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Sure, everyone takes pictures when they travel — but not everyone does it well.

Besides following the photography basics of light, color and composition, here are a few more practical tips from the experts to help ensure a successful trip with plenty of stunning vacation shots:

Leave the new camera home

If you're embarking on a travel adventure - especially to places you've never been before - leave the new camera home. Reading road maps is one thing, but there's nothing like trying to capture a famous landmark at sundown if you have to first check the manual before you take the shot.

Of course, in some cases you may not have a choice, In this case, take enough time as possible before departure to become familiar with all the new features fresh out of the box (you'll thank yourself later.)

Try out new techniques before you go

While on the road, you also probably don't want to get too creative with lenses or techniques.

For example, you may be inspired to a black and white photo essay on a famous monument or religious landmark. But if you've never faced the challenges of black and white, the result may be a disappointing "gray soup". Again, the more time experimenting before you leave, the better.

Pack enough equipment and peripherals

If you think that either the language or the local photo shop in a foreign country may become a barrier to getting your hands on emergency supplies like film, cables, or memory disks, always remember to pack extra (especially on long trips) to avoid lots of disappointment.

More about travel photography around the Web:

Around the Web, check out more travel photography tips to help you learn how to do it like a pro. You'll see examples of professional work, along with related tutorials on basic and advanced techniques for "shooting" safaris that you'll be proud to share with friends and family..

Have fun!

TribalEye Images - How would you like to get advice from someone who's been shooting travel photos successfully since 1987? This is Jamie Marshall's site... full of tips, advice on buying equipment, resources, forum, and related links.

Travel Photography - Fodor's - It isn't surprising that this travel guide giant has a very good section on travel photography. This page may not help the pros very much, but for newbies and more experienced amateurs it's a must visit.

The Long Trip Home - The online travel photography ezine attracting a gifted pool of contributors. The essays and photos are first class. Browse for some inspiration and check the related resources for more information.

Travel photography - Wikipedia - Yes, the online encyclopedia also has some very helpful information on the topic with a detailed overview of cameras, equipment, poses, respecting local customs, and practical safety advice.

Packing Tips for Travel Photography - Expert advice and lots of it, including tips on what to take, and what to leave home, with helpful related visitor comments.

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