This post is sponsored by Make Holidays Greener, and I’m excited to share their competition where you can win a GoPro Hero 5, along with some of my best tips for using a GoPro to capture amazing travel photos.
To enter the competition, visit the Make Holidays Greener website and make a pledge to change a small travel habit to make your trips more eco-friendly, sustainable, and kinder to the local communities. Once you’ve made your pledge, you’ll be entered to win a GoPro!
Here are my top GoPro tips to help you take fantastic travel photos, even if you’re not a professional photographer!
1. Use the time-lapse function: Set your GoPro to take a photo every second, giving you the freedom to enjoy what you’re doing while the camera snaps away. You’ll end up with hundreds of photos, but there’s bound to be a great one in the mix.
2. Shoot in bright daylight: GoPros don’t perform well in low light, so stick to daytime photography for the best results. Early evening shots might require additional lighting.
3. Get some accessories: Accessories like the 3-way tripod or a selfie stick can help you get creative angles and include yourself in the shots, enhancing the GoPro experience.
4. Use the app: The GoPro app lets you pull still images from video footage. Filming in 4K provides better quality images. This way, you can capture moments without constantly taking photos, making it easier to enjoy your activities.
5. Use it wet or dry – not in-between!: GoPros work great underwater and above water, but not well in damp conditions due to water droplets on the lens. Make sure it’s either fully wet or fully dry for the best results.
6. How to shoot vertical for portraits or IGTV: If you’re into IGTV or want portrait videos, you can shoot vertically. Use settings like 4K, 4:3, 30fps or 2.7K, 4:3, 30fps (60fps for slow motion) for the best results.
7. Use a red filter for underwater photography: A red filter can dramatically improve the colors in your underwater photos, making them clearer and brighter.
8. Embrace the outtakes: Some of the best GoPro photos are the imperfect ones. Save those outtakes that capture unique moments, as they often hold special memories.
9. Watch all the YouTube tutorials: YouTube is a goldmine for GoPro tutorials and inspiration. Many photographers get their ideas and improve their skills by watching videos online.
10. Get inspiration from Instagram: Following GoPro hashtags and influencers on Instagram can offer great ideas. It’s okay to mimic their style until you develop your own.
Bonus travel photography tips:
– Respect others, especially children: Always ask for permission before photographing children or people in sensitive locations like religious sites. Be mindful and respectful.
– Don’t put yourself in danger for the perfect photo: Avoid risky shots that could endanger you or others. Safety first!
– Leave no trace: Be environmentally conscious. Take only photos and leave only footprints.
Final do’s and don’ts for GoPro photography:
– DO keep your lens clean and dry.
– DO capture candid moments of your kids (or kids you have permission to photograph).
– DO experiment with interesting angles.
– DO let others help if they have a better viewpoint.
– DO save all your photos, as they might hold precious memories later on.
– DON’T forget to smile!
These tips will help you take fantastic travel photos with your GoPro. Don’t forget to enter the competition at the Make Holidays Greener website and make your pledge. Good luck!