Almost everyone travels with a camera now, and increasingly, as prices drop, these cameras are becoming more sophisticated. But how many of you out there, that have bought an SLR or a funky digital camera for your gap year or time abroad, actually know how to get the best out of your camera? The key to being able to maximise the use of your camera is knowing how to use it and the fastest way to learn is to get out there and take some photos. If you are serious about your photography then take along a notepad and pen and jot down exactly what you have done so when you get your photos back you can work out what went wrong.

Modern cameras can be split into four distinct groups in a varying price range and with increasing numbers of functions. The most basic is a compact film camera which can be bought for small amounts of cash and once you know how to use it, it becomes a very discreet and versatile tool. Serious photographers should consider one with a short zoom as an essential back up tool. The most commonly used travel camera is a film based single lens reflex (SLR) camera. These have all the functions you can possibly want on even the most basic modern models and they are the bread and butter camera for most travellers and this is the camera that this article is most relevant to. Although increasingly travellers are turning to the third type of camera; the compact digital. Their benefits are enormous including instant review, possibility of emailing shots home, print out pics at a net café, no film costs and the possibility of editing your pics when you get home. Bear in mind however that you will need enough battery power and enough memory capacity for your entire trip. The final type of camera is a digital SLR and if you are considering one of these (or own one) then this article is too basic to cover your needs.

As well as your camera there are a few other essential items to consider. For 35mm SLR users spare batteries are essential, as well as film, filters, lenses and a tripod. How much film to take is an age old question. The answer depends on you, your style, your destination and the depth of your pocket (and your rucksack!). Consider this however, in a one week stint you could visit several towns, go on several trips and see incredible wildlife. You cant afford to miss any of it so in that busy week what’s the maximum number of films you would use? Take this number and multiply it by the number of weeks in your trip. Then multiply this by 2. And don’t get scared because you really will use this number of films. On a recent 5 month trip I budgeted 50 rolls of film and ended up shooting over 90 rolls. Remember the cost of returning to your dream destination is far more considerable than the cost of another dozen rolls of film. Also bear in mind that film bought in developing countries is often expensive and/or of poor quality. Another gadget to consider is a tripod. Essential for any serious photographer, especially for landscape photographers and whilst heavy and bulky it makes all the difference. If you skimp on this then at least consider a small table top tripod which can be used on walls or braced against tree trunks. Take filters if you use them – I would recommend a pair of neutral density graduates and a polariser. As for lenses whilst super zooms such as a 28-300mm are popular their quality is low. Whilst a super zoom might suit some people I would recommend a pair of zooms such as a 28-80mm and a 70-300mm. These should cover most eventualities from wide angle interior and architectural shots, short telephoto for portraits and candids and a longer telephoto for wildlife and isolating detail. After all this buy some camera insurance.

Before travelling to your destination take some time to look at photos in guide book such as LP, Insight and Rough Guides to get an idea of viewpoints and scenes that you might photograph. Local postcards can also provide inspiration. When shooting in a less developed country consider carefully how you are going to carry your camera. Be discreet and use an old bag or keep you camera under your jacket to avoid unwanted attention. Also bear in mind cultural differences and respect the fact that many people don’t want to be photographed. Learning a few words of the language and striking up a conversation is often enough to get a photo, otherwise raise your camera, point at it and smile! Tour guides are often happy to be photographed or arrange photo opportunities. NEVER photograph military instillations and be careful with civil amenities such as bus station, airports and police stations. Remember the case of the planespotters in Greece being arrested. Should you be stopped the n apologise, explain you are a tourist and if necessary surrender your film. Try not to resort to bribery.

You need to consider when and where to develop your film . Foreign processors don’t tend to be as good as the UK (or US) so test them with one roll first. Alternatively returning home with the film is probably the safest option – but always carry it in your hand luggage as this minimises any x-ray dosage. Most film can handle hand-luggage x-ray screening several dozen times and don’t bother with a lead bag as officials just turn up the x-ray power to see through the bag and your film receives a higher dose. Heathrow is reportedly the only airport in the world that will refuse a hand check but ask anyhow and expect a refusal.