Tesni Ward
Tesni Ward is an award-winning, professional wildlife photographer and OM System ambassador based on the outskirts of the Peak District. See more at www.tesniward.co.uk and on Instagram @tesniward
Research, research, research!
So, you’re going on a ‘once in a lifetime’ trip and you want to make the most of every opportunity. When we travel for photography, we’re working at a disadvantage compared to those who live there because we only have a limited amount of time to photograph. Going in blind can be one of the biggest mistakes you make, so do as much preparation and research as possible before you go: look through social media using location tags to see the kind of images that can be achieved and the sort of focal lengths you may need. Check if there’s a certain time of the year that’s more productive in terms of light and activity or events you wish to see. If you’re going on a guided trip, a few questions to the guide can go a long way.
Don’t buy all new gear a week before you travel
Familiarity with your equipment can be the difference between getting an incredible image or missing it entirely and I can’t stress enough how important it is that you feel comfortable and competent with your kit. Make sure if you’re planning on investing in new gear before your trip that you do it a couple of months prior at the very least. If the camera has been a bit neglected over the past few months, commit some time to go on a few local outings to reacquaint yourself with everything and make sure things are working as expected.
Flight faff
Kit can often be heavier or larger than what’s permitted in hand luggage, but it’s ill-advised to put kit in your check-in baggage: many airlines won’t allow lithium batteries in the hold and insurance rarely covers it if anything goes wrong. Paying for extra carry-on bags and creative packing can ease the stress. I will often wear clothes with plenty of pockets (fishing jackets are surprisingly handy for this) so that if I have issues getting through I can pop lenses and accessories into pockets or even a couple of camera bodies across my shoulders under my jacket. Smaller domestic flights can be a different kettle of fish if they’re weighing you!