Photography Tips For Hikers

Guest Blog by Danielle Price

As a photographer and avid hiker, I love taking photos during my hikes!  Photos not only help to preserve the memory of each epic adventure, but they can also come in handy for future trip planning or even when recommending a trail to a friend. 

I will share with you some insider tips for capturing your moments on the trail that I hope you will find useful on your 52 Hike Challenge journey.

Add to Your Ten Essentials
I know the 52 Hike Challenge has “The Ten Essentials” list, but  I am going to recommend adding at least one more item to that list – a camera.  Now, it doesn’t have to be a big, heavy, expensive DSLR camera with multiple lenses.  With all the recent innovative camera technology, something as simple as your smartphone can take some amazing photos.  The great thing about using your smartphone is that you typically will already have it with you on your hike.  It is also small, lightweight, and easy to use.

Taken at Carvin’s Cove, VA on 11/06/17 on my Motorola Droid Turbo phone.

A point-and-shoot camera is also a great option.  They are also small, lightweight, and easy to use.  For some, you have a few more options than with your smartphone if you take the time to learn the features.

Taken at Great Falls Park, VA on 07/08/19 on my Nikkon Coolpix S8200.

Different Perspectives
Change up the angle you are taking your photos to get a different look and new perspectives in your photos.  Taking a photo while standing at eye level with the camera at eye level produces an image that just about anyone can take and anyone else who has been on that trail has seen.  Try something different – you may be more than surprised with your results!

Taken along the Appalachian Trail in PA on 04/28/17 on my Motorola Droid Turbo.



Look for Hidden Treasures
Many times, when we are hiking, we are so focused on getting to the summit or the overlook that we often are inattentive to the beauty surrounding us on the trail.  Take a few moments to slow down and look at the world at your feet.

Taken under a rock along the A.T. in VA on 03/15/19 on my Canon EOS M50.



Take as Many Photos as You Want
The wonderful thing about digital photography is that you can pretty much take all the photos you want. It isn’t like film used to be where it costs you money to purchase the film and then to develop it.  Also, by taking multiple photos of the same thing it gives you practice with finding new and interesting angles or even fun, fresh subjects.

Both photos are of the same leaf, just different perspectives. I took 36 photos to get the one on the bottom that I love.
Taken along Appalachian Trail in VA on 12/11/18 on my Canon EOS M50.



Have Fun, Be Safe, and Follow the Leave No Trace Principles
At the end of the day, just have fun!  Taking photos of your journey doesn’t have to be a stressful, arduous task requiring lots of heavy photography equipment.  Make it fun and experiment with various subjects, angles, lighting, etc.  Also, be sure to always remain safe – pay attention to your footing, don’t get too close to cliff edges, be mindful of the critters (they don’t want to be stepped on or have their space invaded and you don’t want to be bitten).  And remember to follow the Leave No Trace Seven Principles. 

I hope you have an amazing 52 Hike Challenge 2019 journey!  Be sure to tag your photos on social media with #52HikeChallenge so the rest of the community can follow along with your adventure.  

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