Matthew David Parker’s 7 Tips for Memorable Travel Photographs

Most tourists want to take photos of their trips to remember them. Unfortunately, most travel photos are snapshots with little artistic value. But with these seven tips, you can start creating photographs that will impress your friends and capture the true essence of your travels.

Tip #1: Get out early, or stay out late. Some 95% of all published travel photos are taken within an hour or two of sunrise or sunset. The sunlight makes the colors rich and reduces harsh contrast.

Tip #2: Take your time. A few extra seconds spent making a few adjustments could be the difference between a great photo and a snapshot. Look for leading lines that carry the eye toward your main subject. Use a person or building to establish scale.

Tip #3: Get down on your knees. Many travel photos are from the same head-on position with the photographer standing up holding the camera (or phone) horizontally. Get down on your knees, or stand on a nearby (safe) object to gain a different perspective. Turn the camera vertically to compose a different image.

Tip #4: Get rid of clutter. Try to understand what it is you are trying to capture. Look through the viewfinder and see it there is anything that distracts from your subject. Powerlines, billboards, even people can distract from your subject. Move a few feet to see if you can better frame your subject.

Tip #5: Photograph the locals, but ask permission. When traveling to different cultures the local people will be carrying on with their usual habits and customs. These photos can become some of your most cherished especially if you take some time to get to know these people. Ask to take their photos, and offer to send them a print. Remember to get their names, address, and email, and be sure to follow up.

Tip #6: Look for the unusual. When you travel, it can be overwhelming with all the new sights, sounds, and smells. Yet, even with your senses on overload, some things stand out as unusual. An unexpected plant, or a new building in among a group of shacks. A water buffalo pulling a cart surrounded by bicycle commuters. Children often can be a source of unexpected activity. Remember get the parents permission.

Tip #7: Know your camera. Before leaving on your trip, take some time to get to know your camera and accessories. There are few things more disheartening than missing a great photo because you didn’t know how to change a setting. Plan on taking several hundred (if not thousands) of photos before you leave in as many varied situations as you can think of.

How to Decorate Your Home

When you want to enhance the quality and design of your home, it’s important to use decor pieces that reflect your personality and taste. Homes that are not furnished can often feel bare and cold. When you want to create a comfortable and beautiful environment, there are a few tips to follow.

Hang Curtains

Curtains will add extra warmth to your home and will allow it to feel cozier. Hang curtains that are sheer if you want to interior setting to feel light and airy. If you want to create a bold look, opt for window treatments that have a fun print or pattern to set the tone in the room.

Display Your Personal Belongings

Make use of the space on the walls to display your personal belongings, which includes books, figurines, and family photos. Install shelves that can hold Jim Shore figures or glass ornaments to create a welcoming environment that reflects your style and interests. You can also use the shelves to display seasonal decor items to celebrate the season or an upcoming holiday.

Apply Wallpaper

Instead of using paint on the walls, opt for wallpaper, which is modern and fun when you want to add a bit of drama to the living room or a guest bathroom. You can use wallpaper that has vertical stripes in an office or a chevron print in a children’s play room. You can also use wallpaper on an accent wall to prevent the design from overpowering the room and by allowing it to work as the focal point of the space.

Use Metallics

Create extra visual appeal in the home by incorporating metallic details that will complement different color shades. Metallics will allow the home to look modern and updated with pops silver, gold, and brass decor that are used. You can add brass sconces in the master bathroom or use silver lamps in the living room to make the interior setting look professionally decorated.

Add Reclaimed Wood Products

Reclaimed wood is rustic and will allow your home to feel warm. You can hang reclaimed wood art pieces on the walls or use a reclaimed wood bench at the dining table for a unique touch.

When you want to make your house feel like a home, it’s important to use the right decor items that will create a comfortable setting to spend time in. By using pieces that you love, you’ll enjoy coming home each day.