by If you find yourself heading out into the wilderness on a road trip and have any intention of documenting it, you probably brought along a camera. Over the years, I have gotten back and said to myself, shoot, I can’t believe we didn’t get a picture of that. Well, in an attempt at saving you that feeling, here’s a list of outdoor photos you will want to have on your camera once you have returned from your journey.
#1 In Outdoor Photos – The Trailhead Shot
The group of you, or solo, get a shot next to the trailhead, the water’s edge, or the van if the situation calls for it. Your viewers will appreciate all the clean, smiling faces. This shot will set the stage for the days ahead and give a reference point for your story.
#2 The Camp Set Up Shots
It is always good to have several of your outdoor photos be a shot of camp. It makes it easier to explain what it looked like. Action shots of people setting up tents, carrying canoes, and hoisting the bear bag are all good stuff. I’ve been known to do short video tours.
#3 The Kitchen Set Up
Everyone has an opinion about how to set up the camp kitchen. Showcase your style. Close-ups of your techniques or methods give a visual story.
#4 Show Off Your Food!
Whether you are looking for bragging rights or trying not to hurl. Take a snapshot of the food, it’s worth the story later for better or worse.
#5 Take a Peek Inside the Tent
Is it organized or a mess? Is it crammed with stuff or minimalist? It’ll be fun to look back at what you had going on. I’ve looked back at mine and thought, holy crud I wasn’t even using a sleeping pad!
#6 In Outdoor Photos – On The Trail
You have to have a few shots on the go! Canoeing or hiking! Or heck if you’re in the car!? This is where the journey is. Candid or staged, make it happen.
#7 The moment when…
There seems to always be “that one time” when it happens, take a photo to commemorate it. I love looking through pictures and having that oh yea that happened! moment.
#8 The Map
I can’t count how many times when someone is looking at pictures and asks, “where was that?” and I have no idea. I started adding this to a stock of daily photos so I can dial in where they are. If you missed taking a photo of your journey map why not download a topographic map from the USGS. Then edit your route and include it in your shots.
#9 Landscape and Vistas
This one’s no brainer, sunrise or sunset, If you have a view take a second to pull out the camera.
#10 The End Trailhead Shot
At the end of everything get a shot next to your gear all scuzzy and whatnot. Have everyone stand 6 feet from so-n-so because they smell so bad.
ProTip – Whatever you are taking a picture of, it’s great to have people in it. When you get that picture of dinner, have it of someone taking a big bite. That landscape picture is better with a couple of friends in it. You will remember the time with the people just as much as with the land, if not more. Hopefully, you found this helpful. Happy Trails!
Final Thoughts on Wilderness Photos
Taking the time to briefly stage and take these key pictures on your next wilderness adventure will help tell the story to your other friends and family that didn’t get to go. Post one of your favorite trail shots in the comments section below.
Related Wilderness Photography Reading
- 4 Outdoor Gear Items to Upgrade First – Based on Comfort
- 7 Tips for Black Bear Preparedness in the Boundary Waters – BWCA
- 5 Sleeping Bag Features for the Best All-Around Bag
- Crisis Leadership: Evacuation Out Of Boundary Waters Canoe Area
