Happy Thanksgiving, travel photographers!

Welcome to Global Shutter—a weekly dive into the latest news, trends, and quirky stories from the world of travel photography.

Pack your bags, charge those batteries, and get ready to explore the world through your lens. Safe travels and happy shooting!

Focus of the Day

• This 69 day cruise from Iceland to Japan is an explorer’s dream

• These sub-$1000 cameras are the best money can buy

• Gladiator II transforms Malta into Ancient Rome

• National Geographic selects winner for outstanding storytelling

Read time: 5 minutes

TRAVEL EXPERIENCES

This 69 Day Cruise is an Explorer’s Dream 🚢 read the full article here

Article published: November 22, 2024

Snapshot: Imagine a voyage that channels your inner Erik the Red and Roald Amundsen—a 69-day cruise from Iceland to Japan, traversing the Arctic Circle and unraveling millennia of history, culture, and breathtaking landscapes. This epic adventure with Lindblad Expeditions isn’t just a trip; it’s a once-in-a-lifetime odyssey for the bold.

Key Takeaways :

• Arctic Wonders: Explore Iceland’s puffin-covered cliffs, Greenland’s ancient Viking ruins, and ice fjords that are UNESCO World Heritage treasures.

• Historic Northwest Passage: Follow the legendary sea route connecting the Atlantic and Pacific. Hike tundras, kayak near icebergs, and spot Arctic wildlife like polar bears, seals, and walruses.

• Alaska’s Wild Coast: From Nome to the volcanic Aleutian Islands, discover dramatic landscapes and some of the largest seabird colonies in the Northern Hemisphere.

• Cultural Finale in Japan: Snap Mount Fuji from Shimizu, wander Kyoto’s ancient temples, and capture the contrast of modern cities like Osaka alongside historic sites like samurai castles.

The Verdict: Whether you’re chasing Arctic wildlife, dramatic seascapes, or historic architecture, this voyage promises enough jaw-dropping shots to fill a gallery. For most, this isn’t just a cruise; it’s a 69-day masterclass in epic travel photography. Pack your lenses, your sense of adventure, and a memory card the size of Greenland.

GEAR

These Sub-$1000 Cameras are the Best Money Can Buy 💸 read the full article here

Article published: November 22, 2024

Snapshot: When stepping up from phone photography, cameras under $1,000 are the sweet spot for travel photography enthusiasts. Whether you're chasing sunsets, waterfalls, or your cousin who stole the last slice of pie, this price range offers tools that balance power, portability, and potential.

Key Takeaways:

• Best All-Rounder: The Canon EOS R10 shines with its advanced autofocus, speedy shooting, and growing lens selection. Perfect for wildlife, action shots, and anyone who wants to graduate from beginner status.

• Versatile Performer: Nikon’s Z50II combines solid grip and pro-level autofocus with accessible controls—but watch out for the limited zoom lens options.

• Compact King: The Sony RX100 VA packs punchy photo and video quality into a travel-friendly size. Its zoom lens and stacked sensor make it a solid sidekick for those who love mobility.

• Vlogger’s Delight: The Fujifilm X-M5 brings Fujifilm’s signature film simulations and high-res video to the table. Ideal for those blending photography and video content.

The Verdict: From mirrorless marvels to compact wonders, these cameras are ready to elevate your Instagram comments from “nice” to “slay bb girl”. Each offers unique strengths to match your creative goals. For sheer versatility, the Canon EOS R10 takes the crown, but any of these picks will leave your phone camera eating dust. So grab your gear and start chasing those postcard-perfect shots.

DESTINATIONS

Gladiator II Transforms Malta into Ancient Rome ⚔️ read the full article here

Article published: November 22, 2024

Snapshot: Gladiator II takes ancient Rome to new heights (literally) with jaw-dropping locations from the deserts of Morocco to the cliffs of Malta. It’s like Ridley Scott turned the entire Mediterranean into a movie set, and travel photographers are reaping the rewards. If you’ve ever dreamed of snapping photos in a crowd-less Colosseum, this film’s set is as close as you’re going to get—minus the lions.

Key Takeaways:

• Historic Immersion: Malta’s Fort Ricasoli perfectly recreates the Colosseum, with every stone wall serving as a canvas for Roman architecture—a travel photographer’s dream.

• Desert Meets Sea: In Morocco’s Ouarzazate, a sea battle was staged with 16-wheeled hydraulic dollies and VFX, proving the desert holds more cinematic magic than you think.

• Unexpected Locations: Malta offers everything from Napoleonic forts to olive groves, all contributing to Gladiator II’s epic feel.

• Craftsmanship on Display: Every detail, from marble finishes to golden mosaics, is a tribute to the craftsmanship involved in bringing Rome back to life.

The Verdict: Gladiator II isn’t just a movie—it’s an immersive travel experience that takes you through the ruins of ancient Rome, all while offering a backstage pass to some of the most awe-inspiring landscapes in the world. Whether you’re into ancient architecture, cinematic landscapes, or just looking for new places to add to your photo bucket list, Malta, Morocco, and beyond are calling your name.

PHOTOGRAPHY

National Geographic Selects Winner for Outstanding Storytelling 📸 read the full article here

Article published: November 21, 2024

Snapshot: Thomas P. Peschak isn’t just a photographer; he’s a conservation superhero (without a cape or butler). Awarded National Geographic’s 2025 Eliza Scidmore Award, his photos go beyond beauty—they spark change. From the Amazon’s endangered ecosystems to the plight of seabirds, his images inspire action for travel photographers aiming to make a difference.

Key Takeaways:

• From Marine Biologist to Photographer: Peschak transitioned from marine biology to photography, using his lens to highlight environmental issues and inspire change.

• Conservation Photography: With multiple awards, Peschak’s images capture the fragility of ecosystems and species, making a compelling case for conservation.

• Immersive Storytelling: Whether it’s the Amazon or seabird extinction, Peschak’s hands-on approach is a model for travel photographers who want to tell impactful stories.

• Award-Winning Work: The Eliza Scidmore Award recognizes Peschak’s commitment to environmental storytelling through photography.

The Verdict: Peschak’s work proves that photography can do more than capture moments—it can inspire change across nature and society. His career is a powerful reminder that travel photographers have the potential to make a difference with every shot they take. So pickup your camera and save the world, damnit!

NEWS

What’s trending…

• This ‘untouched’ 119-mile hiking route crosses 3 European countries

• Iceland’s Blue Lagoon was engulfed by volcanic lava—see the photos 

• Air travel’s most exciting trends and upgrades coming in 2025

• Could the Flm Cp-30 M5 II be your next travel tripod?

• Get prepared for 2025—best places to see fall colors in the US

• This precision Lightroom feature that will transform your landscape photos

• Travel advisors reveal 4 types of trips they recommend travelers book earlier

DEALS + TIPS

For your next adventure

💥 Travel cheaper: these are the best flight, hotel, cruise, and tour deals on offer

💥 Check out: holiday gift ideas for your beloved photographer

💥 Get outside: budget airlines across the U.S. serving adventure locales

💥 Pro picks: 10 best Black Friday photography deals, according to a pro

SHOT OF THE WEEK

Each week, we celebrate the amazing talent within our community by showcasing one of your travel photos.

This week’s photo comes from Maksym M., who captured an isolated, cozy cabin in the north of Finland

Have a photo you’d like to see featured? Don’t forget to email me or submit your best travel shot below for a chance to be our next spotlight!

FEEDBACK

I would love to hear your thoughts or any interesting insights you’d like to share—feel free to let me know by replying to this email. And as always, please subscribe if you haven’t already.