Sorry, this page is no longer available
We may earn an affiliate commission when you visit our partners.
Course image
Jellis Vaes

I feel better prepared for my next trip and feel confident that using Jellis' knowledge will greatly improve the photos I will take. I highly recommend this course." - Adrian Gillespie

"I'm glad I found this course. Jellis is a seasoned pro and is a very passionate instructor, which makes all the difference. Thank you for this great course, Jellis. " - Alberto Rouiller

Read more

I feel better prepared for my next trip and feel confident that using Jellis' knowledge will greatly improve the photos I will take. I highly recommend this course." - Adrian Gillespie

"I'm glad I found this course. Jellis is a seasoned pro and is a very passionate instructor, which makes all the difference. Thank you for this great course, Jellis. " - Alberto Rouiller

"Great class Jellis Vaes. I learned a lot about Travel and Adventure Photography. This will help in the near future when I want to travel to take pictures. Thank you Jellis for a wonderful course on Travel and Adventure Photography. Now I know how to take great pictures when I am traveling or going on a roadtrip to Vashon Island again. Best Instructor Ever. And again, thank you. :). " - Jane Courtois

Welcome to this specialization course.

I am Jellis Vaes, a professional travel and adventure photographer.

At the age of 18, I left school to travel the world. What was intended to be a two-month trip ended up becoming a three-year journey around the world.

During those three years, I fell in love with the world and the many beauties and adventures it held.

What was at first no more than a simple tool for me to express myself and show others what I was experiencing – the beauty and thrill of living in this world – slowly turned into a passion and love that I have turned into my profession.

As a travel and adventure photographer, I have visited more than 40 countries, worked with companies on various projects, and become a best-selling teacher. To date, I have taught a total of more than 10,000 students, and I am incredibly humbled to have shared my knowledge with them all.

In this course, I want to take you on a wild adventure and show you the art of travel and adventure photography.

The wonders and thrills of working in the field, various tricks and tips, how to take EPIC photographs that truly capture a feeling, handy accesories, the best camera equipment to travel with, photography backpacks, how to keep yourself, your photos, and your equipment safe, how to earn money through travel and adventure photography, and much, much more.

I cannot wait to embark on this most exciting photography journey with you.

I hope you are ready.

Jellis

An honest review and rating is always appreciated and will help me to make any necessary improvements for the course, as well helping to get more people involved so they too can benefit from the beauty of photography. Many thanks.

Note: This is a specialization course, not a beginner’s course on photography.

If you have no prior knowledge about the basics of photography, I suggest you check out “The Ultimate Photography Course for Beginners” and “The Ultimate Post Processing and Editing Course.”

“The Ultimate Photography Course for Beginners” teaches the fundamentals about photography, such as the exposure triangle, exposure modes, lighting, focus, composition, etc.

“The Ultimate Post Processing and Editing Course” is an in-depth course about the other half of photography: the post-processing and editing side.

You will learn how to work with Lightroom and Photoshop and how to turn your okay-looking photos into stunning photographs.

This is only a suggestion to help you become a better photographer. The reviews and ratings for these two courses speak for themselves and illustrate how much value they have provided to other students.

Enroll now

What's inside

Learning objectives

  • After completing the course, students will gain a strong sense of what travel and adventure photography is about
  • Know what to look for when buying a quality photography bag
  • Learn how to keep your photos safe and secure when traveling or off on an adventure
  • Learn how to keep yourself and your equipment safe
  • Know what to pay attention to and how to take dramatic photos that capture the moment and the feeling of that moment
  • Become an all-around better photographer through the pro tips and advice that will be shared by the instructor
  • Learn how to earn money with travel and adventure photography
  • Know what a good photography kit for travel and adventure photography looks like

Syllabus

Welcome - Watch First
How to Take Dramatic Travel & Adventure Photos
How to Take Dramatic Travel and Adventure Photographs
Why Are You Going There – Visualize your Shots
Read more

Can you still remember which are the three primary colors? Let’s see if you can make Isaac Newton proud.

What two items are essential for your personal safety and can very much differentiate between life and death?

Let us test if you still remember an important tip in the lesson about safety and how to keep your equipment safe.

What are the four criteria to look for in a good quality backpack?

Traffic lights

Read about what's good
what should give you pause
and possible dealbreakers
Offers insights into the field, including tricks, tips, and equipment, which can help learners develop a professional approach to travel photography
Explores how to capture the feeling of a moment, which is a skill that can help learners create more compelling and evocative travel photographs
Discusses earning money through travel and adventure photography, which is useful for learners looking to monetize their photography skills
Requires prior knowledge of photography basics, so learners without this foundation may need to take introductory courses first
Includes lessons on safety and security for both photographers and their equipment, which is crucial for those working in unpredictable environments
Examines the philosophy of travel and adventure photography, which may add depth and meaning to learners' photographic work

Save this course

Create your own learning path. Save this course to your list so you can find it easily later.
Save

Reviews summary

Inspiring & practical travel photography

According to students, this course provides an inspiring and passionate introduction to the world of travel and adventure photography. Many found the instructor's approach highly engaging and appreciated the focus on practical tips related to travel safety, gear, and finding unique perspectives. Learners also valued the modules on earning money through photography, though this was less relevant for some. However, some reviewers noted that despite the title, the course is best suited for those with some basic photography knowledge, as it focuses more on the travel and adventure aspects rather than fundamental photography techniques like the exposure triangle or composition in detail.
Module on earning money included.
"The section on how to earn money as a travel photographer was a valuable bonus."
"I wasn't interested in the business side, but the earning money module was there for those who need it."
"Good overview of different ways photographers can monetize their work."
Helpful advice for photography on the go.
"The sections on keeping yourself and your equipment safe, finding a quality backpack, and backup solutions were incredibly practical for travel."
"I found the tips on essential accessories and apps for travel photographers very useful."
"The advice on visualizing shots and doing research before traveling was a game-changer for me."
"Practical advice that can be used out on the road."
Passionate teaching style is motivating.
"Jellis is a seasoned pro and is a very passionate instructor, which makes all the difference. Thank you for this great course."
"The passion of the teacher is very contagious, and I found it truly inspirational."
"The instructor is very passionate about the subject and makes the lessons engaging and enjoyable."
"I loved Jellis's energy and passion throughout the course. It really motivated me to get out and shoot."
"His passion for travel photography is evident, making the learning experience quite inspiring."
"The instructor's enthusiasm makes even complex topics easy to listen to."
Some find content too basic.
"It was a bit more basic than I expected for a specialization course. Good for mindset but light on technical skills."
"Could use more in-depth sections on composition techniques and using light specifically for travel scenarios."
"I was hoping for more detailed instruction on post-processing travel photos."
"While inspiring, it felt like a surface-level look at many topics."
Not for absolute beginners in photography.
"This course is NOT for beginners as the title suggests. Basic understanding of aperture, shutter speed and ISO is necessary."
"While it says 'Beginners', you should have some understanding of camera settings before starting."
"I wish the course had made it clearer up front that basic photography knowledge is required. The title is a bit misleading."
"This is a specialization course, not a beginner’s course on photography... I suggest you check out “The Ultimate Photography Course for Beginners”"

Activities

Be better prepared before your course. Deepen your understanding during and after it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered in Travel Photography for Beginners: Take EPIC Travel Photos with these activities:
Review Photography Basics
Reinforce your understanding of fundamental photography concepts like the exposure triangle, aperture, shutter speed, ISO, and composition to better grasp the advanced techniques taught in the course.
Browse courses on Exposure Triangle
Show steps
  • Review notes from a beginner's photography course.
  • Practice adjusting aperture, shutter speed, and ISO in manual mode.
  • Experiment with different compositions using the rule of thirds.
Read 'National Geographic Complete Guide to Photography'
Gain a broader understanding of photography principles and techniques to enhance your ability to capture dramatic travel and adventure photos.
Show steps
  • Read chapters related to composition, lighting, and exposure.
  • Study the example photographs and analyze their techniques.
  • Take notes on key concepts and try to apply them in your own photography.
Plan a Practice Photo Shoot
Apply the concepts learned in the course by planning and executing a practice photo shoot in a travel or adventure setting.
Show steps
  • Choose a location that inspires you and aligns with travel/adventure themes.
  • Research the location and identify potential photo opportunities.
  • Create a shot list with specific compositions and lighting conditions in mind.
  • Execute the photo shoot, experimenting with different settings and techniques.
  • Review your photos and identify areas for improvement.
Four other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all seven activities
Read 'Lonely Planet's Guide to Travel Photography'
Gain insights into capturing compelling travel narratives through photography, enhancing your ability to tell stories through your images.
Show steps
  • Read chapters on composition, storytelling, and ethical considerations.
  • Analyze the example photographs and identify the techniques used.
  • Reflect on how you can apply these techniques to your own travel photography.
Create a Travel Photography Blog Post
Solidify your understanding of travel photography by creating a blog post showcasing your best photos and sharing your experiences.
Show steps
  • Select your best travel photos from a recent trip or photo shoot.
  • Write engaging captions and descriptions for each photo.
  • Craft an introduction and conclusion that highlight your travel photography journey.
  • Publish your blog post on a platform like Medium or your own website.
Provide Feedback on Other Students' Photos
Reinforce your understanding of travel photography principles by providing constructive feedback on other students' photos, helping them improve their skills.
Show steps
  • Join online photography forums or communities.
  • Select photos to critique based on composition, lighting, and storytelling.
  • Provide specific and actionable feedback, focusing on areas for improvement.
Build a Photography Portfolio Website
Showcase your travel photography skills by creating a professional portfolio website to attract potential clients or collaborators.
Show steps
  • Choose a website platform like Squarespace or WordPress.
  • Select a visually appealing template that highlights your photos.
  • Curate your best travel photos and organize them into galleries.
  • Write an about me section that showcases your experience and passion.
  • Add a contact form for potential clients or collaborators.

Career center

Learners who complete Travel Photography for Beginners: Take EPIC Travel Photos will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:
Travel Photographer
A travel photographer captures images of people, landscapes, and cultures in different locations. This career also involves some business savvy, as travel photographers often must market themselves to potential clients and find ways to monetize their work. This course helps one looking to become a travel photographer in that it specifically addresses the art of travel and adventure photography, offering guidance on taking dramatic photos, using color effectively, and understanding the philosophy behind this niche. The course also teaches how to keep yourself and your equipment safe. Importantly, it includes crucial details about earning money through travel photography.
Adventure Photographer
An adventure photographer specializes in capturing images of outdoor activities and remote locations. As a career, adventure photographers document thrilling and often challenging pursuits through photos, which often involves travel to difficult to reach destinations. This course provides a strong background, directly addressing the art of travel and adventure photography. It covers how to take dramatic photos, how to research locations, and best practices for safety. It also includes the essentials of photography equipment and best accessories for adventure shoots, as well as how to earn money as an adventure photographer.
Freelance Photographer
A freelance photographer works independently on various projects, capturing images for diverse clients. This may involve travel, depending on the client's need, and requires the photographer to manage their business and market themselves. This course will be helpful as it has lessons about how to take dramatic travel and adventure photos, which improves a photographer's portfolio. Also, the course teaches skills on how to earn money through photography, including client direct sales and photography workshops. Learning how to create a dramatic perspective can help a freelance photographer who must stand out from the crowd.
Content Creator
A content creator develops material for various platforms like social media, websites, and blogs by generating posts, videos, and photos. This creator must have an understanding of photography to create eye-catching and engaging content. This course helps improve a content creator's ability to produce quality visual content. It covers how to take dramatic travel photos, how to use colors effectively, and how to generate engaging perspectives. Also, the course includes a section on travel and adventure blogging, which is relevant for content creation, and has lessons on earning money in such pursuits.
Visual Storyteller
A visual storyteller uses photographs and videos to convey narratives. This type of work requires a nuanced understanding of how to effectively communicate an idea, experience, or message through a visual medium. This course helps build a foundation for a career as a visual storyteller by teaching how to capture a feeling or moment with photography. The course also discusses the philosophy of travel and adventure photography, which influences a narrative's tone. By emphasizing the importance of being an observer and creating a unique perspective, this course helps one excel in visual storytelling.
Blogger
A blogger creates written content that educates or entertains on a specific topic, with an understanding of how to create high quality visual content. A blogger who travels will benefit from proficiency in photography. This course has a strong fit for a travel blogger, as it focuses on the art of travel and adventure photography. It covers many photography topics, including how to take dramatic photos, how to research locations, how to use colors effectively, and how to choose the correct equipment. The course also contains a lesson on making money through travel blogging.
Social Media Manager
A social media manager develops content strategies, creates posts, and engages with followers to grow an online presence. A social media manager may need photography skills to create engaging visual content, which is especially important for travel related brands or businesses. This course may be useful since it includes a segment dedicated to travel and adventure photography. The lessons on creating dramatic photos, visual perspectives, and effectively using color may make a social media manager's content more engaging, which improves their overall business and brand.
Photo Editor
A photo editor reviews images and selects those that will be used in publications or for specific projects. A photo editor often needs to have an eye for photography. This course may be helpful since it teaches a deep understanding of how to take dramatic travel and adventure photos. The course also covers many topics that are important for a photo editor, including the nuances of composition, color, and perspective. A photo editor who understands these principles can better evaluate photos for their message and technical quality.
Photography Instructor
A photography instructor teaches the foundations and techniques of photography to aspiring photographers. This role requires having mastery over the various topics of photography. This course may be helpful in becoming an instructor, since it goes into detail on how to execute specific photography, such as travel and adventure photography, in a very specialized manner. Also, the course provides unique insights into the philosophy of travel and adventure photography. Additionally, this course's structure can potentially help a photography instructor consider how to design their own class.
Marketing Specialist
A marketing specialist develops and executes marketing campaigns to promote products or services. For some campaigns, they may need to manage visual content creation, including photography for a travel brand, for example. This course may be useful to a marketing specialist in this niche, since it covers taking dramatic travel and adventure photos, which can be incorporated into marketing campaigns. The course also includes relevant lessons about how to keep images secure and the best equipment to use when traveling, which informs a cohesive marketing strategy. The course also touches on how to find the best perspectives including color usage.
Travel Agent
A travel agent helps clients book trips, providing information on destinations, transportation, and accommodations. This role does not directly involve photography. However, a travel agent may benefit from having an understanding of what makes a place beautiful and photographable to better advise their clients. This course may be useful in understanding how to visually capture the allure of a travel destination. By learning about how to take dramatic travel photos, how to identify compelling perspectives, and how to understand color, a travel agent can more effectively convey a location to customers.
Video Editor
A video editor manipulates raw video footage to create a finished product, which might include some still photography. Although this role focuses on video, there is overlap with photography. Because this course focuses on travel and adventure photography, it may be helpful for video editors who work on travel-related projects. The course's lessons on visual perspective, color and composition may improve the editor's understanding of visual storytelling, which can inform their video editing.
Graphic Designer
A graphic designer creates visual solutions for various media, using images and other design elements. While this role focuses more on design, there is overlap between photography and design, since photography is an element in design work. This course may be useful for a graphic designer, since it teaches a deep understanding of visual communication. The course teaches how to capture dramatic images through perspective and color. A graphic designer who can understand these visual elements will be able to compose more engaging and impactful designs.
Tour Guide
A tour guide leads groups of people through locations, sharing relevant historical or cultural information. While this role does not directly require photography, a tour guide may be able to enhance the experience for tourists by knowing what photo opportunities are available. This course may be useful in that it teaches how to identify compelling perspectives. The course may help a tour guide appreciate the visual aspects of a location and, in turn, provide a richer tour experience by suggesting photo opportunities.
Journalist
A journalist researches and writes news stories. Some journalists take their own photos to accompany stories. This course may be helpful for journalists who want to enhance their visual storytelling ability, through the lessons on travel and adventure photography. This course may also help a journalist better understand the role of a photographer when working on collaborations. This course covers skills related to taking photos from unique perspectives, which could make a journalist's photography more impactful. The course may be useful in becoming a more well-rounded journalist.

Reading list

We've selected two books that we think will supplement your learning. Use these to develop background knowledge, enrich your coursework, and gain a deeper understanding of the topics covered in Travel Photography for Beginners: Take EPIC Travel Photos.
Provides a comprehensive overview of photography techniques, equipment, and styles. It serves as a valuable reference for understanding the technical aspects of photography discussed in the course. It is particularly helpful for students who want to deepen their understanding of the fundamentals and explore different photographic genres. This book is commonly used as a textbook at academic institutions.
Offers practical advice and inspiration for capturing stunning travel photos. It covers a wide range of topics, including composition, lighting, and storytelling. It is more valuable as additional reading than as a current reference. This book is particularly useful for students who want to improve their travel photography skills and create compelling visual narratives.

Share

Help others find this course page by sharing it with your friends and followers:

Similar courses

Similar courses are unavailable at this time. Please try again later.
Our mission

OpenCourser helps millions of learners each year. People visit us to learn workspace skills, ace their exams, and nurture their curiosity.

Our extensive catalog contains over 50,000 courses and twice as many books. Browse by search, by topic, or even by career interests. We'll match you to the right resources quickly.

Find this site helpful? Tell a friend about us.

Affiliate disclosure

We're supported by our community of learners. When you purchase or subscribe to courses and programs or purchase books, we may earn a commission from our partners.

Your purchases help us maintain our catalog and keep our servers humming without ads.

Thank you for supporting OpenCourser.

© 2016 - 2025 OpenCourser