Creating Dynamic Travel Videos: Photography Tips for Action Shots

13 April 2025

Are you ready to elevate your travel videos from regular to absolutely thrilling? Capturing those heart-pounding moments requires more than just a good camera. You need to understand how to record action shots effectively. Whether you're surfing on the coast of Hawaii or ziplining through Costa Rican jungles, creating dynamic travel videos takes a blend of creativity, smart techniques, and some post-production tricks. Buckle up, because in this guide, we’ll take a deep dive into photography tips for those action-packed moments that make your travel adventures unforgettable.

Why Action Shots Matter in Travel Videos

Travel videos are about more than just the beautiful scenery—they're about the adrenaline, the excitement, the bam! moments that make your trip stand out. Imagine watching a highlight reel of someone bungee jumping into an expansive valley without those intense, adrenaline-filled shots. Lame, right? Capturing action shots creates a sense of motion and energy, pulling your viewers right into the experience.

But how do you get those perfect shots without ending up with a shaky, chaotic mess? Well, that’s what we’re here to explore!

Prepping Your Gear for Action

Before you dive into planning your action shots, the first thing you'll need is the right gear. Even the most talented videographer can get hampered by using the wrong equipment.

1. Choose the Right Camera

The market is filled with a variety of cameras, but for action shots, you need something that is both compact and durable. In most cases, travel video creators gravitate towards action cameras like the GoPro or DJI Osmo Action. Why? They're lightweight, waterproof, and capable of capturing high-quality footage even in the most extreme environments. You don’t want to lug a heavy DSLR while swimming with dolphins, do you?

Also, look for a camera that shoots at a high frame rate. A camera that can shoot at 60fps (or even 120fps or more) allows for that smooth slow-motion effect we all drool over in action videos.

2. Mounting Gear

Another critical component is your mounting gear. If you're on a bike ride, skiing, or even surfing, handheld shooting may not be an option. You’ll need mounts like chest straps, tripods, or even drone attachments to capture the action seamlessly and hands-free.

3. Lenses (If You Use a DSLR or Mirrorless)

If you're opting for a DSLR or mirrorless camera, ensure you have the right lenses. Wide-angle lenses are ideal for action shots because they capture more of the scene, so your viewers can soak in the surroundings while also focusing on the action. A good go-to would be a 16-35mm lens, which allows for both versatility and a wide field of view.

Planning The Shot: Anticipation Is Key

Let's face it, you can't just randomly point your camera and hope for the best. When it comes to action shots, you need to anticipate the movement.

1. Scout the Location

Before anything moves, you need to scout your location. Walk around and visualize the shot you want to capture. This could save you from missing that perfect wave, jump, or fast-moving subject.

Say you’re filming a cliff-diving sequence. You should understand the trajectory of the dive and anticipate where it will end. Use landmarks or objects in the scene as markers to help keep your focus.

2. Set Your Frame in Advance

This tip is huge. Pre-framing the shot allows you to catch action as it happens, rather than scrambling to adjust while the moment is taking place. If your subject is running, biking, or diving, plan where they’ll enter and exit the frame.

3. Consider Multiple Angles

Dynamic travel videos often switch seamlessly between different angles. You don't have to be Steven Spielberg, but try experimenting with different angles like aerial views, close-ups, and even POV (point-of-view) shots. Having multiple perspectives keeps your video interesting and engaging.

Camera Settings for Action Shots

The right settings don’t just happen by accident. Action shots require careful configuration so you never miss a beat.

1. Shutter Speed: Capture the Motion Crisp and Clean

For action shots, your shutter speed is everything. If your shutter speed is too slow, you'll end up with motion blur. Not ideal if you're trying to capture fast-paced action like snowboarding or skateboarding. A good rule of thumb is to shoot with a shutter speed double your frame rate. So, if you're filming at 60fps, aim for a shutter speed of at least 1/120 sec.

2. Manual Focus: Get it Right Every Time

Autofocus can be a lifesaver in some situations, but it’s not always reliable when things are moving fast. Instead, switch to manual focus. Pre-focus the camera on an object you think will be at the same distance as the action you're trying to capture. This ensures you'll get that crisp, clear focus when the action starts.

3. ISO Settings: Balance Light Sensitivity

If you’re shooting in bright light, you’ll want a lower ISO (100–200). But for evening or low-light action, bump up your ISO to around 800–1600. Don't overdo it though—too high an ISO can result in grainy footage.

Techniques For Capturing The Perfect Action Shot

If you’re going to capture meaningful action in your travel videos, you need more than just technical know-how. There are several techniques that every travel videographer should have in their toolkit.

1. Panning: Follow the Action

Panning is one of the most important techniques to master for action shots. It involves moving your camera in sync with the moving subject. For example, if you're capturing a cyclist riding past, you’d start pointing your camera in the direction they're coming from and follow their movement smoothly.

To perfect this, keep your camera movement as smooth as possible—no jerking motions, please! Practice makes perfect, so don’t be discouraged if it’s tricky at first.

2. Slow Motion: Suspense and Drama

Who doesn’t love slow-motion footage of surfers catching waves or snowboarders mid-flip? Slow-motion allows your audience to savor the moment. When editing your video, slow down these clips to emphasize gravity-defying action. Just make sure you're recording in a high frame rate so you don’t lose video quality.

3. Burst Mode for Photography

If you’re capturing still images within your travel video, using burst mode is a must for high-speed action. Burst mode takes multiple photos in quick succession, ensuring you won’t miss that perfect mid-air shot.

Editing Your Dynamic Travel Video

Once all your action shots are in the bag, the editing phase is where you bring everything together. Editing action shots requires a keen eye, creative storytelling, and—most importantly—pacing.

1. Keep the Energy High

Your action shots should come fast and frequent, but don’t bombard your viewers with nonstop thrills. Balance high-intensity clips with moments of calm or scenic shots to give your audience time to breathe.

2. Use Music to Drive the Action

Tempo matters. Pairing fast-paced music with your action shots not only sets the mood, but it also emphasizes moments of excitement. If you're showing an intense mountain bike race, sync your cuts to the beat of the music to add even more energy.

3. Don’t Overdo the Effects

It’s tempting to add every cool-looking filter and transition in the editing software, but minimalism is your friend. Let the action speak for itself. A subtle color grading pass can enhance your shots without overwhelming them.

Don’t Forget Safety!

While it’s awesome to capture dynamic action shots, it’s crucial to put safety first. Whether you're filming with drones near cliffs or strapping a GoPro to your chest while snowboarding, always double-check your gear and surroundings. The last thing you want is a ruined vacation because you injured yourself mid-shot. Be smart, stay safe, and capture those epic moments responsibly.

Final Thoughts on Creating Dynamic Travel Videos

Creating standout action shots to level up your travel videos doesn’t have to be rocket science. Whether you're using a GoPro, DSLR, or even a smartphone, mastering the right techniques, settings, and editing hacks will give you the edge. Incorporate high-energy moments, add variety with different angles and perspectives, and have fun experimenting with slow-motion footage.

Remember, the key to a great travel video is making the viewer feel like they’re right alongside you, flying down a mountain or diving deep into the ocean. So, grab your camera, hit record, and let the adventure unfold!