What is a McPhoto?

A McPhoto is a photo of you in front of an iconic landmark, be it the Eiffel Tower, Taj Mahal, Great Wall or Leaning Tower. You think it is a special photo until you realize it looks exactly like everyone else’s travel photos.

But I love my Eiffel Tower photo…

Of course you do, and you should. The point is that you can take more original travel photos if you wish.

How?

1. Change the angle
Instead of just pointing and clicking, stoop down and point the camera up, or get in closer. Suddenly you have a much more alluring shot from an original perspective.

2. Change the lighting
If you can get up earlier, your shots will be less crowded with a more gentle light.

3. Put people in the picture
Often we shoo people out of the way so the way to the landmark is clear, but people in a shot can create more atmosphere and often juxtapose the size of what you are photographing (eg. the Grand Canyon)

4. Photoshop
A couple of basic Photoshop tricks can do wonders, like adjusting the brightness and cropping. And here’s a step-by-step guide to adding effects.

5. Look around
Of course you want to photograph the Eiffel Tower, but don’t miss the fabulous photo opportunities all around you.

6. Click away
The wonders of the digital age mean it’s free to take as many pics as you want. Don’t be afraid to photograph like there’s no tomorrow. Take risks. You’ll be surprised at what you can achieve, even if it’s only by luck.

There is nothing wrong with McPhotos but it is gratifying to have a range of pictures, not just one type.

I come from New Zealand, and I think most people who’ve been there would agree it’s one of the most beautiful places in the world.

(Image courtesy of TravelWizard.com)

But for me, one of the unexpected beautiful places was the town of Bled, in Slovenia. I was there in 2004, and took the photo below.

It doesn’t really do the place justice. You can see the church on an island in the middle of a huge lake, which is surrounded by the Julian Alps and has an old castle perched overlooking the scene. The colors changed every day, depending on the weather, and it was so peaceful and romantic.

Where’s the most beautiful place you’ve seen?

1. Invest in a good camera.
Obviously. You need one with good zoom ability if you’re photographing wildlife. But don’t just buy the camera; the real work is learning how to use it! Read the manual and practice different settings.

2. Take a class.
This has been on my to-do list for a while. Even online courses can be free.

3. Consider the time of day.
Midday light can often lead to hazy photos. Early morning or evening are generally the best times.

4. Don’t just photograph the sights.
The best photos can be the unexpected, or the minutiae. Take lots and lots of photos. At least a few will be great.

5. Photograph locals, but respectfully.
Always ask first. In some cultures having your photo taken is undesirable. And avoid having people pose, in general. It looks awkward and boring.

6. If photographing the Sistine Chapel, or any priceless work of art, turn your flash off!
Not only will you have a better photograph you are not contributing to the fading of priceless works.

7. Learn to touch up using Photoshop.
I’m not a fan of fake photos, but a few touch-ups using basic Photoshop tricks can do wonders.

8. Take batteries and a charger and keep charging!
It sounds like a no-brainer but my camera went dead in the middle of a glorious two-day boat trip. To picture it I’ll just have to use my memory.

9. Consider layout.
There are sites below that go into more detail, but the basics are, don’t include lots of wide empty space, think about balancing elements in the picture, what you want to be in focus etc. Play around before your trip. The beauty of digital is that you can click and erase at will.

10. Upload ASAP.
A couple I know traveled the world, used up 20 rolls of film, came home, he got drunk and passed out on the subway with his bag full of them, bag got stolen, he was on the couch for weeks. ‘Nuff said.

11. Use different angles.
Low-angle or high-angle adds a different perspective and can change everything.

12. Check your framing.
Is someone about to walk into your amazing photo? Is your hair blowing into the picture? Should you zoom in/out?

Further Reading:

• Take Photos Like a Pro – awesome tips from Fodors.com
• How to take great travel pics – News.com.au
• Photo tips for special occasions – Kodak.com