How to Create Content for Instagram While Traveling

In my almost 4 years of being a content creator, I’ve picked up a few tips for creating great content while on-the-go that can come in really handy while traveling. I like to optimize my time while on vacay, which means I do NOT want to spend the whole day shooting pictures. These tips have helped me to create travel content more efficiently. Let’s jump in:

Shoot photos early (or late!) in the day

Most popular destinations get busy REAL quick. This means that it will be hard to get a photo in an iconic location without a TON of people in the background. I remember when I went to Rome, I had about .02 seconds to take my photo in front of the Trevi Fountain because there were so many people around. Since then, I’ve read a lot of posts about travel blogging and they all recommend shooting photos early in the day before the crowds grow.

I also use this same trick when creating content at the beach (especially when in a swimsuit). I always try to take my photos before I’m greasy with sunscreen, sweaty, and potentially bloated later in the day. This way I can enjoy myself and know I shot some great photos early on in the day.

My one good shot from the Trevi Fountain back in 2017

If all else fails, there are editing apps like Retouch and PicsArt that can help you remove unwanted objects or people from the background of your photo.

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Map out the spots you want to shoot at prior to your trip

Instagram and Pinterest are typically my favorite places to source inspiration for places I’d like to visit while traveling. Typically, these also double as places I’d like to shoot some content. Save these to a folder in Google Maps or bookmark into a folder on IG so you can easily reference while traveling.

Wear cute (but comfy!) outfits

I usually opt for maxi dresses because they are comfortable yet have maximum twirl potential! When shooting at home, I usually choose outfits based on how much movement they have to them and how confident I feel in them. I try to do the same on vacay while maximizing comfort as well! Renting clothes can be a great way to find cool pieces. I love renting clothing items from FashionPass while traveling (use my code HELLOEMILYERIN for $10 off)! Pack wisely if you’re creating content while traveling!

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Snap quick photos and videos on-the-go to repurpose later

Snap quick photos of the scenery and places you visit. Take lots of videos to compile into a reel later on. These will come in handy for future videos, Instagram posts, and blog posts.

creating content while traveling — Visiting Denver, CO

Choose your camera wisely

Bring a camera (or phone) that takes quality photos but doesn’t take up much room in your purse. In some of the countries I’ve traveled to in the past, I’ve heard that thieves target tourists who are carrying around professional cameras. Maybe swap for the iPhone camera while you are on vacay to simplify packing and protect your nice camera!

Pick your photographer (or bring a tripod!)

Designate one of your travel buddies to help you snap a few quick pics! Or, bring along your tripod and create some content solo! If you know you have some time and want to have a more stylized photoshoot, you can look up photographers in the area who specialize in individual sessions. You could book one for your trip!

Gather your inspiration

Save poses in advance so you can quickly shoot content on-the-go! While on vacation, you may not have too much time to shoot photos. Saving inspiration photos ahead of time will help keep your shooting time to a minimum.