With the pandemic-induced travel restrictions finally behind our backs (let’s hope for good!) and summer up and rolling, you probably have a couple of travel destinations already on your list. There are just too many places to visit, as we’ve seen from this post, and the chances are one lifetime will not be enough.

But starting earlier rather than later is a good idea, and if you’re about to set out on an adventure, you may find this interview with Katie Donnelly, professional photographer based in Paris and author of “The Authentic Portrait: A Parent's Guide to Documenting Childhood,” very useful. We spoke about everything from traveling to perfect vacation photos. Because no matter how beautiful an adventure may be while it's still happening, we always wish to bring a piece of it back home. And photographs are the best way to do that.

“Traveling and adventures are amazing and it only gets better when you can go home and relive it all daily. For so many of our amazing clients, Paris is a dream destination that they want to relive daily. To have a beautiful photograph and art piece of themselves, enjoying the city, is something that brings them back every day,” Donnelly told us.

Travel is also something we want to share with our loved ones, she argues. “We can do that through having professional photos done or even sharing snaps from our phones via social media. Especially now that people are inclined to travel more than in the last few years, they really want to share the joy and freedom they're feeling on vacation and in a city they absolutely love.”

It’s no secret that getting holiday photographs you will be truly happy with is one hell of a task. Donnelly argues that although vacations are amazing, they can also be stressful, “and I hate to say it, but not everyone is great at taking photos in general.” She explained: “Most people are a little awkward in front of the camera and it always helps to have some direction. When it's just selfie after selfie, they're fun, but it can get repetitive (and let's be honest, if kids are in there, have you ever asked a kid to smile a bunch of times? Usually it ends up with some sort of crazy smile or a straight up 'no.' Haha).”

Moreover, travel and exploring often make for long days and lots of walking. “Even if it's only adults in the mix, it can be exhausting, but add any kids and/or jet lag, and it'll be the perfect recipe for a 'not another photo!' feeling.”

According to Donnelly, the best thing you can do is hire a local photographer for a portrait session to show you around the most beautiful locations and whose personality, style, and vibe you love. “You know that you'll 1. have a great time with them, and 2. get amazing photos from your portrait session that are natural and fun. Then it takes all the pressure off of the rest of the trip because you know you've got 'the shot.'”

“Another reason I think it's so hard is that often the main tourist attractions are packed with people. If you go with a local photographer, they should be able to recommend the best times and spots to avoid all the crazy,” she added.