Travel Photography Tips: How to Plan the Perfect Shoot with Glen Varhagen

September 28, 2026

In this episode of The Professional Photographer Podcast, travel photographer Glen Varnhagen shares his approach to researching and planning photography locations before a trip. After traveling to more than 120 countries, Glen has developed a process designed to help photographers make better use of their limited time and money while increasing their chances of capturing the images they traveled for.

Glen explains the four questions he asks when researching any destination: Where is it? What will the weather be like? How large is the area? And what transportation and roads are available? Those answers help determine everything from where he can realistically photograph to what gear he'll need.

He also shares real-world examples from Madeira, the Taj Mahal, Rwanda, Uganda, Mongolia, and Olympic assignments that demonstrate how detailed preparation can create photography opportunities that might otherwise be missed.

Whether you're planning an international photography adventure, destination assignment, or a shoot closer to home, Glen's approach offers practical strategies for researching locations, preparing your gear, saving time, and arriving ready to photograph.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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