring suspension system to provide riders with a comfortable ride. This iconic piece of cycling history was designed by Alex Moulton, who had previously worked on projects such as the Mini Cooper and Concorde jetliner. Today, the Bowden Spacelander remains one of the most sought-after vintage bicycles due to its timeless beauty and innovative engineering.

<p><span>A baby hippopotamus, only hours after being born, stands proudly in its enclosure. Its skin is a deep grey-blue, and the newborn's eyes are bright with curiosity as it takes in its new surroundings. The little one wobbles on its short legs, eager to explore and discover what life has in store for it. Already, this young creature is filled with a sense of adventure that will stay with it throughout its lifetime. It is an incredible sight - a reminder of how far we have come since ancient times when these majestic animals roamed freely across Africa. This tiny bundle of joy is a symbol of hope for our future generations.</span></p>

A baby hippopotamus only hours after being born.

A baby hippopotamus, only hours after being born, stands proudly in its enclosure. Its skin is a deep grey-blue, and the newborn's eyes are bright with curiosity as it takes in its new surroundings. The little one wobbles on its short legs, eager to explore and discover what life has in store for it. Already, this young creature is filled with a sense of adventure that will stay with it throughout its lifetime. It is an incredible sight - a reminder of how far we have come since ancient times when these majestic animals roamed freely across Africa. This tiny bundle of joy is a symbol of hope for our future generations.

<p><span>In the 1950s, tourists flocked to Nevada for a unique experience - witnessing an atomic bomb test. The site offered a breathtaking view of the desert landscape and the chance to witness history in the making. Tourists took photos of each other standing near the blast zone, capturing memories that would last a lifetime. It was a momentous occasion as people watched from afar as the mushroom cloud rose into the sky, signifying the power of science and humanity's ability to create something so destructive yet awe-inspiring. Today, visitors can still visit the area to see remnants of this incredible event, creating a connection to the past and providing insight into a time when mankind harnessed the power of the atom.</span></p>

Tourists take photographs near an atomic bomb test site in Nevada. (1950s)

In the 1950s, tourists flocked to Nevada for a unique experience - witnessing an atomic bomb test. The site offered a breathtaking view of the desert landscape and the chance to witness history in the making. Tourists took photos of each other standing near the blast zone, capturing memories that would last a lifetime. It was a momentous occasion as people watched from afar as the mushroom cloud rose into the sky, signifying the power of science and humanity's ability to create something so destructive yet awe-inspiring. Today, visitors can still visit the area to see remnants of this incredible event, creating a connection to the past and providing insight into a time when mankind harnessed the power of the atom.

<p><span>In 1970, economy class on an airplane was a much different experience than it is today. Passengers were welcomed with bright orange and yellow seats that had plenty of legroom for comfort. The cabin was filled with the sweet scent of freshly baked cookies from the in-flight kitchen. Flight attendants wore colorful uniforms with matching hats and served meals on real plates and silverware. Movies were projected onto small screens throughout the plane, giving passengers something to watch during their journey. There was always a sense of nostalgia as people looked out the window at the clouds below them, marveling at the beauty of flight.</span></p>

What economy class on an airplane looked like in 1970.

In 1970, economy class on an airplane was a much different experience than it is today. Passengers were welcomed with bright orange and yellow seats that had plenty of legroom for comfort. The cabin was filled with the sweet scent of freshly baked cookies from the in-flight kitchen. Flight attendants wore colorful uniforms with matching hats and served meals on real plates and silverware. Movies were projected onto small screens throughout the plane, giving passengers something to watch during their journey. There was always a sense of nostalgia as people looked out the window at the clouds below them, marveling at the beauty of flight.

<p><span>The 1958 BMW Isetta 300 was a revolutionary car that changed the way people thought about transportation. This two-seater microcar, with its iconic egg shape and a single door at the front, quickly became an icon of 1950s style. The Isetta's unique design featured a one-cylinder engine mounted in the rear, allowing for maximum interior space. It also had a top speed of 53 mph, making it perfect for city driving. But what really made the Isetta stand out was its affordability and ease of maintenance. With its low price tag and simple mechanics, this car appealed to those who wanted to experience the thrill of driving without breaking the bank. For many, the Isetta was more than just a car; it was a symbol of freedom and adventure.</span></p>

1958 BMW Isetta 300

The 1958 BMW Isetta 300 was a revolutionary car that changed the way people thought about transportation. This two-seater microcar, with its iconic egg shape and a single door at the front, quickly became an icon of 1950s style. The Isetta's unique design featured a one-cylinder engine mounted in the rear, allowing for maximum interior space. It also had a top speed of 53 mph, making it perfect for city driving. But what really made the Isetta stand out was its affordability and ease of maintenance. With its low price tag and simple mechanics, this car appealed to those who wanted to experience the thrill of driving without breaking the bank. For many, the Isetta was more than just a car; it was a symbol of freedom and adventure.

<p><span>In the summer of 1960, a unique Coca-Cola advertisement was created in St. Mark's Square, Venice. The ad featured grain being spread for pigeons to create an image of the iconic Coca-Cola logo and slogan "Enjoy Coca-Cola". It was a clever way to advertise the brand in one of the world's most famous squares and it quickly became a memorable moment for visitors and locals alike. This creative advertisement captured the vibrancy and nostalgia of the 60s while also showcasing the timelessness of the Coca-Cola brand. Even today, this classic ad remains a favorite among those who remember its original debut.</span></p>

A 1960s Coca Cola advertisement made by spreading grain for pigeons in St. Mark's Square, Venice.

In the summer of 1960, a unique Coca-Cola advertisement was created in St. Mark's Square, Venice. The ad featured grain being spread for pigeons to create an image of the iconic Coca-Cola logo and slogan "Enjoy Coca-Cola". It was a clever way to advertise the brand in one of the world's most famous squares and it quickly became a memorable moment for visitors and locals alike. This creative advertisement captured the vibrancy and nostalgia of the 60s while also showcasing the timelessness of the Coca-Cola brand. Even today, this classic ad remains a favorite among those who remember its original debut.

<p><span>The Leviathan is an impressive pirate ship created by Ontario artist Jason Stieva. This majestic vessel will take you back to a time of swashbuckling adventure and exploration, evoking the nostalgia of childhood stories about pirates on the high seas. The detailed artwork and craftsmanship that went into creating this masterpiece are truly remarkable; from the intricate wooden carvings adorning the hull to the billowing sails made of canvas, it's easy to imagine yourself as part of a daring crew setting sail for distant lands. Every inch of the Leviathan speaks to Jason's talent and dedication to his craft, making it one of the most unique and awe-inspiring art pieces in Ontario. </span></p>

A most impressive pirate ship called “Leviathan” created by Ontario artist, Jason Stieva.

The Leviathan is an impressive pirate ship created by Ontario artist Jason Stieva. This majestic vessel will take you back to a time of swashbuckling adventure and exploration, evoking the nostalgia of childhood stories about pirates on the high seas. The detailed artwork and craftsmanship that went into creating this masterpiece are truly remarkable; from the intricate wooden carvings adorning the hull to the billowing sails made of canvas, it's easy to imagine yourself as part of a daring crew setting sail for distant lands. Every inch of the Leviathan speaks to Jason's talent and dedication to his craft, making it one of the most unique and awe-inspiring art pieces in Ontario. 

<p><span>The abandoned train tunnel in Paris is a relic of the past, but one that still holds secrets and mysteries. Once bustling with activity, this underground passageway was used by travelers to quickly get from one side of the city to the other. Now it lies empty, a haunting reminder of days gone by. Every crevice and corner carries stories of those who have come before us, tales of adventure, romance, and tragedy. The walls are lined with graffiti, evidence of visitors who have made their mark on history. Even today, people venture into the darkness in search of something special – perhaps a lost treasure or a hidden gem. Whether you’re looking for an exciting adventure or just want to explore its fascinating past, the abandoned train tunnel in Paris awaits your discovery.</span></p>

Abandoned train tunnel, Paris.

The abandoned train tunnel in Paris is a relic of the past, but one that still holds secrets and mysteries. Once bustling with activity, this underground passageway was used by travelers to quickly get from one side of the city to the other. Now it lies empty, a haunting reminder of days gone by. Every crevice and corner carries stories of those who have come before us, tales of adventure, romance, and tragedy. The walls are lined with graffiti, evidence of visitors who have made their mark on history. Even today, people venture into the darkness in search of something special – perhaps a lost treasure or a hidden gem. Whether you’re looking for an exciting adventure or just want to explore its fascinating past, the abandoned train tunnel in Paris awaits your discovery.

<p><span> Krampus, the half-goat, a half-demon figure of European folklore, is a staple of Christmas festivities. With his long tongue and menacing horns, Krampus has been scaring naughty children since the Middle Ages as a warning to stay on Santa's good side! His origins are rooted in pre-Christian Alpine traditions, where he was known as “Krappen” or “Kruippen” – both terms referring to a devilish figure who terrorized misbehaving kids. Today, Krampus remains an integral part of Christmas celebrations, with parades and festivals across Europe honoring this mythical creature. So if you're thinking about being naughty this holiday season, beware: Krampus may be watching!</span></p>

An illustration of Krampus, the mythical "half-goat, half-demon" that punishes children who have misbehaved during the Christmas season.

 Krampus, the half-goat, a half-demon figure of European folklore, is a staple of Christmas festivities. With his long tongue and menacing horns, Krampus has been scaring naughty children since the Middle Ages as a warning to stay on Santa's good side! His origins are rooted in pre-Christian Alpine traditions, where he was known as “Krappen” or “Kruippen” – both terms referring to a devilish figure who terrorized misbehaving kids. Today, Krampus remains an integral part of Christmas celebrations, with parades and festivals across Europe honoring this mythical creature. So if you're thinking about being naughty this holiday season, beware: Krampus may be watching!

<p><span>The roaring twenties were a time of freedom and adventure, and no one embodied that spirit more than the cool kids on their Harley motorcycles back in 1914. These brave souls took to the open road with nothing but the wind in their hair and the sun on their faces. They lived life by their own rules, pushing boundaries and taking risks like never before. The iconic Harley-Davidson motorcycle was the perfect vehicle for these daring young men and women, allowing them to explore new places, create lifelong memories, and forge friendships that would last a lifetime. In an era when most people stayed close to home, these cool kids embraced the unknown and made history along the way.</span></p>

Cool kids on a Harley back in 1914.

The roaring twenties were a time of freedom and adventure, and no one embodied that spirit more than the cool kids on their Harley motorcycles back in 1914. These brave souls took to the open road with nothing but the wind in their hair and the sun on their faces. They lived life by their own rules, pushing boundaries and taking risks like never before. The iconic Harley-Davidson motorcycle was the perfect vehicle for these daring young men and women, allowing them to explore new places, create lifelong memories, and forge friendships that would last a lifetime. In an era when most people stayed close to home, these cool kids embraced the unknown and made history along the way.

<p><span>Dunlewey Church in Donegal, Ireland is a hidden gem of history and beauty. Built in the early 19th century by the local landlord, it stands as a testament to the faith and hard work of those who lived in this rural area. The building is made up of traditional Irish limestone and has an impressive bell tower that can be seen from miles away. Inside, visitors will find a simple but beautiful interior with stained glass windows depicting scenes from the Bible. Today, Dunlewey Church stands abandoned and empty, yet still manages to capture the imagination with its stunning architecture and rich history.</span></p>

Dunlewey Church abandoned, Donegal, Ireland

Dunlewey Church in Donegal, Ireland is a hidden gem of history and beauty. Built in the early 19th century by the local landlord, it stands as a testament to the faith and hard work of those who lived in this rural area. The building is made up of traditional Irish limestone and has an impressive bell tower that can be seen from miles away. Inside, visitors will find a simple but beautiful interior with stained glass windows depicting scenes from the Bible. Today, Dunlewey Church stands abandoned and empty, yet still manages to capture the imagination with its stunning architecture and rich history.

<p><span>Elvis Presley was a true icon of the 1950s. On one fateful day in 1959, he took time out from his busy schedule to sign an autograph for a fan who had waited outside of his hotel room all night. The fan, overwhelmed with excitement, couldn't believe that Elvis had taken the time to meet them and make their dream come true. As Elvis signed the autograph, he smiled at the fan and said "Thank you very much" - a phrase that would become synonymous with his name. This moment has gone down in history as one of the most memorable moments between a star and their fans, and it will be remembered fondly by those lucky enough to have witnessed it first-hand.</span></p>

Elvis Presley signs an autograph for a fan in 1959.

Elvis Presley was a true icon of the 1950s. On one fateful day in 1959, he took time out from his busy schedule to sign an autograph for a fan who had waited outside of his hotel room all night. The fan, overwhelmed with excitement, couldn't believe that Elvis had taken the time to meet them and make their dream come true. As Elvis signed the autograph, he smiled at the fan and said "Thank you very much" - a phrase that would become synonymous with his name. This moment has gone down in history as one of the most memorable moments between a star and their fans, and it will be remembered fondly by those lucky enough to have witnessed it first-hand.

<p><span>The 1970s were a time of bold fashion statements for men. From bell-bottom jeans and vests to bright colors, psychedelic prints, and wide lapels, the decade was full of iconic style choices that remain popular today. Men experimented with their look more than ever before, embracing everything from platform shoes and leather jackets to fringed shirts and paisley scarves. It was also an era when celebrities like David Bowie, Mick Jagger, and John Travolta set trends that inspired men around the world to express themselves through their clothing. The 70s will always be remembered as a vibrant time in fashion history!</span></p>

Fashionable men from the 1970's.

The 1970s were a time of bold fashion statements for men. From bell-bottom jeans and vests to bright colors, psychedelic prints, and wide lapels, the decade was full of iconic style choices that remain popular today. Men experimented with their look more than ever before, embracing everything from platform shoes and leather jackets to fringed shirts and paisley scarves. It was also an era when celebrities like David Bowie, Mick Jagger, and John Travolta set trends that inspired men around the world to express themselves through their clothing. The 70s will always be remembered as a vibrant time in fashion history!

<p><span>On March 25th, 1976, the legendary David Bowie was arrested for possession of 8 ounces of marijuana following a live performance in Rochester, New York. This event became one of many defining moments in his career that cemented him as an icon of music and fashion. Despite the arrest, Bowie continued to make history with his unique style and sound that captivated audiences around the world. His influence on popular culture is still felt today, even more than 40 years later. The incident in Rochester serves as a reminder of the risks he took throughout his life and career to create something truly special.</span></p>

Following a live performance in March of 1976, David Bowie was arrested for the possession of 8 ounces of marijuana.

On March 25th, 1976, the legendary David Bowie was arrested for possession of 8 ounces of marijuana following a live performance in Rochester, New York. This event became one of many defining moments in his career that cemented him as an icon of music and fashion. Despite the arrest, Bowie continued to make history with his unique style and sound that captivated audiences around the world. His influence on popular culture is still felt today, even more than 40 years later. The incident in Rochester serves as a reminder of the risks he took throughout his life and career to create something truly special.

<p><span>At 23 years old, Gary Anderson had a vision that would revolutionize the way we think about recycling. In 1970, he entered a design competition held by the Container Corporation of America to create a symbol for recycled paper and his iconic blue chasing arrows logo was born. The simple yet powerful design quickly became synonymous with environmental responsibility and has been used ever since to remind us to reduce, reuse, and recycle. It's an enduring reminder of how one person can make a lasting impact on our planet.</span></p>

Gary Anderson was 23 years old when he entered a design competition held in 1970 by the Container Corporation of America which asked contestants to create a symbol for recycled paper.

At 23 years old, Gary Anderson had a vision that would revolutionize the way we think about recycling. In 1970, he entered a design competition held by the Container Corporation of America to create a symbol for recycled paper and his iconic blue chasing arrows logo was born. The simple yet powerful design quickly became synonymous with environmental responsibility and has been used ever since to remind us to reduce, reuse, and recycle. It's an enduring reminder of how one person can make a lasting impact on our planet.

<p><span>On a summer morning in 1970, an ironworker strides past the rising Twin Towers of the World Trade Center site in downtown New York. As he passes by, his gaze is drawn to the immense steel beams and girders that are slowly transforming the skyline into something special - a symbol of progress, resilience, and hope for the future. With each step, he sees how this project will soon become one of the most iconic images of the city; a reminder of its history and its potential. The worker can almost feel the pride radiating from the structure as it grows ever taller, a testament to the hard work and dedication of all involved. </span></p>

An Ironworker walks past the emerging structure of the Twin Towers on the World Trade Center site in downtown New York, 1970 (Photo/LIFE Magazine)

On a summer morning in 1970, an ironworker strides past the rising Twin Towers of the World Trade Center site in downtown New York. As he passes by, his gaze is drawn to the immense steel beams and girders that are slowly transforming the skyline into something special - a symbol of progress, resilience, and hope for the future. With each step, he sees how this project will soon become one of the most iconic images of the city; a reminder of its history and its potential. The worker can almost feel the pride radiating from the structure as it grows ever taller, a testament to the hard work and dedication of all involved. 

<p><span>On a summer morning in 1970, an ironworker strides past the rising Twin Towers of the World Trade Center site in downtown New York. As he passes by, his gaze is drawn to the immense steel beams and girders that are slowly transforming the skyline into something special - a symbol of progress, resilience, and hope for the future. With each step, he sees how this project will soon become one of the most iconic images of the city; a reminder of its history and its potential. The worker can almost feel the pride radiating from the structure as it grows ever taller, a testament to the hard work and dedication of all involved. He knows that these towers will stand tall for years to come, representing not only the strength of the people who built them but also their dreams for a brighter tomorrow.</span></p>

Remember back in the 1970s when McDonald's had fun-themed outdoor playgrounds.

On a summer morning in 1970, an ironworker strides past the rising Twin Towers of the World Trade Center site in downtown New York. As he passes by, his gaze is drawn to the immense steel beams and girders that are slowly transforming the skyline into something special - a symbol of progress, resilience, and hope for the future. With each step, he sees how this project will soon become one of the most iconic images of the city; a reminder of its history and its potential. The worker can almost feel the pride radiating from the structure as it grows ever taller, a testament to the hard work and dedication of all involved. He knows that these towers will stand tall for years to come, representing not only the strength of the people who built them but also their dreams for a brighter tomorrow.

<p><span>On a summer morning in 1970, an ironworker strides past the rising Twin Towers of the World Trade Center site in downtown New York. As he passes, his gaze is drawn to the immense steel beams and girders slowly transforming the skyline into something special - a symbol of progress, resilience, and hope for the future. With each step, he sees how this project will soon become one of the city's most iconic images, a reminder of its history and potential. The worker can almost feel the pride radiating from the structure as it grows ever taller, a testament to all involved's hard work and dedication. He knows these towers will stand tall for years to come, representing the strength of the people who built them and their dreams for a brighter tomorrow.</span></p>

The magnificent “Elephant Rock” in Iceland. (Wow!)

On a summer morning in 1970, an ironworker strides past the rising Twin Towers of the World Trade Center site in downtown New York. As he passes, his gaze is drawn to the immense steel beams and girders slowly transforming the skyline into something special - a symbol of progress, resilience, and hope for the future. With each step, he sees how this project will soon become one of the city's most iconic images, a reminder of its history and potential. The worker can almost feel the pride radiating from the structure as it grows ever taller, a testament to all involved's hard work and dedication. He knows these towers will stand tall for years to come, representing the strength of the people who built them and their dreams for a brighter tomorrow.

<p><span>In the 19th century, firefighters were faced with a new challenge: smoke inhalation. To combat this danger, they created futuristic-looking rescue masks made of leather and metal that protected their faces from smoke and heat. These masks had long tubes attached to them that allowed firefighters to breathe clean air while fighting fires. The masks even featured a small window so that firemen could see through the smoke. This innovative technology was revolutionary for its time and helped save countless lives by protecting firefighters from hazardous conditions. It's amazing to think about how far we have come since then and the brave men and women who put their lives on the line every day to keep us safe.</span></p>

19th century firefighters wore futuristic looking rescue masks.

In the 19th century, firefighters were faced with a new challenge: smoke inhalation. To combat this danger, they created futuristic-looking rescue masks made of leather and metal that protected their faces from smoke and heat. These masks had long tubes attached to them that allowed firefighters to breathe clean air while fighting fires. The masks even featured a small window so that firemen could see through the smoke. This innovative technology was revolutionary for its time and helped save countless lives by protecting firefighters from hazardous conditions. It's amazing to think about how far we have come since then and the brave men and women who put their lives on the line every day to keep us safe.

<p><span>In 1960, newly-elected President John F. Kennedy and his beautiful wife Caroline were photographed by renowned fashion photographer Richard Avedon for Harper's Bazaar magazine. This iconic image of the Kennedys captured their unique style, energy, and grace - a perfect representation of the glamour and optimism that surrounded them as they began their journey in the White House. The photo has since become an enduring symbol of America's most beloved political couple, reminding us all of the hope and spirit of the early 60s.</span></p>

Caroline and John F. Kennedy, photographed by Richard Avedon, 1960.

In 1960, newly-elected President John F. Kennedy and his beautiful wife Caroline were photographed by renowned fashion photographer Richard Avedon for Harper's Bazaar magazine. This iconic image of the Kennedys captured their unique style, energy, and grace - a perfect representation of the glamour and optimism that surrounded them as they began their journey in the White House. The photo has since become an enduring symbol of America's most beloved political couple, reminding us all of the hope and spirit of the early 60s.

<p><span>The set of <em>The Wizard of Oz</em> in 1939 was a magical place. It was filled with the hustle and bustle of production, but also had a certain charm that made it feel like an enchanted land. The cast and crew were dedicated to making this movie something special, and their hard work paid off - the film went on to become one of the most beloved movies of all time! From Judy Garland's iconic ruby slippers to Bert Lahr's unforgettable Cowardly Lion performance, every detail was carefully crafted to create a timeless classic. With its colorful sets, whimsical characters, and heartwarming story, <em>The Wizard of Oz</em> will continue to bring joy and wonder to generations for years to come.</span></p>

On the set of "The Wizard of Oz" 1939.

The set of The Wizard of Oz in 1939 was a magical place. It was filled with the hustle and bustle of production, but also had a certain charm that made it feel like an enchanted land. The cast and crew were dedicated to making this movie something special, and their hard work paid off - the film went on to become one of the most beloved movies of all time! From Judy Garland's iconic ruby slippers to Bert Lahr's unforgettable Cowardly Lion performance, every detail was carefully crafted to create a timeless classic. With its colorful sets, whimsical characters, and heartwarming story, The Wizard of Oz will continue to bring joy and wonder to generations for years to come.

<p><span>The 1955 Lincoln Futura prototype was a true classic, and its transformation into the iconic 'Batmobile' for the 1966 TV show is an unforgettable part of pop culture history. It's hard to believe that this sleek and stylish car, designed by Ford Motor Company stylist Bill Schmidt and hand-built in Turin, Italy, would eventually become one of the most recognizable vehicles in the world! The Batmobile featured futuristic design elements, such as a bubble top canopy, finned fenders, and dual rear parachutes - making it a timeless symbol of both style and power.</span></p>

The 1955 Lincoln Futura prototype was transformed into the 'Batmobile' for the 1966 TV show.

The 1955 Lincoln Futura prototype was a true classic, and its transformation into the iconic 'Batmobile' for the 1966 TV show is an unforgettable part of pop culture history. It's hard to believe that this sleek and stylish car, designed by Ford Motor Company stylist Bill Schmidt and hand-built in Turin, Italy, would eventually become one of the most recognizable vehicles in the world! The Batmobile featured futuristic design elements, such as a bubble top canopy, finned fenders, and dual rear parachutes - making it a timeless symbol of both style and power.

<p><span>The 1948 Norman Timbs Special is a sight to behold. This sleek, aerodynamic car was custom-built by engineer and racecar driver Norman Timbs for the Indy 500 in 1948. It features a lightweight aluminum body with an aircraft-inspired design that gives it a unique look and feel. The car's engine is a powerful supercharged Offenhauser 270 cubic inch four-cylinder unit capable of producing up to 300 horsepower. Its interior is just as impressive, featuring luxurious leather seats, wood trim, and intricate instrumentation. Today, this classic beauty remains one of the most iconic cars ever built and continues to be admired by automotive enthusiasts around the world.</span></p>

The sleek 1948 Norman Timbs Special.

The 1948 Norman Timbs Special is a sight to behold. This sleek, aerodynamic car was custom-built by engineer and racecar driver Norman Timbs for the Indy 500 in 1948. It features a lightweight aluminum body with an aircraft-inspired design that gives it a unique look and feel. The car's engine is a powerful supercharged Offenhauser 270 cubic inch four-cylinder unit capable of producing up to 300 horsepower. Its interior is just as impressive, featuring luxurious leather seats, wood trim, and intricate instrumentation. Today, this classic beauty remains one of the most iconic cars ever built and continues to be admired by automotive enthusiasts around the world.

More for You

The 11 Rudest Things You Can Do In Someone Else’s House, According To Etiquette Experts

The 11 Rudest Things You Can Do In Someone Else’s House, According To Etiquette Experts

Joshua Dean, 45, died on Tuesday

Second Boeing whistleblower dies ‘suddenly’ in Oklahoma

Fastest dogs in the world

The fastest dog breed in the world—and the rest of the top 20

Conor McGregor called for a lifetime ban of Ryan Garcia after his reported positive drug test.

Conor McGregor calls for lifetime ban of Ryan Garcia after reported positive drug test following victory

Russian Jets

Four Russian Military Aircraft Detected Near U.S. Airspace

I Asked 4 Chefs What Their Favorite Fast Food Cheeseburger Was and Their Pick Was Unanimous

I Asked 4 Chefs What Their Favorite Fast Food Cheeseburger Was and Their Pick Was Unanimous

I'm an interior designer. Here are 10 things in your living room you should get rid of.

I'm an interior designer. Here are 10 things in your living room you should get rid of.

I’m a psychologist and mom—here are 3 phrases I wish more parents would say to their kids

I’m a psychologist and mom—here are 3 phrases I wish more parents would say to their kids

The inside of a Tesla vehicle is viewed as it sits parked in a new Tesla showroom and service center in Red Hook, Brooklyn on July 5, 2016 in New York City.

Disobey Tesla at your own risk: Woman tries to update vehicle while inside as temp hits 115

Best New Anime of 2024 (So Far)

Best New Anime of 2024 (So Far)

Man takes out garbage and puts in trash bin

You could get in big trouble for throwing these items in trash

Bestselling bands of the '80s, then and now

What the 25 biggest bands of the '80s look like today

South Korean Aircraft Shoots Down Balloon

US Ally's Aircraft Shoots Down Suspected Chinese Balloon

Cavalier King Charles Spaniel

These Are the 18 Best-Behaved Dog Breeds You Can Own

I was angry, aggressive and in chronic pain - until a party drug changed everything

I was angry, aggressive and in chronic pain - until a party drug changed everything

The True Meaning Behind Yellow Roses

Here's What It Means If Someone Gives You Yellow Roses

The Dramatic Meeting Now Stalling Trump’s Mar-a-Lago Case

The Dramatic Meeting Now Stalling Trump’s Mar-a-Lago Case

Expert Advice: How Often You Should Wash Your Hair

Here's How Often You Should Wash Your Hair, According to Experts

90 of Zendaya's Best Outfits That Prove Her Style Is Timeless

Zendaya's Baby Pink Tennis Polo Dress Includes Cutouts That Hit Her Hip Bone

Stimulus

Monthly Direct Payments Banned in Four States

shotkitlogo

The leading authority in photography and camera gear.

Become a better photographer.

12.9 Million

Annual Readers

Newsletter Subscribers

Featured Photographers

Photography Guides & Gear Reviews

The New York Times

31 Most Famous Travel Photographers to Follow in 2024

Want to know the best travel photographers to follow on Instagram? Get inspired by these 31 incredible travel photography accounts!

Famous Photographers | Learn | By Jeff Collier

Shotkit may earn a commission on affiliate links. Learn more.

You’re about to discover 31 of the best travel photographers on Instagram in 2024.

I’ll introduce you to award-winning travel photographers who fly around the world in search of the most incredible photos.

I’ll also answer some frequently asked questions related to travel photographers in general.

You’ll find a ton of inspiration for your own travel photography in this guide.

You should also check out our related guides:

  • Most famous photographers in the world
  • Most famous celebrity photographers
  • Most famous street photographers
  • Most famous fashion photographers
  • Most famous underwater photographers

Table of Contents

Who Are The Most Famous Travel Photographers in 2024?

Chris burkard.

  View this post on Instagram   A post shared by ChrisBurkard (@chrisburkard)

Burkard is a self-taught photographer who has truly mastered the art of taking breathtaking landscapes and action-filled portraits.

  • What is the Best Camera for Travel Photography?

Lauren Bath

  View this post on Instagram   A post shared by Lauren Bath | Australia (@laurenepbath)

Her Instagram feed showcases her unique perspective in highly saturated landscapes and atmospheric wildlife photography .

She also gives you behind-the-scenes photography insights into how she goes about capturing her travel photos.

Joshua Cripps

Josh Cripps on Instagram

@joshuacrippsphotography

Joshua Cripps is a well-known American photographer , international speaker, and tour leader. His epic landscapes are somehow able to capture the feeling of being there yourself.

Melissa Hie

  View this post on Instagram   A post shared by ❤️ Mel’s Food & Travel log (@girleatworld)

This concept allows her to share tiny moments from around the world in fun and unique ways.

  • Read more: What hashtags get the most attention on Instagram?

Lucy Rose Laucht

  View this post on Instagram   A post shared by Lucy Rose Laucht (@lucylaucht)

As a Leica ambassador, her passion and dedication to her craft shows up in every image, from beach scene to cityscape.

Even now, when most people take photographs with their phones, there’s still a lot to learn from film photography where every shot is precious.

  • Best travel camera for blogging
  View this post on Instagram   A post shared by Sam Horine (@samhorine)

His Instagram account features life around him, with images from the city and the natural wonders his day job brings him to document.

Chase Guttman

  View this post on Instagram   A post shared by Chase Guttman (@chaseguttman)

He uses a drone to shoot amazing landscape photography in a different light, and he finds beauty in the repeating patterns you can see from above.

How Much Do You REALLY Know About Photography?! 🤔

Test your photography knowledge with this quick quiz!

See how much you really know about photography...

photography as time travel

Your answer:

Correct answer:

SHARE YOUR RESULTS

Your Answers

  • What is the best lens for travel photography?
  View this post on Instagram   A post shared by Gab Scanu | Travel • Photography (@gabscanu)

His duo-toned landscape shots are framed with a manmade element that helps the viewer focus on the natural beauty of the outdoors and be reminded of man’s interaction with it.

Glenn Lee Robinson

  View this post on Instagram   A post shared by Adventure Enthusiasts (@adventurenthusiasts)

From snowy mountains in Yosemite to a bird’s eye view of Lake Tahoe, his photos highlight the sheer beauty of California’s national parks and forests.

Senai Senna

  View this post on Instagram   A post shared by Senna Relax (@sennarelax)

In the meantime, I like to look at his tagged locations for travel inspiration and where I want to go next.

Lisa Michele Burns

  View this post on Instagram   A post shared by Lisa Michele Burns (@the_wanderinglens)

The pastel colors of sunset and the misty aura of waterfalls and ocean spray fill her feed with calming energy.

  View this post on Instagram   A post shared by Gary Arndt (@everythingeverywhere)

While he doesn’t post new images often, his reputation as a three-time Travel Photographer of the Year means that every post or reel is a must-see.

  • Who are the 33 most famous architecture photographers?

Manuel Dietrich

  View this post on Instagram   A post shared by Manuel Dietrich | Germany 🇩🇪 | Travel | Hiking (@manueldietrichphotography)

Dietrich’s Instagram grid showcases his teal-orange-green style in a way that’s deeply inspiring. Instead of applying a filter to any photograph, he makes sure his subject fits into his style.

Laurence and Jessica Norah

View this post on Instagram   A post shared by Laurence Norah (@lozula)

As full-time photography bloggers, they share their expertise in planning trips and documenting them.

Their Instagram feed is an approachable portfolio of experiences that almost anyone can learn from and emulate on their next big trip.

Colby Brown

  View this post on Instagram   A post shared by Colby Brown (@colbybrownphotography)

One feature of Brown’s photograph descriptions is the camera settings or equipment he uses. For most shots, he lets you know which lens and body he used, which is helpful when you’re ready for an upgrade.

Richard Bernabe

  View this post on Instagram   A post shared by Richard Bernabe (@bernabephoto)

His adventure photos from around the world move people to think about conserving the natural environment that he is so good at capturing.

  • Read more: How do I start adventure photography?

Alex Strohl

  View this post on Instagram   A post shared by Alex Strohl (@alexstrohl)

His Instagram feed is more like a collection of mini blog posts behind the scenes of taking and producing images that you can share with the world.

  View this post on Instagram   A post shared by Sam (@sam.vox)

Don’t miss out on Vox’s reels which provide a behind-the-scenes look at the day’s work. Some photos are taken with a small point-and-shoot which proves that the best camera is the one that you have with you.

  View this post on Instagram   A post shared by Art Wolfe (@artwolfe)

His extensive archive of Instagram images showcases why he’s known as a master of color, composition and perspective.

  View this post on Instagram   A post shared by Bob Krist (@bobkristphoto)

Because of his experience, his Instagram travel photographs have a range of styles and subjects that I – and many others – look to for inspiration.

Timothy Allen

  View this post on Instagram   A post shared by Timothy Allen (@timothy_allen)

Paul Nicklen

  View this post on Instagram   A post shared by Paul Nicklen (@paulnicklen)

Nicklen’s skill in composing his photos is something I study before going on a trip and again before I edit my shots. His use of framing and composition takes his photos from snapshots to masterpieces.

Michael Yamashita

  View this post on Instagram   A post shared by Michael Yamashita (@yamashitaphoto)

His books, workshops, and lectures help him share his passion for historic explorers and the landscapes that they would have seen in ancient times.

  View this post on Instagram   A post shared by Yosigo (@yosigo_yosigo)

Whether it’s a trip to the beach or an abandoned parking garage, he has the ability to portray the modern world in a fresh light.

Navaneeth Unnikrishnan

View this post on Instagram   A post shared by Navaneeth Unnikrishnan (@navaneeth_unnikrishnan)

photography as time travel

Ami Vitale is a renowned photographer who has travelled to over 100 countries and published a book showing pandas being released into the wild.

Lola Akinmade Åkerström

  View this post on Instagram   A post shared by PhotoShelter (@photoshelter)

Jord Hammond

  View this post on Instagram   A post shared by JORD | TRAVEL PHOTOGRAPHY (@jordhammond)

Eric Rubens

  View this post on Instagram   A post shared by Eric Rubens 🌅 Travel & Photography (@ericrubens)

Though the colors in his landscapes must be highly edited, his skill in knowing what to highlight and when to stop makes his dreamy seascapes something special.

  • Read more: Who are the most famous landscape photographers?

Elia Locardi

  View this post on Instagram   A post shared by Elia Locardi (@elialocardi)

From a once-in-a-lifetime photo of the Northern Lights to a series of shots documenting the city’s skyline, he knows how to draw you into his world.

Matjaž Krivic

  View this post on Instagram   A post shared by Matjaz Krivic Photography (@krivicmatjaz)

The emotion of the trip is evident in every shot, which he shares on his Instagram feed.

FAQs about Travel Photographers

What is considered as a travel photographer?

Anyone who uses a camera to document the world and showcase what makes a location unique. Instagram travel photographers may have a defined vision or may take inspiration from an area’s landscape, food, people and history.

Is it hard to be a travel photographer?

It takes dedication, and it can be hard at times. My favorite photographers are skilled with both a camera and a computer, and they work almost as hard at marketing themselves and teaching others as they do in capturing the perfect picture.

Are travel photographers in demand?

Yes! The travel industry is not slowing down, which means that the demand for new photographs and videos of exciting locations around the world is still high.

Does travel photography pay well?

Instagram travel photographers may be paid by brand sponsorships and marketing agencies for the trips they take. They can make money selling prints of their work directly online or through galleries . Many even guide trips and have online classes teaching others how to recreate their style.

wed

Check out these 8 essential tools to help you succeed as a professional photographer.

Includes limited-time discounts.

You'll Also Like These:

a person holding a camera in their hands.

Jeff Collier is an experienced film photographer who enjoys experimenting with modern digital photography equipment, software and apps. He’s also an ex-world champion triathlete and avid cyclist, clocking hundreds of km each week in the beautiful Tweed Valley of northern NSW, Australia.

Leave a Comment Cancel Reply

👋 WELCOME TO SHOTKIT!

A black and white advertisement with a couple of black and white objects.

🔥 Popular NOW:

ipa-cover

Unlock the EXACT blueprint to capture breathtaking iPhone photos!

How Photographer Platon Captures the Power of Everyday Heroes

Image from The Defenders by Platon

Platon proudly calls himself a cultural provocateur. While other mononymous artists like Bono or Madonna use music to provoke, Platon communicates through photography. Photographs, he argues, are only effective if they “make you stop in your tracks to think about the times we're living in”—they should “choke like mustard gas.” A professional photographer since the late '90s, Platon has consistently applied this approach to his work creating images of boldface names across every sector, including President Barack Obama, Serena Williams, Prince, Mark Zuckerberg, Muammar Gaddafi , and President Vladimir Putin. His images have appeared on more than 25 TIME magazine covers.

photography as time travel

In 2010, an assignment came from Human Rights Watch that opened Platon’s eyes to another kind of story to tell. He was asked to travel to Burma (now Myanmar) to help bring awareness to the toll of the civil war by photographing everyday heroes. He would be paid nothing, he would have to leave his young family, and his life would be in danger. Even so, he took the job. When he arrived, Platon immediately felt out of his element. But understanding that the subjects were counting on him to take their photographs and share their stories gave him a sense of responsibility. He remembers thinking: “I'll roll up my sleeves, I'll get to work, and I'll photograph them the way I shoot TIME covers—powerful, in your face, unapologetically defiant.”

Image from The Defenders by Platon

Throughout the process, Platon saw that his subjects projected many of the same qualities—courage, leadership , resilience—as the high-profile figures he was so used to shooting. He became motivated to show through his photographs that the term “powerful leader” does not exclusively apply to those with cultural or institutional power. The greatest trail blazers, he observed, are often ordinary people who rise up against the odds to fight for something bigger than themselves.

Platon’s new book, The Defenders: Heroes of the Fight for Global Human Rights , is a visual commemoration of powerful figures around the world. The book, weighing in at nearly 9.5 pounds and 560 pages, weaves together images of everyday and high-profile leaders. It encourages the viewer to embrace the definition of power in all its forms, with a focus on amplifying the voices of those fighting for a more just world. Platon’s hope is that the book will embolden and inspire the next generation of human rights activists. After all, he says, “Real power is not to be kept protected. It is to be shared.”

Image from The Defenders by Platon

More Must-Reads From TIME

  • The 100 Most Influential People of 2024
  • How Far Trump Would Go
  • Scenes From Pro-Palestinian Encampments Across U.S. Universities
  • Saving Seconds Is Better Than Hours
  • Why Your Breakfast Should Start with a Vegetable
  • 6 Compliments That Land Every Time
  • Welcome to the Golden Age of Ryan Gosling
  • Want Weekly Recs on What to Watch, Read, and More? Sign Up for Worth Your Time

Contact us at [email protected]

Time travel and surveillance state paranoia collide in a witty, thought-provoking romance novel

Kaliane Bradley

  • Show more sharing options
  • Copy Link URL Copied!

Book Review

The Ministry of Time

By Kaliane Bradley Avid Reader Press: 352 pages, $28.99 If you buy books linked on our site, The Times may earn a commission from Bookshop.org , whose fees support independent bookstores.

“People aren’t history,” scoffs Adela, vice secretary of the Ministry, whose work is shrouded in secrecy and subterfuge. This retort comes late in Kaliane Bradley’s debut novel, “The Ministry of Time,” but it’s a telling line. Its dismissal of individual lives reveals the novel’s stakes. If people aren’t history, what is? This is a disturbing statement to come out of the mouth of a high-ranking British bureaucrat. For a book that could also be easily described as witty, sexy escapist fiction, “The Ministry of Time” packs a substantial punch.

Of late, many critically acclaimed books embrace mystery and absurdity in a way that both suspends and expands conventionally held notions of time. Hilary Leichter’s “Terrace Story,” National Book Critics Circle award winner Lorrie Moore’s “I Am Not Homeless If This Is Not My Home,” Ali Smith’s “Companion Piece,” National Book Award winner Justin Torres’ “Blackouts,” and Marie-Helene Bertino’s “Beautyland,” among others, forge poignant, bracing emotional connections. Their playfulness reveals possibilities and perspectives that might be lost in a novel bound by fact-checked 21st century reality. After all, in a world where nothing feels normal, fiction that embraces a disregard for physics and convention mirrors our new upside-down quotidian life.

The Ministry of Time cover with the title in 3-D in many colors against a dark background

To this end, Kaliane Bradley proves that it’s possible to address imperialism, the scourge of bureaucracy, cross-cultural conflict and the paranoia inherent in a surveillance state through her utterly entertaining novel. “The Ministry of Time” begins with a sixth-round job interview for an undisclosed position. The unnamed narrator is caught off guard when “the interviewer said my name, which made my thoughts clip. I don’t say my name, not even in my head. She’d said it correctly, which people generally don’t.” For the narrator, who “plateaued” as a “translator-consultant” in the Languages department of the Ministry of Defense, this top-secret job that pays three times her current salary is worth the mystery.

Soon the work is disclosed. The narrator, whose mother immigrated to the United Kingdom from Cambodia, will be working closely with people who might bristle at the term “refugees.” She’s now part of the Ministry of Expatriation working with one of five “expats” scavenged from the past. Confident in her storytelling, Bradley sweeps away the details of how and why time travel exists in the novel.

Rachel Khong

A disorienting, masterful, shape-shifting novel about multiracial identity

Rachel Khong’s irresistible puzzle of a second novel suggests it is a mistake to think we can force complex, nature-nurture identities in a chosen direction.

April 22, 2024

“All you need to know is that in your near future, the British government developed the means to travel through time but had not yet experimented with doing it.” With that, from the jump, readers and characters alike are asked to take a leap of faith as the narrator assumes the role of a “bridge” between an “expat” and modern life. The larger purpose of her work is elusive to her as well, but, in short, the narrator is tasked to be the roommate of an explorer named Commander Graham Gore who died on a doomed Royal Navy Arctic exhibition in 1847. He’s mannered, understandably jumpy, but also rather sexy for someone who died close to 200 years ago. Will this be an odd sort of meet-cute, or is something more chaotic afoot?

Buckle up, the ride has just begun. Juggling notions of “hereness” (the present) and “thereness” (the past), the novel’s five expats come to grips — or not — with the fact that they have been snatched from the past. The ministry selected individuals who were on the point of death so that their departures from the past would in no way rupture their historic timelines. But how would they affect the present? The bridges take notes, and medical examinations are de rigueur, but these collected data are merely passed along without much in the way of analysis.

The expats and bridges adjust to life together in a largely amusing fashion, sharing lovely homes provided by the ministry, visiting pubs, learning about the very existence of cinema. Music streaming services are a hit, but, generally speaking, the expats find it hard to accept the scale of modern life. Whether this is due to some physical mutation created by the process of time travel or if it’s merely the challenge of cultural displacement for people “loose as dust in narrative time,” true fissures begin to surface.

Man seated outdoors

How many lives can one author live? In new short stories, Amor Towles invites us along for the ride

For fans who worry that a volume comprising six stories and a novella won’t serve up the deeper delights of his novels, prepare for what may be Towles’ best book yet.

March 29, 2024

In a manner that feels wholly unsurprising to the reader, suspicions arise as to the nature of the project. Why exactly is there a need for secrecy and what are the particulars about this ability to time travel that we’re asked to tacitly accept? Tensions also flare between the narrator and another bridge, Simellia, who are the two people of color in this tightly knit circle. The specter of imperialism looms and informs a certain tension between the narrator and Gore. Yet, as a green bureaucrat, happy to rise in the ranks, she confronts Simellia, saying, “You signed up for this job… [knowing], as much as I did, that what we were doing was world-changing. That’s what you wanted, remember? Do you think the world changes by being asked politely? Or do you think there has to be risk?”

But this brash confidence begins to waver. The narrator recognizes, “Every time I gave Graham a book, I was trying to shunt him along a story I’d been telling myself all my life.” Then she notes that the ministry “fed us all poison from a bottle marked ‘prestige’ and we developed a high tolerance for bitterness.” While the book does assume some obvious postures of university level post-colonial theory and language, it moves past these more cliched moments by focusing its attention on the characters. A tight narrative rich with witty banter, cutting observations and interspersed passages from Gore’s doomed expedition also keep the novel taut.

“Maybe I was tired of stories, telling them and hearing them,” muses the narrator. Curiously, while she made languages her profession (hence her tendency to consider that “the great project of Empire was to categorize: owned and owner, coloniser and colonised, evolué and barbarian, mine and yours.”), her antagonistic younger sister became a writer. Finding herself falling in love with Gore, the narrator becomes the story, upending history.

As the story’s momentum builds into that of a spy thriller, Bradley pulls off a rare feat. “The Ministry of Time” is a novel that doesn’t stoop to easy answers and doesn’t devolve into polemic. It’s a smart, gripping work that’s also a feast for the senses. An assassination, moles, questions of identity and violence wreak havoc on our happy lovers and the bubble they create in London. Yet our affection for them is as fresh and thrilling as theirs is for one another, two explorers of a kind, caught in a brilliant discovery. Bradley’s written an edgy, playful and provocative book that’s likely to be the most thought-provoking romance novel of the summer. Check your history: That’s no small feat.

Lauren LeBlanc is a board member of the National Book Critics Circle.

More to Read

Colm Tóibín, author of "Long Island."

Colm Tóibín’s latest tale is bound together by the tension between secrecy and revelation

May 3, 2024

Spies gather on a boat.

Review: Long before Bond, ‘The Ministry of Ungentlemanly Warfare’ kicked off British covert ops

April 18, 2024

Kate Winslet in HBO's "The Regime."

Review: Brilliantly acted, HBO’s ‘The Regime’ flirts with satire but lacks political bite

March 2, 2024

A cure for the common opinion

Get thought-provoking perspectives with our weekly newsletter.

You may occasionally receive promotional content from the Los Angeles Times.

More From the Los Angeles Times

grid montage of 10 book covers

10 books to add to your reading list in May

May 1, 2024

Alice Wong, an author and activist in San Francisco, edited the new collection “Disability Intimacy.”

‘Disability Intimacy’ starts a long-overdue conversation

April 26, 2024

Woman wearing glasses smiles at camera

In Jane Smiley’s rock ’n’ roll novel, does good sense make good fiction?

April 19, 2024

Robert Sullivan, author of "Double Exposure."

A mysterious photographer of the Civil War, under a new microscope

Kate Winslet stars as war photographer Lee Miller in new 'Lee' trailer

"Lee" will hit theaters Sept. 27.

A new trailer for "Lee" , the historical drama starring Kate Winslet , depicts a portion of the life of Lee Miller, an American World War II correspondent and photographer.

The high-stakes trailer, released Wednesday, shows Winslet playing the titular role scored by dramatic music as Miller navigates war and reflects on her time as a war photographer.

MORE: War Photographer spent 81 days in captivity in Syria

"You think I went to war so people would know my name?" Miller asks in the trailer.

Starring alongside Winslet in the film are Josh O'Connor, Andrea Riseborough, Andy Samberg, Alexander Skarsgård and Marion Cotillard.

"Miller gains a job completing assignments for British Vogue, but is shocked by the restrictions placed on female photographers. As Hitler's regime takes over Europe, Miller grows increasingly frustrated that her work is constrained by patriarchal rules, leaving her documenting the British home front," a synopsis for the film reads.

PHOTO: Kate Winslet appears in the upcoming film "Lee."

The film details Miller's grueling career path and the backstory behind a pinnacle moment in war photography.

"Determined to be where the action is she defiantly pushes against the establishment and with the blessing of her friend and editor Audrey Withers (Andrea Riseborough), Miller overcomes enormous obstacles and gets herself to the frontline of World War II," the synopsis continues.

Related Stories

photography as time travel

Sum 41 takes the stage for 'On Tour On GMA'

  • Apr 22, 9:26 AM

photography as time travel

*NSYNC's members hilariously take on yearly meme

  • May 1, 11:43 AM

photography as time travel

Norway to add millions more to historic increase in defense spending announced last month

  • May 2, 6:22 AM

The film depicts Miller's friendship with Life magazine photographer David E. Scherman, played by Andy Samberg, with whom she finds herself in Hitler's Munich apartment, "where together they choreographed the famed photo of Miller in Hitler's bathtub on the same day that Hitler took his own life."

Miller worked as a famed fashion model in New York City before heading to the front lines, where she took famous photos of World War II, including the aforementioned snapshot in Hitler's bathtub.

MORE: Kate Winslet talks upcoming film 'Lee' for Vogue's October issue

"Lee" is directed by Ellen Kuras and written by Liz Hannah, Marion Hume and John Collee.

"Above all, the film shows how Miller lived her life at full-throttle in pursuit of truth, for which she paid a huge personal price, forcing her to confront a traumatic and deeply buried secret from her childhood," a description of the film reads.

Watch the full trailer below.

"Lee" first premiered at the 2023 Toronto International Film Festival and will be released in theaters this September.

photography as time travel

Rosie O’Donnell joins 'And Just Like That…'

  • May 1, 8:47 PM

photography as time travel

'Baby Reindeer' fans find people behind story

  • May 2, 7:44 AM

ABC News Live

24/7 coverage of breaking news and live events

Take Pro Travel Photos This Summer With These Easy Tips

With these pro tips, you can come back from your travels with amazing photos.

photography as time travel

  • Shortlisted for British Photography Awards 2022, Commended in Landscape Photographer of the Year 2022

a hiker sits on a rock looking up at an outcrop and a dramatic sky

A sunbather takes in the glorious weather on the island of Sicily.

Your vacation is the perfect chance to take stunning photos you'll treasure forever. And you don't have to be a professional photographer to capture all the gorgeous sights and memorable experiences you'll encounter on your trip. But simply pointing your camera at something and pressing the shutter button isn't necessarily going to score you shots you'll want to look back on in years to come. 

Capturing photos that you'll want to print for your wall or put in a photo book takes more understanding, but with just a bit of effort you'll be able to turn your everyday vacation snaps into award-worthy pieces of travel photography. 

In the first part of my two-part travel photography guide , I took you through the kit you should consider taking with you, whether it's a great phone like the iPhone 15 Pro or Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra or a dedicated camera like the Canon EOS R5. 

Read more: Best Camera to Buy in 2024

Now, I'm going to take you through the tips I keep in mind as a professional photographer as I travel the globe. 

A photo of Scotland

By knowing how to quickly operate my camera I was able to capture the fleeting golden light of this sunset in Scotland.

Get to know your kit

Learning how to operate your camera will not only help you get better, more creative shots, but will help you snap those shots quicker, as you won't have to fiddle around with settings. Some of the most exciting travel shots can come and go in a split second, so whether you're capturing the running of the bulls in Pamplona or a snowboarder launching off a mogul in Switzerland, you'll need to learn to shoot quickly.

A photo of waterfalls

Learning how to use manual controls will allow you to get creative with slow shutter speeds.

Spend time with your camera in manual mode before you go away. Learn how to change shutter speed, aperture, ISO speeds and white balance and experiment with what happens to your images when you change these settings. A good camera will be able to capture some great shots in auto mode, but when you want to get more creative, you'll need to take control. 

A photo of a pretty harbor

Shooting in raw allows you to fine tune settings like white balance after you've taken the shot.

Shoot in raw

If your camera has it (and almost all cameras and even most phones do), shoot in raw format. Yes, it creates bigger files, but memory cards are so cheap now that it's worth carrying an extra couple of 64GB cards with you. Raw shooting allows you to change white balance after your shot and capture more details in the very bright and very dark areas, letting you tone down any blown-out skies or lighten some shadows in Photoshop.

Read more: Best Camera Phone of 2024

Although it's always best to get the shot right when you first take it, raw processing gives you much more flexibility to rescue a shot that's not quite right. 

A photo of swimmers in Italy

Local events can provide a wealth of photography opportunities, such as this sea-swimming competition in the Italian town of Vernazza.

Do your research

Search for your location on Google and visit travel websites to find out more about where you're going. Not only will that help you make the most of your trip, you may find out about local events or particularly photogenic locations you may otherwise have missed.

You might also find out about photography restrictions that may land you in hot water -- as a general rule anywhere, avoid photographing government buildings, and if you're unsure, ask permission.

Search for your destination on Instagram or on photography websites such as Flickr and 500px for inspiration on what to see. It's handy to get an idea of the shots other people have taken -- either to replicate them yourself or to avoid taking the same generic shot the internet has seen hundreds of times before.

Composition is key

Good composition will make or break a photo, and unlike white balance or color tone, poor composition can't be fixed in post processing. The morning light bouncing off that rustic church won't count for much if you've accidentally chopped off the spire in your hurry to take the shot.

A photo of Edinburgh

By finding a higher viewpoint, I was able to better capture the beautiful towers, spires -- and the castle -- on a stunning winter evening in Edinburgh.

A generic shot of a popular spot can be transformed into an unusual and creative artwork simply by changing your angle. Take a moment to look at the scene before you shoot and don't be afraid to move around to get the best angles. Struggling with a beach scene? Walk farther down the coast to find boats, nets or rocks that might add foreground interest. Shooting in the city? Get up a tall building for dramatic urban cityscapes. Even just kneeling down and shooting from below can make a difference.

A photo of pants

These jeans being dried over a balcony really caught my eye and certainly say a lot about city life in Barcelona.

Find the details that matter

Capturing a beautiful, wide view of the stunning European city you're visiting is great for a nice print to hang on your wall, but it's those smaller details that really tell the story of your trip. Maybe it's the food market you visited, a weather-worn old door, a vintage scooter or a shop sign that hasn't been repainted in years. 

All of these small elements will not only help capture the essence of the location you're visiting but also help bring back more memories for you when you look at them as each image will tell such a strong story. It's up to you to decide what those small details might be to look out for, but my advice is to always have your camera ready to shoot so when you see something that speaks to you -- a stack of lobster pots in a harbor, perhaps -- you're ready to take your shot. 

A photo of the Northern Lights

Amazing things can happen in the dark.

Don't be afraid of the dark

Just because the sun has gone down, it doesn't mean your photography needs to stop. It's a great time to get creative with slow shutter shots. Long exposures blur motion, turning regular car headlights on a city street into creative, abstract light trails, streaking through the darkness. Use a narrow aperture -- around f/12 -- and a long exposure to turn points of light into gorgeous starbursts.

You'll need to secure your camera firmly in place -- with a tripod -- and if you're playing with exposures longer than a few seconds, you'll need to be careful about the breeze or people walking by adding any vibrations. If you want to do long exposures in the daytime, you'll need a dark neutral density filter, such as the Big Stopper by Lee Filters, to let you take minute-long exposures in the middle of the day.

If you're shooting on a modern camera -- especially with a larger, full frame sensor -- then you can also likely increase your ISO speed above 3,200 without seeing too much degradation from image noise. Coupled with a wider aperture of f/2.8 or more, you may have more luck shooting handheld scenes in low light. If this is a priority for you, cameras that also offer in-body image stabilization (like the Canon EOS R5) should be on your list; this stabilization lets you use slower shutter speeds without needing a tripod.

A photo of La Rochelle

By visiting this busy Saturday morning market in the French town of La Rochelle, I was able to capture this street photo that packs in great elements including the flowers on the barrel, the man dipping his hat, the people having a conversation and a woman peering out from inside the building.

Be a people person

It's often the people you meet as much as the places you see that makes traveling and exploring so interesting. People make fantastic subjects to photograph, whether they're wandering the streets, relaxing or hard at work.

Naturally, not everybody will want to be photographed so, out of politeness if nothing else, it's a good idea to ask the person's permission beforehand if you're trying to take a portrait of someone. It'll help if you do your research and learn a few key phrases of the local language to not only ask permission, but be able to understand the response. If they say no, it's important to respect that.

Otherwise, heading to busy areas like local markets will allow you to take more street-style photographs with candid moments of people going about their day. Again, it's still important to respect peoples' space here and keep in mind that some countries may have laws against this type of photography.

A photo of a dog wearing goggles riding a human riding a bike

I loved capturing this moment on a trip to the Scottish seaside, and I think it really helps tell the story of the sort of community you'd find there.

Set your alarm

The middle of the day may be the nicest time to wander around Tuscan streets, grab a hot chocolate on the mountainside or order a third cocktail on the beach, but the midday sun doesn't usually offer the best light for dramatic photographs.

It's the early morning light, casting its long, golden shadows that will really make a place look its most beautiful. Setting your alarm for sunrise on holiday may seem like the worst thing in the world, but it's worth trying -- even just once -- to see what sort of shots you get. Scout out locations beforehand to make sure you don't waste the precious early hours trying to find somewhere to shoot.

A before and after photo of a tower

By coming back to this tower later in the day, I was able to catch the sunset in the background.

Revisit the scene

When you stumble upon a particularly picturesque scene, don't just visit it just the once. While a bay may look delightful in the daytime, it will look different again at night, with all the lights of nearby buildings stretching out across the water. If you know a great spot, do your best to come back to it to find out when it looks best.

A photo of mountains and clouds in black and white

Sometimes a punchy black and white edit can really add to the drama of a scene.

Play with processing

Although you should always try to get the best shot you can when you first take it, some well-placed post processing can turn a good photo into a great one. If you're shooting raw files, you'll need to process them anyway, so it's worth trying out a few of the sliders in Adobe Lightroom while you're at it.

With your raw files, the first thing you'll need to do is correct the white balance. Have a play with the color temperature slider and see what tone suits best. Summer evening shots will benefit from a warmer color tone, while chilly February city streets will look best with something a bit cooler.

Toning down the highlights can help keep a bright sky under control, while lifting the shadows will help make darker areas more visible, without affecting too much of the rest of the scene. It's important not to go overboard on this, as it can make your images look a little unnatural. From that point on, have a play with your editor of choice and see what you like. There's no one right way to edit your shots -- no matter what anybody says -- it's all about what you prefer. 

A photo of a London tube platform in black and white

A high contrast black and white edit makes this image from a London tube station really stand out.

Do your own thing

Sure, rules such as "take the lens cap off before shooting" should always be followed, but never be afraid to try an unusual angle, play with your settings or experiment with new editing techniques in Lightroom.

If everybody always followed the exact same format, everybody's photography would look the same. Use these rules as guidelines and play with angles, settings and editing as much as you want to find what works for you.

I'm Blown Away by These Photos I Took on the Xiaomi 14 Ultra

photography as time travel

Computing Guides

  • Best Laptop
  • Best Chromebook
  • Best Budget Laptop
  • Best Cheap Gaming Laptop
  • Best 2-in-1 Laptop
  • Best Windows Laptop
  • Best Macbook
  • Best Gaming Laptop
  • Best Macbook Deals
  • Best Desktop PC
  • Best Gaming PC
  • Best Monitor Under 200
  • Best Desktop Deals
  • Best Monitors
  • M2 Mac Mini Review
  • Best PC Speakers
  • Best Printer
  • Best External Hard Drive SSD
  • Best USB C Hub Docking Station
  • Best Keyboard
  • Best Webcams
  • Best Laptop Backpack
  • Best Camera to Buy
  • Best Vlogging Camera
  • Best Tripod
  • Best Waterproof Camera
  • Best Action Camera
  • Best Camera Bag and Backpack
  • Best E-Ink Tablets
  • Best iPad Deals
  • Best E-Reader
  • Best Tablet
  • Best Android Tablet
  • Best 3D Printer
  • Best Budget 3D Printer
  • Best 3D Printing Filament
  • Best 3D Printer Deals
  • Dell Coupon Codes
  • Newegg Promo Codes
  • HP Coupon Codes
  • Microsoft Coupons
  • Anker Coupons
  • Logitech Promo Codes
  • Western Digital Coupons
  • Monoprice Promo Codes
  • A4C Coupons

Bridging Tech and Creative Photography

The Phoblographer may receive affiliate compensation for products purchased using links in this article. For more information, please visit our Disclaimers page .

It’s Time to Move Up to Full Frame

Chris Gampat The Phoblographer Sony a7cR review product images 3.51-250s200

I’ve spoken about it before in harsher words, saying that the end of APS-C and Micro Four Thirds is coming. And as I stated in that article . We saw it coming a while ago, too, and the same rings true. Real innovation isn’t coming to your APS-C or Micro Four Thirds camera. They will become sensors that shift into phones and luxury-style compact cameras. I fully embrace the latter. But it’s time to move up to full-frame cameras for more serious work to be a photographer over being a content creator. Professional photographers have known this for years. In the end, it’s the photographer who makes the images — but you should ask yourself if you’re good enough to make images with any camera that’s put into your hands. Returning to my original idea, the limitations of smaller sensors are becoming too great these days.

Let’s remove the technological boundaries here and speak practically. What’s the point of buying a new APS-C sensor camera when you can get an older, used, full-frame camera for cheaper? And more importantly, the older camera will have more potential than the APS-C camera. That’s because brands tend to pack all the cutting-edge technology into full-frame and medium-format cameras before bringing it into the APS-C camera body. Evidence of this is with the Sony a6700 . Fujifilm and Canon tend to do things differently, but even then, I don’t hear much about the Canon EOS R7 over the R5 and the R6 II.

With a full-frame camera, you can use and fully experience both APS-C and full-frame lenses. But with APS-C cameras, you’re getting only a portion of the lens circle.

Alright, that’s a lot of tech talk. Let’s speak more seriously now. Can you do good work with APS-C cameras? Yes. When I was recently in Rome, I took incredible street photography photos with an old Canon G1x Mk III. I was so happy with most of the images that I made slight crops to the JPEGs and was totally fine with the photos. But I also manually white-balanced and used in-camera styles to get the photos I wanted. Indeed, APS-C cameras are great JPEG cameras.

So is your phone, though.

In fact, I could’ve made the images I did with nearly any camera. All it required was zone focusing, a good enough high ISO ability, and good in-camera image quality rendering abilities.

The question then becomes the tool and how it feels in your hand. And if that’s the case, any old APS-C cameras can do the job. So too can the right full-frame cameras, whether they’re used or not.

Beyond how it feels in your hand, one must consider their own creative vision. I’m not talking about capturing a moment, but creating it. Let’s be honest, then, light just renders differently on medium format and full-frame cameras than it does on APS-C options.

Micro Four Thirds surely has a nice advantage of having smallish camera bodies and smallish lenses. But the diffraction is evident as soon as you stop down a bit. And to shoot great wildlife, you need a higher ISO setting — where the cameras just can’t perform or keep up with full-frame.

Photographers, it’s time.

Other Expeditions:

IMAGES

  1. Time Travel Photography

    photography as time travel

  2. 20 Berühmte Zeitreisefotos und -videos, die Sie gesehen haben müssen

    photography as time travel

  3. 7 True Images That Will Make You Believe In Time Travel!

    photography as time travel

  4. Time-Traveling photographer goes back to history's most iconic moments

    photography as time travel

  5. Ultimate Travel Photography Tips

    photography as time travel

  6. 20+ Travel Photography Tips For Beginners (2021 Guide)

    photography as time travel

VIDEO

  1. ‼️ TIME TRAVEL ⌚ SEASON 2

  2. Photography Time #photography #all #world #media #coverage

  3. 13 Photos That Can Prove That Time Travel Exists

  4. These 11 Photos Can Prove That Time Travel Exists!

  5. Time Travel (New Rhythm) Not4Fame edit

  6. outer photography time 📸#attitude #photography #poss #boypose

COMMENTS

  1. Imaging The Past With Time-Travel Rephotography

    Amazingly, Time-Travel Rephotography is a technique that actually lives up to how cool its name is. It uses a neural network (specifically, the StyleGAN2 framework) to take an old photo and ...

  2. Time Travel in Photography

    Time Travel in Photography. All aboard the anachronism express! The photographs on these pages may look as if they were taken a century ago, but in fact they were all made in the past 15 years. Lensman Joel Jensen's romance with the rails began in 1984, when the Mason City, Iowa, native got stuck in a Wyoming roundhouse while bumming around ...

  3. In Depth: The Meaning Of Time In Photography · Lomography

    Whether we snap an instant or we aim to tell a full story, time is involved through the use of photography. By collecting a vast amount of images, we can tell stories that span a long period. Documentary photography involves photographing the present while documenting the past, intrinsically dealing with the relativity of time. When we discuss ...

  4. Time Travel Photography: 5 Intriguing Images That Might Prove Its

    Cellphone at World Cup 1962. The 1962 football World Cup is notable not only for the games but also for an intriguing time travel image, as it appears to depict a man using a cellphone - a ...

  5. The best images of time travellers from throughout history

    Another image of an out-of-place individual that people have latched on to as proof that time travel is a reality. This image dates back over 100 years and shows some smartly dressed Canadians ...

  6. The World Without Us

    Explore the echoes of a time when humanity had just vanished. Travel in Time to desolate highways, wander through untouched libraries, and stand in empty squares where people once gathered. Learn from the history of a long-gone civilization and uncover the lessons etched in stone and water. From the grandeur of cathedrals to the decay of once-famous stores, the expeditions reveal the transient ...

  7. The World Without Us

    Embark on a captivating exploration of a forgotten Mediterranean, masterfully captured in an evocative photographic collection. This virtual odyssey transports viewers to an enigmatic post-apocalyptic realm, where the ancient coastlines of the Mediterranean emerge in their prehistoric splendor. Through each frame, journey back in time to a world untouched by modernity, revealing landscapes ...

  8. The Complete Guide to Travel Photography

    Jessica Sarkodie shares a refreshing look at the unspoiled beaches of her native Ghana. Cedric Angeles flew to Mongolia for a peek inside the lives of the country's famous eagle hunters (and yes ...

  9. The World Without Us

    Explore the captivating journey of a time traveler as they navigate through the post-apocalyptic landscapes of Rio de Janeiro. From the iconic Christ the Redeemer statue to the vibrant Selarón Steps, delve into the rich history, cultural vibrancy, and the profound lessons unearthed from the remnants of a once-thriving city. This immersive narrative paints a vivid picture of Rio's past ...

  10. Travel Photography Tips -- National Geographic

    Make time for photography. Like doing anything well, making good photographs requires a commitment of time and energy. One problem with much of modern travel is that the days are chockablock full ...

  11. How to Take Travel Photos: A Complete Guide

    Research the location thoroughly, including famous sights, experiences, geography, and lighting conditions. Look at existing travel photos for inspiration, but aim to create something unique. Use a spreadsheet to organize your shots by day and time, considering factors like sunrise, sunset, and harsh midday light.

  12. 7 Travel Photography Jobs to take you around the World

    Travel photography jobs are a dream lifestyle, this list shares tips on becoming a travel photographer, photojournalist + travel photography career paths. ... but a full-time job. Travel blogging is a career path open to anyone from any background with one common interest, a love of travel and thanks to the good old internet, is a job that can ...

  13. Travel Photography Tips, Ideas, Examples & Jobs

    Travel photography incorporates countless different styles. Travel photographers often take landscape photographs, architectural photographs, as well as street photography.It's also common to see food photography and documentary work being done by travel photographers.. As a travel photographer, your goal is to capture and express the story of a particular time and place.

  14. Travel photography

    Travel photography is a genre of photography that may involve the documentation of an area's landscape, people, cultures, customs, and history. The Photographic Society of America defines a travel photo as an image that expresses the feeling of a time and place, portrays a land, its people, or a culture in its natural state, ...

  15. How to get started in travel photography: tips from a landscape expert

    Travel and adventure photographer James Popsys has travelled to more than 40 countries. He shares the secrets behind a successful photography business and his tips for getting started in the industry.

  16. 20 Best Travel Photography Tips To Improve Your Photos

    But for tack sharp landscapes, low-light photography, self-portraits, flowing water shots, and sunsets/sunrises, a travel tripod makes a huge difference. 7. Experiment With Composition. Get Low for a Different Perspective. You can almost always come up with a better photo composition after some experimentation.

  17. Time-Travel Rephotography

    Abstract. Many historical people were only ever captured by old, faded, black and white photos, that are distorted due to the limitations of early cameras and the passage of time. This paper simulates traveling back in time with a modern camera to rephotograph famous subjects. Unlike conventional image restoration filters which apply ...

  18. Travel photography tips

    Those off-the-hip, spur-of-the-moment photographs often tell a more incredible narrative than the super-planned shots do," he says. 6. Accept uncertainty. Travel is all about unpredictability. You might stumble upon a once-in-a-lifetime shot, or you might get fogged in and rained on.

  19. Journeys Through Time: The Power of Photography to Transport Us

    The 1970s were a time of bold fashion statements for men. From bell-bottom jeans and vests to bright colors, psychedelic prints, and wide lapels, the decade was full of iconic style choices that ...

  20. Time Travel Photography

    Take a walk through time with an expedition to Venice in October 2068. Explore the haunting and romantic space of a city that was once a dazzling jewel of the Adriatic Sea. Traverse the ruins of the Grand Canal, the Basilica di Santa Maria della Salute, and the once-bustling Rialto Market. Discover the contrast of elegance and decay, where dreams meet reality. Venice's decayed grandeur offers ...

  21. 31 Most Famous Travel Photographers to Follow in 2024

    Curated by @whaleshark and available both online and in person. Michael Yamashita is a world-renowned travel photographer with over 1.7 million followers on Instagram. His books, workshops, and lectures help him share his passion for historic explorers and the landscapes that they would have seen in ancient times.

  22. How Photographer Platon Captures the Power of Everyday Heroes

    The photographer behind more than 25 TIME covers reflects on what he's learned about leadership from his subjects. ... He was asked to travel to Burma (now Myanmar) to help bring awareness to the ...

  23. Time travel and surveillance state paranoia collide in a witty, thought

    Book Review. The Ministry of Time. By Kaliane Bradley Avid Reader Press: 352 pages, $28.99 If you buy books linked on our site, The Times may earn a commission from Bookshop.org, whose fees ...

  24. Kate Winslet stars as war photographer Lee Miller in new 'Lee' trailer

    "Lee" will hit theaters Sept. 27. A new trailer for "Lee", the historical drama starring Kate Winslet, depicts a portion of the life of Lee Miller, an American World War II correspondent and ...

  25. Take Pro Travel Photos This Summer With These Easy Tips

    In the first part of my two-part travel photography guide, ... it doesn't mean your photography needs to stop. It's a great time to get creative with slow shutter shots. Long exposures blur motion ...

  26. It's Time to Move Up to Full Frame

    When I was recently in Rome, I took incredible street photography photos with an old Canon G1x Mk III. I was so happy with most of the images that I made slight crops to the JPEGs and was totally ...

  27. NSF Award Search: Award # 2420736

    The award provides travel grants for 10 selected US-based students. Applications are solicited broadly across the US, and recipients of the travel grants are selected by a committee formed by the ICCP 2024 organizing team. Each travel grant partially covers travel and lodging costs and includes a conference registration waiver.

  28. Book at these times to save money on summer flights for 2024

    Mid-to-late August is the best time for Americans to fly this summer, according to travel company Expedia. It's expected to be a less busy time, and Expedia says travelers can save up to $265 on ...

  29. The World Without Us

    Explore a haunting journey through a post-apocalyptic Paris in 2073, left in ruins by a massive earthquake. From the iconic Eiffel Tower standing tall amidst devastation to the partially collapsed Notre Dame and the silent theatres, our descriptive tour paints a poignant picture of loss, history, and resilience. Witness the city's shattered beauty through drone imagery and atmospheric ...

  30. Cinco de Mayo 2024: Why May 5 is a big holiday in the U.S.

    In the U.S., where it's celebrated with tacos, tequila and margarita specials, Cinco de Mayo is often incorrectly believed to be Mexico's Independence Day. Reality check: Cinco de Mayo — or, in English, May 5 — marks a Mexican victory over France 50 years after Mexico's independence. Mexico's Independence Day is celebrated on Sept. 16.