When you are there: Photos and video

Don't be snap-happy if you want quality holiday photos. It may seem like a good idea at the time to take five shots of a distant lion on safari, but back home you'll realise you wasted film. The same goes for video footage - record only those moments worth seeing again and again. And don't let the desire to capture everything on film spoil your enjoyment of the moment.

TAKING PICTURES

Basic equipment

For general holiday shots, there's nothing better than a 35mm point-and-shoot automatic camera with a zoom lens - unless you're an advanced photographer and prefer the manual variety with all the trimmings.

• Stock up on film before departure - certain brands may be pricey or elusive abroad. If you do buy abroad check the sell-by date
• Always pack a set of spare camera batteries
• Take a soft cloth to wipe saltwater, grit or sand from your camera's lens
• Medium film speed 200 ISO and the faster 400 ISO are good all-purpose choices
• "Universal" film now on the market is another good bet for general photography
• Get a small waterproof pouch for your camera for boat trips
• Airport X-ray machines should not harm film or cameras

Underwater photographs

Believe it or not, plastic disposable waterproof cameras are ideal for snapping sea life while snorkelling or shallow diving. They can manage depths of 2m to 3m, providing there's enough light from above or they have a flash, and they're relatively cheap to buy.

Remember to wipe them off afterwards, to get rid of sand and grit.

Through the lens

Endless landscape shots can be very dull to look at back home, while close-up candid shots of friends or local people are always engaging.

In less developed places - for example in parts of Africa and South America - ask first whether it's OK to photograph someone. Cultural attitudes to photography vary and you'll avoid offending people. On the other hand, don't be surprised if you're asked for money in exchange for a photo.

• Try to include people and activity in photos where possible
• Include road signs, landmarks, or write in the sand to mark locations
• Avoid getting films muddled up by adding a brief note to their plastic canisters
• Always keep used films in plastic canisters to protect them from damage or dust
• Be careful about what you snap - military zones, airports and bridges may be banned
• Minimise "red-eye" by using a camera with a special flash, or not looking into the lens

MAKING VIDEOS

Camcorders can be fun to take on holiday, if you're prepared to carry them around for days on end. Invest in a light padded bag with a wide shoulder strap to make the task easier. Make sure all kit is included in your holiday insurance.

• Remember to protect your camcorder from extremes of temperature and moisture
• Take spare film and battery packs
• If you're a first-time camcorder user, practise filming before going on holiday
• Be choosy about what you film - avoid constantly panning and zooming in on scenes
• Try to include a commentary, or better still get a local person to talk for your film
• Remember to record location names if moving around from place to place
• Pack an adaptor if your camcorder will need recharging on holiday.