Clicking Pictures While Travelling on Unknown Roads
There are many well-known roads around the world, such as Route 66. Then there are the lesser-known trails and paths that lead to remote locations, such as Long Tieng, the so-called "Secret City." Some roads cut through jungles, others spiral through mountains, and many connect one country to another.
The world’s longest road
The Pan-American Highway stretches from Prudhoe Bay in Alaska to Buenos Aires in Argentina, covering roughly 30,000 kilometers. Recognized as the world’s longest motorable road, it passes through diverse landscapes and climates.
Travel and photography
Travel and photography often go hand in hand. While some travelers prefer to keep memories without documenting them, many bring cameras to record their journeys. Whether by car, motorbike, or on foot, capturing the experience through photography has become part of the travel routine for many.
When taking photos on the road, safety should always come first. Drivers should pull over before taking pictures, while passengers can capture moments on the move if conditions allow.
Why roads?
Roads are essential to any journey. They can be practical, scenic, dangerous, or historic. Many travelers are drawn to the stories they carry and the views they offer.
Below are examples of notable roads worth experiencing and photographing.
The highest road in the world
At Umling La Pass in Ladakh, India, a road sits at more than 19,000 feet above sea level. Built in challenging conditions of low oxygen and extreme cold, it is the highest motorable road in the world. Photographs taken here capture both the engineering feat and the harsh environment.
A hidden city in Laos
Laos has routes leading to sites connected with the Vietnam War. One of these is Vieng Xai, where rebels sheltered in caves for years. Another is Long Tieng, known as the "Secret City," which once served as a CIA base. Roads through this region pass through villages and mountains, with remnants of conflict still visible.
Scenic roads worth the journey
Some roads are as memorable as their destinations.
- The Million Dollar Highway (USA): Known for its dramatic scenery and sharp drop-offs, it requires careful driving but offers striking photographic opportunities.
- Glencoe (Scotland): A valley marked by history and natural beauty. Its twisting roads and mountain views make it one of the most photographed landscapes in the Scottish Highlands.
Choosing a camera
The choice of camera depends on the type of travel. A DSLR or mirrorless camera provides flexibility and image quality. Action cameras can be useful for bikers, while entry-level models or even advanced smartphones may suffice for casual photography.
Photography on the move
Taking photos from a moving vehicle requires planning.
- Use a fast shutter speed (1/400th or faster).
- Set a smaller aperture (around f/8.0) for landscapes.
- Open a window if it is safe to do so, but always stay aware of surroundings.
Summary
Exploring roads, whether in familiar surroundings or remote locations, offers a unique way to experience landscapes and history. Photography can enrich these journeys, but safety should remain the top priority. On unknown roads, sometimes the best choice is to put the camera down and simply take in the view.