Guides

Travel Photography Tip #4: The Rule of Thirds

Taking travel photographs used to be easy. We just pointed the camera and shot. But now that our standards are higher, we need to use what’s known as the “rule of thirds” so our photo composition is more pleasing to the eye.

Published

1 month ago

February 16, 2023

Loren Thorn

Taking travel photographs used to be easy. We just pointed the camera and shot. The pictures didn’t always end up looking good but they were physical reminders of the trip we took. Now that our standards are higher, we need to use what’s known as the “rule of thirds” so our photo composition is more pleasing to the eye. In this article, we’ll explain just what that rule is all about.

Ever since digital photography has taken off, we have been able to immediately see if the picture is good or not. Our expectations have been raised so much with all the high-quality pictures online. Let’s look at what the rule of thirds is and how you can best apply it to make your travel photography really stand out.

Composition

First lets understand what composition is and how it makes pictures more appealing. Composition is arranging the elements of a picture so they are most engaging to the viewer. So you want to frame your photographs in a way that more people will find it interesting and enjoy looking at it. That’s what the whole idea of photography is, making it look neat so people will want to view it.

Rule of Thirds

The rule of thirds is a standard way of composing your photographs where the picture is divided up into thirds vertically and horizontally. These guidelines are not really there but you can mentally use them for reference when lining up your shot. By dividing up the screen we can now place crucial elements in the intersecting areas. These lines signify places where visually stimulating pieces are placed.

If you have a landscape picture with trees and a barn, you’ll want to take the picture from a vantage point where the barn and trees are in different thirds. Doing this will make the picture more visually favorable and therefore a better travel photography.

Examples

A simple way to understand this principle is to never center your subject in the frame. Instead, put your subject on one of the thirds horizontally, so they are off-center and the picture has more depth. Or, if you are shooting a landscape, try not to split the screen in half by the horizon, instead put it on a third. By dividing the photo into thirds, you make it more appealing and visually attractive.

Fortunately, most cameras nowadays have a grid function, which superimposes a grid over your viewfinder or LCD screen so you can properly line up the shot. Using the grid is the easiest way to train your eye to think in the rule of thirds.

When you are about to take a travel photo, its important to understand what the subject is and what the key points of interest are. Where should you place these elements in the picture so it’s most favorable and looks the best? This is what using the rule of thirds to take a fantastic photo is all about.

When you are out and about, try seeing things in the rule of thirds and line up your eyes as if you were framing up a pic. Being a photographer isn’t too hard as long as you follow some pretty easy steps. Take your time and don’t rush the shot, it’s supposed to be your memory so make it count.

Guides

Everything You Need To Know About The Longest Cruise In The World

Viking Cruises recently announced they will soon be offering one-of-a-kind cruise experience will take 245 days and will visit a whopping 59 countries.

Published

1 day ago

March 29, 2023

Loren Thorn

Got $93,000 laying around and about 8 months to kill? Then do we have the experience for you!

Viking Cruises recently announced they will soon be offering one of the most unique and elaborate cruise experiences the world has ever seen. It’s called Viking Sun and it’s a giant, 465-room vessel that can house up to 930 people. But that’s not what makes this cruise so insane. The entire trip will take 245 days and will visit a whopping 59 countries. I probably can’t even name more than 30 off the top of my head.

The cruise will start in London and the first voyage is set for August 31, 2019, and will cover some of the most interesting places in the world and everything in-between. Just look at this list of places its passengers will see: Greenland, Iceland, the Caribbean Islands, much of South America, Southeast Asia, the Mediterranean, Egypt, and even Jordan and Oman. And those are just the big hitters. There are many other lesser-known stops along the way that are sure to be worth the stop.

Now, naturally, 245 days and $93,000 (technically $92,990) is a lot to ask for most people. So Viking is offering people the change to take part in smaller portions of the grand trip. “Viking World Treasures” covers 127 days, 33 countries, costs $47,995, and stops in Los Angeles. While “Viking World Wonders” covers 119 days, 29 countries, costs $45,995 and replaces any World Treasures participants by picking up new passengers in Los Angeles who get to enjoy the return trip to London.

And while even those prices seem pretty darn high, we haven’t even covered the amenities yet. The ship includes private balconies in each cabin, an infinity pool, a Nordic sauna, and a “snow grotto.” Not to mention the price of admission covers business class airfare, free luggage shipping, transfers to and from the ship, all gratuities and service fees, complimentary shore excursions in every port and, maybe most importantly of all, unlimited free Wi-Fi.

Guides

Tokyo Disney Will Soon Feature “Tangled” And “Frozen” Villages

Tokyo Disneyland will soon feature entire villages dedicated to Tangled and Frozen.

Published

4 days ago

March 26, 2023

Loren Thorn

If you haven’t really ever considered taking a trip to Tokyo and checking out Tokyo Disneyland… it’s time to start considering it. Disney fans were dancing in the streets when they heard the latest news: Tokyo Disneyland will soon feature entire villages dedicated to Tangled and Frozen! Yeah. You heard me right.

The scheduled open date is for some time in 2022. It comes as part of a complete overhaul of their DisneySea attraction and will also include an extensive Peter Pan experience. Here’s a closer look at what they’re planning.

TANGLED VILLAGE

For those that are still missing out and haven’t yet seen Tangled, it’s a new take on the famous story of Rapunzel. The Tokyo Disneyland Tangled Village will include Rapunzel’s tower, the nearby forest, and the restaurant where Rapunzel and her prince, Flynn, dine and sing the wonderful song “I’ve Got a Dream.” And yes, the restaurant will be a fully functional restaurant where you can get a delicious meal. So fun!

PETER PAN VILLAGE

Tokyo Disneyland is also just straight up adding Neverland. So cool. Naturally, you’ll get to meet Tinkerbell and Captain Hook while you’re there. And there will also be a functional restaurant inspired by the Lost Boys and their famous hideout. If you’re like me and never want to grow up, this will be the place for you.

FROZEN VILLAGE

Frozen is one of the biggest Disney hits in a very, very long time. We still can’t go a week without hearing some version of “Let It Go,” whether it be the real, recorded version or just some adorable kid belting it out while their parents roll their eyes.

From the official statement from Disney, the Frozen village will be “a heartwarming new attraction that will take guests by boat to experience the story of Elsa and Anna while enjoying iconic songs from the hit film, and a new restaurant will be located inside Arendelle Castle.” Yeah. They’re building the castle. I can’t wait!

A NEW LUXURY HOTEL

The renovation will also include a brand new amazing luxury hotel. It will reportedly be “themed to Disney fantasy” and will offer amazing views of all the different areas of the new development. It will also include 475 rooms, two restaurants, and a shop where you can grab all the Disney gear your heart desires.

THE WHOLE SHEBANG

I mean COME ON! Doesn’t that just look magical! I guess we shouldn’t expect any less from Disney. I just wish 2022 wasn’t so far away. But make no mistake… I’ll be there!

Guides

Disaster That Can Occur When Traveling And How You Can Respond

Published

6 days ago

March 25, 2023

Adam T

The lockdowns due to the pandemic have led people to travel at massive rates. This summer is going to be full of travel despite prices going up for everything worldwide. Gas prices are something that are crippling some families as prices have doubled in some locations in the US. There are issues that can arise when traveling that you might have to deal with. Most people have had to deal with one or more of these situations when traveling during their lifetime. The following are typical disasters that can occur while traveling and how to respond.

Involved In A Car Accident

If you have been involved in a car accident then you need to contact a local attorney. Finding out what to do when involved in car accidents in Georgia or your location is very important. Driving in a new city can be overwhelming as some locations are known for extremely aggressive driving. Taking an Uber or taxi is another option but this doesn’t eliminate the possibility of an accident but could reduce it.

Flights Delayed For Days Or Completely Cancelled

Flights getting delayed due to weather is something that happens around the world. What has been happening domestically is a shortage of airline workers is leading to cancellations unexpectedly. Some airlines have more flights canceled than others which you need to keep in mind. The tough aspect of this is that it could be days until there is another flight that will reach your ultimate destination. Take the time to look at options like that of a train as this can be a convenient option with less of a chance of a delay.

Getting Sick While Traveling Abroad

Getting sick while traveling abroad is something that people have nightmares about. These can be a huge issue especially when the rest of your party has left the country. You want to ensure you are going to travel in good health as a long flight while under the weather can be disastrous. Food poisoning is quite common for travelers that are trying new foods that might not agree with their stomachs. You want to ensure you are getting enough rest and washing your hands regularly. You do not want a preventable sickness to arise just before you are about to head back home.

Arrested Due To A Cultural Misunderstanding

The most important thing that you can do when traveling abroad is to look up local laws and customs. You do not want to be arrested due to a misunderstanding. You also should realize that some police might be looking for a bribe as this is common in some foreign countries like Brazil where the police force is notoriously corrupt. Certain countries are governed by religious governments so something that is not remotely illegal domestically could land you in prison internationally.

Traveling can allow you to broaden your horizons and see all the world has to offer. Plan what you can as luck will always play a role in having what you deem as a successful trip.