Traveling is one of life’s greatest joys, but it doesn’t always go as planned. From canceled flights to unexpected hospital stays, the unexpected can derail even the most perfectly planned trips. That’s where travel insurance steps in—a safety net to protect your plans, your wallet, and your peace of mind.

Let’s break down why travel insurance is worth considering when it can save the day, and how to find the best plan for your needs.

What is Travel Insurance and Why Do You Need It?

At its core, travel insurance is financial protection for your trip. Whether you're dealing with trip cancellations, medical emergencies, or lost belongings, a good policy ensures you're not left footing the bill for unforeseen events.

Scenarios Where Travel Insurance Becomes Invaluable

Here are some real-life situations where having travel insurance can make all the difference:

Medical Emergencies Abroad

• You break your leg while hiking in Thailand and need surgery.
  • Cost: $10,000–$15,000 for surgery and hospital stay.
• Emergency medical evacuation can cost up to $50,000.
• Some countries require payment upfront before treating you.

How Insurance Helps: Covers medical bills, arranges emergency evacuation and handles upfront payments directly with the hospital.

Extended Recovery Support

• You suffer a severe injury in Italy and need weeks of rehabilitation before flying home.
• Travel insurance can cover:
  • A loved one’s flights to stay with you: $1,500–$3,000.
  • Their accommodations: $100–$300 per night.

How Insurance Helps: Provides emotional and logistical support by ensuring someone can be by your side.

Family Emergencies Back Home

• You’re in Japan and learn that a loved one has passed away.
  • Cost: Last-minute flights can range from $2,000–$5,000.

How Insurance Helps: Covers the cost of returning home and reimburses unused travel expenses like hotel stays or tours.

Natural Disasters and Political Unrest

• A hurricane disrupts your Caribbean vacation, or political instability forces an evacuation.
  • Cost: Emergency evacuation flights can cost $10,000–$50,000.

How Insurance Helps: Pays for evacuation, alternative accommodations, or transportation when plans change suddenly.

Lost or Delayed Belongings

• Your luggage goes missing en route to Kenya, leaving you without essentials.
  • Cost: Replacement clothing and necessities can cost $500–$1,500.

How Insurance Helps: Reimburses you for essentials so you can continue your trip stress-free.

The Benefits of an Annual Travel Insurance Policy

If you’re a frequent traveler, consider an annual travel insurance policy. It’s a cost-effective way to stay protected year-round without the hassle of buying coverage for every trip.

Why Go Annual?

• Cost-Effective: One policy covers all your trips for a year, often saving money compared to individual policies.
• Always Covered: No need to worry about forgetting insurance for your next getaway.
• Comprehensive Coverage: Includes medical emergencies, cancellations, and lost belongings for every trip.

Who Should Consider It?

• Frequent flyers who take three or more trips annually.
• Business travelers who regularly head abroad.
• Adventure seekers needing coverage for high-risk activities.

Pro Tip: Treat an annual policy as part of your travel budget—it’s as essential as airfare and accommodations.

Key Benefits of Travel Insurance

Here’s why travel insurance is a smart addition to your trip planning:

• Trip Cancellation Protection: Get reimbursed for non-refundable costs if you need to cancel.
• Medical Coverage: Avoid massive hospital bills with emergency healthcare coverage.
• Evacuation Services: Insurance handles the logistics and cost of getting you home safely.
• Lost Belongings: Quickly replace lost or stolen items.
• Peace of Mind: Travel confidently knowing you're covered for the unexpected.

Making Travel Insurance Work for You

To maximize your travel insurance benefits:

1. Assess Your Needs: Are you traveling internationally, participating in high-risk activities, or visiting a remote area?
2. Understand Your Policy: Review inclusions, exclusions, and claim processes to avoid surprises.
3. Choose Wisely: Compare providers to find the best balance of coverage and cost.

A Real-World Example

Emma, a frequent traveler, booked six trips in a year. Buying individual policies would’ve cost $1,000+, but her $500 annual policy covered every trip, including medical emergencies and trip cancellations. When she fell ill in Europe, her insurance arranged hospital care, reimbursed her missed tour costs, and even covered her partner’s flight to stay with her during recovery.

Why Travel Insurance is Worth It

Travel insurance isn’t just about protecting your wallet; it’s about safeguarding your adventures, your health, and your loved ones’ peace of mind. Whether you’re heading out for a weekend road trip or a month-long international expedition, having the right coverage turns “what if” into “no problem.”

Next time you plan a trip, include travel insurance as a non-negotiable part of your budget. After all, the best journeys are the ones where you can focus on the experience—not the unexpected.

Happy travels! 🌍✈️

Here are the top two travel insurance companies I personally rely on. Every January, I purchase an annual policy to cover all my trips for the year—so easy and worry-free!

Just a quick note: these recommendations are purely based on my own experience. I’m not an insurance agent, and I don’t earn anything for suggesting these companies. I’m sharing what works for me in case it helps you make a choice or gives you a good starting point.

• For International Travel: I use Ripcord. This is my go-to for remote destinations like Africa because they specialize in adventure and remote travel. They even cover expenses like rescue and medical evacuation flights, which can be a lifesaver.
• For Domestic Travel: My annual policy is with Allianz. It’s perfect for my U.S. adventures, whether I’m camping, flying, or booking accommodations. It’s versatile and reliable for everything close to home.

At the end of the day, it all comes down to how much risk you’re willing to take in case of an emergency. I’ll admit, I’ve struggled with the decision to buy travel insurance over the years. But after sitting down to thoroughly research my options and considering my family, work, and health situations, I made a choice: travel insurance is now a non-negotiable part of my trip budget.

Since then, I’ve traveled with so much more peace of mind. I’m no longer stressing over the possibility of losing $3,000–$10,000 during flu season or figuring out how to pay for a hospital stay in another country. It’s a small price to pay for the security of knowing I’m covered when the unexpected happens.

Hope this helps as you consider your options!

Ever Looked Up at the Night Sky and Thought, “I Need to Capture That”?

There’s something magical about the Milky Way, right? The universe is out there, stretching endlessly above us, glittering with stars and nebulae that practically beg to be photographed. Milky Way photography lets you freeze that magic and bring it home. Sounds intimidating? Don’t worry—it’s easier than you think! Let’s dive right into how to capture those stellar views for yourself.

The Magic of Timing: Using Photopills for Milky Way Shots

First things first—timing. Want to know exactly when the Milky Way will light up the sky where you are? The Photopills App has you covered. With its Night AR feature, you can see the Milky Way’s path overlaid on your screen in real time. No more guessing! And the Planner tool? It’s like your cosmic GPS, pinpointing the best moments to capture the galactic core, considering moon phases and light pollution. With Photopills, you can plot out your shot months in advance. (* I don't get paid for plugging them, I seriously love this app!)

Finding the Perfect Dark Sky Spot

Dark skies = better Milky Way photos—it’s that simple. I use darkskymap.com to scout areas with minimal light pollution. The further from city lights, the better, so think national parks, rural landscapes, or desert spots. And honestly, planning your night-sky escape is half the fun!

Must-Have Gear for Capturing the Milky Way

Camera

A full-frame camera is your best bet here. Full-frame sensors gather more light, giving you cleaner, crisper images even in low light. High ISO settings? Yes, please! These help minimize noise without sacrificing quality. Shooting in RAW is non-negotiable—you’ll want all that data for fine-tuning later.

Lens

When it comes to Milky Way photography, a wide-angle lens with a large aperture (think f/2.8 or lower) is your best friend. Why? The wide-angle view lets you capture more of that massive sky, pulling in the stars, constellations, and the galactic core all in one shot. The big aperture is key for low-light situations like this—it pulls in more light, making those stars pop against the dark sky and giving you that bright, sharp detail that makes the cosmos come alive. This combo of wide-angle and large aperture is a must-have for capturing the depth and vastness of the night sky in stunning detail.

Tripod

For night sky shots, a sturdy tripod is absolutely essential. Since you’ll be using long exposures to pull in all that stellar detail, even the slightest movement can turn pinpoint stars into blurry blobs. A rock-solid tripod keeps your camera locked in place, ensuring sharp, clear images no matter how long the exposure. Look for one with adjustable legs and a bit of weight to handle uneven ground and resist the wind. And if it’s a breezy night? No problem—just add a weight or hang your camera bag from the center for extra stability.

Remote Shutter Release

A remote shutter release is a small but mighty tool for capturing sharp, shake-free night sky shots. Pressing the shutter button manually can introduce tiny vibrations, which is the last thing you want with long exposures. Using a remote keeps your camera perfectly still while the shutter is open, ensuring every star stays crisp and clear. Some remotes even offer a timer or interval settings, which are super handy for experimenting with multiple exposures or star trails. It’s a simple addition to your kit, but it makes a huge difference in getting those pin-sharp, stellar images.

Mastering Your Camera Settings

• Aperture: Go wide! Keep it at f/2.8 or lower to maximize light intake.
• Shutter Speed: Between 10 and 20 seconds works well. Too long, and you’ll start seeing star trails. (Unless you want that, of course!)
• ISO: Start with ISO 1600-3200, adjusting based on the conditions. The goal is to capture detail without too much noise.
• Manual Mode: Manual settings give you full control over the shot. Play around with each setting until you find the sweet spot.

Focusing in the Dark

Nighttime focusing can be tricky! Switch to manual focus, zoom in on a bright star through your LCD, and adjust until it’s sharp. Live View can be your best friend here. Once you’re focused, you’re good to go!

Composing Your Shot

• Foreground: Adding something in the foreground—mountains, trees, or even an old barn—gives depth to your image.
• Galactic Core: The Milky Way’s core is its star (pun intended). Frame it with care, using the rule of thirds or centering it for impact.
• Rule of 500: Here’s a handy rule to avoid star trails: divide 500 by your focal length to get the maximum shutter speed for sharp stars.

The Power of Shooting in RAW

RAW files capture every bit of detail, making a huge difference in editing. They allow you to adjust shadows, highlights, and contrast in ways JPEGs cannot. When dealing with the delicate lighting of the Milky Way, every little bit counts.

Patience is Key

Milky Way photography isn’t just about the right gear—it’s about patience. Sometimes, you’ll wait for the perfect clear night or for the moonlight to balance just right. Part of the magic is in that anticipation, the quiet time under the stars.

Shooting with Friends: The Fun of Group Shoots

Solo shoots are great, but group shoots can add a new perspective. You’ll pick up tips, trade ideas, and maybe even borrow gear (lens swap, anyone?). Plus, it’s more fun to share those “wow” moments with others who get it.

Conclusion

Capturing the Milky Way is about more than just a pretty picture—it’s a chance to connect with the universe in a whole new way. The process is part of the reward: planning, timing, the perfect setup, and, finally, the photo itself. So grab your gear, pick your spot, and go chase that starlit adventure.

My field Cheatsheet:

• Lens: Nikon 24-70mm
• Aperture: f/2.8
• Shutter Speed: 11 seconds
• ISO: 3200
• Stabilization: Tripod
• Shutter Control: Remote shutter release or camera timer

Starting with these settings, I capture several test shots, making slight adjustments as needed and monitoring conditions closely to ensure everything is dialed in perfectly.

Most importantly, have a GREAT TIME and take a moment to step away from your camera and just take in the massive scene before you!  I would love to see some of your night shots, tag me on Instagram @leannstamperphotography. 

Are you hesitant about updating your camera's firmware? You are not alone!  I hate to admit how many years I went without updating my own firmware because I was convinced it was much more difficult than it turned out to be!  Firmware updates can seem intimidating, but with the right approach, they become a breeze. In this guide, I will walk you through the process step by step, helping you overcome any apprehension and embrace the benefits of keeping your camera up to date.

Understanding the Importance

First things first: why bother with firmware updates? These updates aren't just about fixing bugs; they often introduce new features, improve performance, and enhance compatibility with accessories. By staying current with firmware updates, you ensure your camera operates at its best and unlocks its full potential.

Preparation is Key

Before diving into the update process, take some time to prepare. Start by visiting the manufacturer's website (Nikon Download Center, Canon Download Center, Sony Download Center) to download the latest firmware version for your camera model. Read the release notes carefully to understand the changes and improvements the update brings.

Next, ensure that your camera battery is fully charged. A loss of power during the update process could potentially damage your camera, so it's crucial to have a reliable power source throughout the update.

Step-by-Step Update Process

Now that you're prepared, it is time to tackle the update. Connect your camera (or card reader) to your computer using the appropriate USB cable. Follow the instructions provided by the manufacturer to initiate the update process. (See the links below for 3 major manufacturers) This typically involves transferring the firmware file to your camera's memory card and then selecting the update option in the camera's menu system.

As the update progresses, remain patient and avoid interrupting the process. It may take several minutes for the update to complete, depending on your camera model and the size of the firmware file.

Building Confidence

Feeling nervous? Remember, you're not alone. Many photographers feel apprehensive about firmware updates, but with each successful update, your confidence will grow. Remind yourself of the benefits of staying current with firmware updates and the exciting improvements they bring to your camera.

Embracing the Benefits

Once the update is complete, take some time to explore your camera's new features and improvements. You may discover enhancements to autofocus performance, expanded customization options, or improved compatibility with external accessories. Embrace these changes and enjoy the enhanced capabilities of your camera.

Conclusion

Updating your camera's firmware doesn't have to be intimidating. With careful preparation, a step-by-step approach, and a positive mindset, you can confidently keep your camera up to date and enjoy the benefits of the latest enhancements and improvements. So don't let fear hold you back—embrace the update process and unleash the full potential of your camera.

This blog post aims to provide readers with a comprehensive guide to overcoming apprehension when updating their camera firmware, offering practical tips and encouragement to approach the process confidently.

photo credit LeAnn Stamper 

A beautiful photograph can transport us through time or to a beautiful location we've never seen in person. It can bring back memories of a special time that we never want to forget. However, it's rare to capture a perfect image; sometimes the lighting is a bit off, or there are distractions that need to be removed. For those who are new to photography, it can be challenging to find a photo editing tool that offers a variety of resources while remaining budget-friendly, but Adobe Express is a wonderful option. 

Whether you're looking to edit landscapes into dreamy wonderlands or just want to make your work more accessible online, Adobe Express has the tools to help. In this blog post hosted by LeAnn Stamper Photography, we'll take a look at a few of the benefits of using Adobe Express for your photo editing needs.

Adobe Express Won't Break The Bank

Adobe Express offers an easy-to-use and cost-effective alternative to Photoshop for amateur photographers who are looking to enhance their photos without breaking the bank. With Adobe Express, you can access thousands of stock photos, templates, icons, and fonts that have been pre-designed by talented creators, so all you have to do is select what best fits your vision. Plus, you don’t have to worry about learning complex software or wasting time trying to figure out how things work.

Make Changes To Both Photos and Videos

With Adobe Express, it's easier than ever before to edit both photos and videos quickly and easily. You can crop images or adjust colors without any difficulty while also adding effects like filters or overlays, as well as adjusting video speed and sound quality to create professional-looking videos in no time at all. This is an easy way to create branded content that can be uploaded to your YouTube account and shared with the world.

Create Branded Social Media Posts

Adobe Express gives you the ability to create branded social media posts for whatever platform you use—Instagram, Twitter, Facebook, etc.—that will certainly grab people’s attention. You can add text overlays or frames for an extra special touch and then easily share the post with just one click of a button. With real-time collaboration features available on some platforms, you can also invite friends or colleagues to help create content that will stand out from the crowd.

Build a Beautiful Portfolio

Adobe Express gives photographers the ability to create stunning portfolio sites that feature their work in various categories such as weddings/engagement shoots or nature photography —all with just a few clicks of a mouse. Plus there’s no need for coding knowledge, as everything is drag-and-drop. This makes it easy for anyone without design experience who wants their work showcased online in an attractive way.

You Can Make Print Marketing Materials For Your Photography Business

If you decide that photography is something that you want to pursue as a career, Adobe Express also allows you to make print marketing materials such as flyers or business cards. You can even start building a portfolio to showcase your work. These projects are perfect for networking and getting your name out there.

With so many features available within Adobe Express, the possibilities are nearly endless. These tools allow you to be creative while guiding you along the way, so you'll never feel like you're spending too much time learning how to navigate each resource. Not only that, but you can use the free options or upgrade to premium and still stay on budget. If you're looking for an easy way to edit your photos, Adobe Express can help.

Have a question for LeAnn Stamper Photography? Reach out today.

Do you ever wonder why there is a big difference between your original photo and what appears when you upload it to social media?  The simple answer is Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Pinterest, and Linkedin each use their very own image compression tool to deal with large image files (they squash them and stretch them and then present a very poor quality copy of your original for all the world to see #YIKES!).  The solution is simple:  always export your images with the appropriate dimensions for each media type before you upload. Below is a 2022 cheat sheet along with the Adobe Lightroom steps I use when preparing my images for social media. 

Select the image you would like to export > choose the develop module in Lightroom > A choose the crop icon > B click "enter custom" > in the pop-up box, type in the corresponding aspect ratio dimensions from the cheat sheet.

Next, choose File > export.  When the pop-up box appears A > choose "export to a specific folder" from the dropdown B > click the "choose file" button and then choose the destination file location from your computer or external hard drive  C > rename the file if you have a system you like.  (I prefer to keep the original file name intact, always. 

Next, go to A file settings and choose jpeg and srgb >  B image sizing > check resize to fit > choose long edge from the dropdown > from the next dropdown select "pixels"  > type in the longest edge recommended pixels from the cheat sheet > C quality choose 72  > D resolution choose 150 >  E > sharpen for screen.

Notes:  srgb is the color choice best for online viewing - when you choose the longest edge pixel selection then Lightroom auto chooses the short side based on your original export ratio choice - quality 72 is sufficient for quality social media viewing and helps keep your file size small enough for most file size restrictions - resolution 150 is sufficient for online viewing, helps keep the file size small and also keeps the quality of the image low enough if someone "right clicks" they won't be able to print a quality image - sharpen for the screen does just what it says, sharpens the image suitable for online viewing.  

Final thoughts:  

As tempting as it is to post photos from the field, taking the time to properly resize on your computer or phone (I use Lightroom & Lightroom Mobile) will give you the best results for online posts.