Travel photography is exploration. It’s a journey of creative discovery that allows you to explore diverse cultures, unfamiliar landscapes, bustling cities and a way of life that's different from your own, through the lens. The world is filled with photo opportunities, and as long as you have an open mind, and, sometimes, quick reflexes, you can immortalize poignant moments in time that document the world. We've put this article together with five key tips to help you get started in travel photography.

We've got five key tips to help you take advantage of your travel adventures and bring back images that will stop viewers mid-scroll.

Tip #1: Prepare by researching the location you plan to visit.

The best travel photos start with research. Find out as much as you can about the location you plan to visit, understanding the culture, customs and noteworthy landmarks. Find out when golden hour occurs, seek out vantage points for great shots, and identify any potential safety issues. Look up any local events for the dates you plan to be in the location, and create a plan for any can’t-miss moments or places to photograph. This preparation can help make your trip smoother, which in turn allows you more freedom to focus on capturing stunning images.

Photo by Chris Bridner. Sony Alpha 7 III. Sony 24-105mm f/4 G. 1/500-sec., f/5.6, ISO 400

Photo by Daniele Boffelli. Sony Alpha 7R IV. Sony 14mm f/1.8 G Master. 1/125-sec., f/11, ISO 100. Read more in What’s In My Bag: 2 Cameras, 3 Primes & 4 Zooms For High-End Travel Photography.

Tip #2: Focus on capturing authentic moments.

Travel photography can come in many forms, and we’re sure you’ve seen many travel photos on Instagram featuring creators in front of the camera. If you want to document your travels or vlog your experience, that's fine, but for true travel photography and to tell a genuine story, you should also aim to capture more authentic moments about the culture and people of the place you’re visiting. Street markets, festivals, or local cafes are great places to capture such moments. Authentic emotions can add depth and authenticity to your travel photos, providing a real sense of the local atmosphere.

Photo by Nadine Sykora. Sony Alpha 6400. Sony 24-70mm f/4. 1/40-sec., f/4, ISO 1600. Read more in What's In My Bag: See This Travel Content Creator's Super-Simple, Full-Frame Sony Alpha Kit.

Photo by Lina Staudt. Sony Alpha 6700. Sony 18-105mm f/4 G. 1/400-sec., f/4, ISO 100. Read more in What’s In My Bag: A Sony APS-C Kit For Travel & Street Photography.

Tip #3: Home in on details.

When many people think of travel photography, they picture images of grand vistas or prominent landmarks. While those establishing shots help show a location and make for great images, don't overlook the smaller details that can add depth and context to your travel story. 

Photo by Journey Glimpse. Sony Alpha 7R II. Sony 16-35mm f/2.8 G Master. 1/250-sec., f/20, ISO 320. Read more in What’s In My Bag: A Complete Sony Alpha Kit For Hybrid Shooting Around The World.

Photo by Dylan Blackburn. Sony Alpha 7CR. Sony 35mm f/1.8. 1/125-sec., f/4, ISO 100. Read more in What’s In My Bag: A 2-Camera, 4-Lens Kit For Travel Photography & YouTube Video Creation.

Tip #4: Be respectful of local cultures and customs

Always remember to respect the local culture and customs of the places you are photographing. Learn about local etiquette, especially when it comes to photographing people and religious sites. Not only is this important from a respect standpoint, but it can also open doors to unique photo opportunities.

"At the Amber Fort in Jaipur, this woman in yellow caught my eye. After getting her permission, the ability to zoom in made it possible for me to get my photograph without disturbing her at work." Photo by Kirsten Alana. Sony Alpha 7R II. Sony 35mm f/2.8. 1/2000-sec., f/4.5, ISO 500. Read more in What's In My Bag: A Travel Photographer's Kit To Cover Something Different Each Week.

Photo by Ira Block. Sony Alpha 7C II. Sony 24-70mm f/2.8 G Master II. 1/10-sec., f/2.8, ISO 3200. Read more in Behind The Shot: Nighttime, High-Contrast, Handheld...No Problem.

Tip #5: Create a kit you can take on-the-go.

When traveling and documenting different places and cultures, the gear you take with you is of course largely dependent on your preference and what you have. Many travel photographers prefer a compact setup that's not intrusive. Think about cameras like the Sony Alpha 7C II, Sony Alpha 7CR. These two compact, high-performance cameras are excellent options for travel photography. Along with lenses like the Sony 16-25mm f/2.8 G and Sony 24-50mm f/2.8 G you can cover a broad range that allows you to capture everything you encounter throughout your travels. You can explore other travel photographers’ kits for more gear inspiration at alphauniverse.com/wimb.

Photo by Ira Block. Sony Alpha 7C II. Sony 16-35mm f/2.8 G Master II. 1/500-sec., f/3.5, ISO 320. Read more in Behind The Shot: How A Veteran Nat Geo Photographer Documents The Local Vibe.