BLOGGING TRAVEL PHOTOS

EditorialEditor:Alexandra Godfrey

Alexandra Godfrey

Interested in becoming a travel blogger, or taking your travel photos to the next level with a photo story? In this month’s editorial I’m going to write about how to get started with blogging, thanks to the input of our very own St Andrews blogger, Jaden Jones! If you enjoy travelling, travel blogging can help you keep track of your adventures abroad, whilst sharing facts and moments with your family and friends Whether you are off on a full-week family vacation during reading week, a quick-trip Ryanair weekend away, or an interrailing journey throughout the summer months, photography is bound to sit at the core of your travel experience, both during and after the trip What else would you have to show your aunts when discussing your visit to Southern Italy at the Thanksgiving table this autumn? Blogging, much like photography, offers you the chance to record the small moments that might otherwise be forgotten. Who would otherwise think to record the times spent laughing on the floor of your cramped and dingy hostel, for example? Jaden Jones, a 2nd year student studying at the University of St Andrews, told us that her blog allowed her to “write creatively (something I don’t get to do much in a STEM pathway) and share experiences with others” It is also closely linked to social media, as you share your new experiences, and build a platform of followers who are interested in your “do’s” and “don'ts” of where you go. Jaden also states her diagnosis of coeliac disease 2 years ago has created the “unique and challenging experience” of travelling with a food restriction, the tips and tricks of which she has been able to share in her blog Much like cultural photography, travel blogging offers the opportunity to engage with different cultures and ways of life. Though travel photography and cultural photography can go hand-inhand, the majority of today’s travel bloggers / photographers tend to focus on the local ‘hidden-gems’ of a particular city, whether that be labelled as ‘good eats’ or ‘picturesque instagramable streets’ Aesthetic locations, such as a cute cafe, artsy exhibitions, or lively nightclubs, not only provide the perfect content for blogs, but in visiting them you quickly fill up your travel schedule! When asking Jaden about photography, she told us she “really relies on the photos taken to help remember what is important”. Whilst her photography style might not be “polished or professional” she finds it to be “very personal and relaxed” and therefore “something anyone could connect to” No matter your level of photography, when exploring a new place you are opened up to a world of opportunity.

Whether you have a professional camera or not, your content is therefore always appreciated by readers! Some people may argue blogging is pointless without a huge social media presence, but I would argue it can be used as simply a form of self reflection and relaxation. By sharing your movements throughout the day it might inspire someone to follow in your footsteps and explore a new place This is something you can accomplish without a strong media following. Blogging and travel photography are also both forms of cultural appreciation and promotion, and your knowledge of the world around you will improve Though everyone is bound to have different experiences when they travel, your blog may influence their way of viewing certain areas of the world. Finally, I asked Jaden what she would suggest to someone who is interested in starting a travel blog She told me “this sounds cliche but, just go for it! Nothing needs to be polished or professional ” She also suggested that if you are too nervous about blogging your first few trips, at least “get into a habit of writing them” and consider posting after you’ve had a couple practice rounds So, get out there, photograph your travels, and then WRITE!