Summer is here! Weddings are in full bloom and happy couples are heading off to destinations unknown. Kids are out of school and families are traveling near and far. Make the most of your vacation by capturing memories that you'll treasure for years.


Here are 10 simple ideas to get you on your way to better pictures:

1. Tell a Story

• Take pictures from the time of your departure to your return to tell the complete story of your trip.
• Capture details, like maps, signs, statues, local wildlife and more.
• Keep a little note book on hand to write down quick details to use later.

2. Always Have your Camera Handy

• You never know when a photo op will arise, so don't leave your camera in the hotel room!
• A compact point and shoot camera is easy to carry no matter where you're traveling.
• In a pinch, cell phones make a decent back up.

3. Take Lots of Pictures

• Multiple images will give you more to choose from, since not every photo will be perfect.
• Don't rush. Wait for the right moment.
• If there's a lot of action, shoot more pictures quickly. (makes a great series)

4. Look for Themes

• Themed images will help tell a unique story.
• Photograph common items in your travels.
• Themes like signs in Las Vegas, shells on the beach, fashion items in New York are a few ideas.

5. Capture the Local Flavor

• Interact with the locals and learn about their culture.
• Always ask permission to take someones picture.
• Unique (funny or breathtaking) subjects make wonderful photographs.

6. Photograph your Food

• Take pictures of everything good and exciting you eat.
• For a more dramatic picture, move in close to fill the frame with just the plate of food or desert.
• Trying new foods is a fun part of traveling and pictures will remind you of the experiences.

7. Do your Homework

• Know the features of your camera.
• If you have a new camera, bring the manual along on the plane or road trip to read.
• Scope out hot spots online of the area you're headed and get inspired to take better pictures.

8. Protect your Gear

• A zip-lock plastic bag is easy to fold up in your pocket in case of rain or wet adventure ride.
• Have a good quality camera bag to safely store your camera and supplies when traveling.
• Keep your camera out of the hot, direct sunlight.

9. Accessorize

• Expand your photo possibilities with different lenses, like a wide-angle or telephoto lens.
• A small travel tripod is great to have on hand for night shots or time-delayed pictures.
• Take the plunge with a waterproof camera so you can go anywhere, even snorkeling.

10. HAVE FUN! 

• Forget forcing posed pictures. Candid shots often show the great moments best.
• Blend into the environment to avoid feeling or making your subjects feel self-conscious.
• Photography does not have to be a chore. Relax and have fun.

Jerry and Karen Favorite wish you wonderful summer travels, many great memories and tons of fantastic photos! Share your images with us on Facebook! Don't forget to edit and print your pictures for framing, photo albums and canvas gallery wraps when you return from your vacation.