Road trippin' - Capture your summer adventure!

School's out and Summer is Callin'...

My crew—just me, my husband, and our son Morgan—hit the road to Virginia Beach for Morgan’s AAU basketball nationals. With my camera in hand, I was right back in my element, capturing the action from the sidelines (oh, how I’ve missed this!). I’ve shared a few of my favorite shots below. But it wasn’t just about the games—I also took time to document the in-between moments of our trip. I hope the tips in this post help you preserve your summer memories, both big and small, for years to come.

Summer Road Trips are a Goldmine for Photos

The easy conversations, the messy car snacks, the freedom of the road, the gas-station runs, and all the in-between moments are full of storytelling potential.

As a parent and photographer, I’m always looking for these moments.

Quick Tips for Taking Better Photos on the Road

Use natural light whenever possible - natural light is queen

Shoot from the back seat, front seat - try different angles

Capture details - snacks, beach toys, a packed car

Capture it all - I'll look back on the time when we were watching the NBA semi-finals during our stay

Take photos at rest stops - that stretch break can be a golden moment

Don’t force smiles - candids are the best, even the "not feeling you right now" look that Morgan's giving me is a keeper

Use your phone - no fancy equipment needed

Take advantage of your surroundings - the hotel dining area had a casual lifestyle editorial vibe, and Morgan was in his element, ie, model portfolio pictures done

My travel kit

Mirrorless camera, Nikon Z6ii

28 - 75 mm 2.8 Nikkor and 70 - 200 mm 2.8 Nikkor lenses

Extra batteries and chargers

SD card

iPhone

Patience and creativity

Since we were driving, I had the flexibility to bring along a small light modifier and stand, just in case. But honestly, I never needed them. Natural light and the right camera settings gave me exactly the look I was going for.

The WHY?

Perhaps to create a travel scrapbook, a printed album, or simply a digital memory of the summer.

At the end of the day, these photos tell your family’s story. Shoot with your heart, and the rest will follow.

Years from now, we will likely look back on these moments and be glad I captured them.

Here are a few action shots of Morgan and his teammates.

They gave it their all every single game, and it paid off with a championship win! Truly one for the books!

From the beach to the hotel moments and championship wins, this trip was packed with memories I’ll treasure forever. I hope your summer is just as full—and that you capture every minute of it.

Have any tips of your own? I’d love to hear them—drop a comment, send a message, or follow along on Instagram @johayesimages.

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