Exploring the world with Canon: A guide for travel photographers

To capture breathtaking landscapes and impressive vacation experiences for eternity and capture them in detail, you need professional travel photography equipment. Canon is one of the leading brands in this field and offers cameras and accessories that are perfectly tailored to the needs of travel photographers. Read on to find out what equipment you need for Canon travel photography. We also share valuable tips for travel photographers to help you get the best out of your shots on the road.

The right camera equipment for Canon travel photography

When it comes to travel photography, space is often limited, which requires careful selection of the equipment you take with you. In many ways, the choice of equipment depends on the locations being visited and the type of subjects to be photographed. Here are some tips for travel photographers on choosing the right camera equipment.

System or compact camera?

First of all, travel photographers need to choose a camera. Many opt for a mirrorless system camera because of its flexibility and advanced features. The Canon EOS R6, for example, offers 8-stage image stabilization and a wide sensitivity range of up to ISO 102,400. Another advantage is the fast autofocus.

Compact cameras are cheaper and easier to use. With an advanced model such as the Canon PowerShot G5 X Mark II, hobby photographers in particular are well equipped. A compact camera is also worthwhile for in-between occasions and when a high degree of mobility is required, as the devices are much lighter and smaller than system cameras. The Canon PowerShot G5 X Mark II has numerous setting options and a versatile focal length range of 24 to 105 mm. This makes the model equally suitable for indoor and outdoor shots when traveling.

The right lens

The choice of lens depends on the preferred style of photography and the intended subject. Wide-angle motifs are suitable for landscapes and close-up architectural shots, among other things. Canon, for example, offers the RF 15-33mm F2.8L IS USM wide-angle lens with a 5-stop image stabilizer. For detailed shots from a distance and wildlife photography, photographers need a telephoto zoom lens such as the RF 100-500mm F4.5-7.1L IS USM or the compact RF 800mm F11 IS STM from Canon.

If you value particularly high image quality and are willing to accept a high weight, it is best to opt for a fixed focal length lens. With a model such as the Canon RF 50mm F1.2L USM, high-resolution portrait and city shots are no problem, even in low light conditions. A standard zoom lens can be used for most applications when traveling. It is extremely versatile and practical, and travel photographers need only use this lens to save valuable weight. Canon provides, among others, the lightweight standard zoom lens RF 24-50mm F4.5-6.3 IS STM.

Other accessories for Canon travel photography

In addition to the camera and lens, travel photographers need other accessories that ideally take up little space and are easy to transport. This equipment is generally indispensable for professional and flexible Canon travel photography:

Tripod: A lightweight and compact travel tripod provides stability for long exposures, night shots or time-lapse photography. Canon offers various tripods with a wide range of compatibility, including a remote release. Useful features include flexible legs, the ability to rotate and tilt the head and compact dimensions.
Filters: Polarizing filters reduce reflections and enhance colors. ND filters allow longer exposure times in daylight. It makes sense to pack appropriate filters depending on your plans.
Spare batteries: Long days on the road can quickly drain the battery. Additional batteries ensure that the camera is always ready for use.
Memory cards: Large and fast memory cards offer enough space for high-resolution RAW images and allow you to take photos or videos all day long without interruption.
Plug-on flash: For indoor shots or poorly lit environments, an external flash provides better light and more natural illumination than an integrated camera flash can provide. Compatible clip-on flash units are available in Canon's Speedlite series.
Cleaning tool: Use bellows, microfiber cloth and brush to remove dust and dirt from the lens and camera. In dusty environments, regular cleaning is particularly essential to ensure image quality on the move.
Storage bag: A well-padded camera bag protects your equipment from shocks, weather and dust, while providing a convenient way to keep everything organized. Canon has shoulder bags and backpacks in its repertoire.
Binoculars: Compact binoculars help you discover interesting subjects such as animals or distant landscapes early on, before the camera is used. Canon offers a special binocular for travel photographers with the 10x30 IS II.
Rain protection: A special cover protects the camera from the weather and makes it safe to use in rain and high humidity in tropical climates. Thanks to transparent windows, the camera can be operated unhindered despite the rain cover.

Further tips for travel photographers

Even with the highest quality equipment, you can't take great travel photos if you don't have the right know-how. So here are some valuable tips for travel photographers.

If you are already on the road, there is usually no time left to familiarize yourself with the various setting options of your camera. So if you are a beginner or have bought a new camera, it is advisable to familiarize yourself with the available functions of the device at home. Don't forget to take the manual with you. With Canon models, operation is made easier with the Canon Camera Connect app, which you can even use to control your device remotely if required.

Preparation makes a big difference and can significantly influence the outcome of your photos. Explore social media, photo blogs and travel guides to find unique locations and research the best spots. Check the weather forecast and prepare for the given conditions, for example by packing the right lens.

Tourist locations are particularly busy during the day. It can therefore be worth getting up early. In addition, the "golden hour" shortly after sunrise or shortly before sunset offers a special atmosphere that attracts many photographers. Sceneries and moods change with the position of the sun in the sky. It can therefore be exciting to return to your favorite spot at different times of the day to capture it again with your camera. Even after the sun has set, a location appears in a completely new look that you may not want to miss for your photos.

Discover the perfect combination of functionality and elegance for your next photographic journey: In the Oberwerth Shop you will find high-quality camera bags and accessories that not only protect your valuable Canon equipment, but also impress with their timeless design and maximum comfort. Whether stylish camera bags, robust rucksacks or elegant half cases - at Oberwerth you can expect first-class quality that will accompany your camera safely and stylishly. Take a look now and find the ideal bag for your next photographic expedition!