Switzerland is a country known for its natural beauty. Magnificent mountain ranges, beautiful lakes, rolling meadows, and clean cities are par for the course here. For travel photographers, Switzerland’s diverse landscapes make it one of the top countries to shoot in. Here are the best places in Switzerland to help build your portfolio.

Why Visit Switzerland?

If there’s a word to describe Switzerland, that word would be majestic. However, it’s an expensive destination that scares off many budget travelers.

For starters, it’s a wealthy country. Switzerland attracts a lot of foreign investors (half the country’s millionaires are foreigners) due to its high wages and attractive tax rates. Historically, it’s a stable country, remaining neutral through major wars that devastated the economies of its fellow European nations. This stability translates to a “safe” country that foreigners feel comfortable investing in.

While it’s relatively small geographically (on par with Vermont and New Hampshire combined), moving around the country will take a chunk out of your budget. Thankfully, there’s an excellent public transportation system of trains, trams, and buses to make things easy. 

The biggest bills you’ll incur are your accommodations and food. Switzerland has budget accommodations (ie. hostels), but even they are expensive. For a few dollars more you can rent an Airbnb and relax in solitude. As for food, Switzerland is famous for its chocolate and fondue. While the price isn’t always attractive (I once paid $5 USD for a single scoop of gelato), the food is really good. 

Best Places in Switzerland (For Photography)

Now that you know a little bit about what to expect, let’s get to the best places in Switzerland for taking photos. 

1. The Matterhorn / Zermatt

Few things are more stunning than a snow-capped mountain, and The Matterhorn is one of Europe’s finest. Located in the Swiss Alps, it stands 4,478 meters (14,692 feet) above sea level along the Switzerland-Italy border. The Matterhorn is the 5th highest peak in the Alps and is easily identifiable by its pyramid shape. The south face overlooks Brueil-Cervinia, Italy, while the north face looms over Zermatt, Switzerland. It’s been determined that the Matterhorn was formed 50 million years ago by continental plates slamming into each other, causing the ground to move upward. 

Zermatt is on the valley floor. It’s a high-end resort village that’s closed to traffic. You can rent a bicycle if you wish, but Zermatt is easily walkable. The area is abundant with views of the Matterhorn (among other mountains), and you can explore a multitude of trails in the region by investing in an all-inclusive lift package. These are some of the best views in all of Switzerland for photography. For epic sunset photos, head to the Zermatt Matterhorn Viewpoint at the end of the day.

Fun fact: The Matterhorn is featured in Toblerone chocolate’s logo, and is also rumored to be the inspiration for the Paramount Pictures logo.

2. Lauterbrunnen

Lauterbrunnen is one of the most beautiful areas of Switzerland and is centrally located in the Jungfrau Region. It’s a valley featuring a mixture of waterfalls, rolling hills, dramatic cliff faces, and hiking trails. In the spring and summer months, Lauterbrunnen is awash in vivid green and blue colors with views of the Swiss Alps. It literally feels like you’re walking through a painting.

One of the main sights in the Lauterbrunnen valley is Stabbach Falls, a 297-foot waterfall that’s Switzerland’s third-highest. Lauterbrunnen is said to have 72 waterfalls (although I’d say this might be an exaggeration) with Stabbach leading the way. It greets visitors as they enter the valley and adventurers can visit behind the falls on the rock face during the warmer months. 

Trummelbach Falls is another must-see. It’s near the south end of Lauterbrunnen and acts as a drain for the glacial runoff of Eiger, Monch, and Jungrau mountain peaks. Located in a large cavern, Trummelbach is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that moves up to 20,000 litres of water during the summer months or during heavy rain.

Lauterbrunnen has some shops, restaurants, and accommodations if you decide you want to stay a few days. Another highly recommended excursion is taking the train from Lauterbrunnen to Jungfraujoch. This ride brings you through the Alps, giving you spectacular views that make for great pictures.

3. Gimmelwald / Murren

In the southern Lauterbrunnen village of Stechelberg is The Shilthornbahn cable car. By taking it, you can reach two amazing destinations in the Alps – Gimmelwald and Murren.

Gimmelwald is a traffic-free traditional Swiss village of just over 100 residents. It’s virtually untouched by commercialism and the locals have fought to keep it that way. It’s located on the side of a cliff at an elevation of 1,367 m (4,484 ft) and offers stunning views of the Alps.

Continuing north on The Shilthornbahn, you’ll reach Murren at 1,661 m (5,450 ft), which is a more developed resort village aimed at tourists. In the summer it’s a great place for hikers, while the winter brings out skiers and snowboarders. Mountain biking is another popular activity. You can rent a bike and explore the region at your own pace. From Murren, there are downhill trails for easy descent while soaking in the breathtaking views. To get back to Murren, simply load the bike on The Shilthornbahn and make your way back up the mountain.

Should you wish to continue ascending The Shilthornbahn, you can reach the mountain peaks of Birg and Shilthorn.

4. Grindelwald

An hour’s train ride east of Lauterbrunnen is Grindelwald. At an elevation of 1,034 m (3,392 ft), its a great place to hike in the summer or do sports in the winter, all against the backdrop of Mount Eiger and The Wetterhorn. One of the top attractions in Grindelwald is Gletscherschlucht aka Glacial Gorge. It’s a 300 meter-deep glacier canyon with insane rock formations. You can walk through it and there’s also a suspension net as well as a swing for adventure-seekers. For panoramic views of the area, Männlichen is the place for you and is accessible by cable car.

5. Zurich

Zurich is Switzerland’s largest city. It has a population of roughly 400,000 people, with 1.8 million making up the Zurich metropolitan area. Located in northern Switzerland, its situated on the north bank of Lake Zurich with the Limmat River cutting through it. Zurich is Switzerland’s financial capital, making it one of the world’s most expensive cities. However, it’s also highly ranked among the world’s best cities.

Zurich’s Old Town is where you’ll find most tourists and prime photography opportunities. From architecture to shops by the river’s edge, you’ll be able to take some excellent photos here. Also in Old Town are multiple churches (The Church of St. Peter, The Grossmünster, and ​​The Fraumünster), which should be part of your visit. Of note, The Grossmünster has a tower and viewing platform you can ascend to get panoramic views of Zurich.

Another place to check out is The Lindenhof. It’s an elevated park that’s also a historical site with national significance. Many visitors head here early to watch the sunrise over the Limmat River.

6. Lucerne

Lucerne sits in the middle of Switzerland surrounded by mountains and Lake Lucerne. The city is full of medieval buildings and like most in Europe, it has an Old Town that is one of the highlights. Probably the most recognizable landmark in Lucerne is Kapellbrücke, aka Chapel Bridge, which crosses the Reuss River. It was built in the 1300s, destroyed by a fire in 1993, and subsequently rebuilt. 

On the same river is The Nadelwehr Luzern, a needle dam that was built in the 19th century. It uses wooden posts to direct the flow of water from Lake Lucerne. The Dying Lion Monument is another Lucerne attraction high on visitors’ lists. It’s a monument carved out of natural rock which commemorates Swiss mercenaries that were killed in France protecting Louis XVI. 

For a panoramic view over Lucerne, head over to Museggmauer, an iconic old city wall built in the 1400s. You can walk the top of the wall and climb up its towers to get great shots of the city and lake. Attached to it is another medieval landmark, Nölliturm, which served as a gunpowder storage facility.

7. Mount Pilatus

Those staying in Lucerne should visit Mount Pilatus. While it’s not as well known as some other mountains in Switzerland, it’s highly underrated. Standing at 2,128 m (6,983 ft), most visitors opt to take the Pilatus Railway (which is the world’s steepest railway at a 48% incline). Pilatus is also reachable by hike. This is a lot more effort obviously, but it can pay off with magnificent pictures. The hiking trail detours to nearby peaks of Matthorn (no, not Matterhorn), Tomlishorn, Oberhaupt, and Esel. At the top of Pilatus is Bellevue Hotel. Here you can spend the night or enjoy a meal at the restaurant. If you are planning to stay for sunset, it’s advised to spend the evening at Bellevue. The last cable car descends at 6 pm. If you miss it, you’ll be walking down the mountain in the dark for 3 hours. No bueno.

8. St. Mortiz

St. Mortiz is a luxury ski town that attracts the rich and famous. Initially, the town was a summer spa resort due to its natural mineral springs. Over time it became a haven for winter sports. In 1864 it became the birthplace of Alpine winter tourism and has since gone on to play host to the Winter Olympics twice. St. Moritz even has the Celerina Olympia, the world’s oldest naturally-made bobsled run that’s changes from year to year.

The summer months see a lot of action on Lake St. Moritz, with sailing, rowing, windsurfing and other watersports dominating the water. Summertime is also prime hiking and biking season, and there are plenty of trails for you to enjoy. 

9. Bern

Bern is the capital city of Switzerland, boasting a population of 130,000. Like all major cities, there are lots of photo opportunities to be had here, and Bern Old Town is one of the top spots. A UNESCO Heritage Site, Old Town is enveloped by the Aare River. Bern Münster (Bern Cathedral) and Zytglogge (The Clock Tower) date back 700 years and are the top attractions. The cathedral offers tourists a chance to see Bern from high up its 100-meter tower.

Some of Switzerland’s best museums are in Bern. The National History Museum and fine-art museum Kunstmuseum Bern will delight culture and art lovers. Bern also has beautiful gardens, such as Rosengarten Bern, which may have the best view over the city. Bern’s architecture should also be mentioned, with the Federal Parliament Building being another gem for city photography. Those who enjoy photographing graffiti should visit the Reitschule building, an event center whose walls are tagged with street art. 

Fun fact: The popular Swiss-chocolate Toblerone was invented in Bern in 1908 by Theodor Tobler and Emil Baumann.

10. Lakes

Switzerland has somewhere in the vicinity of 1,500 lakes. While it would be difficult to list them all, here are the top ones you should visit:

Lake Brienz / Lake Thun (Interlaken)

Nestled in a central Switzerland valley is the resort town of Interlaken. On either side of this valley are two lakes, Lake Brienz on the east side, and Lake Thun on the west. Both are picturesque, with Brienz being a quiet emerald jewel set against the backdrop of the Alps, while Thun is more deep-blue in color and busy. Brienz has a small village and promenade that you can leisurely stroll along, or you can rent a boat and take a dip if you prefer. The town of Thun sits at the opposite end of Lake Thun. It has a population of 42,000 and dates back to the medieval period, so there’s much more to see and do here.

Lake Maggiore

Lake Maggiore is divided between Switzerland and neighboring Italy and is an under-the-radar destination. The mild climate in this region makes for a natural Mediterranean aesthetic, with palm trees and other tropical vegetation lining the lake. Ascano and Locarno are the main villages to visit, complete with promenades, Old Town areas, and piazzas. If you wish, brush up on your Italian, as it’s the main language spoken here.

Lake Bachalpsee

Bachalpsee is a picturesque lake that’s so pristine its photos can double as postcards. It’s located near Grindewald, making it an excellent excursion when you’re in the area. The best photos of the lake are taken facing south, with Schreckhorn mountain peak in the background, reflecting off the surface of the lake.

Shoot Switzerland

The best places in Switzerland for photography aren’t necessarily the most popular, but they’re a great start. Like any travel destination, getting lost can produce some of the best moments and photos. But visiting the well-known, tried-and-tested areas of the country will give you amazing pictures and memories every time.

The post Best Places In Switzerland (For Photography) appeared first on Michael Brion | Travel Photographer.

On the outside, travel photography seems glamorous. Travel the world and take photos? Where do I sign up? But behind carefully curated Instagram feeds is a lot of work that goes into getting those pics. Traveling isn’t easy, and it can be intimidating to explore foreign countries, let alone document them. Here are 10 travel photography tips you can use on your next trip to help you focus your efforts on your images.

1. Dress The Part

Travel photography is mainly shot outdoors. Contending with the elements brings its own set of challenges. Before you even think about the photography aspect, you need to be prepared for the weather. In my travels, I’ve encountered tourists that didn’t have the proper attire and it put a serious damper on their trip.

Dress for the season. If you’re in-between seasons and the temperatures rise and fall, dress in layers. Bring thermal underwear if you’ll be in the dead of winter. Invest in waterproof gear to survive the rainy season. A waterproof jacket, pants, footwear, and a cover for your backpack will save you a lot of headaches.

Speaking of footwear, look for value and comfort. Spend more money on shoes that will last. If you’re sticking to paved streets and sidewalks, you should be fine with an all-purpose walking shoe. But if you’re venturing off the beaten path, a sturdy hiking shoe helps traverse different terrain. Travel photographers are on their feet for long hours, and the wrong footwear can quickly destroy your feet and legs.

Additionally, take into account the environment you’ll be exploring. Shield yourself from the sun by wearing a hat and using sunblock. Humid destinations are prone to mosquitoes and other insects. Packing bug spray protects you from being eaten alive or contracting potentially life-threatening illnesses like dengue fever.

2. Choose Your Camera Wisely

Much has been talked about when it comes to which camera is the best for travel photographers. The truth is, the best travel camera is the one that you like shooting with. Pretty simple, right?

However, a general rule of thumb when traveling is to keep your gear as light as possible. The bigger the camera, the heavier it will be. If you plan on shooting a lot, a heavy camera will wear you out faster. 

The heaviest cameras are DSLRs. The advantage to shooting with a DSLR camera is that many of them have full-frame sensors. These sensors are the same size as 35mm film. They capture more of the scene when compared to a camera with a crop sensor. 

Crop sensors are predominantly found in mirrorless cameras. Mirrorless cameras are smaller and lighter (hence the smaller sensor) than DSLR cameras. The argument of which sensor is “better” is up for debate. Both DSLR and mirrorless cameras provide shooters with impeccable image quality.

Personally, I shoot with a mirrorless camera and see no reason to invest in a DSLR for my travel photography. DSLRs are notoriously bulky. Mirrorless are compact, light, and fast. DSLRs are also less inconspicuous if you’re shooting on the street. I prefer to blend into my surroundings rather than look like I’m shooting a major production.

Of note, there are also very good point-and-shoot cameras that are geared to travel photography, such as Fujifilm’s X100V or Sony’s RX100V.

3. Get Great Glass

DSLR and mirrorless cameras allow for lens interchangeability. This means you can remove the lens from the camera body and replace it with another. Why would you do this? For flexibility in focal length. If you want to shoot a photo with a 50mm lens rather than an 18mm lens, you have that option.

Lens interchangeability also gives you the advantage of using primes, zooms, or both. Primes are lenses with a specific focal length (ie. 23mm), while zooms have multiple focal lengths (ie. 18-55mm). Some photographers swear by primes, while others feel zooms are the way to go. 

The disadvantage of primes is that you have to either carry multiple cameras or endlessly switch out your lenses if you want focal length variety in your photos. The disadvantage of zooms is that they’re slightly less sharp than primes (although this is up for debate). They also weigh more due to the extra glass in their construction. This extra glass makes zooms more expensive than primes. However, one zoom lens could potentially give you all the focal lengths you want, rather than carrying around multiple primes.

Lens selection is wholly individual. As photographers, we’re creating art. For you to express yourself through your art, you need the proper tools. An ultra-wide lens might be perfect for you, while others favor standard or telephoto lenses. Research focal lengths to get a better understanding of them. You can then make an informed decision on which lens (or lenses) will work best for your photography.

4. Security Issues

Unless you trust yourself to never drop your camera, you should get a camera strap. There are different strap designs that keep your camera secure while allowing it to remain accessible. Let’s look at each of them:

Neck Strap: Most new cameras come with an around-the-neck strap. It attaches to both sides of the camera and is hung on the back of your neck. The design engages your neck and trapezius muscles to support the camera’s weight. It also allows the photographer to rest the camera in front of their body, making it easy to pick up and shoot when needed. The downside to this strap is it puts strain on your neck and back muscles. Wearing your camera this way (especially a heavy one) can lead to muscle tension and headaches.

Sling Strap: A sling strap is a popular alternative to the traditional neck strap. It’s designed to be worn across your body like a sash or guitar strap. This design helps alleviate excessive pressure on your neck and upper body. The camera can then rest at your hip, close to your shooting hand. Some sling models attach to a backpack rather than wrapping around the body, which is great for travel photographers.

Harness Strap: A harness strap is a great option for heavy-duty shooters that require 2 cameras. This is a common setup for wedding photographers. The harness has two points of attachment on the front of it near your hips, giving you quick access to either camera. They’re usually made out of high-quality leather to withstand heavy camera weights.

Wrist Strap: Wrist straps are another popular way to keep your camera secured. It attaches from the camera and wraps around your wrist. A lot of artisan wrist strap companies are online, and some will even design a strap to your specification. The downside to the wrist strap is that you have to carry the camera in your hand at all times. This can be a dealbreaker for those who prefer to have their hands free when they aren’t shooting.

Hand Strap: Hand straps are popular with street shooters. It keeps the camera firmly secured in your hand at all times. The camera becomes a natural extension of your hand and all you have to do is snap away when you’re ready. Similar to the wrist strap, the downside of this style means your hand is never free unless you put the camera away.

Finger Strap: This is my strap of choice. It’s similar to wrist and hand straps, but it only wraps around the trigger finger. It’s secure enough that you won’t drop your camera, and it’s easy to slip off when you need to put the camera down. If you’re on a budget, there are plenty of YouTube videos showing how to make your own wrist/finger straps out of paracord for cheap.

5. Pack For Your Back

Most travel photographers wear a backpack while they’re out shooting. This can hold anything from extra lenses and gear, to clothes and food. The fuller the pack, the heavier it gets.

Some backpacks are specifically made for photographers. These come with compartments for separating your gear so that you can find things quickly. Their interior is made of padded material for added protection. The downside to photography backpacks is they tend to be expensive and surprisingly heavy.

The more lightweight your pack, the better for your back. If you don’t travel with a ton of gear, I’d suggest buying a travel daypack. These are usually a bit cheaper and use lightweight material. As long as you’re careful about how you store things (and you don’t mind fishing through your backpack when you need something), a lightweight daypack works great and helps alleviate any back issues.

6. Tripods

Tripods are a must if you’re shooting night photos, long exposure photos, or if you simply want razor-sharp images. But I’ll be the first to admit, traveling with a full-sized tripod is a headache. 

Yes, today’s travel tripods are lightweight and collapse to fit into a backpack. But that doesn’t mean using them is fun. It’s a whole production to set up and reposition for your shots. For this reason, I try to shoot handheld as much as possible.

Having said that, there are small travel tripods available for a fraction of the price of a standard tripod. Gorillapod is one example. It has malleable legs that can wrap around/attach to almost anything in your environment, stabilizing the camera. It’s also small enough that you won’t have any issues fitting it in your backpack.

7. Accessorize

Travel photographers shoot on the go. With that comes a level of uncertainty that you have to accept. Something could go wrong when you least expect it. In fact, this is usually when things do go wrong! The best way to mitigate an unwanted situation is to prepare for it as best you can. 

Quick story…

At Angkor Wat in Cambodia, tourists can witness sunrise at the temple. This requires getting up around 5 am, but the sight is so spectacular it’s a no-brainer. When I arrived, I gathered with the other tourists in the darkness and waited patiently for the sun. As soon as the sky began to light up, out came the cameras. I took a few shots and noticed my photos were blurry. Everything with my camera settings seemed fine. I started to panic. If I didn’t get the issue fixed quickly, I’d miss documenting the event. That’s when I realized the morning humidity was fogging up my lens. It was the first time I’d ever encountered anything like that. Thankfully, I packed a microfiber cloth just in case my lens ever needed a quick cleaning.

So what’s the moral of this story? Carry as many accessories as you can “just in case”. You never know when they’ll come in handy. 

You may need some (or all) of the following somewhere along the way:

• A microfiber cloth
• Extra batteries
• Extra memory cards
• A selfie stick (please don’t)
• A remote shutter release controller
• A first aid kit
• External drives
• USB cables
• Surge protectors

8. Plan Ahead

You’ll likely be out all day long when exploring. While you don’t want to stifle the creativity that comes from spontaneous opportunities, you should have a rough plan as to how your day plays out. Planning ensures you’ll be able to do everything you want to do, and see everything you want to see.

For example, you might have 3 or 4 places you want to shoot at. Do some online research to ballpark how much time you expect to spend at each one. You can then use Google Maps to figure out how much time is needed to get from place to place. A notepad app on your phone can be used to quickly plan the day’s itinerary.

Another tip is to pre-plan your shots if you’re familiar with the location. This helps quickly capture the photos you really want. You can then focus the rest of your time on shooting creatively at the site.

Planning ahead helps things run more efficiently. Manage your time to the best of your ability but leave some wiggle room. In my experience, you usually never have enough time at a single spot.

9. Power Up With Food & Water

You’ll need energy to make it through the day. Taking food and water helps sustain you when there’s no food or water around.

Load up on healthy snacks. Things like protein bars, nuts, seeds, bananas, and healthy sandwiches. You can pick these up at convenience stores in most countries.

Carry a refillable water bottle with you at all times. Bonus points if you pair the water with electrolyte tablets. These will help replenish salts and minerals your body loses during the day. If you’re in the tropics, a fresh coconut will do just the same. However, be careful how many coconuts you consume because they’re a natural laxative.

10. Take Your Time Shooting

The final tip is to take your time. Too often we rush to get our photos without appreciating the situation to begin with. Travel is a luxury that not everyone can afford. Being a travel photographer means you have a responsibility to present the world to those who aren’t in your position.

By taking time crafting your photos, you’ll have less throw aways at the end of the day. Waiting a few minutes could be the difference between a photo with hoardes of tourists vs. a photo with no tourists. In some places, the weather changes on a dime and can drastically affect the mood of a picture. The light at sunset gives you ultra-dramatic photos compared to light in the afternoon hours.

Keep things relaxed and loose. There should be no rush when you’re taking pictures. You may experience moments on the road you want to capture, but by the time you snap the photo, the moment is usually gone. Simply soak up your surroundings and then think of ways you can present it to the world from your unique point of view.

Travel Photography Is A Privilege

Using the above travel photography tips, you should have a good understanding of how to prepare for shooting. By taking care of the small details, you’ll be able to focus on your end goal – taking great photos of your favorite destinations.

The post 10 Travel Photography Tips appeared first on Michael Brion | Travel Photographer.

If you enjoy exploring exotic countries on your own, learning how to travel Japan solo can be one of the most rewarding experiences of your life. Japan’s reputation as a world leader precedes itself. Not only does it have some of the most innovative modern technology, but it also has a strong culture that’s rooted in tradition. Those who visit Japan usually return with the belief that it’s one of the best countries in the world. From the awe-inspiring metropolis that is Tokyo, to feudal-era temples, and an endless choice of exotic cuisines, Japan is a destination that should be on everyone’s bucket list.

Is Japan Safe To Travel Solo?

Absolutely. In fact, Japan consistently ranks as one of the world’s safest countries. In 2019, crime was at an all-time low since the end of World War II. But this isn’t to say that the country is free of crime. Like any travel destination (and one with a large population of 125 million people), you should be smart and aware of your surroundings at all times.

Crime aimed at tourists is mainly theft and pickpocketing, with physical assaults being rare. You should have no problems walking around late at night. If you’re in the more raucous areas, you may want to exercise a higher degree of caution. These are places like Kabukicho and Roppongi (both known for their pulsing nightlife), which can get a little out of hand in the wee hours.

Just use common sense. If you rent a bicycle, lock it up when you’re not using it. If you’re working on a laptop, don’t leave it unattended. Be aware of your bag/purse at all times. 

Will I Feel Out Of Place Travelling Solo In Japan?

Not at all. Japanese culture is a relatively individual one and showing up alone is pretty standard. “Ohitorisama” (translated to “on your own”) is the word given to this solo lifestyle. Japan’s workaholic society has led to many people spending their downtime alone by choice, with one-third of households made up of a single person. Businesses are even catering to this demographic now. Cinemas offer seats with partitions, karaoke bars have solo booths (party for 1?), and grocery stores sell pre-made food for singles.

Do They Speak English In Japan?

They do. However, any time you’re traveling to a foreign country, you should make an effort to learn the local language. In Japan, you’ll find that not everyone speaks English fluently, so you should have some basic Japanese phrases memorized. Attempting to speak the local language (even poorly) is appreciated by residents and will endear you to them.

I’d recommend downloading the Google Translate app for in-depth translations on the fly, but here are a handful of basic phrases you should learn before your trip:

Where To Stay in Japan

Accommodations in Japan can be pricey, but as a solo traveler, you have options to save money. 

The cheapest is a capsule hotel. This is literally a hotel where you sleep in a capsule or pod. While they can be offputting for some, capsule hotels actually don’t feel too claustrophobic. Some have full-sized rooms with a single bed and space to move around, while others are little more than a mattress in an oversized cubbyhole. Most include a TV, WIFI, and various electrical outlets for keeping your devices charged. 

Standard hostels are another option. These are dorm-style rooms with multiple bunk beds, although you can book a private room for a few extra yen. Most hostels have shared facilities when it comes to bathrooms, kitchens, and dining areas. The nice thing about hostels (and some capsule hotels) is they’re great places to meet other solo travelers. If you’re looking for people to explore the country with, you’ll find them here.

Business hotels (bizunesu hoteru) are a bit more expensive, but if you’re looking for something private, they hit the right notes. These hotel chains offer single occupancy rooms that come equipped with a bed, desk, tv, small fridge, and WIFI. Price varies depending on where you’re staying. 

When budgeting your accommodation, keep in mind that you’ll probably be spending a minimal amount of time there. There’s so much to see and do in Japan, so don’t overpay for luxurious accommodations you won’t be spending much time in. Check out Hostelworld, Agoda, and Booking.com to get the best rates.

Finally, you can always explore AirBnb options. However, they tend to be more expensive than a business hotel (although usually cheaper than a high-end hotel). 

Japan SIM Cards

Internet in Japan is notoriously costly. To combat this, there are plenty of free WIFI spots you can tap into. In a pinch, Starbucks (which is Japan’s largest coffee chain) has WIFI, and public places like the Tokyo Metro also provide it for passengers. With many public options, a SIM card should only be needed to cover basic internet, unless you plan on heavily using your phone while in Japan. 

The cheapest SIM cards are offered by companies that piggyback on Japan’s large networks. You can pre-pay online and pick them up at the airport when you land, or (in some cases) have them delivered to your home country before your trip. The common ones are Simcard Geek, Mobal, OCN, Sakura Mobile, b-mobile, SoftBank, and IIJmio. The majority of these are data-only, meaning you won’t be able to make phone calls or send/receive texts. Mobal is the exception, offering tourist SIM cards with data, phone, and text.

Tourist SIM cards are available in various packages. Some have capped data while others are unlimited. They can be used for anywhere between 5 and 30 days before requiring a top-up. The starting price for a Japan tourist SIM card is roughly $35 – $40 USD. Also, remember to unlock your phone before your trip so that it can be used with a foreign SIM card.

What To Pack

As with any trip, you should take into consideration the time of year. In warm seasons, you wear less. In cold seasons, you wear more. It’s not rocket science. 

For the in-between seasons, dress in layers. Bring t-shirts, long-sleeved shirts, a pair of shorts, a pair of pants, and a light jacket. You’ll be walking a lot, so make sure you wear comfortable shoes. You don’t want to destroy your feet and legs and ruin your trip. Japan has very small living quarters, so pack efficiently and ensure your luggage won’t take up too much space. 

Of course, pack your electronics such as your phone, camera, lenses, tripod, laptop, as well as any other devices and drives you might need (and don’t forget your chargers!).

Cash comes in handy on the road, so keep some with you at all times. The best way for foreigners to get cash in Japan is from the 7 Bank ATM machines, which are open 24/7. These machines accept most foreign cards and are found at the airport as well as at 7-Eleven convenience stores. Japan Postal Offices are another option for ATMs, but they’re usually only operational during post office hours.

Convenience stores such as Family Mart, Circle K, Lawson, and Daily Yamazaki also have ATM machines. These can be hit or miss with foreign cards, but are worth a shot if you’re in a pinch. ATMs in Japanese banks usually won’t accept foreign cards, although SMBC Bank may be an exception for some.

How To Get Around Japan

Japan isn’t an overly large country geographically, but moving between cities takes some time. Depending on your budget and time constraints, you can take planes, trains, or buses. 

Trains

The most convenient way to get around Japan is via its world-class rail system. The trains are convenient, clean, safe, and always on time. 

Japan’s bullet train, called the Shinkansen, connects major cities in only a few hours. A 10-hour bus ride from Tokyo to Osaka is a mere 2.5 hours via the Shinkansen. However, the trade-off is that the bullet train is expensive, so you’ll have to figure out if it can fit into your budget.

If you’re going to be traveling extensively, look into the JR (Japan Railways) Pass. It’s only available to foreign tourists and offers unlimited use of the bullet train lines at a discounted price. You can also use this pass to get to/from Tokyo’s airports (Narita and Haneda) to/from Tokyo Station.

For example, a single-ticket trip from Tokyo to Kyoto to Osaka to Hiroshima, and back to Tokyo adds up to around JP¥47,000 ($279 USD). A 7-day JR Pass costs JP¥26,650 ($260 USD). If your itinerary is for 7 days or less, you’ll save $20 USD by getting the JR Pass. If you’re staying longer, the JR Pass is also offered in 14-day and 21-day options, for $445 USD and $570 USD, respectively.

To figure out if the JR Pass is something you should invest in, you can use this JR Pass calculator (prices are approximate).

If you feel this is a good investment for your trip, you can purchase it at any of the following sites: Japan Rail Pass, JRailPass.com, JRPass.com, and Japan-Rail-Pass.com.

Moving Around Tokyo

Getting around Tokyo can be intimidating, but their public transportation is designed for maximum efficiency. If you have the JR Pass, you get access to Tokyo’s most prominent line, the Yamanote line. If you want to explore the city extensively, look into using the Metro and Toei Subway lines.

The Tokyo Metro offers 24, 48, or 72-hour tickets which are very affordable. The price is between JP¥800 ($7 USD) and JP¥1500 ($13 USD) for unlimited use of the lines. You can also use this ticket on the Toei Subway. If you take 3 or 4 trips per day, and you’re staying in Tokyo for 3 straight days, the 72-hour ticket is worth it. But if you aren’t using the subway that much (or staying in Tokyo for that long), let me introduce you to…

Suica / Pasmo Cards

Suica and Pasmo cards are IC (integrated chip) cards that you load with money. You simply swipe the card before you get on the train and the fee is subtracted from your balance. Easy peasy. These cards can also be used for bus transport, locker rentals, vending machines, and at some convenience stores. They’re also not limited to Tokyo. If you plan on moving through the country, a Suica or Pasmo card is a convenient way to pay for your transportation. They can be purchased from vending machines or station offices and can be recharged with anywhere from JP¥10 ($0.10 USD) to JP¥20,000 ($175 USD).

Planes

You may want to look into flying if you’re traveling long distances. Many times, flights via Japanese airlines JAL, ANA, Peach, and JetStar can be cheaper than the bullet train. The downside is you’ll deal with the hassles of flying and you won’t be able to enjoy the countryside views that come with riding the Shinkansen.

Buses

Buses are another way to get around Japan. Compared to the bullet train, you can save a lot of money. Where the Shinkansen from Tokyo to Kyoto costs roughly $115 USD, a bus costs $45 USD. That’s a significant amount of savings. However, you’re also spending 8 hours on the bus compared to 2 hours on the train. If you’re tight on time, the bus might not be an option. Japan does have sleeper buses though, which can help you maximize your travel time. 

To look up the different bus schedules and prices, you can use Hyperdia.

Cities To Visit in Japan

Japan consists of 4 main islands (from north to south): Hokkaido, Honshu, Shikoku, and Kyushu. Most visitors never leave Honshu, as it contains Japan’s most popular cities: Tokyo, Kyoto, and Osaka.

Sapporo (Hokkaido)

Sapporo is the capital of Hokkaido and the island’s largest city. Compared to Japan’s main tourist cities, Sapporo is a low-key destination as it’s in the north of the country. The city hosted the 1972 Winter Olympics and many of its attractions are geared to the winter season. 

Every February they hold the Sapporo Snow Festival, showcasing immaculate sculptures made out of ice and snow. Resorts catering to winter activities such as skiing and snowboarding are aplenty. Sapporo is also famous for the beer of the same name, which was originally brewed here in 1876. While its headquarters have since been moved to Tokyo, you can visit the Sapporo Beer Museum for a tour and tasting.

Sapporo has lots of natural open spaces for those seeking a tranquil getaway. In addition to the city center’s Odori Park, you can head over to Hokkaido University’s Botanic Gardens, or spend some time at Moerenuma Park. On the outskirts is Mount Moiwa, which provides tourists with panoramic views of the city. Sapporo also has arguably the best food in Hokkaido, and the climate lends itself to seafood, dairy, and high-quality produce. 

Aizuwakamatsu (Honshu)

Known as the Samurai City, Aizuwakamatsu is centrally-located on Honshu island, in Fukushima Prefecture. It’s a historical city that harkens back to the time of the samurai. The main attraction here is Tsuruga-jo, an Edo-period castle that was demolished after the Boshin War in 1874. It was reconstructed in 1965 and further restored in the 21st century. Inside, it contains a museum where you can learn more about the ancient Aizu clan.

The former post town of Ouchi-juku continues the journey back in time. It was located along the Aizu-Nishi Kaido trade route, giving travelers a place to rest and recharge. It’s been preserved to the Edo period (although today it has electricity), and the main road offers visitors a variety of restaurants, shops, and minshuku (traditional Japanese inns). The site also boasts a temple and shrine. 

Aizu Bukeyashiki is a samurai residence that should be on your itinerary as well. While it was destroyed in the Boshin War, it has been faithfully restored with mannequins depicting how life used to be. Temple explorers should check out Entsu Sansodo, aka the Sazae-do. It’s a wooden temple that was built in 1796 and has a distinct twisted design.

Aizuwakamatsu is also known for its sake, and the Suehiro Sake Brewery is one of the top producers in Japan, offering free tours and tastings. If you prefer nature and hiking, you can explore Lake Inawashiro, Mount Nekomadake, or relax at Higashiyama Onsen.

Tokyo (Honshu)

Tokyo is one of the world’s most popular destinations, seeing roughly 30 million tourists per year (pre-COVID). It’s also the entry point for the majority of tourists who land at one of the city’s two airports: Narita or Haneda. Tokyo is a large urban sprawl, consisting of 47 prefectures that are home to 38 million residents. There is so much to experience in Tokyo that you couldn’t possibly fit it all into a single trip. Here are a few of the highlights:

• Shinjuku: There’s a good chance that when you think of Tokyo’s neon streets and signage, you’re picturing Shinjuku. The area of Kabukicho in particular is home to an endless variety of shops, restaurants, and entertainment. It’s one of the most popular areas of Tokyo for nightlife.
• Shibuya Crossing: Shibuya Crossing is the busiest intersection in the world, and one of the iconic symbols of Tokyo. Somewhere in the vicinity of 1000 to 2500 people cross the intersection every few minutes. You can find it outside the Hachiko exit at Shibuya Station.
• Akihabara: Akihabara is Tokyo’s electronics district, with tons of retail shops to explore. It’s also the cultural center of video games, anime, and manga in Japan.
• Observation Decks: Many tourists want to see Tokyo from high above, and there are plenty of places to do just that. Skytree, Tokyo Tower, Shibuya Sky, Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building, and Roppongi Hills Mori Tower are some of the best spots.
• Markets: Fresh food can be found at Tsukiji Outdoor Market and Toyosu Market. Both have an array of shops and restaurants, but the Toyosu Market also has a world-famous tuna auction where the fish is sold for thousands of dollars.

• The Imperial Palace: The Imperial Palace was built on the site of the old Edo Castle. It’s the main residence of the Emperor of Japan and the Royal Family. Tours of the grounds are available, but visitors tcan only enter the inner portion of the palace 2 days of the year (January 2 and February 23).
• Temples & Shrines: Japan has over 100,000 temples and shrines, and Tokyo has some of the best. Sensoji Temple is probably the most popular, with Meiji Shrine and Zojoji Temple also being worth a visit.
• Museums: If museums are your thing, you have around 100 to choose from. The National Museum of Modern Art, Samurai Museum, Tokyo Photographic Art Museum, and Museum of Contemporary Art are some of the best to check out.
• Mountains: There are two mountains near Tokyo that you can hike on a day trip – Mount Tako, and Mount Fuji. The former is closer to the city center, and more easily walkable than the latter. Takao is roughly 90 mins from Tokyo, whereas Fuji takes about 2.5 hours via train.

Kyoto (Honshu)

Kyoto is a stark contrast to the hustle and bustle of Tokyo, making it a perfect companion city to visit on the same trip. Once the capital of Japan, Kyoto is the cultural heart of the country, complete with temples, gardens, classic Japanese architecture, and geishas roaming the streets.

The orange torii gates at the Fushimi Inari Shrine are one of the most recognized symbols of Kyoto, along with the Arashiyama Bamboo Forest. Both attractions offer trails and paths for leisurely strolling through the scenery. 

History buffs shouldn’t miss The Kyoto Imperial Palace, which was once the residence of the Emperor of Japan. While Tokyo’s Imperial Palace is virtually closed to tourists, The Kyoto Imperial Palace can be extensively toured.

One of the best-preserved feudal-era streets is found in Higashiyama. Throughout the narrow road, you’ll find traditional shops – from pottery stores, to tea houses and restaurants. Higashiyama also offers a picturesque view of Yasaka Pagoda for your Instagram feed.

There’s around 1600 Buddhist temples throughout Kyoto. Some of the most visited are the gold-covered Kinkaku-ji Temple, the hillside UNESCO Heritage Site Kiyomizu-dera Temple, and the Zen Buddhist Tenryu-ji Temple. 

Other attractions you should pencil into your Kyoto visit? The Nishiki Market for food and wares, the historic Nido Castle, and the observation deck at Kyoto Tower.

Osaka (Honshu)

Osaka rivals Tokyo but on a much smaller scale. However, it has a reputation for having some of (if not the) best street food in Japan. The most popular entertainment district in Osaka is the southern downtown area of Minami (aka Namba), which rivals the busy vibe and neon lights of Tokyo’s Kabukicho in Shinjuku. 

Minami’s northern counterpart is Kita (aka Umeda) which is Osaka’s busiest transport hub. As a result, it offers tourists plenty of shopping options in this district. You’ll also find the Umeda Sky Building here, an architectural wonder with a circular observation deck. The Harukas in Tennoji is Japan’s tallest building and another gem for seeing the city from high up.

Tourists can also check out Osaka Castle, aka Osakajo. It’s a reconstructed castle from the 16th century, complete with a citadel, gates, stone walls, and moats. The interior has been modernized and offers a museum to educate visitors about the castle’s history. The site also includes Nishinomaru Garden, where people gather during cherry blossom season. 

Some other Osaka tourist attractions? Check out The Osaka Aquarium, Bunraku Theater (Japanese puppetry), and Shitennoji Temple (one of the oldest in Japan). 

Honorable Mentions

Aside from the aforementioned cities, Japan has plenty more that many travelers rave about. Here are a few you may want to add to your trip.

• Kobe (Honshu): Kobe is about 30 minutes west of Osaka, on the north of Osaka Bay. It’s a port city (and Japan’s 7th largest), with Kobe Harborland and Port Tower being the main attractions. Kobe is also the birthplace of the world-famous Kobe beef.

• Hiroshima (Honshu): Hiroshima attracts World War II buffs, as it was one of two cities (along with Nagasaki) that was obliterated when the United States dropped the atomic bomb on it. Today, a memorial stands at ground zero. The ruins of the Genbaku Dome are an everlasting symbol of peace and a reminder of the consequences of war.

• Fukuoka (Kyushu): Fukuoka is the main city on the southern island of Kyushu. For the most part, its attractions are historical castles and shrines, but it also has one of the best street food scenes in all of Asia.
  
  

• Okinawa (Ryukyu Islands): Okinawa is a stunning island off the south coast of Japan. Renowned for its tropical climate and pristine beaches, it was also the site of WWII’s Battle of Okinawa in 1945.

What To Eat In Japan

Japan’s culinary scene is one of the best in the world. In fact, if you’re on a strict budget, you can get affordable, ready-made food from 7-Eleven (or any other convenience store). Unlike the Western world, a lot of food in Japan 7-Eleven’s is healthy and of high quality.

For those who prefer restaurants, you can’t go wrong with an izakaya. Izakayas are casual pubs that serve drinks and a variety of foods. Japanese dishes are the norm but you can also get international cuisines depending on where you go. Visiting an izakaya is a great way to unwind while soaking in Japanese culture.

Something else you’ll see plenty of in Japan are tachinomis, or standing bars. Translated to “stand and drink”, these are small and intimate venues where you can grab a quick drink and some snack food. They usually get pretty lively, and what’s more, they’re easy on the wallet. 

Aside from sushi, you can’t visit Japan without trying their street food. Yatai (food stalls) are all over the country and offer a wide range of Japanese dishes. Some of the most popular are:

• • Takoyaki (dumplings stuffed with fried octopus)
  • Okonomiyaki (pancakes with filling)
  • Yakisoba (noodle dish)
  • Yaki imo (baked sweet potato)
  • Oyakodon (chicken and egg bowl soul food)
  • Kitsune udon (noodle soup)
  • Yaki tomorokoshi (grilled corn on the cop)
  • Yakitori (chicken skewers)
  • Ikayaki (grilled squid on a stick)
  • Taiyaki (fish-shaped waffle with filling)

Travel Japan Solo At Least Once

Learning how to travel Japan solo is something that any serious traveler should do. It’s true that Japan is an expensive country, but exploring it is worth the financial investment. Japan will leave a lasting impression and you’ll likely be planning a return trip at some point.

The post How To Travel Japan Solo appeared first on Michael Brion | Travel Photographer.

Learning Lightroom shortcuts helps streamline your workflow and increase productivity when editing photos. While there are somewhere around 300 shortcuts in Adobe Lightroom Classic, it can be hard to remember them all. I’ve picked out a handful that you can implement easily and immediately. In our fast-paced world, speeding up your editing sessions frees up your time to focus on more important things. Let’s get to it!

Basic Editing Shortcuts

Probably my most used Lightroom shortcut is Undo: ⌘+Z (Mac) / Ctrl+Z (Windows). I tend to overedit at times and fall into the perfectionist trap, so having a quick way to undo a change makes editing much more efficient. 

I also crop all of my photos to a 16 x 9 aspect ratio. You can turn the crop function on/off by pressing the R button. Lightroom also has composition grids that you can cycle through by pressing O while in crop mode. Shift + O will flip some of the grids. 

If you want to flag or unflag certain photos you can do so by pressing P (Flag as Pick) or U (Unflag). Additionally, you can rate your photos on a scale of 1 to 5 stars by pressing the corresponding number key. Pressing zero resets the rating by removing the stars. You can use the star rating system to group images as a collection, which we’ll discuss further in this article.

If I’m editing for a long period of time, I usually need to reset my eyes at some point. Before I step away from the computer, I’ll put the image in Full Screen by pressing F. Upon my return, the first thing I see is a full-sized version of my photo. This helps me decide if it needs any more tweaking or if it’s good to go.

Lightroom also has a Lights Mode which you can cycle through by pressing L a few times. It dims everything around the image you’re editing, helping increase your focus.

Finally, if you are planning on doing batch exporting, you can press B to add photos to your Quick Collection. This groups photos in a single collection so you don’t have to hunt for them one by one later.

Recap:

Undo: ⌘+Z (Mac) / Ctrl+Z (Windows)
Crop: R
Flag as Pick: P
Unflag: U
Ratings: 1 (1 star), 2 (2 stars), etc. 0 (remove stars)
Full Screen Preview: F
Lights Mode: L (cycle 3 times)
Add/Remove Images to Quick Collection: B

Apply Preset On Import

Using presets is common practice these days, as they help with image uniformity and speed up editing workflow.

To maximize your time, you can add a single preset to all your photos at the same time when importing them into your Lightroom catalog. 

To import photos into a new catalog, press Shift + ⌘ + I, or select File > Import Photos and Video… from the Menu bar.

Once you’ve located the images you wish to import, the right-side panel has a drop-down menu called “Apply During Import”. Click on it and choose the preset you wish to apply to the images you’re importing.

Then click the Import button in the bottom right corner. Applying the preset to each photo via this technique takes some time for Lightroom to process, but it’s faster than applying them one by one as you edit.

Set Up The Develop Panel

The Develop Panel is located on the right side of the screen when you’re in the Develop Module. The panel has plenty of editing functions but you may not use all of them regularly. By customizing the various sections of the Develop Panel, you can set it up to your preference. For example, I rarely use the Split Toning or Detail sections. By moving these sections to the bottom of the panel, it saves time by not having to scroll past sections I don’t even use.

To customize the Develop Panel, right-click on any of the section titles (ie. Tone Curve, Basic, HSL/Color, etc.). When the menu pops up, choose “Customize Develop Panel”. You can then re-order the sections to your preference, and even fully remove some if you never use them.

History

The History panel is an important tool found on the left of the Develop Module. It logs every single action you’ve taken when editing a photo – from the initial import, to any edits, to the final export. Actions are logged in order with the most recent on top.

The History panel becomes invaluable when you realize you can see what you’ve done to your photos long after you’ve edited them. You may have a photo from 3 years ago but you forgot how you edited it, and have no idea which preset you used. A quick check of the History panel shows you every step you took along the way.

Before & After

The Before & After toggle function is proof of how powerful Lightroom is, and how editing can completely change the feel of a photo. It can be used in a few different ways. 

The first is by pressing the \ key. This will toggle between your edit and the original image. 

The second is by showing a side-by-side comparison of the original imported image next to the edited one. To toggle it, press Y.

In addition to a Left/Right comparison, you can also set the Before & After to Top/Bottom, or Split Screen. Change it by clicking on the YY icon or the upside-down triangle next to it.

The third way you can control this is by turning on View Modes on the Tool Bar, while in Before & After Mode. In the bottom right corner of the Develop Module window (underneath your image), you’ll see a small upside-down triangle on the Tool Bar. Click it and a menu pops up. From here you can add various clickable shortcut functions to the Tool Bar. 

Before & After View Modes: A Word

I do have a gripe about the View Modes function where Before & After is concerned though. This menu allows you to add 3 Before & After functions to the Tool Bar:

1. Copy Before’s settings to After
2. Copy After’s settings to Before
3. Swap Before & After settings 

These can be fun to play around with I suppose, although I’m not sure why they’re necessary. If you choose option 1 or 3, Lightroom allows you to easily undo them. 

My gripe is with option 2 – Copy After’s settings to Before.

If you click on the “Copy After’s settings to Before” button, the action won’t be logged in the History like options 1 and 3 are. This means you can’t Undo it and your Before image becomes edited.

The only way to revert the Before image back to its original state is by scrolling to the Import action in the image History. Right-click on the Import action and choose “Copy History Step Settings To Before”. This reverts the Before image back to its original form while leaving the rest of the image’s History actions intact.

I’d highly recommend leaving Before & After unchecked in the View Modes. You can still toggle the Before & After function by pressing Y, and you won’t have the headache of messing up your Before image and scrambling to fix it.

Change The Background Color

The color around the image you’re editing can be changed. By default, Lightroom sets the mat at white, but you can make it light gray, medium gray, dark gray, darker gray, or black. Personally, I usually stick with white as it isolates the image well, but I also use the medium gray setting at times to make the colors pop.

To change the background color, right click on any area of the mat around the image. Then select the color you desire.

Match Total Exposures

The Match Total Exposures feature allows you to apply the same exposure to a batch of images with a single click. Depending on how you’ve exposed your photos in-camera, this Lightroom shortcut may or may not come in handy. Sometimes it works very well, but other times it can result in a mixture of overexposed or underexposed images. 

To use the feature, click on a photo that you want to use as your exposure reference point. Hold down ⌘ and click on any other photos in the film strip that you want to have the same exposure. Then go to the Menu Bar and select Settings > Match Total Exposures.

Reference View

Reference View is a comparison tool that helps give your images uniformity. It’s easy to use and shows you what areas need to be tweaked to get them more in line with each other.

Press Shift + R to bring up Reference View. In the Tool Bar, you can choose between stacking two photos, or comparing them side-by-side. The left (or top) photo is the Reference image (the one you want to match to), and the right (or bottom) photo is the Active image (the one currently selected in your film strip). 

To select the Reference image, simply drag a photo from the film strip to the Reference window.

Collections

Collections is an organizational tool that’s heavily underutilized by photographers. Where Lightroom shortcuts are concerned, it can be a game-changer once you understand how it works.

Most photographers shoot tons of photos, which can be hard to keep track of during the editing phase. As previously discussed, in any catalog, you can add photos to a Quick Collection, flag them, and rate them (and even color-code them!). These techniques help you quickly locate images you want to export.

Collections take all of that to the next level.

The Collections menu is to the left of the Develop Module. Catalogs already have a “Smart Collection” option. But you can create your own collections as well. This makes it easy to recall images flagged for specific things, such as blog posts or social media. You can create collections titled “Best Photos”, or “Print”, keeping all your top photos organized and easy to recall. It’s essentially a customized folder hierarchy.

The upside is that using Collections doesn’t create duplicate images. This means it won’t take up more hard drive space. Instead, the location of the image is stored in the Collection folder, rather than a duplicate image (which would quickly balloon hard drive space).

The downside of Collections is that they’re specific to the catalog you’re working in. So if have a catalog of Vietnam images and a separate catalog of France images, you’d have to set up collection folders in each one. 

Many Lightroom users believe the fewer catalogs you have, the better. They might not be wrong.

You could organize all of your best travel photos in a single travel photography catalog, rather than jumping between multiple catalogs dedicated to different travel destinations. However, the potential downside is that some people find large catalogs slow down Lightroom’s processing speed.

Create A Virtual Copy

One of the great things about digital photography is that you can edit a picture any way you want, and as many times as you want. You can do this by creating a virtual copy of the image, which is essentially a duplicate. This is handy for comparing different presets or editing techniques on the same photo. By duplicating it, you have endless options at your disposal.

To do this, right-click the photo (either in the Develop Module or the film strip), and choose “Create A Virtual Copy”. Additionally, virtual copies can also be edited in Photoshop if need be.

Spot Removal

Got a photo that has an unusual amount of dust, dirt, specks, or small imperfections on it? Instead of straining your eyes to find out where all the spots are, there’s an easier way.

Press Q to activate the Spot Removal tool. 

In the Tool Bar below the image, locate the Visualize Spots checkbox and activate it (or press A). This inverts the image so you can pick out the spots easier. A slider is also provided for greater control over the number of spots that are brought out. You can then go through the photo and click away to remove the dots.

Clipping

Clipping is one of those issues that photographers are either hyperaware of or could care less about. The truth is somewhere in the middle. 

Clipping occurs when parts of the RAW image file lose information in either the whites or blacks. If the whites are too white, they’re considered overexposed or blown out. When blacks are too black, they’re considered underexposed and you won’t be able to see textures in the shadows. 

But when it comes down to it, these levels all depend on how you want your photo to look and feel. You might want a bright sky or fewer details in the shadows. Knowing about clipping gives you the knowledge and flexibility to edit to your liking.

To find out if you have clipped areas in your photo, press J. Clipped black levels show up as blue, and clipped white levels show as red. Also, take a look at the Histogram. The far left of it represents black levels, and the far right represents white levels. When the image is clipped, the small arrows at the top of the Histogram turn white to notify you.

To edit these levels to your preference, use the “Highlights” and “Shadows” sliders in the “Basic” section of the Develop Panel. In this example, I took down the highlights substantially (from +16 to -84) to get the photo into an “acceptable” range according to the Histogram.

Edit Using Photoshop

At times, you may need to make edits that require something more powerful than Lightroom. Adobe makes things simple by linking Lightroom with Photoshop, making for a seamless transition and uninterrupted workflow.

To edit with Photoshop, first, make all the edits you need to in Lightroom. Once this is done, press ⌘+E, and Photoshop will open. The image will be automatically imported from Lightroom. Make any edits you need to in Photoshop and then save it by pressing ⌘+S. Exit Photoshop with ⌘+Q and the edited image will be automatically sent back to Lightroom. 

You’ll notice that you now have two files, the pre-Photoshopped RAW file, and the Photoshopped file, which will be in TIFF format. This happens because Photoshop can’t edit RAW files. Upon editing in Photoshop, Lightroom sends it an RGB file, which is what you’ll be editing. But, because it’s not saved, the RAW file extension still shows. Once you save it in Photoshop, it gets converted to TIFF format. You can then export the TIFF file using Lightroom.

There’s No Shortcuts in Life, Only in Lightroom

Lightroom shortcuts can make a considerable difference in your editing sessions. They may take some getting used to, but once you memorize the tricks outlined above, they’ll completely change how you edit and decrease the amount of time you’re spending in front of the computer.

For a more extensive list, head over to Adobe’s Lightroom Keyboard Shortcuts page.

The post Lightroom Shortcuts For Productivity appeared first on Michael Brion | Travel Photographer.

From Nice to Saint Tropez, France has some of the most scenic coastal views in the world. This area of the country is The French Riviera, a luxurious travel destination that attracts millions of tourists every year. Navigating these resort towns is fairly easy, but there’s more to the region than beaches and luxury. Keep reading to learn more about the best cities to visit and what each has to offer.

What Is The French Riviera?

The French Riviera is a large coastal region in southeastern France. It has a population of more than two million people and spans roughly 550 miles from east to west. Although it has no official boundary, it’s generally accepted as the region between the towns of Toulon and Menton. 

The French Rivera is often referred to as the Côte d’Azur, a nickname that loosely translates to “Coast of Azure”. This is due to the vibrant, azure blue color of the Riviera’s Mediterranean sea. 

The French Riviera is France’s second-leading tourist region (behind Paris), known for its seaside resort towns and beautiful weather. In fact, the Riviera sees roughly 10 months of sunshine every year. In pre-COVID times, it welcomed 5 million visitors annually, with many locals flocking to the region during their summer holidays.

While it’s a relatively large area, moving between towns doesn’t take much time at all. Private transportation can get you to your next destination in anywhere from 30 to 90 minutes, with buses and trains being even faster. For instance, taking a day trip to Monaco from Menton is only 15 minutes by train. This makes it easy to station yourself in a “home base” city that you can jump off to explore the region.

When Is The Best Time To Visit The French Riviera?

With mild weather, little rain, and 300 days of sunshine, you can visit the Côte d’Azur any time of year. But if you want the best weather, aim for July and August. There is a trade-off in these months, though, being that they’re the height of tourist season. Crowds are large and everything is more expensive.

If you want to avoid rain, steer clear of the shoulder months of March, April, October, and November. The winter season sees a drop in both tourists and prices. This is a good thing for the budget traveler, but it should be noted that many bistros and hotels close during these months due to a lack of tourism. This makes April, May, June, and September, the best times to visit. During these months, the crowds are tolerable and the prices aren’t overly exorbitant.

Is The French Riviera Expensive?

In a word, yes. The French Riviera is famous for its wealthy inhabitants, luxury accommodations, glitz, and glamour. Although it’s a pricy destination, those on a budget can still visit as long as they’re wise about their spending habits.

For example, you can save money by simply going during the slower months rather than peak tourist season. This brings down the cost of everything substantially. Walk or take the train instead of splurging on private transportation. Choose tourist attractions that are free. Dine at restaurants that don’t charge an arm and a leg for food and drink (ie. a glass of wine during peak season can be upwards of €17 ($19 USD) in some restaurants!).

Top Cities To Visit In the French Riviera

The French Riviera gives you plenty of resort towns to choose from. These include Villefranche-sur-Mer, Beaulieu-sur-Mer, Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat, Cap-d’Ail, Sainte-Maxime, Fréjus, Juan-les-Pins, and Saint-Raphaël. 

However, the following cities are the most popular ones that the majority of tourists spend time in when visiting the region (from west to east):

Saint-Tropez

Saint-Tropez is in the southwest region of the Riviera. Historically, it was a fishing village and military stronghold. After World War II, Saint-Tropez became an internationally recognized resort destination. This still holds true today. The town attracts jet-setters and famous faces looking to relax in luxury, eat at upscale restaurants, and spend their days yachting on the Mediterranean.

Saint-Tropez also has a mixture of upscale boutiques and independent shops, with over 800 total to keep shopaholics busy. You can catch the locals playing petanque games at the Place des Lices Square, which turns into a popular market on Tuesday and Saturday mornings. The 17th-century citadel should be on any history buffs’ itinerary, and the site also includes a museum and great views of the harbor. The 9-hectare port of Saint-Tropez is a central piece of the town, located in the heart of the village and a bustling center for yachts in the region. 

Cannes

Cannes is a commune located in the Alpes-Martimes department. No doubt you’ve heard of the annually-held Cannes Film Festival, which showcases up-and-coming films from all around the world. But the main attraction in Cannes is La Croisette, a 3-kilometer-long promenade with a hub of activity along the shoreline. It has a mixture of beaches, hotels, boutiques, and gardens allowing you to stroll at your leisure and take it all in.

On the west end is Le Croisette Casino Barrière, the largest casino in the French Riviera. Nextdoor is Le Vieux Port, where you can relax with a drink while watching the boats come and go. The port is also where you can hitch a ride to visit the Lérins Islands, a hidden gem only a few minutes off the coast. Cannes old town, Le Suquet, is immediately west of the port. Containing cobblestone roads, quaint shops and restaurants, it’s also home to Forville Market and Musée de la Castre, two must-see landmarks.

Antibes

Drive 30 minutes east of Cannes and you’ll end up in Antibes, the second largest town in the French Riviera and another hotspot for the rich and famous. Fort Carré, a military fortress built in the 16th century where Napoleon was briefly imprisoned during the French Revolution, is one of the main tourist attractions. The Châtau Grimaldi is another historical building, which Pablo Picasso used as a studio. It’s now the Museé Picasso and houses around 250 of his works. Other museums to check out are Musée Peynet and Musée d’Archéologie.

Antibes has no less than 48 beaches, allowing sun-worshippers plenty of choices when it comes to getting their fix. Port Vauban is Europe’s largest marina where you can see some stunning superyachts as well as Le Nomade, an 8-meter-high aluminum art installation. If you’re an avid hiker, be sure to do the Sentier de Tire-Poil (The Tirepoil footpath), an easy 5km walk through the rocky terrain of Cap d’Antibes. 

Nice

Nice is the largest city on the French Riviera and has lots to see and do. Photography buffs can get expansive views of the coastline at Colline du Chateau Park (Castle Hill), which is situated on the outskirts of Old Nice (Vieille Ville). The old town is filled with pastel-colored buildings, markets, bistros, eateries, and charming boutiques.

At the heart of Vielle Ville is the baroque-designed Nice Cathedral, which was built in the 17th-century. Along the water, you’ll find the famous Promenade des Anglais, a 7-kilometer path where you can enjoy a stroll at any time of day. Additionally, Museé Matisse should be a stop for any art buffs. It showcases a large number of works of the famous French artist Henri Matisse.

Monaco

Monaco is part of the French Riviera, but it’s not actually part of France. Rather, Monaco is its own sovereign city-state and is physically smaller than Central Park in New York City. It’s the world’s second-smallest country (next to Vatican City) and holds the distinction of being the world’s most densely populated one, with 18,750 inhabitants/km². Monaco is a haven for the world’s elite (32% of the population are millionaires) which is evidenced by its lavish surroundings and distinctive luxury yacht port.

The Monte Carlo Casino is one of the main attractions, as is the Monaco Grand Prix. This is an annually-held Formula 1 race through the streets and around the harbor. The Prince of Monaco’s Palace as well as the Saint Nicholas Cathedral are also popular stops for first-timer visitors. Sun worshippers can spend time on Lavrotto Beach, sea-life enthusiasts can visit Museé Océanographiq, and architecture and music lovers can book a tour to the stunning 19th century Opera House.

Menton

The final stop on the Côte d’Azur is the town of Menton. In fact, many consider it to be the best-kept secret in France. Menton shares a border with neighboring Italy. This makes it a cultural mixture of French and Italian, which will delight almost any foodie who visits. The town is known for its exquisite gardens (Serre de la Madone, Jardins Bioves, and Val Rahmeh Botanical Garden), as well as its annual Lemon Festival (Fête du Citron), which takes places at the end of winter.

Another popular attraction is the Jean Cocteau Museum, which celebrates the famous French artist’s works. Head over to the Old Quarter to stroll through cobblestone alleys and then visit the Basilica of Saint Michael Archangel, an impressive structure built in 1653. If you have extra time, take a trip to the Cimetiere du Trabuquet, a cliff-side cemetery that provides stunning views over the land and sea.

Just Say Oui!

The coast from Nice to Saint Tropez has some of the most beautiful scenery in all of Europe. It’s a luxury destination, but not an entirely unaffordable one. Carefully plan your itinerary before you visit, and watch your spending. By doing so you’ll be able to enjoy the Riviera’s weather, views, and food on your next trip to France.

The post From Nice To Saint Tropez: The French Riviera appeared first on Michael Brion | Travel Photographer.

Using clever techniques can help you craft more powerful photos, and photography framing is one of them. At some point, most photographers hit a creative lull, which can last days, weeks, or even months. Keeping things fresh and interesting will help jog you out of it. By learning to frame, you’ll start to see the environment around you differently when you’re shooting. This technique shakes things up, boosting your creativity in the process.

What Is Photography Framing?

Photography framing is a composition technique photographers use to provide the viewer with a definitive subject. This is done by adding a frame around the area/subject that the photographer wants the viewer to look at. The frame subconsciously tells the viewer that what’s inside it is important, naturally drawing your eye to it. Sometimes frames are perfectly symmetrical, but in most cases, the frame is something in the environment that can be used creatively in the photo.

Why Is Framing Important?

Photography framing is important because it pushes photographers creatively, and as a result, helps craft powerful and memorable photos. Aside from subconsciously forcing the viewer to look at the subject, framing also does the following:

1. It Creates Layers

Layers are an excellent way to make a dull photo more interesting. When you add a frame, the visual effect is that it looks physically closer to the camera than the rest of the scene. In many cases, this is true. In turn, the viewer is looking through the layers of the frame to the subject. This gives more depth to the entire image, and at times an almost three-dimensional quality. Depth of field is controlled by your camera’s aperture. This can either blur the areas around the focus point or have crisp focus across the entire image.

2. It Balances The Photo

When you put a subject in a frame, it naturally balances out the photo. Even if you’re subject isn’t dead center, as long as it’s placed properly in a frame, it will provide a sense of balance to the overall image. It does this by leading your eyes to the positive space (the subject), forcing them to disregard the negative space. Many times a frame in a natural environment won’t be symmetrical, but most viewers won’t pick up on this issue because of how the brain blocks out the negative space.

3. It Sharpens The Subject

Framing put the focus solely on the subject of the photo. It brings it into focus so your eye can’t help but look at it. You can use a low f-stop such as f2.8 or f1.4 to keep the subject in focus while blurring the frame. A low f-stop enhances the subject even more, as it separates the blurry frame from the in-focus subject through contrast. If you use a higher f-stop like f8 or f11, the entire image will be sharp. While this won’t detract from putting the focus on the subject inside the frame, a high-f-stop isn’t as impactful and contrasted compared to a low f-stop.

Popular Photography Framing Techniques

Framing can be used in any number of photography genres. With travel photography, you’re most likely going to use things in your environment to create the frame. Here are some popular framing techniques you can play around with on your next shoot.

Architecture

Travel takes you to new cities, so you’re going to have a lot of opportunities to frame with architecture. Some world-class destinations have such stunning buildings that you’d be wasting an opportunity to capture your subject by not including them. You can use two buildings to frame a subject, intricately decorated doorways, archways, windows, staircases, and even narrow alleys. It can be all too easy to shoot at random while exploring a new city. Framing with architecture can present an otherwise familiar tourist location in a creative new light. 

Nature

Using natural surroundings is another way you can add a frame. Trees, branches, and leaves are probably the most common. As they hang over the subject, they provide a randomly unique visual that can perfectly frame a subject. Exotic locales and beaches have things like caves and coves which you can use to great effect. If you’re a landscape photographer, don’t discount mountainous regions. You can use foreground peaks and hills to frame mountain ranges in the distance. This technique can also be used if your subject is a valley. By framing it with foreground terrain on the left and right of the photo, there will be a stronger focus on the valley below.

Tunnels

Tunnels cross over into the leading lines composition technique, but they can also act as a frame. By putting your subject in the center of the photo, the arch of the tunnel provides a unique frame shape. Depending on your aperture and subject placement, you could even get a nice bokeh-esque tunnel behind them. You might even spot natural tunnels as well. This is evident in things like a walking path with high trees on either side, or large weeping willows like you’d find in Savannah, Georgia. 

Your Environment

Maybe you find yourself shooting in an environment where you don’t have any of the aforementioned outdoor frames. Look around your indoor environment and I’m sure you’ll find things you can use. Curtains are a great way to frame up a scene, as are windows. If you’re inside a plane you can shoot the sky using the window as a frame. Perhaps you’re somewhere that has cars or other vehicles. Positioning your subject on the other side of them can allow you to use vehicle windows or doors to shoot “through”. Bridges are yet another way to create a frame, by either placing the subject on it or under it. You may even have vertical bars or a fence to use. Perhaps there’s a mirror in the room that you can frame your subject in. Force yourself to think outside the box and you’ll come up with creative solutions.

Contrast

Mastering contrast can produce extremely dramatic images. Plenty of street photographers use this in their work, finding ways to frame their subject using only light and shadow. This does require you have a fairly good understanding of how light works, and it’s contrasted (and therefore complemented) by the dark areas. But with some practice, you’ll figure out how to use shadows to create a frame around an illuminated subject. By doing this, you won’t even have to find an actual frame in the environment.

Practice Photography Framing

Like any technique, photography framing is simply a skill that needs to be practiced. Sometimes it will be obvious, and other times it will be a challenge. If you can scout and preplan your location shoots, it will give you a good idea as to what you can use as a frame. If not, you’ll be shooting blind, which isn’t always a bad thing. A lot of the best photos are shot in the heat of the moment. By understanding different ways to create framing, you can use it whenever you want to propel your photography to the next level.

The post Photography Framing For Powerful Photos appeared first on Michael Brion | Travel Photographer.

Thailand is known as the “Land of Smiles”, which can be found in abundance from the friendly locals. But do you know what else is overly abundant in Thailand? Temples! There are over 40,000 temples in the country and roughly 30,000 of them are in use. This can make it quite confusing as to which ones you should see when traveling through the country. Keep reading to learn all about which ones are the must visit Thailand temples.

Must Visit Thailand Temples: Dress Code

If you wish to enter a temple, you’re required to dress appropriately. This means keeping your shoulders covered and wearing pants that fall below the knee. A lot of tourists invest in elephant pants (God help us all) to keep them cool while avoiding any issues when temple hopping.

Having said that, my attire for most temples was basically shorts, a T-shirt, and hiking shoes (although there were a few temples where I had to put on pants). I also saw plenty of tourists dressed similarly and were also allowed in. This could be due to the fact that Thailand gets incredibly hot and humid during the day, so the locals understand that tourists need to dress a certain way to keep cool. But as long as you aren’t wearing anything too revealing, or your attire isn’t isn’t sloppy or falling apart, you should be fine. 

When entering a temple, you’ll also be required to remove your shoes. There’s usually a shoe rack set up at the entrance where you can stash your footwear. If you’re concerned about theft, it’s pretty rare. If anything does go missing, it’s likely because someone grabbed an identical-looking pair of footwear by mistake. 

Thailand’s Top Temples

A trip to Thailand wouldn’t be complete without a visit to some of its Buddhist temples (wats). The majority are free to enter although some require you to pay a small fee. As they’re spread throughout the country, I’ve grouped them into regions for easy reference. 

Chiang Mai

Chiang Mai (aka “The Rose of the North”) is located in the north of Thailand and contains 117 temples. The city is known as the spiritual center of Thailand, and has a laid-back, slow-paced vibe.

Wat Phra That Doi Suthep

Doi Suthep is the most impressive temple in Chiang Mai. It’s located on the outskirts, more specifically on Doi Suthep mountain, which overlooks the city. Its history dates back to 1383 when the first stupa was built. To get to the temple it’s a 15-minute drive from the city center. If you prefer, you can walk up the Monk’s Trail, but be prepared as this takes anywhere from 3 to 6 hours. Once you arrive, a 309-foot staircase leads you to the temple, although a tram is also available. The temple is considered to be one of the most sacred pilgrimage spots in Thailand, seeing upwards of 120,000 visitors daily (pre-COVID), although there can be even more during holidays. 

Google Maps: https://goo.gl/maps/yUhnpYec8vNKXdL38
Hours: 6am to 8pm

Wat Pha Lat

Wat Pha Lat (which translates to “Monastery at the Sloping Rock”) is a hidden jungle temple located on the Monk’s Trail. It’s accessible by car but many tourists walk the 2-kilometer hike which takes about 40 minutes. Due to its seclusion, it sees less foot traffic and is considered to be a hidden gem when it comes to temples and Chiang Mai attractions. Built in 1355, the temple was originally used as a resting point for those making the pilgrimage up the mountain. The site has impressive architecture, as well as statues and other temple artwork. Those that are looking for a tranquil temple away from the city should definitely pay a visit.

Google Maps: https://goo.gl/maps/KhTygQpBa11vEhhSA
Hours: 6am to 6pm

Wat Sri Suphan (Silver Temple)

Nicknamed The Silver Temple for its silver exterior, Wat Sri Suphan was built in the 16th century and served as the main temple for a silversmith village. It was only in 2008 when it was decided to redecorate the temple by covering as much of it (including statues) in silver. The interior is adorned with silver, mirrors, lights, and vibrant colors. The downside to this temple is women are forbidden to enter it due to ancient Lanna beliefs. At night, the temple is illuminated by spotlights which change the silver exterior into different colors. Near the temple is the Wualai Walking Street Market, which brings in a lot of foot traffic on Saturday nights.

Google Maps: https://goo.gl/maps/yAPTqjsdhGWHPNEk8
Hours: 6am to 6pm

Wat Chet Yot

Sometimes called Wat Jed Yod (but officially named Wat Photharam Maha Wihan), this 15th-century temple’s main chedi was built as a smaller replica of Bodh Gaya in India. While most temples in the north of Thailand use Lanna-style architecture, this is one that follows Indian architecture. The main attraction is the 7-spire Maha Chedi, which symbolizes the 7 weeks it took the Buddha to reach enlightenment. When the temple was constructed, a Bodhi tree was planted, and over 560 years later it still stands tall. The temple grounds are vast, filled with ruins of chedis, pagodas, as well as statues, ancient trees, and flowers. 

Google Maps: https://goo.gl/maps/Z5YKwdFdtRkecWJJ8
Hours: 7am to 6pm

Wat Chedi Luang

Wat Chedi Luang is probably the most popular temple in Chiang Mai, as its location is right in the heart of the city. It’s instantly recognizable from the partially crumbled chedi which is believed to protect the city. This was caused by an earthquake in 1545, which collapsed the upper 30 meters of the structure. UNESCO and the Japanese government financed the reconstruction of the chedi in the early 1990s. The temple also once housed the Emerald Buddha, an important religious relic that has since been moved to Bangkok. Wat Chedi Luang has large grounds to wander and includes 2 viharas, the city pillar shrine, a reclining Buddha, and a secondary temple, Wat Phan Tao.

Google Maps: https://goo.gl/maps/b33Lo5t4KGJEsnJRA
Hours: 8am to 5pm

Wat Suan Dok

Also called Wat Buppharam, Wat Suan Dok is an interesting temple that photographers flock to. Its name translates to “Flower Garden Temple”, as it was built on the site of a former royal flower garden in the 14th century. It’s characterized by its abundance of small white chedis which surround a 48-meter high golden chedi. Many of the white chedis contain the ashes of several generations of Chiang Mai’s Royal Family. The temple was built to house a relic that was believed to be the shoulder bone of the Buddha. In the 1930s, the temple’s ubosot and virharn were both renovated, and a 5 meter high Buddha that was cast in 1504 sits inside.

Google Maps: https://goo.gl/maps/TCUyQhnZy75kWSsV9
Hours: 6am to 9pm

Wat Pra Singh

Another temple located in Chiang Mai’s Old Town is Wat Pra Singh, which many consider the most beautiful temple in the city. Its Lanna-style architecture dates back to the 14th century, with teak woods, Buddha murals, and immaculately kept grounds. An active temple where monks live and study, it’s referred to as “The Monastery of the Lion Buddha”, with ornate gold chedis marking the site. The largest building is the Viharn Luang, which houses a gold and copper Buddha that was cast in 1477. Equally impressive is the Ho Trai scripture library building. It was built on a high stone structure to protect the ancient Buddha scriptures inside from floods and unwanted pests.

Google Maps: https://goo.gl/maps/mSfwo4vre5mwEAnw9
Hours: 9am to 6pm

Chiang Rai

3 hours north of Chiang Mai is Chiang Rai, which is near the borders of Laos and Myanmar. It’s a sleepy town that tourists haven’t quite yet discovered, but it has some stunning temples you should check out if you’re in the area.

Wat Rong Khun (White Temple)

Probably the most famous of Chiang Rai’s attractions, Wat Rong Khun is more commonly known as The White Temple. Unlike other Thai temples, The White Temple is a privately-owned art exhibit. After falling into a state of disrepair, it was rebuilt by Chalermchai Kositpipat, a Chiang Rai visual artist who used his own money to finance the restoration. His intention was to create a center for learning about Buddhism, and its impressive design is a mixture of traditional and modern art. There are nine buildings in total, including the ubosot, meditation hall, art gallery, and living quarters. Construction on the site is ongoing with 2070 being the aim for completion.

Google Maps: https://goo.gl/maps/RmnaUst4M7fnYmrD8
Hours: 8am to 5pm

Baan Dam Museum (Black House)

Switching from light to dark, we have Chiang Rai’s Black House, which was designed by the late Thai artist Thawan Duchanee. It’s part museum, part art studio, and part private residence, though no one lives there anymore. The house is a stark contrast to almost every other temple in Thailand, embracing more macabre ideals and decor. It’s built mainly from wood that’s been stained black and dark brown, with modern chedis contrasted in white. Inside you’ll find intricate wood carvings and artwork, as well as things like skulls, horns, and animal skins. Also on site is a black, submarine-like structure where Duchanee lived while creating this masterpiece.

Google Maps: https://goo.gl/maps/WvAF892PjbVsxxfc7
Hours: 9am to 5pm

Wat Rong Seua Ten (Blue Temple)

The Blue Temple is located a few kilometers outside of Chiang Rai. While it’s only 5 years old, it’s already built a reputation as one of the most stunning temples in all of Thailand. Translated to “The House of the Dancing Tiger”, this temple is a mixture of blue and golden colors. In Buddhism, blue symbolizes purity, ascension, healing, tranquility, and the infinite. The contrasting colors make everything pop, looking bold and vibrant. The temple was designed by Putha Kabkaew, an apprentice of The White Temple’s designer, Chalermchai Kositpipat. Naga serpents guard the entrance of the temple, and once inside you’ll be treated to a visual feast for your senses.

Google Maps: https://goo.gl/maps/9z1s3ahgoENuULvE9
Hours: 7am to 8pm

Bangkok

The city of Bangkok is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world, and it’s also home to over 400 temples. Many are huge complexes with lavish decor, although there are smaller less-assuming temples as well. Here are the ones you shouldn’t miss.

Wat Pho

Wat Pho (or Wat Phra Chetuphon) is known as “The Temple of the Reclining Buddha”. It houses the largest reclining Buddha in the country – a 46-meter long by 15-meter high statue covered in gold leaf. The temple is a restoration of an earlier temple, Wat Phodharam. It features Ayutthaya-designed architecture, and some structures in it were salvaged from the town of Ayutthaya (see Wat Mahathat below). Wat Pho is also the birthplace of traditional Thai massage, and a massage school was established inside the complex in 1962. As it’s the oldest wat in Bangkok, there are over 1,000 images of the Buddha (more than any other temple in Thailand). Additionally, a Buddhist monastery where monks live and study is also included in the complex.

Google Maps: https://goo.gl/maps/CwntMZXyQ1RhBr989
Hours: 8am to 6:30pm

Temple of the Emerald Buddha

Wat Phra Kaew is the home of Thailand’s most important statue, The Emerald Buddha. The temple is found inside the grounds of Bangkok’s Royal Palace and is regarded as the most sacred temple in the country. The Royal Palace is the most visited tourist attraction in Bangkok. The Emerald Buddha statue is actually made of jade stone, stands 65 centimeters tall, and is believed to protect and bring prosperity to Thailand. Before taking up its current residence in 1784, the statue traveled extensively through Cambodia, Laos, India, and Sri Lanka and was believed to perform miracles. It now sits on a throne of intricately carved wood and is re-dressed three times a year by the reigning King of Thailand.

Google Maps: https://goo.gl/maps/hiHHR5F2nTZF129L7
Hours: 8:30am to 3:30pm

Wat Arun

Wat Arun (also known as Wat Arun Ratchawararam) is located on the western bank of the Chao Phraya River and is recognizable by its ornate Khymer-style prang (spire). It takes the name of Aruna, a Hindu god associated with the rising sun. Wat Arun dates back to the 17th century, and over the years porcelain, tin-glazed pottery, and seashells have been added to the prang’s exterior. For photography buffs, the golden hour produces the best light to shoot the temple. Getting to the wat can be done for a small fee via water taxi/ferry, and you can also get great views of Arun from the water or across the river.

Google Maps: https://goo.gl/maps/nkQEXngC4f2GVHw49
Hours: 8am to 6pm

Wat Saket

Wat Saket (aka Phu Khao Thong) is a hilltop temple that provides sweeping panoramic views overlooking Bangkok. It’s commonly referred to as “The Temple of the Golden Mount” for its large gold chedi. It was originally built during the Ayutthaya period but was reconstructed in the 20th century using Carrara marble. To get to the top, tourists have to climb 318 steps, which takes around 15 minutes. There are small gardens and statutes along the way, with many people stopping to admire and take photos. The temple is busiest at the end of the day, as you’ll get a dramatic look at the setting sun over Bangkok in a tranquil setting.

Google Maps: https://goo.gl/maps/Bj57BMdBqD7Uknrf6
Hours: 7am to 7pm

Phuket

The island of Phuket is one of the most visited regions of Thailand. While it has a relaxed, tropical vibe and beautiful white sand beaches, it also has 29 Buddhist temples for tourists to visit.

Wat Chalong

If you’re going to visit any Phuket temples, Wat Chalong should be on the top of your list. Built in the 19th century, it’s the largest temple in Phuket and has three levels you can explore. It’s dedicated to 2 revered monks who led the citizens of Chalong Sub district in fighting against the Chinese rebellion in 1876. The temple’s pagoda features a 60-meter high chedi that houses a bone fragment of the Buddha. 

Google Maps: https://goo.gl/maps/shez391LxPVLv9XM8
Hours: 8am to 5pm

Big Buddha

Probably the most well-known tourist attraction in Phuket is the Big Buddha. It’s a massive seated Maravija Buddha statue made of concrete and marble and it’s the main Buddha of the nearby Wat Kitthi Sankaram temple. Construction of the 148 foot-tall structure took place between 2004 and 2018. The Big Buddha is so big it can be seen from various areas in southern Phuket. At the site, tourists can take in panoramic views of the island.

Google Maps: https://g.page/BigBuddhaPhuket?share
Hours: 8am to 6pm

Honorable Mentions

Sanctuary of Truth, Pattaya

The Sanctuary of Truth in Pattaya is a hybrid temple/castle that stands 20 stories high and is built entirely out of wood. The temple is a work in progress. Construction started in 1981 and completion is aimed for 2025. All idols and sculptures are made out of Mai Deang , Mai Takien, Mai Panchaat, and Teak woods (they don’t even use nails!). The main wood used is Mai Takien, as it’s expected to last around 600 years. The design is one of Ayutthaya and Buddhist beliefs. The temple has an interior space of 2,115 square meters and a spire reaching 105 meters. The amount of craftsmanship is staggering, and it’s definitely one of the top must visit Thailand temples on this list.

Google Maps: https://goo.gl/maps/EWh8i5zPzTnpwhfRA
Hours: 8am to 6pm

Wat Mahathat, Ayutthaya

The temple ruins of Ayutthaya’s Wat Mahathat are not to be missed. Historians put its construction around 1374, during the reign of King Borommaracha I. It follows a Khmer-style temple construction (like Angkor Wat in Cambodia), and its claim to fame is a Buddha head statue engulfed by a Bodhi tree. Its name translates to “Monastery of the Great Relic,” and the temple is believed to house a relic of the Buddha. As with all ruins, you’ll see crumbled structures and chedis, faded wall murals, and headless/armless statues.

Google Maps: https://goo.gl/maps/v673kaXjdyNh85GF9
Hours: 6am to 5pm

Wat Tham Suea (Tiger Cave), Krabi

The Tiger Cave Temple is a mountain temple in Krabi. It’s famous for three things: tiger prints in its cave, a large Buddha statue, and a 30-minute climb up 1,260 stairs to reach the summit. Its foundation was discovered in 1975 when a monk meditated in the cave and realized there were tigers roaming around inside. The stairs have been recently renovated, and they lead you 309 meters up to the summit where you’ll see the Buddha statue as well as stunning views of the Krabi region. The busiest times are either in the morning or at sunset when the heat isn’t as intense.

Google Maps: https://goo.gl/maps/fMH4TrAb9qF4Qzt3A
Hours: 8am to 5pm

Don’t Miss Thailand’s Temples

This list of must visit Thailand temples could’ve been much longer. However, these are the top ones that you should take the time to see. Now that you have a greater understanding of each temple’s history, you’ll be able to appreciate them more when you experience them in person.

The post Must Visit Thailand Temples appeared first on Michael Brion | Travel Photographer.

Learning photography can be intimidating for some people. Not only do you have to familiarize yourself with new equipment, but you need to learn how to use it to make photos that aren’t terrible. There’s a lot that goes into creating a good image, and beginners can put undue pressure on themselves in a quest for perfection. Striving to produce better work than your last photo is what you should aim for, and you can do so by following these 11 tips for beginner photography.

11 Tips For Beginner Photography

Beginner photographers shouldn’t expect to be shooting National Geographic-quality images right out of the gate. But by concentrating your efforts in certain areas, you can begin taking great photos in no time.

1. Focus On Learning

If there’s one tip you should take with you throughout your entire photography journey, it’s to always be learning. There’s no shame in being the “dumbest person in the room”. In fact, you should embrace it and surround yourself with those that have more knowledge.

Start off with photography 101 basics. These are things like learning the various parts of your camera, how exposure affects your images, and compositional techniques. Are you familiar with aperture? Do you know what f-stops are? Do you know what the rule of thirds is? If you answered no to all of those, don’t get discouraged or intimidated. Simply learn. 

Here are some other questions you should ask yourself:

• What kind of camera do you need? Mirrorless or DSLR?
• What type of lens should you get? A prime or zoom? 
• Do you need to shoot wide open for bokeh? Do you even know what shooting wide open means? Or what bokeh is? 
• What aspect ratio do you want to shoot in? Do you prefer landscape or portrait ratios? 
• What software will you use to edit your photos? What kind of editing style would you like to use on your pictures? 
• Do you plan to release your photos for everyone to see? If so, where will you post them? Do you want to print and sell them? 

2. Don’t Buy The Most Expensive Gear

When we get the itch to embark on a new hobby, it’s easy to get caught up in all the gear we wish we could have. You might be salivating over that $2500 camera body or an equally priced sharp-as-a-tack lens. It’s great to have an idea of what you need for your work, but starting out with high-end gear can be a detriment. 

A few months down the road you may find you’re not as gung-ho about photography as you were at the beginning. You might have a life situation arise causing you to shelve your photography aspirations for an indefinite period of time. If for nothing else, you can save money as there are plenty of great cameras for under $1000. When you’re a beginner, it’s nice to have all the bells and whistles but it’s not necessary. You’ll be overwhelmed trying to learn all the techniques that a high-end camera is designed for. 

Do some research on cameras you think you’d like. Read reviews, go to a local shop and ask an associate for their advice. Hold different cameras in your hands so you get an idea of how it will feel. Only then should you invest in a camera. A model between $500 and $1000 is more than sufficient for beginners.

3. Shoot As Much As You Can

“Repetition is the mother of learning, the father of action, which makes it the architect of accomplishment.” – Zig Ziglar

In order to grow, a beginner in any field needs to immerse themself in the work. Musicians practice daily. Writers write daily. Bodybuilders exercise daily. So it should be with photographers. The only way you’ll get better is by shooting as often as you can.

If you have an idea of what photography niche you’re interested in, you’ve got a head start. Be it travel photography, pet photography, food, or portraits, you can focus solely on shooting in that style. As a result, you’ll get better faster. 

If you don’t have a clue what style you want to shoot, or if you like all kinds of photography, shoot whatever you want. When starting out, there is no wrong or right way to do things. The takeaway here is to just shoot. Get familiar with the whole process, and your photography will gradually take shape.

4. Find A Mentor

Studies show that a mentor/protege relationship can be beneficial for both parties. For someone just starting out, working with a mentor can equip you with the knowledge to help you achieve more. For mentors, passing the torch to the next generation is all part of life. And let’s be honest, when we can help each other out, we always feel better.

If you don’t want to go down this road and prefer to work in solitude, I’d still strongly suggest finding a photographer(s) that you admire. There are plenty all over the web – from Instagram to photography forums or even YouTube. Not only does it give you a style to aspire to, but their work will also keep you inspired. When you see people working hard on their craft it becomes infectious.

5. Prime Lenses For Creativity

I have a whole article debating the pros and cons of prime lenses vs. zoom lenses. Although there are times where I wish I had a zoom, I’m a big proponent of using primes. For starters, they’re less expensive, let in more light, and aren’t as heavy as zooms. But the main reason is that they require you to learn a focal length, inside and out. 

With primes, you can’t just zoom into a shot. You have to physically move to get the framing you want. This helps connect you to the scene better and also forces you to be more creative with your shots. Going back to repetition, shooting with a single focal length will help you master it, and you’ll instinctively know how a photo will turn out before you even pick up your camera.

6. Experiment With Depth Of Field

You want your images to stand out. One of the best ways to do this is by changing the aperture of the lens, which controls the depth of field. Aperture is measured in f-stops, and it brings into focus certain parts of the photo. It also controls how much light is let into the camera, making it part of the exposure triangle.

A wide aperture (ie. f2.8, f1.4) provides a shallow depth of field. This isolates a subject in the foreground. Consequently, it blurs the background, adding bokeh to the image. This technique is used a lot for portrait photography. It puts the focus squarely on a subject’s face and/or body. A wide aperture also lets a lot of light into the camera, making it ideal for night photography.

If you want to have uniform sharpness throughout the photo, use a smaller aperture, such as f8 or f11. Group photos and street photography are usually shot at these depths of field to ensure everything in the frame is crystal clear.

7. Shoot In RAW

RAW (.raw) is a file format that most mirrorless and DSLR cameras will allow you to shoot in. They also allow you to shoot in JPG (.jpg) format as well. The main difference is the amount of flexibility you have when working with the photo during the editing process.

If you shoot in JPG format, the camera will spit out a fully rendered photo, with rich colors and deep black levels. It will be how that camera brand feels a JPG photo should look.

If you shoot in RAW, you’ll be given a less vibrant/contrasted photo, but one that contains more digital information than the JPG format. It’s essentially giving you the RAW elements that have been captured on the camera’s sensor. 

RAW is more forgiving for beginner photographers. It allows you to sculpt the image however you wish or recover portions of it. If you need to adjust certain levels that weren’t properly exposed (ie. an area is too bright or too dark), it’s relatively easy to balance out using a RAW file. A JPG, on the other hand, contains a lot less information to work with. Adjusting levels on a JPG can lead to things like banding, artifacts, chromatic aberration, and other digital noise.

Additionally, most cameras will allow you to shoot in both JPG and RAW simultaneously. While this gives you more choice, it also takes up more space on your camera’s memory card.

8. Learn To Edit

Unless you’re happy with how the JPG image looks out of the camera (most photographers aren’t), you’ll want to use an editing program on your photos. The two most popular are Adobe Lightroom and Capture One. 

With editing software, you can take the photo’s RAW file and make it look any number of ways. You can adjust the tone curve, contrast, shadows, individual color luminosity, black levels, white levels, reduce digital noise, and even add film grain. Once you have your adjustments set, you can save them as a preset which can then be applied to any photo.

Many photographers create and sell their own custom presets. By using them, it gives your work a uniform look with a single click of the mouse. Some are vibrant, some ethereal, while others specialize in black and white. Playing around with presets is a great way to learn how to edit. Once applied, you’ll see how the sliders have been adjusted and understand how they affect different aspects of the image. 

Editing isn’t just about presets though. You will want to brush up on your Photoshop skills as well. You may need to touch-up areas, smooth skin, remove objects, or raise/lower exposure levels.

9. Learn Manual Mode

Unless you’re learning on a small point-and-shoot or a phone, the camera should allow you to shoot in manual mode. Manual mode is when you have full control over the exposure triangle: the aperture, shutter speed, and ISO level. 

Manual mode accomplishes a few things. First, it will help you learn your camera quicker. At first, you’ll be all thumbs, but that will quickly change just by shooting in manual. You’ll understand how aperture affects depth of field and light. How shutter speed can freeze or blur a moving subject. Or what level your ISO should be set to for proper exposure. 

When you shoot in auto mode, you’re doing yourself a disservice by letting the camera pick and choose how an image should look. Additionally, most auto modes won’t shoot in RAW either. 

You may also want to look into shooting in Aperture Priority (you pick the aperture, the camera picks the ISO and shutter), or Shutter Priority (you pick the shutter speed, the camera picks the aperture and ISO).

10. Study Light

Photography is all about light. Without it, you wouldn’t be able to capture images!

Travel photographers are at the mercy of the elements. This can be both good and bad. I’ve taken photos that turned out way better than I thought they would and it was all because of the light (or lack thereof). When you study how light affects your subject, you’ll have a better sense of how you can convey a feeling through your work. 

To add dramatic light to your outdoor photos, the best times are when the sun rises and sets. The “golden hour” (which rarely lasts a full 60 minutes) is the time just after sunrise, and just before sunset. It’s named this because the sun sits low on the horizon and provides a warm, golden glow. The “blue hour” is just before sunrise, and just after sunset. During these times, this sun is below the horizon, giving images a decidedly cooler tone.

11. Store Your Photos Properly

Digital photography has lots of upsides, but at times data can get corrupted and be lost forever. Digital cameras use memory cards which are what you’re images are captured and stored on. As a beginner, you may not need more than one, but as you progress you’ll likely want to pick up a few. It’s better to invest in multiple cards that store less rather than a single card that stores a lot. If the card ever gets corrupted, you’ll have no pictures left, and nothing to shoot on.

After every photoshoot, you should back up your work. You’ll likely transfer the photos from your camera’s memory card to your computer, where you’ll edit them. You should then transfer them a second time to an external hard drive or cloud storage so you always have a copy of the RAW files.

External hard drives can hold a lot of photos, but their downside is they can fail, and you can lose everything on them. For this reason, you may want to back up the backup. Cloud storage is a good option as well, and it lets you access your photos from anywhere. However, you’ll have to pay a monthly fee for the account, and uploading files can take a donkey’s age depending on your internet speed.

Everyone Starts Somewhere 

Hopefully, these tips for beginner photography give a good idea of where to focus your attention. Just remember that everyone starts somewhere. Your first photos probably won’t be that good, and that’s perfectly ok. Mine certainly weren’t! Stick with it and in a relatively short amount of time, you’ll look back at your early work and realize how far you’ve come. 

The post 11 Tips For Beginner Photography appeared first on Michael Brion | Travel Photographer.

The internet allows for endless amounts of information at your fingertips. In 2021, blogging is still alive and well. There’s plenty of travel photography blogs out there besides the one run by yours truly. Following other creatives is a great way to keep the inspiration flowing while supporting fellow bloggers.

The Top Travel Photography Blogs

Most travel photography blogs lean to either the travel or photography side of things. Having said that, you’ll never go wrong absorbing information on either.

Here are some of the top travel photography blogs currently online (in no particular order).

Ken Kaminesky

The first thing you’ll probably notice about Ken’s blog is that it has a unique, journal-like look to it. His travels have taken him all over the world, shooting in places like Canada, Cambodia, Iceland, and Madagascar. He’s a published photographer, has his own column in Outdoor Photographer magazine, and runs his own photography tours. Due to the COVID pandemic, his tours are currently on hold. Though if all goes well, it looks like they’ll be up and running in 2022. On his site, you’ll find samples of his work as well as gear reviews, destination recommendations, and career advice for photographers.

Expert Vagabond

Matt Karsten has been traveling for 10 years, hopping around over 50 countries. His travels are in the adventure vein, seeing him visit areas of the world that most people would shy away from. Expert Vagabond is chock full of travel recommendations as well as personal stories of his adventures. In addition, he posts tips and gives course recommendations you can use to better your own craft. Traveling for such a long time has allowed him to make money as a digital nomad, and he shares his experiences to help those aspiring to do the same.

Stuck In Customs

Stuck In Customs is a travel photography blog run by Trey Ratcliff. It’s updated fairly frequently, usually multiple times a week. He has a paid “Passport Member” section, but also includes a lot of useful information on the blog for free. He posts about his gear and reviews it in-depth, as well as software and presets he uses. He’s a big fan of HDR and has multiple tutorials on how you can use it to make your images pop.

The Wandering Lens

The Wandering Lens is run by Australian photographer Lisa Michele Burns. She’s shot for high-profile clientele such as Lonely Planet, Destination Canada, and Nikon Europe. She has various guides on her website to help you navigate your way around world-class cities, and she also provides information on unique luxury accommodations. Lisa sells a creative photography course mentoring students, runs photo tours, and also has ebooks, prints, and Lightroom presets for sale.

Nomadasaurus

Australians Alesha Bradford and Jarryd Salem have been running the Nomadasaurus travel photography blog since 2013. They focus on adventure and sustainable travel, off-the-beaten-path destinations, and of course, photography. Their work has been featured by major media companies such as National Geographic, Yahoo!, and CNN. They have a large amount of both travel and photography-related articles for you to browse through. These range from practical to inspirational, but will no doubt push you to leave your comfort zone and take amazing photos of your travels.

Travel Photo Spirit

The Travel Photo Spirit blog is a bit different from most travel photography blogs, in that its showcases destinations through imagery rather than traditional blogging. Run by Lorenz Berna & Florence Lepavec, its won numerous awards as one of the top travel photography blogs. In addition to simply enjoying the beautiful photography, you can learn different techniques for capturing subjects. Travel Photo Spirit also has videos, stories, and a travel diary section you can explore.

Kirsten Alana

American photographer Kirsten Alana has shot for some well-known brands – Condé Nast Traveler, Four Seasons, and Visit California to name a few. Her article content ranges from solo travel to destination guides, photo essays, food & drink, and travel products. She also posts articles on lifestyle and fashion as she shoots for those genres as well. You can purchase prints from her store, and Kirsten also includes a bookstore that’s filled with her personal reading recommendations.

Nomad Revelations

Nomad Revelations is a travel photography blog by João Leitão. He’s been running it since 2006, visiting every continent and 145 countries in the process. In that time he’s amassed a large amount of content that covers a wide range of travel topics. João has almost every category covered – from guides to adventure and remote destinations, traveler interviews, and accommodation recommendations. He also has photography articles to help you become a better shooter and his own extensive list of travel photography blogs.

Everything Everywhere

Traveler Gary Arndt sold his home in 2007 and set out to explore the world. 14 years later he has a great blog and memories of visiting over 200 countries and every continent. In 2010, Time Magazine named Everything Everywhere one of the Top 25 blogs in the world, and he’s won multiple Travel Photographer of the Year awards. There’s a ton of content for you to read, as he updates the site daily, and you can even enroll in his Travel Photography Academy if you’re looking to up your photography game.

The Blonde Abroad

The Blonde Abroad is a travel photography blog that leans heavily into female solo travel. It’s run by Kiersten Rich, a Californian whose travels have taken her all over the globe. Not only does she take great photos (her Instagram has over 500,000 followers), but her site is well thought-out and provides readers with a lot of information. Not only does it hit on travel and photography, but also other things like making money on the road, blogging, and travel hacking. She sells Lightroom presets and also has links to gear and travel essentials she takes with her on the road.

Travel + Leisure

Travel + Leisure is a heavy-hitter, but that doesn’t make it any less relevant when it comes to the world of blogging. It has a carefully curated list of must-see destinations and offers a seemingly endless array of tips for travelers. If you want to know the top hotels, islands, which safaris you should go on, and what tech you need to bring with you on your next trip, this is the site for it. T+L also posts contests for readers to win free trips and/or accommodations.

Photo Traces

Photo Traces is a travel photography blog run by Canadian Viktor Elizarov. Unlike most travel photography blogs, this one is heavily focused on taking photos. While he includes the usual destination information, the articles inform on where the best photography spots are, rather than popular tourist attractions and places to eat. His tutorials are where you’ll find the most detailed information, with many of them teaching you photography 101, as well as editing techniques so you can get your photos exactly how you want them.

Tons of Travel Photography Blogs

This list is just the tip of the iceberg. You can check out a comprehensive list of travel photography blogs at Feedspot. By following different bloggers, you can stay inspired and motivated to keep working and improving your own photos. You may feel like travel bloggers are doing something you could never do. But really, all any blogger has done is found a passion and put it out there for others to enjoy.

The post Travel Photography Blogs To Follow appeared first on Michael Brion | Travel Photographer.

Modern cameras have lots of features packed into them. You may not use or even understand all of them. When I first started taking photos, I kept hearing the term “metering”, and how only “true photographers“ understood it and used it. After rolling my eyes, I looked into it more and found that statement to be somewhat true. When it comes to camera functions, you need to understand metering. Not because it will make you a “true photographer”, but rather it equips you with the knowledge to make the best possible photos.

What is Camera Metering?

Camera metering measures the amount of reflected light in your scene and helps determine a photo’s ideal exposure. It reads how much light is hitting the camera’s sensor and also takes into account the camera’s ISO setting. It will then determine which are the ideal settings for aperture and shutter speed. 

In the days before digital cameras, hand-held light meters were used to correctly expose photographs. This was mainly a failsafe so photographers wouldn’t waste film or botch their work. While the argument of film being better than digital holds some weight, digital cameras have built-in metering and you can review your photos on the spot.

A light meter scale on the camera allows you to monitor if you’re overexposing or underexposing the scene. Ideally, you want the meter to measure at zero. To fully understand what aperture, ISO, and shutter speed are, check out my previous article on exposure. 

The Light Meter Scale

The light meter scale is usually in the camera’s viewfinder or on its display screen. Depending on your camera, you may have to enable it. Be it a Fuji, Canon, Nikon, or Panasonic, the scale may look different but it works exactly the same.

It’s also easy to understand. If the arrow is pointing at zero (like the image above), the exposure is ideal in accordance with the metering mode you’ve selected. When the arrow leans to the negative side, the image is underexposed. If it leans to the positive side, the image is overexposed. Most cameras measure plus or minus 3 stops of light, although some go up to 5.

Is Metering Necessary?

Metering is necessary to get proper exposure. If you’re shooting in aperture priority or shutter priority, the camera does all the work for you. But if you’re shooting in manual mode, you’ll have to pay attention to the light meter scale so your image has the right amount of light.

Let’s pretend you’re shooting the Eiffel Tower, and the sun is behind it. You’re going to have a hard time exposing the Eiffel Tower properly because of the harsh backlight. Another example is if you’re shooting a scene that’s split in half – the sky in the top portion and land in the bottom portion. If you put too much sky in the photo, the meter will expose for the sky, darkening the land. If you put too much land in the photo, it’ll expose for the land, washing out the sky.

This is where post-processing programs like Lightroom and Capture One come in. By fiddling with exposure settings you can brighten or darken any parts of the photo to your taste. The downside to increasing exposure this way is that it introduces more noise into the photo, which is why it’s important to nail the exposure in camera.

Metering Modes

Both DSLR and mirrorless cameras include metering modes on them. Here are the most common you’ll find:

Multi

Multi mode goes by different names depending on the camera manufacture. Some call it Evaluative, Matrix, or Honeycomb. This mode uses “zone metering”. It works by dividing a scene into multiple zones, calculating an average reading of the light via an algorithm. Different manufacturers use their own technology to achieve this. 

For instance, Fujifilm divides a scene into 256 separate zones, whereas Canon uses 63 zones. When calculating, the area of focus is given greater preference. This is usually the center of the image, but if you focus elsewhere it will use that zone instead. 

Multi mode is the factory default as it’s designed for all-purpose shooting. However, it works best for genres involving wide scenes (ie. landscapes, cityscapes).

Spot

Spot mode is the most precise way to meter a subject in a scene. It averages a single spot, ignoring everything else in the photo. The size of the spot varies among manufacturers, but it’s somewhere between 1% and 5% of the scene. Your camera should also have a way to link the spot to your focus point, so it knows to expose for your subject. 

Spot mode is ideal for genres such as tabletop photography, still life, and macro. Portrait shooters also favor it. This is because you can properly expose the subject’s face/skin, in even the harshest backlighting (remember the Eiffel Tower example?). Conversely, you can spot meter the backlight, and shoot a silhouette if you prefer. Some cameras also have a Partial Spot mode, which is similar but uses a 10% to 15% sized point.

Average

Unlike Multi or Spot mode, Average mode doesn’t use an algorithm, have zones, or any type of precision. Instead, it takes in the entire scene and returns an average reading of it, giving equal weight to all areas. This mode is probably the least used, but it can be fine for scenes where you need consistent exposure throughout the frame.

Center-Weighted

Another mode that isn’t available on all cameras is the Center-Weighted mode. It acts similar to Multi mode, but it only has one zone – the center of the image. Unlike the small size of Spot mode, Center-Weighted is a large zone that radiates outward, measuring the light in 60 to 80 percent of the image. It can be used effectively for evenly lit scenes, but it’s not the best choice if you’re shooting with a lot of backlighting.

Master Metering

Mastering camera functions such as metering can help you take better photos. For most travel photography, the Multi mode setting works well for exposing your photos properly. However, it is important to note that there really is no “correct” or “ideal” metering level. Photography is art. A slightly overexposed or underexposed photo might be exactly what you’re going for. Metering is simply a tool. When you understand it, you can then use it however you wish.

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