A family trip photo journal with Joe Donoghue – The.OutdoorCollective
Organizing a road trip with three young kids with, including a baby, is no small feat. The unique challenge of limited space meant we had to pack light and prioritize essentials. Amidst the chaos, I managed to forget a few critical items like my lens filters and an extra battery.
Despite this, we embarked on our adventure to Maine, equipped with my Canon 60D DSLR, a Sigma 24-105mm zoom lens, a Sigma 10-22mm wide-angle, a Canon 50mm lens, and my trusty iPhone 14 Pro Max with the DJI Osmo Mobile 6. I also picked up a Lowepro Flipside Trek backpack to carry my camera gear, water and other essentials for keeping kids and a baby happy!
Now, I am by no means a professional photographer, but have a true appreciation for capturing the beautiful landscapes, nature and unforgettable family moments that I get to experience.
This road trip started in Ontario and through Vermont, New Hampshire and Maine. We chose to also stay in the Adriondacks on the way home in New York.
Driving Through the Appalachian Mountains
Our journey included a long twisty ride through the scenic Appalachian Mountains. With limited time, we managed to stop near the highest road accessible views to enjoy the rolling White Mountain National Forest and some covered bridges in Vermont.
Although I would love to spend more time here and capture incredible moments on camera, we were on a mission – get to Maine!
Tip: Don’t let poor weather stop you! The dramatic cloud coverage created some really interesting photography, blown out clouds and some unique visuals.
Tide Pooling Along the Coast
Exploring the tide pools along Maine’s rocky coast was a highlight of our trip. From colourful starfish to playful crabs, each tide pool was a miniature world waiting to be photographed. The vibrant colours and textures of the coastal flora and fauna were beautifully captured, creating memories that will last a lifetime.
During our time tide-pooling I relied on my handy Sigma Zoom Lens to help capture every moment possible.
Capturing the Costal Charm
Maine’s coastal towns are full of charm and character. Using the Sigma 24-105mm lens, we captured the essence of quaint villages, lobster shacks, lighthouses and other stunning coastal views.
The flexibility of this lens allowed us to shoot both wide-angle scenes and detailed close-ups, capturing the unique spirit of each town we visited. Whether it was the colourful lobster shacks or the serene waterfronts, every shot told a story.
Airbnb Stays and Local Cuisine
Staying in cozy Airbnbs added a personal touch to our trip. The homely interiors and picturesque exteriors provided great opportunities for lifestyle photography.
The Canon 60D, paired with the Sigma 24-105mm lens, captured the warmth and comfort of these temporary homes. And of course, no trip to Maine would be complete without indulging in the local cuisine. We documented our lobster feasts with close-up shots that captured the delicious details of this iconic dish.
Tips for Family Photography Trips
- Pack Versatile Lenses: Having a range of lenses like a zoom lens, wide angle lens and macro lens allowed us to capture a variety of scenes, from wide landscapes to detailed close-ups.
- Plan Your Shots: Research the locations you’ll be visiting and plan your shots accordingly. This helps in making the most of the lighting and unique features of each place.
- Capture Candid Moments: Some of the best photos are the candid ones. Capture your family’s genuine reactions and interactions to create authentic memories.
- Experiment with Angles: Don’t be afraid to try different angles and perspectives. This can add a creative touch to your photos and make them stand out.
- Use Your Smartphone: When you’re strapped for space or forget gear, smartphones like the iPhone 14 Pro Max with stabilizers like the DJI Osmo Mobile 6 can be lifesavers – you can also consider the DJI Pocket 3 for an ultra compact camera.
- Enjoy the Moment: While capturing memories is important, don’t forget to enjoy the experience. Sometimes the best photos come when you’re simply having fun.
- Enjoy the photos you take: By mixing my camera and smart phone, I was able to capture some high quality print-worthy photos, and some memorable photos for my camera roll. I personally enjoy having a mix of photos during my adventures and something to look back on. I have chosen a number of photos and am using Henry’s Photo Centre to get prints and a custom calendar for 2025 made.
Our family trip to Maine was a perfect blend of adventure and photography. The Canon 60D and our selection of Sigma and Canon lenses helped us capture the diverse beauty of this amazing state.
From the majestic Appalachian Mountains to the charming coastal towns, every moment was an opportunity for a great shot. Whether you’re a professional photographer or just love capturing memories, Maine offers endless possibilities for stunning photography.
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