By: Joshua Finley

Boys on Vacation is a name increasingly becoming synonymous with striking travel photography and has captured the imagination of many through its vibrant visuals. As one-half of the influencer duo, Sven’s work is an ode to candid, heart-warming moments and the magic of exploring new places. Their projects have gone viral, inspiring wanderers to capture more meaningful snapshots of their travels. How do they achieve this? By blending creativity with respect and practicality, anyone can adopt an approach to creating their own travel masterpieces.

Travel photography is a way to relive adventures, share experiences, and tell stories that words alone cannot convey. A well-composed image has the power to evoke emotions and transport viewers to a time and place. Boys on Vacation work demonstrates how every image can hold a sense of wonder, whether it’s a vibrant street market or a quiet countryside sunset.

The Do’s of Travel Photography

Research and Respect Local Customs

Sven Rubenbauer believes understanding local customs is as important as framing a shot. Before taking a photo, he advises learning about the cultural practices of your destination. This not only shows respect but can also lead to unique opportunities.

Sven recalls a particular moment during a temple ceremony when he asked for permission to take pictures. His gesture of respect was met with warmth, and the locals invited him to participate in their rituals. “That moment wasn’t just about the photo,” he explains. “It became a meaningful interaction I’ll never forget.” Taking a few moments to understand what is acceptable in different settings can open the door to deeper connections and richer experiences.

Embrace Natural Light

Natural light is a powerful tool in photography, and Sven considers it a favorite resource. He often takes advantage of the golden hour—the period just after sunrise or before sunset—when light is softer and adds a warm glow to images.

For midday photography, when the sun is harsher, Sven suggests seeking shaded areas or playing with reflections to soften the light. Whether it’s capturing light filtering through trees or bouncing off a calm water surface, using natural elements creatively can elevate an ordinary scene into something magical.

Invest in the Right Gear

Good photography doesn’t require a mountain of equipment, but Sven believes in having a few reliable tools. “A good camera and a versatile lens go a long way,” he says, adding that a lightweight tripod can help stabilize shots, especially for long exposures or low-light conditions.

Smartphones are a practical option for those who prefer traveling light. Sven recommends enhancing their capabilities with clip-on lenses for wider or closer shots and portable lights for indoor or night-time photography. “It’s about finding what works for you and your style,” he explains, reminding travelers that the focus should remain on enjoying the process rather than being weighed down by gear.

Candid Over Posed

For Sven, spontaneity brings photos to life. Boys on Vacation shots thrive on genuine and unscripted moments. “Candid photography captures the true essence of a place or a person,” he shares.

Instead of orchestrating every detail, he advises letting people, animals, or even the setting unfold naturally. A child laughing, a couple sharing a quiet moment, or a bird soaring through the sky—these unscripted moments tell a story that posed shots often miss. “The beauty lies in letting life happen,” Sven says, encouraging photographers to embrace imperfection as part of the charm.

The Don’ts of Travel Photography

Don’t Ignore Local Permission

Photographing people or culturally significant sites requires sensitivity and respect. Sven Rubenbauer emphasizes the importance of seeking permission before capturing such images. “It’s about showing respect for others and their traditions,” he explains.

Whether it’s a quick nod, a smile, or a friendly conversation, taking the time to ask ensures your photography is welcomed rather than intrusive. This simple gesture often opens doors to deeper interactions, allowing you to understand the people or places you’re photographing. Sven notes, “Some of my most cherished photos came from moments where I connected with locals first. Their trust added something special to the images.”

Don’t Overpack Equipment

While having quality gear is important, Sven warns against overloading your travel bag with unnecessary equipment. “Carrying too much gear can take away from the experience,” he says. Excessive equipment can become a distraction, keeping you focused on setups rather than the beauty of the moment.

Sven encourages travelers to prioritize a lightweight kit that fits their needs. A good camera, one versatile lens, and a small tripod can handle most situations. For those using smartphones, portable accessories like clip-on lenses or mini stabilizers can provide flexibility without adding bulk. “The key is to keep things simple so you can stay in the moment,” he advises.

Don’t Overedit Your Photos

While post-processing can enhance a photo’s appeal, Sven believes in keeping edits minimal. Overuse of filters, excessive saturation, or heavy adjustments can detract from the scene’s authenticity.

“The goal should be to highlight what’s already there,” he says. Subtle adjustments to brightness, contrast, or sharpness can bring out an image’s natural beauty without making it feel artificial. Sven’s philosophy is rooted in preserving the story of the moment, allowing the photo to reflect what was actually seen and felt. “Less is often more when it comes to editing,” he concludes, reminding photographers that authenticity is what makes an image timeless.

The Sven Rubenbauer Approach: Finding Inspiration in the Moment

For Sven, inspiration often comes from observing his surroundings without rushing. He allows each environment to guide his perspective, finding beauty in unexpected places. Even in bustling tourist spots, he focuses on small details—a child’s laughter, the pattern of footsteps on a trail—that bring his photos to life. Staying present is the key to unlocking creativity.

Travel photography is an opportunity to connect with the world and its diverse stories. By staying curious, respectful, and open to experimentation, anyone can capture meaningful images that go beyond the surface. Boys on Vacation’s photography is a reminder that with thoughtfulness and a touch of spontaneity, travel photos can become timeless treasures.

Published by: Holy Minoza