With months of saving money and planning your next vacation, it’s only natural that you want your travel photos to stand out. You may also want others to be inspired by your adventures.

If that sounds like you, then you’ll love these eight original travel photography ideas. From capturing a silhouette story to taking an underwater shot, this article will teach you how to create a unique travel photo.

So, let’s dive right in!

1. Create a photo using the rules of composition

It may seem boring at first, but creating travel pictures using basic elements of photography can result in eye-catching visuals. You can leverage shapes, lines, forms, patterns, textures, colors, and positive or negative space.

But this is only the beginning! There are also many rules of composition in photography that are bound to elevate your travel shots.

The rule of thirds is a popular composition technique in which you visually divide your frame into thirds, both horizontally and vertically. Then, you just have to place your subject or points of interest on or near intersections of those lines.

If you’re interested in learning more about composition rules, you’ll want to check out the Depositphotos blog. They cover everything from the golden ratio and leading lines to frames, patterns, and repetitions.

2. Make colors pop

Another idea is to find a scene with a monochromatic background and create a pop of color with your outfit or accessories. Everything from a vivid dress to a bright umbrella will make you stand out against a monotonous backdrop.

If you want to match your surroundings with colorful clothes, this can work, too. However, consider wearing complementary colors. These are opposite colors on the color wheel – yellow and purple, for example.

So if you have a purple lavender field, choose yellow clothes. This combination will make both you and the scenery stand out.

3. Capture a silhouette story

A silhouette story is one of the most creative travel photography ideas. You can capture many scenes with this technique, from a romantic story to a serene moment.

Silhouettes can work everywhere – big cities, beaches, and in the middle of the desert!

And if you think that you can only photograph silhouettes at dawn or sunset, that’s not the case! You can also create silhouette images at night.

4. Use shadows creatively

Typical summer travel destinations are full of sun and shadows, and you can use these elements creatively. Shadows from palm leaves or water ripples are perfect for adding patterns and textures to your photos.

If you let your imagination run wild, you’ll find plenty of props to create interesting shadows. Whether it’s a beach umbrella, a hand fan, or an art sculpture, you can use these objects to cast shadows and create unique travel photos.

5. Have a photoshoot in a hotel room

People usually pay hundreds of dollars to arrange a photo shoot in a fancy hotel room, but you’ve already paid for yours.

Why not take advantage of it without spending extra money?

Don’t worry, the messiness of your hotel room is part of the charm; it can add a sense of authenticity to your photos. However, you can also explore other areas of the hotel.

Consider shooting images in a lobby, breakfast room, or bar. If they have a beautiful outdoor space with all kinds of plants, take advantage of that as well.

Different locations in the hotel can give your photos a variety of looks and moods. Choose the one that suits your aesthetic.

6. Take an underwater shot

Many people don’t realize that when you travel to a place by the sea, its underwater world can be just as exciting as its above-ground attractions. In fact, it serves as a perfect location for your travel pictures.

Either by hiring an underwater photographer or investing in a waterproof camera, you can capture breathtaking images beneath the surface.

The vivid blue color and unique marine life offer unforgettable photo opportunities. Use them to create a contrast to your cityscape travel photos.

7. Experiment with double exposure

Try creating a double exposure image if you’re looking for even more creativity in your travel shots.

By blending a portrait with a landscape, you can creatively merge human and natural elements. This technique is possible with an analog camera, a modern digital camera, or editing software.

The beauty of this photography method is that you don’t have to learn what proportion is in photography and worry about the center of the composition. Instead, you can focus on self-expression and explore all the artistic possibilities that the double exposure technique has to offer.

8. Ask locals for travel picture ideas

If you suddenly run out of travel photography ideas, ask your guide or locals for inspiration.

Since locals see thousands of tourists throughout the peak season, they know which photography spots are the most popular among visitors. As a result, locals may recommend lesser-known locations that will provide a unique backdrop.