Scout locations in advance

Scouting locations in advance is a key strategy for successful travel photography. Here are some tips to effectively scout locations:

1. Research Online and Offline Sources: Before your trip, conduct thorough research. Utilize online resources like travel blogs, social media (especially Instagram and Pinterest for visual insights), and Google Earth to get a feel for the area. Don't overlook traditional guidebooks and travel magazines, as they often have valuable information and photographs that can inspire your shots.

2. Check Local Conditions: Understanding the local weather patterns, sunrise and sunset times, and any seasonal changes in the landscape can greatly influence your photography. Websites like timeanddate.com provide detailed information about sunrise/sunset times and weather forecasts.

3. Connect with Local Photographers: Reach out to local photographers or photography groups on social media. They can provide invaluable insights about hidden gems and the best times to photograph specific locations.

4. Scout the Area Upon Arrival: Once you arrive, dedicate time to explore the area. Walking around not only helps you get a feel for the place but also allows you to discover unique photo opportunities that you may not have found online.

5. Use Technology to Your Advantage: Apps like The Photographer's Ephemeris or PhotoPills help you plan your shots by showing how the light will fall on the land, day or night, for any location on earth.

6. Plan Your Visits Around the Light: The quality of light can dramatically change a scene. Plan to visit your chosen locations during the golden hours (shortly after sunrise or before sunset) for the best natural lighting.

7. Be Flexible and Open to Changes: While it's good to have a plan, be open to changing it based on local advice or unexpected discoveries. Sometimes the best photos come from unplanned moments.

8. Safety First: Always prioritize your safety, especially if you're scouting locations in unfamiliar or remote areas. Let someone know where you're going and consider the local wildlife, terrain, and weather conditions.