How to Capture the Best Photos of Special Events While Traveling

Travel photography isn’t just about visiting famous landmarks; it’s about capturing unique and special moments that make a destination memorable. Whether you’re documenting a local festival, a cultural ritual, or an everyday scene, knowing how to photograph special events while traveling can help you create images that tell compelling stories. Here’s a guide to help you prepare for and take the best photos of these special moments, no matter where you are.

1. Do Your Research

Before heading to a new destination, it’s crucial to gather as much information as possible. Start by researching the country’s culture, holidays, and traditions, as these elements will often shape the events you want to photograph.

Religion: Understanding the dominant religion and how it influences local events is important. For example, photography rules and reactions to being photographed can vary greatly between cultures. The rules in India, where spirituality and rituals play a big role, are very different from those in more secular countries.
Local Holidays and Rituals: Many countries celebrate their own unique holidays, and timing is everything. In some places, the New Year isn’t celebrated on January 1st. In Vietnam, for example, the main holiday is the Chinese New Year, which falls on different dates each year. Knowing when these events happen will allow you to plan ahead for your photography.
Language: Learning a few basic phrases in the local language can go a long way. While many people speak English, especially in tourist areas, speaking even a little of the local language shows respect and helps you connect with your subjects.

2. Photography Settings and Timing

The best lighting for photography often occurs at dawn and dusk, providing soft, diffused light. However, this rule doesn’t always apply to special events, where the lighting might be harsh or challenging, especially during mid-day festivals or evening rituals. Here’s how to adapt:

Fast Lenses: A lens with a maximum aperture of f/2.8 is ideal for low-light situations. If you don’t have one, a lens with an aperture of f/4 can still work—just don’t hesitate to increase the ISO. Practicing with high ISO settings will help you prepare for situations with little light, so consider shooting at night or in dimly lit spaces to get comfortable.
High ISO and Shutter Speed: Make sure you have a good understanding of how to balance ISO and shutter speed. When photographing in challenging lighting, a higher ISO will let you use faster shutter speeds, which is important for freezing motion and avoiding blur.

3. Respect the Local Environment and Customs

When photographing events, especially those involving people, be mindful of local customs and sensitivities. For instance, in places like Varanasi, India, where open-air cremations take place, you might encounter local regulations that require you to pay a fee for photographing such events. While this can be frustrating, it’s often a necessary part of gaining access to photograph certain scenes.

Pro Tip: If you don’t want to pay, use a long zoom lens. This allows you to capture moments from a distance, without disturbing the locals or violating any informal rules.
Dress Modestly: In some areas, how you dress can affect how you’re treated. Dressing casually or modestly can prevent drawing unwanted attention, especially in areas where you might be perceived as a tourist with money to spare.

4. Handling Large Crowds

Events, especially in popular tourist destinations, often come with large crowds. These crowds can present challenges, but they also offer opportunities for dynamic shots. To navigate this:

Arrive Early: If you’re attending a major event or ritual, arriving early will give you the best chance to secure a good spot and avoid the hassle of maneuvering through a large crowd. It also gives you time to assess the scene and anticipate the best moments.
Zoom Lenses: A versatile zoom lens can help you get close-up shots of specific details or wide shots that include more of the scene. This allows you to capture both the individuals and the larger atmosphere of the event.

5. Always Be Ready for the Unexpected

Street photography often rewards those who are alert and ready to snap a shot at a moment’s notice. The most interesting moments often come from unexpected, quirky scenes. Keep your camera ready, and don’t be afraid to capture the unusual.

Be Observant: Sometimes the best photo opportunities are spontaneous. Whether it’s a person with an owl or a funny street performer, the unpredictable moments are what make travel photography unique.
Stay Prepared: Make sure your camera is always on and ready to shoot. If your camera is off or the lens cap is on, you may miss something truly memorable.

6. Don’t Stop Shooting After Sunset

Twilight, especially during “blue hour,” offers a beautiful glow that’s perfect for capturing vibrant scenes of a city transitioning from day to night. While many photographers stop after sunset, this time offers an entirely new atmosphere to photograph.

Embrace Nightlife: Cities often come alive after dark, offering a different energy that you can capture. Just ensure you’re taking precautions to stay safe while photographing at night, especially in unfamiliar areas.

By following these tips, you’ll be able to photograph special events with more confidence and creativity. With some preparation, the right tools, and a mindful approach, you can capture stunning images that reflect the essence of the culture and moments around you. Keep practicing, stay observant, and most importantly, enjoy the experience of photographing these unique events while traveling.