Summer vacations are when memories are made. As a professional photographer, I know firsthand how a bit of thoughtful effort can turn average snapshots into photos you’ll treasure. With great photos you’ll return home with more than memories. Whether you’re headed to the beach, the mountains, or exploring new countries, here are some tips to help you take great vacation photos that tell the story of your summer.
Think Beyond the Predictable
It’s tempting to take the typical photo of a landmark that you might see on a postcard and call it a day. But while those images are nice, the most meaningful shots are more personal. Try to capture the atmosphere of your trip—your kids napping in the backseat after a long hike, locals playing cards in a park, or a spontaneous stop along the way. The best vacation albums aren’t just collections of locations; they’re reflections of the experience.
Light Is Everything
Good lighting transforms an average photo into a great one. Early morning and late afternoon offer soft, warm light that flatters people and enhances landscapes. Midday sun, on the other hand, tends to be harsh, creating deep shadows and blown-out highlights. The caveat is photographing people – if they are looking into the sun they will be squinting, so try to move them around so that the light has a better balance. Ironically, cloudy days often make for better portraits than sunny ones, because the light is diffused and gentle.
Use Your Feet, Not Just Your Zoom
Rather than relying on zoom—which can degrade image quality, especially on phones—try physically moving closer to your subject. This creates a sense of intimacy and gives your photos a stronger point of view. Experiment with angles too: crouch down to a child’s eye level, shoot from above, or frame your subject through natural elements like windows, archways, or foliage. These little changes can make your photos more dynamic and visually engaging.
Edit Lightly
Your phone has options to enhance your image but use a gentle touch. This is also true if you have consumer grade apps on your computer. By all means adjust exposure, contrast, saturation, and cropping to add a little polish but resist the temptation to go overboard. Subtle tweaks can bring out the best in your photos, while heavy-handed editing or filters often look fake or dated.
Tell a Story
Approach your vacation like a visual narrative. Capture the full arc of your trip—from the anticipation at departure to the moments of return. Take wide shots that show your surroundings, detail shots that capture texture and mood (such as sunblock on a beach bag or a close-up of a meal), and portraits that convey emotion. When you look back, it’s often the little things that will bring you back to that place and time.
Be in the Frame
In the group someone often takes the role of official picture taker but they are never in the picture. Don’t disappear behind the camera. Use a tripod, a selfie stick, or safely set your camera on a stable surface and use the timer.. Don’t be afraid to ask someone to take a quick photo of your group—even if it feels awkward. You will be grateful to see that you were part of the journey too.
Final Thought
The best vacation photos aren’t about perfection—they’re about connection. By paying attention to light, composition, and emotion, you can create a visual narrative that’s fun, memorable, and personal. Happy shooting, and here’s to a summer full of great memories—and terrific photos.