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These days, smartphones take more than decent photographs. But if you’re about to jet off on the trip of a lifetime, you might want to capture photos of the highest quality — and the truth is that the quality of photos taken with a DSLR or mirrorless camera far exceeds that of a smartphone camera.
A quality digital camera has better image quality and more lens choices and settings that aren’t possible with smartphone photography. There are also more creative possibilities that can get you super excited to go out and see more of your travel destination, honing in on some of the unforgettable details.
Here, we’ll go through the reasons you should consider buying a camera for travelling, as well as what makes the best camera for travel photography.
The best cameras for travel photography
If travel is calling, you’re probably getting your gear together for a great trip. For your journey, you’ll likely want something to embed your experiences in time. This is why we take photos when we travel, to take a piece of that place, of those wonderful encounters and views, home with us.
Depending on the nature of your trip, you’ll want to find the best camera for travelling, one that’s suitable for you. Adventure-seekers might want to consider GoPros and drones. For most travellers, the debate is whether to invest in a DSLR or mirrorless camera. The construction and design of both camera types differ but the image quality and many of the features remain the same.
Since mirrorless cameras don’t have an optical viewfinder and mirror mechanism, they’re lighter and smaller, making them more portable and perhaps the best compact camera for travel. In saying that, DSLRs generally have a longer battery life, which is great for when you’re away from home. For both types, there’s a range of accessories, so you’ll easily be able to track down the best camera lens for travel.
5 reasons to invest in a travel camera
We’ve gathered five reasons why it’s a good idea to take a camera with you on the road, rather than relying on a smartphone. Travel photography is like a time machine, collecting stunning images from your adventures. Here are some reasons you might want to consider buying a camera for travelling:
1. Commemorate a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity
Make the most of the experience and capture the finest images possible. Travel goes hand in hand with making and sharing photos and memories. Immortalising a beautiful moment is a lovely way to honour an incredible trip.
2. You can create your own travel photo books and posters
Rather than spending your money on postcards, magnets, or knick-knacks, create your own keepsakes for yourself and your loved ones. Put a personal spin on the concept of a souvenir. There are countless images of Big Ben or the Taj Mahal out there, but your very own printed and framed photo is something to cherish forever.
3. You will improve your own photography skills
Having a camera for travelling will not only improve your experience of travel, but it’ll also improve your photography skills. When in transit, you can learn techniques and familiarise yourself with all the features of your travel camera. There are so many self-taught travel photographers who started this way. Get to know how to perfect your exposures by tweaking the ISO, shutter speed, and aperture. It can be really fun to learn all of your creative possibilities with your camera.
4. You can hone in on your particular photographic interest
A travel camera makes specialised photography interests possible, such as landscape or macro photography. These are often not possible without the right lenses and accessories. If you have a specific area of interest that you would like to improve as a photographer, there’s no denying that having a DSLR or mirrorless camera is the greatest way to see your skills develop.
5. It will encourage you to book your next trip
Most of us don’t need an excuse for another holiday but a new high-quality camera can give your trip an extra layer of purpose and drive you to create beautiful photography work over and over again.
If you’re gearing up for your next unforgettable trip, and are now convinced a camera for travelling is a good move, then it’s time to hunt down the best camera for travel. Speak with trusted stores and photographers to help you find your dream travel companion.