Taking a Great Travel Photo: Architecture

Whenever I travel I always end up finding something I want to photograph. Anyone can take a picture, but it takes some skill to capture a photograph that you'll want to look at later. One of my favorite subjects while I'm traveling is the local architecture: churches, houses, or whatever really speaks to the essence of a place. This isn't always easy, as getting that perfect shot can be tricky. I've got a few tips that will help you improve your architectural photos.

1. Angle the Shot.

Sure, sometimes you want that photo that really captures the entirety of a building. But there are other times when you want to get a unique photo, from a different perspective. Sometimes, getting that special shot is as simple as moving around. Lay down. Walk around. Climb up on something. Get out there and do something different.

2. Use Morning or Afternoon Light.

Light is the most important part of any photography, but it is especially true when shooting architecture. Think about the times when you enjoy being outside the most: early morning and late afternoon, when the light is softer and the colors richer. If you take advantage of these times to shoot your photographs, you'll be blessed with conditions that really enhance the natural beauty of buildings and make your pictures really stand out.

3. Beauty is in the Details.

Don't be scared of getting up close and personal with your building, sometimes the beauty lies in the details. Instead of trying to record an entire building, look for something that really catches your eye. It could be anything from the details of a brick or something unique to the building's style, like a gargoyle or a cornice. Spend some time exploring, get yourself as close as you can, and capture your unique viewpoint.

More Travel Photography Tips:
Taking A Great Travel Photo, When Asked