Five Tips for Making the Most of Your Travels

Adobe Stock recently traveled to Tahiti in partnership with Tiny Atlas Quarterly and a crew of talented and diverse photographers: Ja Soon Kim, Dan Tom, Tyson Wheatley, Michael Goetze and Jampal Williamson of Salty Wings, and Tasha Van Zandt. During the week-long journey, they explored and photographed remote corners of French Polynesia for the Adobe Stock Premium collection.

In addition to being an extremely well-travelled bunch, each of the photographers has a style and approach to creating images that is entirely unique. If their travels have inspired you to embark on a journey of your own, read their advice for making the most of your trip.

Organization is key.

Former Creative Director turned painter and yoga teacher Ja Soon Kim is known for her organic flat lays. And it’s no surprise that her top photography tip concerns organization. “Be very organized with your things, right down to the lens cap and cleaner,” she advises. This way, you won’t get distracted fiddling with your gear when you should be focused on being creative.

Leverage your interests.

Sometimes the most useful and practical skills for photography stem from other hobbies and interests. Michael Goetze, one half of the aerial and ocean photography duo Salty Wings, is an avid surfer, and as such, pays close attention to weather and wave conditions. Understanding the water was the biggest skill he brought to photography. “When the conditions are good for surfing, that’s usually when the ocean is most attractive,” explains Michael, “when the winds are off shore, the water is glassy and reflective of the good light.”

Just say yes.

One of the biggest rewards of travel is new and unexpected experiences that push you out of your comfort zone. San Franciscan and travel photographer Dan Tom is no stranger to embracing the spontaneity of travel. Dan recalls jetting off to South America: “I saved up money, quit my job, and booked a one-way ticket to Peru.”

Though he didn’t speak a word of Spanish and had no plans past the first three days at a hostel, he traveled around South America for four months, visiting Peru, Bolivia, Argentina and Chile. “I took buses to cities I had never heard of or planned to visit, and have to find a place to stay when I arrived there,” he shares. Though this may induce some anxiety for some, Dan reassures us that this adaptability and flexibility grows with time, and he’s a much more confident traveler as a result.

Go around the bend.

Sometimes when you’re traveling, you fall into the trap of the trophy hunt, moving from one famous location to another. While there’s a reason these landmarks and monuments are sought-after, it pays off to be inquisitive. “These places are beautiful, and are photographed for a reason, but don’t stop there – allow yourself to wander the streets and explore new places, and find new, amazing images,” advises Tyson.

Be present and mindful.

For documentary filmmaker Tasha Van Zandt, travel provides the opportunity to be mindful and take in new experiences, environments, and cultures. As an environmentalist, she is sensitive to the impact she has on the places she visits. Tasha stresses the importance of being present, not only behind the camera but also in everyday life: “When you’re in the moment, you’re going to make your best work because you’re present and mindful of your surroundings, and the people and places around you.”

See more stunning image of Tahiti from these photographers in Adobe Stock’s Premium collection.