How I Got Started in Destination Photography

Travel

I can’t remember a time in my life when I didn’t love to travel.  Visiting new places and living like a local for a few days is one of my favorite things to do! Despite this, it still took me several years of being a full-time photographer to take the leap with destination photography.  In April of 2022, I finally pulled the trigger when my daughter & I headed west to Arizona. 

Destination Senior Photos

I met up with a photographer friend I met in Texas who is a Phoenix local, and she was an absolute godsend!  We shot photos of Isabel at a local market and on a hike through Cathedral Rock.  While in the area, we also shot at the Phoenix Botanical Gardens, Crescent Moon, and a few other local locations.  The kicker?  If not for my photography friend, I likely would’ve never gone on the hike which has become one of my favorite photo locations!  Having a local to provide insight and guidance was such a game changer, and it’s become my mission to be that mentor for aspiring destination photographers!

California Destination Photography

After building my confidence a bit, my daughter and I headed west again to California, this time with friends in tow.  (You can read about our adventures in this previous blog post). We were nomads up and down the west coast hitting up the locations of our dreams from Joshua Tree to the Glamis Sand Dunes and some of the prettiest pacific coast beaches I’ve ever laid eyes on.  This is the thing about destination photography: yes, it takes some guts to do it, but you will never in a million years regret it! 

Travel Photography Freebie


Since launching the travel facet of my photography business, I’ve sang its praises from the rooftops.  After having been in the shoes of someone just starting out, I understand the hesitation and pain points as well. Have you been bitten by the travel bug but sessions are keeping you chained to your hometown?  Destination photography is your solution! I’m here to tell you, not only is it possible, it’s nowhere near as intimidating as you probably think it is.  I’ve put together a completely FREE guide to my favorite resources to help you navigate the logistics of a session outside of your usual stomping grounds. You can get your copy here

Ultimate Travel Planner

Aside from a free guide to all of my favorite tools to make the logistics of a travel session completely doable, I’ve also poured my heart into editable templates to help you plan the destination session of your dreams.  From the locations & wardrobe to the sunrise & sunset, I compiled everything I could possibly want or need into easy to use, plug & play templates for travel photographers and nomads alike.  You can purchase your own copy here!  Happy travels!

North Dakota Travel Photographer

Hey, I’m Kellie, a family, senior, and brand photographer serving Williston, ND and beyond! I provide my clients authentic, heartfelt, inspirational photos that tell their stories through my lens.  Are you envisioning photos that celebrate a special occasion in a unique way?  Let’s make it happen!  Take a look at my portfolio and let’s chat about how we can make your dream photos a reality.  Want some inspiration in the meantime?  Be sure to follow me on Pinterest or come say hi on IG, FB, and TikTok!

If you liked this post, be sure to check out these related blogs:

Travel Senior Sessions from Coast to Coast

Exploring the Pacific Coast

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