The Masterclasses by National Geographic Traveller (UK) returned in March 2023 with a series of one-hour writing and photography sessions. 

Following on from our beginner’s guide to travel photography on day one and a discussion around picking the right tools on day two, our third and final evening in the series focused on creating a narrative and delivering the goods. 

Our moderator Lola Akinmade Åkerström, an award-winning visual storyteller and bestselling author, steered the conversation through everything from the benefits of capturing portraits to the importance of editing as you go. 

Here are three useful tips shared during the session: 

1. “People are interested in people,” said travel photographer and regular National Geographic Traveller (UK) contributor Ben Roberts. “If you don’t have strong portraits in a travel story, you’ll lack the human element.” 
2. Using light effectively can make a world of difference to your photography. “Understand light. It’s such a critical part of beautiful images,” advised Simon Bajada, while pointing out the contrasting impact of similar scenes shot at different times.  
3. Don’t be afraid to view your own imagery with a critical eye while travelling. “The editing process starts right there on the job. Be honest with yourself about what’s a good picture and what’s not,” explained Ben Roberts. 

Missed The Masterclasses? Catch up on all six, hour-long, expert-led travel writing and photography sessions now, with videos sent straight to your inbox. Each session costs £10 to access, with the full set costing £50. 

Buy the recordings now: eventbrite.co.uk