Photography News

Technical skill is no longer a filter. What remains of photography begins where execution stops protecting the work, leaving only judgment and intent. 

AI didn’t kill photography; it exposed it. Now that the technological process is complete, technical thresholds no longer function as a professional filter. This shift began long before artificial intelligence, but AI brings it to its logical endpoint—removing the last barriers separating mere competence from true intention.

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Transport is, probably, one of the easiest photographic subjects to find but with so much choice, how do you go about capturing the best shots of cars, trains and planes you can? That's where this article comes in as we've listed 10 top tips to help you perfect your transport photography skills. 

 

1. Not Just Cars

 

Cars are probably the first mode of transport that comes to mind when you think of transport photography but there are plenty of other subjects that are worth a shot or two. Bikes, trains planes and boats can be slightly more challenging to capture but can produce good results.

Trains are predictable as they have to follow a track, leave and arrive at certain stations and have a schedule they have to follow. Finding a spot to shoot from should be quite simple then all you have to do is perfect your technique. If you need a few tips on shooting trains, take a look at our technique: Railway Photography

Most of us don't have to go that far to photograph boats. We are usually not a million miles from the coast, rivers with boats, canal and inland waterways or even water-sports centre to be able to photograph this form of transport. For tips on shooting boats, take a look at these tutorials: Boat Photography and A Guide To Boat Photography

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For plane photography, airshows are probably the best place to perfect your technique and there's usually planes on the ground you can photograph too if you don't fancy photographing them while up in the air. Have a look at ePHOTOzine member, David Pritchard's Air Show Photography Guide for more tips on plane photography.

If you fancy trying your hand at sports photography, motocross is a great event to try. It's fast-paced, interesting to watch and there are plenty of events held around the country which means you shouldn't have to travel far to shoot some action shots. For tips on photographing motocross, take a look at our tips: Shoot Motocross Action

2. Continuous Shooting

 

To further increase your chances of capturing your subject as they pass through your point of focus, switch to continuous shooting mode to capture a series of shots. Start shooting just before your subject goes through your focus point and you should get at least one shot that's spot on.
 

3. Look For Detail

 

As well as shooting photos where you get the whole car, plane or train in the frame, take some close-up shots of the patterns, badges, paintwork and other detail the vehicle has.
 

4. Continuous Auto Focus

 

Most cameras feature quick and accurate AF (Auto Focus) systems making them great for capturing fleeting moments or action shots. Of course, how fast your subject is moving, how much light is around and how quickly your lens can focus will come into play but at least your chances of capturing a sharp shot will be increased with the help of Auto Focus.

 

5. Capture Light Trails

 

For more creative shots, try shooting light trails in towns and cities at night. Dusk is a good time as there's still usually a good amount of traffic around and there will still be detail in the sky. For tips on shooting light trails, have a look at this tutorial: Photographing Light Trails

 

6. Location, Location, Location 

 

Think about your location carefully - a 4X4 will look great at the top of a mountain but stick a little car up there and it can look lost. If you live on a busy street, move your car to another location as a messy background will just distract the viewer. For more advice on shooting locations, have a look at this technique: Car Portrait Advice

 

7. Use A Support

 

When using long lenses, as you do for many shots of transport, having some sort of support handy will stop you straining your arms and shoulders. A tripod can be used, however, if you're at a busy air show or by the track where there's not much space, a monopod is much more useful.

Panning plays a big part in some transport photography and even though you can pan quite easily without the help of support, some photographers do prefer to use a tripod or monopod, it's really down to personal preference.

  

8. Work With Angles

 

Doing something as simple as crouching down can make your shots more exciting so do take the time to walk around the vehicle you're shooting to look for angles, shapes and lines that will really help improve your shots.

9. Use Reflections

 

As mentioned in our 5 Ways To Be More Creative With Transport Shots article, there are various ways to use reflections in transport shots. You can use car mirror's, reflections in bodywork or look away from the vehicle for puddles and other reflective surfaces.

10. Back At Home

 

When it comes to photo editing, you really can spend hours tweaking and changing your shots. You can add emphasis with a vignette, darken skies to add mood, give older transport a vintage feel with lomo tweaks or by turning them black and white or how about having a go at HDR? Take a look at ePHOTOzine's techniques for some inspiration.
 

You've read the technique now share your related photos for the chance to win prizes: Photo Month Forum Competition

 

Retouch4me recently expanded its lineup of automated tools by introducing a neural network-driven plugin designed to tackle the repetitive task of fixing messy hair. By targeting flyaways and misplaced strands that usually need meticulous manual brushing, the software aims to drop significant time from the post-production process for busy portrait and wedding photographers. The tool fits right into existing workflows as a Photoshop extension or standalone app, so photographers can clean up large batches of images locally while keeping everything looking natural.

 

From Retouch4Me

Retouch4me, a developer of AI-based software for photo and video editing, has introduced Retouch4me Stray Hairs, a neural network–powered plugin that automatically removes flyaway hairs and smooths messy hair. The software targets one of the most time-consuming tasks in portrait retouching, saving photographers up to 15 minutes per image.

Removing stray hairs manually requires zooming in, sampling background areas, and carefully painting over each distracting hair. For a single portrait with visible flyaways, this process can take up to 15 minutes. For wedding photographers and other pros handling high-volume shoots, those minutes quickly add up to hours of repetitive post-production work.

Unlike manual Photoshop workflows that require adjusting each image separately, Retouch4me Stray Hairs processes entire batches automatically while keeping hair looking natural and consistent across the set. The neural network was trained on professionally retouched portraits and learned how professional retouchers identify and remove unwanted hairs. The plugin handles three specific tasks: cleaning flyaways along the hair edges, removing hairs crossing the face, and offers optional mask adjustments for precise control when needed.

“Repetitive tasks like stray hair removal are among the most time-consuming parts of post-production, which is why we’re excited to help photographers automate this step,” said Oleg Sharonov, founder of Retouch4me. “Our goal is simple: let photographers focus on their creative vision while the AI-based software handles cleanup. Retouch4me Stray Hairs is a natural extension of our mission to remove repetitive retouching from photographers’ workflows.”

 

 

Workflow and Compatibility

Retouch4me Stray Hairs works as a standalone application or Photoshop plugin for Windows and macOS. In Photoshop, it generates layers, allowing photographers to make further adjustments while keeping the original intact. All processing happens locally on the user’s PC, and batch mode allows photographers to retouch hundreds of images in one run, without changing their existing workflow.

  Availability and Pricing

Retouch4me Stray Hairs is available for $124 as a perpetual license with free updates. No subscription is required. A free trial version is available at https://retouch4.me/stray-hairs

 

About Retouch4me

Retouch4me is a software company that provides innovative solutions for photo and video editing. With neural networks, its software automates manual tasks and delivers natural results, allowing creatives to focus on their artistry. We believe that combining AI and human creativity helps achieve superior results. Retouch4me improves the workflows of creatives in over 115 countries. Discover how to elevate yours at https://retouch4.me

 

Top Gear and Preparation Tips for Starting Out in Travel Photography

 

 

Embarking on a journey into travel photography is more than just taking pictures in exotic locations—it's about capturing stories, understanding cultures, and being equipped with the right tools and mindset. When exploring vibrant markets, remote landscapes, and bustling cities, having the best gear for travel photography and being well-prepared can significantly impact your results.

In this guide, we'll cover essential travel photography gear, practical tips for beginners, and tricks to maintain your equipment while on the move.

 

Explore DepositPhotos for licensed travel photos for your creative projects.

 

How to prepare for a travel photography job as a beginner creator

 

Landing your first travel photography job can be both exciting and overwhelming. The key lies in preparation, consistency, and adaptability.

 

Research your destination

Before heading to popular travel photography hotspots, learn about the local culture, climate, and accessibility. Understand the best times for natural lighting and golden hour shots, and what locations might be sensitive to photography.

Consider these aspects:

• Seasonal light patterns' impact on landscapes;
• Local festivals showcasing vibrant traditions;
• Off-the-beaten-path locations for authentic storytelling;
• Cultural taboos to respect while photographing people;
• Optimal times for capturing iconic landmarks;
• Local markets and their unique visual elements.

 

Build a shot list

A shot list will guide your creative process and show professionalism, especially if you're handling commissioned travel photography jobs. Consider these categories to enhance your visual storytelling:

• Dawn patrol. Early morning cityscapes;
• Local artisans. Traditional craftsmanship;
• Hidden gems. Lesser-known locations;
• Night scenes. Vibrant after-dark moments;
• Architectural contrasts. Old meets new;
• Cultural rituals. Unique local traditions;
• Street food. Culinary experiences.

A well-planned list serves as your visual roadmap, ensuring you capture key moments while allocating time for spontaneity.

 

Check your legal and logistical needs

Ensure you have travel documents, photography permits, and insurance coverage for health and travel photography gear. Investigate permit requirements for protected areas and landmarks. Secure necessary visas, especially for commercial work. Familiarize yourself with local photography laws and cultural sensitivities. Consider these crucial aspects:

• Research drone regulations and no-fly zones;
• Obtain model releases for portrait subjects;
• Respect copyright laws for artwork and performances;
• Review customs regulations for equipment transport;
• Understand privacy laws in public spaces;
• Check restrictions on tripod use in crowded areas;
• Be aware of photography bans in religious sites.

 

 

The best gear for travel photography

 

Choosing the best gear for travel photography means balancing performance, durability, and portability. Here's a breakdown of what you should consider packing as a beginner:

 

Best cameras for travel photography

Compact mirrorless cameras are now a top choice among professional and beginner photographers. They offer compact size without sacrificing professional features. Here are a few standout options:

1. Fujifilm X-T5. Lightweight with excellent image quality and film simulation features.
2. Sony Alpha a7 IV. A full-frame powerhouse with advanced autofocus and video capabilities.
3. Canon EOS R8. A strong entry-level full-frame option for high-resolution travel shots.

These are among the best cameras for travel photography because they offer superior image quality while remaining compact enough for daily travel.

 

Versatile lenses

For beginners, a versatile 24–70 mm f/2.8 zoom covers everything from wide-angle vistas to portraits, while a fast 35 mm f/1.8 prime excels in low-light and street scenes. As your skills (and itinerary) expand, build a travel-ready lens kit that balances scope and portability: a 16–35 mm wide-angle for landscapes and architecture, the trusty 24–70 mm for everyday flexibility, and a 70–200 mm telephoto zoom to bring distant wildlife or compressed cityscapes closer.

To round out your creative arsenal, you might also pack:

• Ultra-wide fisheye—dramatic, curving distortions for unique perspectives;
• Macro lens—crisp, close-up detail of flora, food, or textures;
• Tilt-shift lens—perspective correction and miniature effects in urban settings;
• Fast prime—wide aperture for atmospheric, low-light street shots;
• All-in-one zoom (18–300 mm)—space-saving versatility when you can carry only one lens.

 

Accessories to enhance workflow

Enhance your travel photography workflow with these essential accessories:

• Versatile camera bag. Protect gear and organize efficiently;
• Lightweight tripod. Ensure stability for sharp images;
• High-capacity memory cards. Capture more without interruption;
• Spare batteries. Extend shooting time in remote locations;
• Portable hard drive. Backup photos securely on-the-go;
• Remote shutter release. Minimize camera shake for crisp shots;
• Polarizing filter. Reduce glare and enhance colors;
• Cleaning kit. Maintain equipment for optimal performance.

 

 

How to take care of your travel photography gear during trips

 

Protecting your investment in travel photography gear is essential, especially when facing varied climates and rugged terrains.

 

Weatherproof your equipment

Protect your gear from the elements with quality rain covers and dust-proof cases. While weather-sealed cameras like the Canon 5D Mark IV offer protection, caution is still necessary. Consider these tips:

• Use silica gel packets to combat humidity;
• Wrap gear in microfiber cloths for added protection;
• Acclimate equipment gradually in temperature extremes;
• Keep spare dry bags for sudden weather changes;
• Invest in waterproof camera straps for added security.

 

Routine cleaning

Maintaining your travel photography gear requires a consistent cleaning routine. Implement these techniques for optimal performance:

• Use microfiber cloths to gently remove smudges from lenses;
• Dislodge dust from sensors with a rocket blower;
• Clean camera bodies carefully, avoiding buttons;
• Apply lens cleaner sparingly for stubborn marks;
• Inspect and clean lens contacts for reliable connections.

 

Smart packing and transport

Invest in a padded camera bag to shield your gear from impacts. Always carry essential equipment as hand luggage when flying. Avoid exposing gear to extreme temperatures and use hotel safes for secure storage during exploration.

 

Conclusion

Starting a career or hobby in travel photography demands more than a love for travel and visuals—it requires the right gear, thoughtful preparation, and ongoing care. From choosing the best cameras for travel photography to discovering new travel photography hotspots, every step of your journey adds to your visual storytelling toolbox. As you land more travel photography jobs, this article's foundational habits will continue to support your success.