National Geographic content straight to your inbox—sign up for our popular newsletters here
These vintage photos show the timeless allure of travel
Find inspiration for your next journey in these images from National Geographic’s archives.
Since the founding of the National Geographic Society in 1888, our documentary work has taken inspiration from the world around us—from fragile ecosystems that demand conservation to monuments of civilization that tell the human story—to encourage people to look closer and care more about the planet.
Our goal is rooted in the belief that knowledge comes from curiosity. Established “for the increase and diffusion of geographical knowledge,” the Society quickly cultivated an audience with an appetite for adventure.
But you don’t have to summit Everest to solve its greatest mystery or plumb the depths aboard the Calypso like Jacques Cousteau to embrace the mystery and beauty around us. All you need to do is step outside with an open mind, a desire to learn, and a willingness to ask questions. All storytellers are travelers, and all travelers can become storytellers.
Inspiration helps. Whether it comes from the first scientific expedition undertaken by the National Geographic Society in 1890, led by Israel Russell to survey and map the Mount St. Elias region in North America, or the groundbreaking work of Explorer-led expeditions today, boundary-pushing journeys can “illuminate and protect the wonder of our world,” as our motto reads .
( What it’s like to travel through time in National Geographic’s archives. )
This spirit of exploration is fueled by our visual storytellers, who for more than a century have documented epic landscapes, microscopic life forms, and far-flung communities, as well as everyday sights made remarkable through their expert lens.
National Geographic’s photographic archive counts more than 10 million images. Here are a few of our favorites. To be sure, they document the privilege of travel and the perspectives of past photographers. But they also capture the timeless inspiration, joy, and reward of exploring the world.
Subscribe here for full access to our archives, including National Geographic’s treasure trove of vintage photographs and articles.
This gallery was originally published on November 15, 2017. It has been updated.
- Nat Geo Expeditions
Become a subscriber and support our award-winning editorial features, videos, photography, and more—for as little as $2/mo.
Related Topics
- TRAVEL PHOTOGRAPHY
- HISTORY AND CIVILIZATION
- PHOTOGRAPHY
You May Also Like
Photo story: wild beauty in eastern Sardinia, from coast to mountains
Photo story: hiking the Jordan Trail to the ancient city of Petra
These are the best travel photos of 2022
Don’t rely on social media: Here’s why you should keep a travel journal
See 100 years of the Lincoln Memorial in photos
- Environment
- Paid Content
History & Culture
- History & Culture
- Terms of Use
- Privacy Policy
- Your US State Privacy Rights
- Children's Online Privacy Policy
- Interest-Based Ads
- About Nielsen Measurement
- Do Not Sell or Share My Personal Information
- Nat Geo Home
- Attend a Live Event
- Book a Trip
- Inspire Your Kids
- Shop Nat Geo
- Visit the D.C. Museum
- Learn About Our Impact
- Support Our Mission
- Advertise With Us
- Customer Service
- Renew Subscription
- Manage Your Subscription
- Work at Nat Geo
- Sign Up for Our Newsletters
- Contribute to Protect the Planet
Copyright © 1996-2015 National Geographic Society Copyright © 2015-2024 National Geographic Partners, LLC. All rights reserved
25 photos that show how different traveling was 100 years ago
- In the 1920s, plane windows were just open holes, and airports were more like garages.
During the Prohibition era, cargo trains were searched for alcohol.
- Traveling by cruise ship was a black-tie affair.
Life 100 years ago was different in many ways, especially when it came to traveling.
Driving cross-country, boarding a train , or hopping on a cruise ship looked much different in the 1920s than it does today.
Here's a look back at what traveling was like 100 years ago.
Commercial flights have been taking to the skies for more than a century. In the early 1920s, aviator Alfred W. Lawson built a series of passenger aircrafts with mixed success.
Lawson's C-2 biplane airliner completed flights from Milwaukee to New York City and Washington, DC, in 1919. Its introduction led to commercial air travel becoming more common, Airways magazine reported.
But when he tried to build a larger passenger aircraft designed to carry 34 people in 1921, it crashed in a field, bringing an end to his company, according to the National Air and Space Museum .
Passengers boarded planes through small doors at ground level, not enormous terminals and insulated walkways.
Lufthansa began its official flight service in 1926, according to the airline's website.
Plane windows were just open holes.
You can't stick your arm out of a plane window anymore.
It wasn't until the 1930s that the first plane with a pressurized cabin was built, Smithsonian magazine reported.
Airports weren't the glorified shopping malls they are today.
These Stinson "Detroiter" planes were the first closed-cabin planes used by a commercial airline, DBusiness magazine reported.
In the 1920s, airports were more like garages.
Charles Lindbergh flew the first nonstop solo flight across the Atlantic Ocean in his single-engine plane, Spirit of St. Louis (pictured), according to Encyclopedia Britannica .
Airplane passengers used to fly in bow ties and fashionable hats.
People don't really dress up to go on planes anymore, but there can be surprising benefits if you do .
Railroads were a popular mode of transportation in the 1920s.
In addition to carrying people, trains transported mail and manufactured goods.
As with flying, passengers traveled in style.
British author P.G. Wodehouse was photographed leaving for a family vacation from Waterloo Station in London in 1929 wearing a three-piece pinstripe suit.
In transit, movies were projected onto the carriage wall in cozy theaters lined with curtains and rows of chairs.
Watching movies on your phone wouldn't become an option until much later.
Blizzards slowed down travel in the 1920s, too.
The Empire State Express (pictured) operated between New York City and Buffalo, New York, from 1891 to 1967, according to the Fort Wayne Railroad Historical Society .
In 1929, authorities caught crates of whiskey disguised as green tomatoes in the refrigerator car of a cargo train traveling from Holandale, Florida, to Newark, New Jersey.
By the 1920s, automobiles had been around for a few decades.
Karl Benz is widely credited as inventing the first automobile between 1885 and 1886, according to the Library of Congress .
Gas stations used to look like main street-style buildings with curbside gas pumps.
In the 1920s, they began to be replaced with drive-in pumps to decrease traffic, according to the University of Michigan .
Birthday road trips looked a little different back then.
Mayor Charles F. Sullivan of Worcester, Massachusetts, held up a sign that said, "Clear the road! This is my 20th birthday" while taking a drive in 1923.
Traffic cops' uniforms in the 1920s featured double-breasted jackets and white gloves.
There were around 82,000 police in the US in 1920, according to US Census data. By 1930, that number reached 130,000.
There was no GPS or internet to search for driving directions.
You were on your own.
There were no built-in navigation systems or touchscreen on the dashboard, either.
Cars were simply equipped with an instrument panel, steering wheel, lighting switch, and gear shift hand lever.
Bus tickets were dispensed on little paper tags.
The 1920s were known as the "golden age" of road building, according to the US Department of Transportation . Buses and trucks grew in popularity thanks to the Federal Highway Act of 1921, which funded the construction of a national highway system.
Tourists dressed up to ride sightseeing buses, which were then small electric vehicles.
These days, people turn tourist buses into tiny homes .
The New York City subway used to cost a nickel.
Before the nickel-operated turnstiles, a ticket-chopper manually cut tickets at the gate. Today, a subway ride costs $2.90.
Cruising in the 1920s was the height of luxury.
Cruise ships today have Go Kart race tracks and zip lines.
Cruise-ship passengers dressed in tailored suits and spiffy hats.
English theatrical producer Charles B. Cochran, composer Sir Noel Coward, and their entourage boarded the Berengaria in 1928 dressed to impress.
Dances were a popular social activity on cruise ships.
Guests wore gowns and tuxedos on the dance floor. On modern cruise ships , dress codes aren't enforced.
To relax, passengers wore one-piece jumpsuit-style bathing suits to swim in cruise-ship pools.
Swimsuit styles have changed over the years.
Cruise ships remain a glamorous way to travel today.
Even though the formal dinners and ball gowns of the old days have turned into buffets and flip flops, cruise ships continue to offer a host of amenities and travel routes that keep people coming back.
- Main content
These vintage photos show what air travel looked like between 1930s to 1950s
Through this photo collection, we take a journey through time to show you what air travel looked like from the 1930s to the 1950s.
While manned, heavier-than-air flight has been around since the early 1900s, it didn’t really take off as a common endeavor for two decades. Post-WWI, the aviation industry really started to grow and many commercial airlines began operating.
The Contract Air Mail Act of 1925 (also known as the Kelly Act) directly contributed to the growth of airlines and the Air Commerce Act of 1926 gave the government the responsibility for promoting air commerce, establishing airways, certifying aircraft, licensing pilots, and issuing and enforcing regulations.
In the early years of flight, pilots and the occasional passenger sat in open cockpits exposed to wind and weather. Even in Europe, where large transports carried passengers in comparative luxury, the ride was harsh, loud, and uncomfortable.
Airliners were not pressurized, so they flew at low altitudes and were often bounced about by wind and weather. Air sickness was common.
Airlines provided many amenities to ease passenger stress, but air travel remained a rigorous adventure well into the 1940s.
Waiter service aboard Imperial Airways ‘Scylla’ during its flight from London to Paris, circa 1935.
The years between World War I and World War II saw great advancements in aircraft technology. Airplanes evolved from low-powered biplanes made from wood and fabric to sleek, high-powered monoplanes made of aluminum, based primarily on the founding work of Hugo Junkers during the World War I period and its adoption by American designer William Bushnell Stout and Soviet designer Andrei Tupolev.
After World War I, experienced fighter pilots were eager to show off their skills. Many American pilots became barnstormers, flying into small towns across the country and showing off their flying abilities, as well as taking paying passengers for rides.
Eventually, the barnstormers grouped into more organized displays. Air shows sprang up around the country, with air races, acrobatic stunts, and feats of air superiority.
The air races drove engine and airframe development—the Schneider Trophy, for example, led to a series of ever faster and sleeker monoplane designs culminating in the Supermarine S.6B.
With pilots competing for cash prizes, there was an incentive to go faster. Amelia Earhart was perhaps the most famous of those on the barnstorming/air show circuit. She was also the first female pilot to achieve records such as the crossing of the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans.
Passengers enjoying a drink and a game of cards in the cabin of an Imperial Airways plane in 1936.
Many aviation firsts occurred during this period. Long-distance flights by pioneers such as Sir Charles Kingsford Smith, Alcock and Brown, Charles Lindbergh, and Amy Johnson blazed a trail that new commercial airlines soon followed.
Many of these new routes had few facilities such as modern runways, and this era also became the age of the great flying boats such as the German Dornier Do X , American Sikorsky S-42, and British Short Empire, which could operate from any stretch of clear, calm water.
Preparing lunch on the Imperial Airways airplane ‘Scylla’, 19 November 1936.
After World War II, commercial aviation grew rapidly, using mostly ex-military aircraft to transport people and cargo. This growth was accelerated by the glut of heavy and super-heavy bomber airframes like the B-29 and Lancaster that could be converted into commercial aircraft.
The DC-3 also made for easier and longer commercial flights. The first commercial jet airliner to fly was the British de Havilland Comet.
By 1952, the British state airline BOAC had introduced the Comet into scheduled service. While a technical achievement, the plane suffered a series of highly public failures, as the shape of the windows led to cracks due to metal fatigue.
The fatigue was caused by cycles of pressurization and depressurization of the cabin and eventually led to the catastrophic failure of the plane’s fuselage. By the time the problems were overcome, other jet airliner designs had already taken to the skies.
USSR’s Aeroflot became the first airline in the world to operate sustained regular jet services on 15 September 1956 with the Tupolev Tu-104. The Boeing 707 and DC-8 which established new levels of comfort, safety, and passenger expectations, ushered in the age of mass commercial air travel, dubbed the Jet Age.
In October 1947, Chuck Yeager took the rocket-powered Bell X-1 through the sound barrier. Although anecdotal evidence exists that some fighter pilots may have done so while dive-bombing ground targets during the war, this was the first controlled, level flight to exceed the speed of sound.
Further barriers of distance fell in 1948 and 1952 with the first jet crossing of the Atlantic and the first nonstop flight to Australia.
Day cabin of an Imperial Airways flying boat, most likely of the Short Empire class, in August 1936.
A sleeping berth on an Imperial Airways aircraft in March 1937.
A male flight attendant walks with his arms linked with two female flight attendants in front of a small plane in the 1940’s.
Stewardess in Le Bourget (Seine-Saint-Denis), about 1945.
Baby travels by plane in New York In July 1945.
A Douglas DC-3 airliner of Eastern Airlines (‘The Great Silver Fleet’) seen through the window of a viewing gallery at an airport, circa 1945.
Air hostess Patricia Palley attends to passengers in the decorated cabin of a Pan-American airliner over the Atlantic on December 23, 1946.
19th January 1950: Trainee air hostess, Claire Swan, during a training session in a BOAC mock aircraft.
A female instructor stands at a chalkboard, pointing to a chalk diagram of an airplane while female students take notes at their desks during a stewardess training school, 1950.
Luggage being unloaded from airplane, circa the 1950s.
A Pan American World Airways flight attendant preparing in-flight meals in the galley of an airliner, circa 1950.
A bus in bus docks at New York’s East Side Airlines Terminal. The docks are open on one side to permit exhaust fumes to escape, circa 1955.
Passengers checking in at New York’s East Side Airlines Terminal, circa 1955.
Passengers checking in their baggage at New York’s East Side Airlines Terminal, circa 1955.
New York’s East Side Airlines Terminal which operates on a 24-hour basis to provide transportation to every flight leaving from the city’s various airports, around 1955.
A TWA pilot and stewardess greet the passengers coming off the plane, ca.1950s, Cincinnati, Ohio.
(Photo credit: Wikimedia Commons / Huffington Post / Business Insider Magazine / Odd Stuff Magazine / Pinterest / Flickr).
Updated on: September 10, 2022
Any factual error or typo? Let us know.
Best Vintage Travel Photos from my Grandfather’s Archive
Posted on Last updated: January 18, 2023
My Grandfather was a published travel writer and I found tons of amazing Vintage Travel Photos in his archives . Today I’d like to share them with you!
I’ve also mixed in some amazing vintage photos from my parents archives, as well as some of my own childhood.
Let me know which photo is your favourite!
I hope that by looking back at the past, you will get inspired to travel in the future and realize that you don’t need much to go out and explore the world!
Looking for Vintage Posters ? Check out our following collections:
- 35x Vintage Travel Posters Japan
- 40x Vintage Travel Posters New York
- 50x Vintage Travel Posters Portugal
- 54x Vintage Travel Posters Ireland
VINTAGE TRAVEL PHOTOS FROM THE ARCHIVES
My Parents’ Vintage Travel Story
My adventurous nature isn’t something that fell from the sky. My dad grew up with camping with his parents and my mum used to go out with her sister, cousin and friends to explore the world on a scooter. They drove all the way from Amsterdam to Swedish Lapland (top province of the country) once. The girls would simply pack their (saddle)bags and drive off with a map and a YHA membership card.
What a great way to travel, don’t you think? It’s something I have never done before, but it must be great to be so independent in your transport. In that time, there was no mobile phone or internet, so she would only send a postcard home every two months or so. Keeping in touch with home while travelling wasn’t so easy as it is now. If I remind my mum about that when I haven’t called her in a week, she denies it, of course.
Wouldn’t you love to go back in time to go camping vintage style? Travel in an oldtimer with the family and pitch the tent , before exploring the area together?
My Grandparents’ Vintage Travel Story
My grandparents where also quite the travellers. Before they had a camper van, they used to go out with nothing more than a backpack on their backs. And they brought the kids with them.
When my grandparents went travelling with the family, they could only carry two big packs and those had to be filled with their own gear and clothing – and that of 3 children. If you compare these bags with what I usually carry around on my back when travelling alone, they must have done laundry every day – or only had 1 set of clean clothes and smelled very special at the end of their trip.
Don’t forget that in those days, they didn’t have a wide range of lightweight travel gear as we do now. And because my grandparents always took tents with them, I can only imagine the weight they had to carry around. Respect!
After a long time of travelling with a backpack, my grandparents bought themselves a Volkswagen Van to spend their holidays in. The one I remembered was big enough to have a kitchen, double bed and some seats in the back, but they used to own a Hippie Van as well. Go Grandpa!
Whenever my grandfather wrote a new travel guide, there were products to be tested. Camping equipment, tents, entire caravans… and of course travel clothing. My grandma loved to model and patiently tried on all the items that grandpa wanted to include in his books.
By looking at all the pictures I can hardly imagine travel clothing in those times were lightweight –at all. The fabrics look durable, but thick and heavy. There also wasn’t much choice in colours, as most of the clothing was brown, beige or green. Just think about the amount of choice we have nowadays in terms of travel clothing and gear… my grandpa would have been well excited.
My Personal Vintage Travel Story
As a child I travelled around Europe with my parents and brother… in a trailer tent. We used to have a ‘raclet’ trailer tent: a very heavy, dark brown monstrosity that would fold out into a round tent, with two double beds, a single tent under one of them, a kitchen area, a door, a wine cellar, and 4 windows you could zip open. Ok, maybe no wine cellar, but there would have been room for it.
In Dutch , the word for ‘trailer tent’ is a ‘folding wagon’, and that’s exactly what it did. You would raise the top by folding out the tent poles and draping the tent fabric around it. It looked like a circus tent!
Later we got a ‘Holtcamper’ trailer tent, which was a little easier to set up, but drew about as much attention to our neighbouring ‘park-and-have-coffee’-campers in their quick-and-easy caravans and campervans on the camp site.
As a kid, my dad had to travel to St. Martin (St. Maarten) in the Caribbean twice for work. Luckily for us, he brought the whole family. Living in the tropics was an amazing time for us. We discovered new plants, people, food, animals and learned lots of other things that we wouldn’t have known about if we’d stayed at home in the Netherlands.
Vintage Travel Photo Collection
The following photos are from my grandfathers parents. So they are REALLY old:
Here is the rest of the collection:
I hope you enjoyed these photos! Check out all our travel tips & advice .
Vintage Photos of the World’s Most Famous Landmarks, From the Eiffel Tower to Angkor Wat
During those idle moments between trips, reminiscing about past adventures and childhood vacations can help scratch that travel itch. We decided to go back even further in the timeline of travel photos, back to when sheep grazed in Central Park and the Hollywood Sign had a few extra letters. These vintage photos of the world’s most famous landmarks show how, even though times have changed (then: stagecoaches; now: selfie sticks), the magnificence of these buildings, bridges, and monuments has not faded over the years. We hope you enjoy your trip down distant-memory lane.
This article has been updated with new information since its original publish date.
Eiffel Tower, 1889
French government officials celebrate the completion of the Eiffel Tower's main structural work on March 31, 1889.
Big Ben, 1890
London's Westminster Bridge, with the Palace of Westminster and the clocktower of Big Ben in the background.
Notre-Dame Cathedral, 1899
An artist paints the Notre-Dame Cathedral from the Pont de l'Archevêché (Archbishop's Bridge) in Paris .
The Great Pyramid of Giza, 1920
Two tourists and a guide look over the Sahara Desert from the top of the Great Pyramid of Giza in the 1920s.
The White House, 1922
Children participate in the annual White House Easter Egg Roll, a tradition started by President Rutherford B. Hayes in 1878.
Hollywood(land) Sign, 1924
A sign advertises the opening of the Hollywoodland housing development in the hills on Mulholland Drive , overlooking Los Angeles in the 1920s. (The sign changed to “Hollywood” in 1949.)
Mount Rushmore, 1930
Stone carvers on scaffolding and hoists carve the face of Thomas Jefferson into Mount Rushmore . The enormous sculpture was completed 11 years later.
Empire State Building, 1931
A group of people (including Franklin D. Roosevelt, who was governor of New York at the time) look out from the top of the Empire State Building the morning of its official opening.
La Sagrada Familia, 1934
A group of Catalan children pose in front of Barcelona’s La Sagrada Familia , designed by Antoni Gaudí.
Central Park, 1935
Lambs and sheep graze in Central Park. The burgeoning Manhattan skyline is visible through the fog in the background.
Arc de Triomphe, 1936
A group of young women from Monte Carlo pose on a roof near the Arc de Triomphe in Paris .
Golden Gate Bridge, 1936
Fishermen on San Francisco's Baker Beach enjoy views of the Golden Gate Bridge under construction.
Paddington Station, 1937
A train passenger visits a refreshment trolley at London's Paddington Station. These trolleys were staffed by Great Western Railway workers and sold drinks, sandwiches, and snacks.
The Little Mermaid, 1937
Two men photograph The Little Mermaid statue in Copenhagen , Denmark. (It was first unveiled in 1913.)
The Colosseum, 1940
A view of a vendor setting up shop near the ruins of the Colosseum in Rome .
Grand Central Terminal, 1945
Overview of the main concourse of Grand Central Station , showing commuters and a massive advertisement to buy war bonds.
Grand Canyon, 1946
Two women observe Havasu Falls in Grand Canyon National Park .
Angkor Wat, 1949
Buddhist monks standing in front of the Angkor Wat temple complex in Siem Reap , Cambodia.
Times Square, 1949
View of Times Square with little traffic during a New York City taxi strike in 1949.
Taj Mahal, 1950
A family walks by the landscaped watercourse leading up to the Taj Mahal in Agra, India.
Mount Everest, 1952
Hikers set up camp during the 1952 Swiss Mount Everest expedition, in which two men set a new climbing record of 8,595 meters (about 28,199 feet) on the southeastern ridge.
Chicago's State Street, 1953
Night scene of State Street in Chicago , with movie marquee advertising “The Caddy” starring Dean Martin and Jerry Lewis.
Statue of Liberty, 1954
Visitors peek out from under the Statue of Liberty's spiked crown on the landmark's 70th birthday.
Niagara Falls, 1955
A couple has their photograph taken with Niagara Falls in the background.
Disneyland, 1955
Children running through the gate of Sleeping Beauty's Castle at Disneyland in Anaheim, California.
Trevi Fountain, 1956
American actress Edie Adams poses in front of Rome’s Trevi Fountain with her two stepdaughters, Kippie and Bette Kovacs (daughters of comedian Ernie Kovacs).
Grand Canal, 1959
People riding in gondolas on Venice's Grand Canal near the Ponte dell'Accademia.
Leaning Tower of Pisa, 1962
A woman stands in front of the Leaning Tower of Pisa, striking the now-classic “holding up the tower” pose.
Washington Monument, 1963
Some 250,000 demonstrators gather in front of the Washington Monument in D.C. , awaiting the start of the March on Washington.
Berlin Wall, 1960s
A young West Berlin couple climbs to the top of the wall to talk to relatives in an East Berlin apartment house (see upper window open). The photo was taken in the 1960s shortly after the Berlin Wall was erected, though the exact date is unknown.
Stonehenge, 1966
Vacationing families walk around the rocks at Stonehenge on September 21, 1966.
Ponte Vecchio, 1969
Pedestrians cross the Ponte Vecchio , the oldest stone arch bridge in Europe, over the Arno River in Florence .
Las Vegas Strip, 1975
A view of the intersection of the Las Vegas Strip and Riviera Boulevard, with the Morocco Motel and Sands Hotel in the background.
St. Peter's Square, 1976
A crowd gathers in the Vatican for the annual Easter message of Pope Paul VI from the balcony of St. Peter's Basilica.
Sydney Opera House, 1983
Princess Diana mingles with the crowds outside the Sydney Opera House during the Royal Family's 1983 tour of Australia and New Zealand.
Great Mosque of Mecca, 1991
A group of men use the telephone booths outside of Masjid al-Haram (the Great Mosque of Mecca) in Saudi Arabia .
Great Wall of China, 1998
President Bill Clinton, along with wife Hillary and daughter Chelsea, visits the Great Wall of China.
London Eye, 1999
Skateboarders practice near the Millennium Wheel (also known as the London Eye) the weekend after it was lifted into its full vertical position.
By signing up you agree to our User Agreement (including the class action waiver and arbitration provisions ), our Privacy Policy & Cookie Statement and to receive marketing and account-related emails from Traveller. You can unsubscribe at any time. This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.
- United States
- Other North America
- Central and South America
New Trips
A visit to Peru in 1973. Enjoy Macchu Pichu and llamas.
See the trip...
About this site..
- Travel Photography and Videography
Vintage Travel Photography: The Charm of Capturing Vintage Travel Photography
- 9 minute read
- August 14, 2023
In an era marked by the lightning-fast pace of technological innovation, there exists a timeless charm that harks back to a simpler, more nostalgic time. Welcome to the captivating world of vintage travel photography, where the past comes alive through the lens of history.
As we embark on a journey through the pages of time, the alluring blend of “ vintage ” and “travel photography” takes us on a visual expedition like no other. With each photograph, we unlock a portal to bygone eras, where sepia tones and candid captures reveal narratives woven into the fabric of yesteryears.
Let’s traverse the landscapes of the past, exploring the nuances of vintage aesthetics, the art of capturing unfiltered authenticity, and the rich tapestry of cultures that emerge from each faded frame.
Join us as we unpack the mystique, nostalgia, and undeniable artistic allure that define vintage travel photography – a portal to our shared human heritage.
What is Vintage Photography?
Vintage photography isn’t just a collection of old photographs; it’s an art form that transcends time. It involves capturing images in a style that emulates the visual characteristics of photographs from a bygone era. Vintage photography aims to evoke a sense of nostalgia and transport viewers to a different time, allowing them to experience the aesthetics and emotions of the past.
This style often emphasizes softer tones, muted colors, and a certain level of imperfection that comes with aging. It embraces the uniqueness of analog film and the quirks of early photography techniques. Vintage photography also pays homage to the techniques and limitations of photographers from history, creating a connection between contemporary photographers and their artistic predecessors.
How Do You Make Vintage Photography?
Creating vintage photography involves a combination of capturing images with a deliberate aesthetic in mind and applying post-processing techniques to enhance the vintage feel. Here’s how you can achieve it:
- Capture with Intent: Begin by understanding the era you want to evoke. Research the photography styles, equipment, and techniques that were popular during that time. Frame your shots to reflect the composition and storytelling prevalent in vintage photographs.
- Choose the Right Equipment: While modern digital cameras can create vintage-like images, using analog film cameras or cameras with manual settings can help achieve an authentic vintage vibe. Experiment with different lenses and apertures to mimic the characteristics of older photography.
- Adjust Settings: In your camera settings, manipulate exposure, shutter speed, and aperture to mimic the lighting conditions of the past. Experiment with underexposing or overexposing shots to achieve the desired vintage effect.
- Select Subjects and Scenes: Vintage photography often includes subjects that resonate with a specific time period. Consider using vintage clothing, props, or settings that evoke a sense of history.
- Post-Processing: Post-production is where the magic truly happens. Use photo editing software to fine-tune the vintage look. Apply filters that emulate film grain, faded colors, and vignettes. Experiment with color correction to achieve the right tone and mood.
- Texture and Effects: Add texture overlays to replicate the tactile quality of old photographs. This can include simulating the look of aged paper, scratches, and creases.
- Experiment with Filters: Utilize various presets or custom adjustments to enhance specific vintage characteristics, such as sepia tones, cyanotypes, or Polaroid-style effects.
- Balance Authenticity: Strive to strike a balance between authenticity and artistic interpretation. While the goal is to evoke the past, you have the creative freedom to add your own flair.
How Do I Find the Photographer of an Old Photo?
Unraveling the identity of the photographer behind an old photo can be an intriguing journey through history. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to go about it:
- Examine the Photo: Start by thoroughly analyzing the photograph. Look for any clues within the image itself, such as a signature, watermark, or studio logo. These markings could lead you to the photographer’s identity.
- Check the Back: Flip the photograph over and inspect the back. Sometimes, photographers used stamps or write their names, addresses, or other details on the back of the photo.
- Date the Photo: Determine the approximate date of the photograph. This can provide insight into the time period during which the photographer was active. Clothing styles, props, and photographic techniques can help you estimate the era.
- Local Historical Societies and Archives: Visit local historical societies, libraries, and archives that specialize in preserving historical documents and photographs. They might have records related to photographers who operated in the area.
- Online Resources: Utilize online platforms that focus on historical photography. Websites dedicated to genealogy, local history, and vintage photography often have databases of photographers and their work.
- Photography Directories: Refer to historical photography directories or databases. These directories list photographers and studios along with their locations and working years.
- Professional Organizations: In some cases, photographers might have been members of professional organizations or associations. Researching these organizations could provide valuable information.
- Expert Assistance: If you’re facing challenges in identifying the photographer, consider reaching out to experts or historians specializing in photography history. They might have insights and resources that can help.
Remember that uncovering the photographer’s identity can be a bit like solving a puzzle. Patience, persistence, and a keen eye for detail are key.
What is the Vintage Photo Effect?
The vintage photo effect is a digital technique used to simulate the appearance of aged and weathered photographs. It’s a post-processing approach that adds a nostalgic and antique charm to modern images. Here’s a breakdown of how the vintage photo effect is achieved:
- Color Palette: Vintage photographs often exhibit muted colors and subtle tonal shifts. To replicate this, the effect involves desaturating certain colors, adjusting contrast, and creating a slightly faded appearance.
- Aging Effects: The vintage look includes elements that suggest the passage of time. This can be simulated by adding artificial scratches, creases, and even simulated dust or specks.
- Vignetting: Many older photographs naturally develop a vignette effect due to the limitations of the camera lenses of the time. This effect can be recreated by darkening the edges of the image, drawing focus toward the center.
- Film Grain: Vintage photos taken on film often exhibit a characteristic graininess. Applying a controlled level of grain in post-processing helps mimic the appearance of the film.
- Light Leaks: Older cameras sometimes experienced light leaks that affected the final image. Adding subtle light leaks can enhance the vintage feel.
- Sepia Tones: Sepia-toned images were common in early photography due to the type of chemicals used in the printing process. Applying sepia tones gives images a warm, brownish hue.
- Texture Overlays: Overlaying textures, such as paper textures, can add depth and tactile qualities that evoke the feel of old photographs.
- Softening: Vintage photographs often have a soft focus due to lens limitations. Applying a controlled blur can create a similar effect.
A vintage photo effect is a versatile tool that can be adjusted to suit different eras and moods. It’s a way to infuse contemporary images with a touch of history, evoking a sense of nostalgia and connection to the past.
What Makes a Photo Vintage?
A vintage photo isn’t merely defined by its age; it’s a culmination of elements that collectively transport the viewer to a different era, evoking emotions, memories, and a sense of nostalgia. Here’s what contributes to making a photo truly vintage:
Timeless Aesthetics: Vintage photos possess an enduring beauty that defies the constraints of time. Their aesthetic appeal remains captivating across decades, making them resonate with viewers regardless of the era.
Narrative Value: Each vintage photograph tells a story, often without words. It captures a moment frozen in time, allowing us to peer into history and the lives of those who lived before us.
Historical Context: Vintage photos are windows to the past, offering a glimpse into the way people lived, dressed, and interacted in bygone days. They hold valuable historical information and serve as visual records of cultural and societal changes.
Sense of Adventure: Vintage travel photography, in particular, encapsulates the spirit of adventure. These images take us on a journey to places and times we might never experience firsthand, igniting our imagination and wanderlust.
Escape from the Mundane: Vintage photos offer an escape from the routine and monotony of modern life. They remind us of simpler times, when the pace was slower and technology wasn’t all-encompassing.
Unfiltered Authenticity: Unlike the polished and edited images of today, vintage photos capture genuine, unfiltered moments. They showcase raw emotions and candid expressions, revealing the authenticity of the subjects.
Cultural Diversity: Vintage photos portray the diversity of cultures, fashions, and traditions that existed in the past. They serve as a testament to the rich tapestry of human history and the unique stories of different societies.
Evoke Nostalgia: The primary essence of vintage photos is their ability to evoke nostalgia. Even if we didn’t live through the times depicted, these images stir up a sense of longing for moments we never experienced firsthand.
Artistic Expression: Vintage photographers expressed their creativity through their lens. Their compositions, use of light and shadow, and choice of subjects all contribute to the artistic value of vintage photos.
Mystique and Imagination: The antiquity of vintage photos invites us to imagine the untold stories behind them. We find ourselves pondering the lives of the people in the photographs, filling in the gaps with our imagination.
In essence, what makes a photo vintage isn’t just the passage of time, but the emotions it evokes, the stories it tells, and the connection it fosters between eras. Vintage photos bridge the gap between history and the present, reminding us of the richness of the human experience across time.
Aspects that Contribute to the Charm of Vintage Travel Photography
Vintage travel photography holds a unique allure that goes beyond mere visuals. It transports us to different times and places, inviting us to experience the world through the eyes of past travelers. The charm of vintage travel photography is woven from several intricate threads:
Timeless Aesthetics: Vintage travel photos possess an enduring visual appeal that transcends eras. The composition, lighting, and framing techniques used by photographers of the past create images that remain captivating even in the digital age.
Narrative Value: Each vintage travel photograph is a visual story. These images provide a glimpse into the experiences, cultures, and encounters of travelers from days gone by. They offer a rich narrative that bridges the gap between past and present.
Historical Context: Vintage travel photography acts as a portal to history. These images capture landmarks, landscapes, and people in a context that reflects the social, political, and cultural environment of the time. They are windows into the world as it once was.
Sense of Adventure: Vintage travel photos embody the spirit of exploration and adventure. They evoke a time when travel was often a daring escapade into the unknown, highlighting the curiosity and bravery of early travelers.
Escape from the Mundane: Vintage travel photography offers an escape from the ordinary. These images transport us to exotic locales, inviting us to daydream about faraway places and experience a sense of wonder in the midst of our everyday lives.
Unfiltered Authenticity: Authenticity is a hallmark of vintage travel photos. These images capture candid moments and unposed scenes, presenting a genuine view of the people, cultures, and landscapes encountered during the journey.
Cultural Diversity: Vintage travel photography celebrates the diversity of human cultures. These images document local customs, traditions, and ways of life, showcasing the rich tapestry of our global heritage.
Evoke Nostalgia: Vintage travel photos evoke a profound sense of nostalgia, even in viewers who never experienced the depicted era. The longing for a simpler time and the curiosity about the past are kindled by these images.
Artistic Expression: Vintage travel photographers were artists in their own right. Their use of composition, lighting, and perspective adds an artistic layer to these photos, elevating them beyond mere documentation.
Mystique and Imagination: Vintage travel photos carry an air of mystery and intrigue. The limited technology of the time often left details to the imagination, sparking curiosity about the stories and experiences behind each image.
The charm of vintage travel photography lies in its ability to transport us through time and space, igniting our sense of wonder, curiosity, and appreciation for the world’s diversity and history. These images not only capture moments but also offer a multi-dimensional glimpse into the past, making them treasures for both travelers and history enthusiasts alike.
Conclusion
In the world of photography, vintage travel photography stands as a testament to the magic of the past, the artistry of photographers who captured these moments, and the significance of preserving our collective heritage. Beyond mere images, vintage travel photography encapsulates the essence of eras long gone, inviting us to explore and appreciate the world through the eyes of those who journeyed before us.
Each photograph becomes a time capsule, holding within it stories, emotions, and experiences that bridge the gap between the past and the present. The charm of vintage travel photography lies not only in its visual aesthetics but also in the emotions and narratives it carries. It serves as a portal to history, a window into different cultures, and a reminder of the beauty that exists beyond our modern world.
How much did you like Our detailed Vintage Travel Photography: The Charm of Capturing Vintage Travel Photography ? Review Also, please share these Blogs with your friends on social media.
Related Article –
- Road Trip With Kids
- Cinematic Travel Videography
- Sunset Photography
Vintage Travel Photography FAQs
how can i achieve the vintage photo effect with modern equipment.
To achieve the vintage photo effect, use photo editing software to apply techniques such as adjusting colors, adding texture, introducing light leaks, and mimicking film grain. Experiment with different settings to achieve the desired nostalgic look.
Are there specific filters or software for creating vintage photography?
Yes, there are various software options and filter packs available that specialize in creating vintage effects. Popular choices include Adobe Lightroom, VSCO, and various presets available online.
Where can I find resources to trace the history of an old photograph?
Local historical societies, libraries, and online platforms dedicated to genealogy and history are valuable resources. Archives, photography directories, and experts in photography history can also provide insights.
What distinguishes vintage photography from other retro styles?
Vintage photography focuses on recreating the aesthetics of a specific era, often using techniques and equipment from that time. It aims to evoke a sense of nostalgia and connection to history. Other retro styles may reference different time periods and aesthetics.
Can I blend modern and vintage photography techniques?
Absolutely ! Mixing modern and vintage photography techniques can yield unique and creative results. You can combine contemporary equipment with vintage-inspired editing to create a fusion of old and new.
Meet David Hoper, a passionate travel Blog writer with 7+ years of experience in travel content. Through his exemplary storytelling and engaging narratives, he shares his experiences and brings destinations to life. With a keen eye for detail and a love for exploration, he has cultivated a diverse portfolio of travel blogs that inspire and inform readers worldwide.
In this article:
Post written by: David Hoper
Leave a reply.
Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *
Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.
Camping Lopez Lake Camping CA: Your Ultimate Guide to Price, Best Time, & Tips
- August 16, 2023
Travel Photography and Videography Exploring Global Photography: Creative Ideas for Captivating World Photos
You may also like.
Mastering Cinematic Travel Videography: 15 Tips to Create Stunning Travel Videos
- 10 minute read
Mastering Travel Photography: 20 Professional Tips for Stunning Shots
- 16 minute read
Mastering Sunrise Photography: Proven Techniques for Stunning Morning Sunrise Shots
- 7 minute read
Mastering Twilight Photography: Tips and Techniques for Stunning Day-to-Night Shots
- 15 minute read
Exploring the World from Above Aerial Adventures with Drones
- 8 minute read
Sunset Photography: Expert Tips for Capturing Evening Sunset Shots
Our latest instagram posts, @amazingworld.travel8.
- About
- Contact
- Login Username Password
See the world as it was
Vintage travel photos.
Exclusive images
Licensed for commercial use.
Retro and mid-century photos
Only available here.
World landmarks
In authentic faded glory.
Retro Travel Photos
Vintage travel photos from around the world.
Popular Photos
Take a look at our most popular vintage images.
Browse by Category
Narrow your search by starting with an image category, and work from there.
As seen in:
and many more ...
Popular Categories
- Vintage Road Trip
- Cities and Towns
- Vintage People Photos
- Landmarks and Attractions
- Vintage Street Scenes
Image Usage Information
- License and Terms
Search Partner
Pocket-lint
The best images of time travellers from throughout history.
Your changes have been saved
Email is sent
Email has already been sent
Please verify your email address.
You’ve reached your account maximum for followed topics.
Apple's new AirPods Pro hearing aid feature has officially received FDA authorization
Google's pixel 8a is down to $449, ahead of the pixel 9 series launch, 4 key reasons why no one is buying a ps5.
Every now and then an image appears online which people claim shows a time traveller somewhere they shouldn't be. But are they just cases of people letting their imaginations run wild?
We've rounded up some of the best and most interesting images of time travellers throughout history. Some turned out to be plain fakes or cases of mistaken identities, but others are certainly intriguing.
Which have you seen before?
- The most famous ghost photographs ever taken
- 35 of the most famous alien, monster and unexplained photographs ever taken
The time travelling hipster
This photo was snapped in 1941 at the re-opening ceremony for the South Fork Bridge in British Columbia.
If you look carefully, on the right-hand side you can see an unusually dressed man in what appears to be modern clothing, sporting sunglasses at a time when most were wearing hats and smart jackets.
Many argue this is a time traveller, while others have countered that he's simply a man with a fashion sense ahead of his time. Snopes has shown his clothing is relevant to the time and the area, but it's still great to imagine.
World Cup celebrations
This photo comes from the 1962 World Cup and shows the celebrations as the Brazilian team lifts the trophy.
If you look closely though, you'll see in the bottom centre of the image what looks like someone with a mobile phone snapping a photo of the event.
Could this be a time traveller as well? A bit odd to think someone in the future might have a flip phone , but then they have been making a comeback recently and we know folding phones are about to be big too .
The time travelling sun seeker
This image from 1943 apparently shows British factory workers escaping to the seaside for a break during the midst of wartime. The clothes and beachwear of most people certainly fit the era, but in the centre of a frame appears to be a man dressed like Mr Bean checking his mobile phone.
Or maybe it's a time travel device? Likely a bit of a stretch or a case of overactive internet imagination, but we still enjoy the thought. Maybe there are no public beaches in the future?
Mohawk time traveller
This image from 1905 appears to show the usual happenings of the time - including workers and a banana boat delivering its goods.
However, if you look near the edge of the boat you can spy a man in a white shirt with what appears to be a Mohawk-style haircut. A very unusual haircut for the time and possible proof of a time traveller? Who can say?
Film footage captured during the recording of Charlie Chaplin's 1928 silent film "The Circus" appears to show a lady dressed all in black, wearing a hat and walking around the set talking on her mobile phone.
The footage is a little iffy as is the idea that anyone could be talking on a mobile device in the 1920s, but it's certainly got some suggesting it might be proof time travellers are among us.
The ancient astronaut sculpture
In Salamanca, Spain, there's a cathedral with multiple sculptures carved into its sides. One such sculpture appears to show the likeness of a modern-day (or perhaps futuristic) astronaut.
Considering the cathedral's construction dates back to 1513, people have taken this as proof that time travellers made their way back to that time. However, the truth is the astronaut is merely a modern addition to the artwork carried out by Jerónimo García de Quiñones during renovations in 1992.
Time travelling celebrities
There's an interesting trend of people who closely resemble folks from a bygone era. This could just be a spooky coincidence, but maybe it's proof that time travel is possible.
Perhaps these celebrities are living a double life in another century. Here, Marxist-Leninist Revolutionary Leader Mahir Cayan who was born in 1946 and died in 1972 is shown to bear a striking resemblance to TV star Jimmy Fallon. Is Jimmy Fallon living a double life as a revolutionary communist? Seems hilariously unlikely.
A man and his mobile phone
Some claim that this oil painting by Pieter de Hooch, which was lovingly crafted in 1670 appears to show a young man holding his mobile phone. In an age where such a thing would probably have seen him burnt at the stake, this one is hard to believe.
A description of the image also suggests the young man is a messenger and that's a letter in his hand, not a phone, but it's still nice to let your imagination run wild once in a while. We've often wondered what it would be like to be able to travel back to simpler times to see what life was like for ourselves.
The Adidas trainers mummy
A couple of years ago, an ancient mummy was unearthed by archaeologists digging in Mongolia. At the time, it was suggested the funky-looking footwear she was wearing bore a striking resemblance to Adidas trainers. More evidence of a time traveller visiting ancient times? Investigation of the body dated it around 1,100 years old. That's one heck of a blast through the past.
However, further unearthing showed the woman was more likely to have been a Turkic seamstress which might explain the fresh kicks. She was found with an ancient clutch bag, a mirror, a comb, a knife and more. But no mobile phone.
The time surfer
Another image of an out-of-place individual that people have latched on to as proof that time travel is a reality.
This image dates back over 100 years and shows some smartly dressed Canadians sitting on the side of a hill.
On the left-hand side though, sits a young man in what appears to be a t-shirt and shorts with ruffled hair. He was quickly referred to as the surfing time traveller due to how unusual his attire is. Others have suggested people in the photo appear shocked by his appearance, even pointing out the woman on the right who seems to be gesturing in his direction. Again, this a bit of a stretch as would a time traveller really go through time dressed like that?
A visitor to wartime Reykjavík
This photograph apparently shows a scene from downtown Reykjavík in 1943.
In the heart of wartime, soldiers and sailors can be seen everywhere in the streets among civilians. The man circled though, appears to be on a mobile phone.
We've really got a theme going with these smartphone using time travellers. Who is he calling? And how? And if he is a time traveller, why is he not in Berlin trying to assassinate Hitler?
The dabbing WWII soldier
There's an apparent theme to these time traveller photos that not only includes smartphone users, but also people visiting the second world war.
In this image, a young soldier is seen dabbing, a dance move that became popular around 2014, but certainly wasn't known in wartime.
Of course, it turns out this photo isn't an image of a time traveller, but rather just an image of some actors from 2017's blockbuster Dunkirk . The fact that most of the soldiers are smiling should also be a bit of a giveaway with this one.
Greta Thunberg
In 2019, the internet discovered a photograph from 1898 which showed three children working at a gold mine in Canada's Yukon territory.
The image seemed to show a girl with an incredible likeness to the young climate activist Greta Thunberg. Does this make Thunberg a time traveller who's come through time to save the planet? Weird year for her to choose, but it's a nice idea.
A woman clutching a smartphone (1860)
The painting " The expected one " from 1860, by Ferdinand Georg Waldmüller appears to show a woman walking along a rough path, about to be accosted by an adoring young man clutching a pink flower.
A close look though and you'll see she appears to have her attention firmly glued to a modern smartphone. Is this woman actually a time traveller?
Vladimir Putin
A few years back, a number of images surfaced online that seemingly showed Russian President Vladimir Putin snapped over various decades without ageing. Either proof that he's a time traveller or perhaps just immortal?
If true, he's incredibly patriotic, with each image showing him serving his country in one way or another. Though it's more likely to just be a strong likeness.
The AI time traveller
Here's a time traveller with a difference. Stelfie the Time Traveller has been using AI to travel through time. Or at least to give the illusion of doing so.
This creative individual has been using Stable Diffusion to insert the likeness of a modern man into ancient civilisations including Egypt when the pyramids were being constructed, Rome with the centurions and the land of the dinosaurs . It's fun to imagine these as being real, though if you look closely they're clearly AI-generated. As this artificial intelligence improves we'll no doubt get even better images like this. Interestingly even the character taking the selfies isn't real here, but is also made using AI.
Site Navigation
Latest stories, 15 beautiful vintage photos of famous u.s. tourist attractions, these historic sites will never get old..
There are some landmarks and attractions that will never go out of style. Disneyland will always be magical, just as millions of people will continue to tune into the Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade until the end of time. But, if you've ever wondered what America's prized celebrations and historic sites looked like in the past, then browse through these vintage travel photos that will teleport you to the golden age of tourism. And for more stunning landscapes, check out the 27 Totally Insane Travel Photos You Won't Believe Are Real .
1 | Disneyland
When Disneyland opened its doors in 1955, Anaheim, California, became one of the happiest places on Earth. This photo of the monorail linking downtown Disney to the park was taken in 1960, at a time when it was the only daily shuttle of its kind in America. And for more fun from the House of Mouse, check out the 19 Magical Places That Inspired Disney .
2 | Washington Monument
In this vivid photo, taken in 1935, a group of tourists admires the Washington Monument through the colorful haze of a rainbow.
3 | Santa Catalina Island
Santa Catalina Island, or Catalina as locals call it, is just a short ferry ride from Long Beach, California. Seen here in 1942, the island boasts stunning Spanish architecture abutting the seascape. One of the island's most prominent fixtures is the former mansion of chewing gum magnate William Wrigley Jr.
4 | Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade
The Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade has been a holiday tradition since 1924. Whether lining the streets of New York City to see the festivities—like these parade-goers in Times Square in 1940—or watching the celebration on television, the excitement for the giant balloons and marching bands hasn't dulled one bit.
5 | Chinatown
This colorful 1957 snapshot of Grant Avenue in San Francisco's Chinatown shows a vibrant, thriving, cultural community. Its inception in 1848 makes it the oldest Chinatown in North America, and the neighborhood has even been known to draw more annual visitors than the Golden Gate Bridge.
6 | Honolulu Hula Show
The Kodak Hula Show on Honolulu (seen here in a photograph from 1966) was a popular attraction in Hawaii's capital city. Established in 1937, this legendary show had become an island tradition and was attended by an estimated 10 million viewers during its run, which ended in 2002. However, Honolulu and hula continue to remain intimately entwined, with the Kuhio Beach Hula performance picking up where the Kodak Hula Show left off.
7 | Hollywood Sign
Originally erected in 1923 as a means of advertising, Los Angeles' iconic sign actually read "Hollywoodland" and was expected to be on display for less than two years but stood for 26! In 1949, when the display was refurbished, the "land" portion was dropped entirely. The photograph above was taken in the 1950s, just after the change. And for more historic snapshots, check out the 50 Vintage Photos That Show What Traveling Used to Look Like .
8 | Coney Island
Coney Island was at one time the country's largest amusement park. It was comprised of Luna Park, Steeplechase, and Dreamland, a boardwalk with its own beachfront activities. Attracting several millions of visitors each year, the fair was often crowded beyond belief with New Yorkers looking to beat the heat. See it for yourself with this photo taken in 1950 from the Parachute Jump ride.
9 | Las Vegas
The original Las Vegas strip was actually Fremont Street , as seen here in the 1960s. As the first paved road in the city, it's as old as Vegas itself. Today, the entertainment district remains the home of mainstays such as the Golden Nugget, Binion's Horseshoe, and the oldest casino in Vegas: Golden Gate Casino, which first opened as a hotel in 1906.
10 | New York World's Fair
The 1964 New York World's Fair attracted over 51 millions visitors to Flushing Meadows-Corona Park during its year-long run. Representing 80 nations and featuring 100 restaurants and pavilions, it was a source of excitement and cultural exploration for attendees. The grand Unisphere remains in the park today, a shining memory of an event that championed peace and innovation just before the Vietnam War.
11 | Mount Rushmore
There's nothing more patriotic than presidents George Washington , Thomas Jefferson , Abraham Lincoln , and Theodore Roosevelt carved into the side of Mount Rushmore . Also referred to as the Shrine of Democracy, the stone sculptures attract more than two million tourists each year, as evidenced in this packed parking lot in 1969. Also, did you know there's a hidden room behind Lincoln's head? Take a peek along with these 23 Super Secret Spaces Hidden in Famous Landmarks .
12 | Mardi Gras
Hundreds of thousands of revelers descend on New Orleans each year for Mardi Gras , one of the country's largest celebrations. This already vibrant city becomes even more electric with parades, extravagant floats, costumes, live music, and crowds of partygoers. The earliest recorded Mardi Gras in New Orleans dates all the way back to 1699, and the photograph above, of costumed attendees on Canal Street, offers a glimpse of what Mardi Gras had to offer in 1917.
13 | Niagara Falls
The majestic beauty of Niagara Falls is timeless, as proven by this 1954 image of the cascades taken from Niagara Parkway in Canada. The waterfall drops a whopping 160 feet into the basin—a sight that is no less breathtaking today.
14 | Pike Place Market
Although the iconic Space Needle (another World's Fair creation) may be the first landmark to come to mind when you think of Seattle, the city is home to yet another popular attraction: Pike Place Market . Established in 1907, Pike Place is one of the country's oldest and longest running farmers' markets. This picture offers a glimpse of the spot in 1972, shortly before a major rehabilitation.
15 | The Little Switzerland of America
Surrounded by Colorado's piercing San Juan Mountains, the city of Ouray has earned the nickname, "The Little Switzerland of America." Ouray was originally settled by miners and incorporated in 1876, but it became a prime attraction in the 1960s (as seen in this photo). Today, the economy is based on tourism, with a main street that is protected under the National Register of Historic Places. And for more backyard adventures, check out the 17 American Towns So Beautiful You'll Think You're in Europe .
15 Places to See Fall Foliage in the U.S.
When you can see peak fall foliage, this city is the new hotspot for travelers, this national park was just named "most breathtaking".
- A photo Photos 10k
- Pen Tool Illustrations 5
- A stack of folders Collections 674k
- A group of people Users 2
Vintage travel
Browse premium images on iStock | Claim your discount now
Make something awesome
The Travel Bunny
Budget travel blog • Travel more, worry less
5 creative ideas on how to use your old travel photos
Traveling is the best time to try out your love for photography. Whether you’re taking a trip to the beach or backpacking across the mountains, you’re sure to take your camera along with you to catch those aesthetic moments and make some permanent memories.
But what do you do with all those extra photos after your trip ends and posting on Snapchat and Instagram stories just isn’t an option anymore?
You probably have your old travel photos taking up the storage space in your phone, or printed up as yellowing polaroids stacked inside an old shoebox in your closet. But what if you had a way to actually put those souvenir photos to use?
I’ve shortlisted some of the best ideas on how you can use up your old vacation in clever, creative ways.
1. Print them out and make a scrapbook
The first option you have is to go the traditional route and make a scrapbook. Everyone loves a traditional album or scrapbook with all their favorite memories glued and bound together. These could serve as a great gift for someone close to you, or just as a memorable keepsake for yourself.
All you need to do is take your favorite travel photos from your phone or camera, print them out, and begin pasting. With only colored paper, some scissors and glue, and a ribbon, you can build up a scrapbook without having to empty out your wallet.
If you’re interested in DIY then you can benefit from getting your photographs printed in batches at surprisingly low costs for your project.
2. Create your own photo book
If you like the idea of a traditional photo book but are not interested in getting your hands messy with glue and indulging in DIY, we have just the idea for you. The internet now makes it easy for you to print out your own quality photo book without any extra effort.
You can use ChatBooks , an automated service that allows you to sync the photos on your Facebook, Instagram, or your phone photo gallery into a book design that you can get printed. This handy online platform handles everything for you, from the arrangement of your photos to the option to add captions and locations to each page.
With a subscription that begins at $15 along with free shipping of your newly printed photo book, this service provides you with a great option to convert your digital memories into physical keepsakes without the hassle.
3. Make a photo-collage
Who says you have to keep your favorite travel photos to yourself? One clever idea is to convert your best pixelated moments into a single photo collage. You can print it out to hang it in your home, post it on your Facebook to share your best moments with your friends, or treat it as a timeless gift for someone close to your heart.
With online design tools like PosterMyWall, making a collage has become easier than ever. All you need to do is log on and select from a wide selection of travel collage templates and personalize your collage to your liking.
Select all of your favorite family photos or pictures from any fun group photo shoot and add them to your collage to make for the perfect memorable gift for your loved ones. With the wide range of free editing options available, you don’t even have to break the bank to make this into a special gift.
4. Make your own personalized postcards
You can never go wrong with a custom-made postcard. Printing out your favorite travel photos with someone and sending them as postcards would serve as a fun recap of your trip together.
Print all of your best travel memories with your loved ones in a batch to avail of lower costs, and convert them into a stack of adorable, DIY postcards to remind them of the great times you have spent together. Alternatively, you could even tie up a nice little ribbon around the whole stack and present it as a well-thought-out gift for that special someone.
5. Use your old travel photos as wall decor
Sometimes, the best way to treasure your memories is to make sure you’re surrounded by them at all times.
Start your own DIY project by purchasing a string of fairy lights and hanging them up in your room with your favorite polaroids. This not only helps you get good and creative use out of old travel photos, but it will also create a whole new aesthetic vibe for your room.
Old travel photos are a treasured keepsake that one struggles to get rid of. These tips will help you get the greatest use out of your old photos so that your pixelated memories can live on with you in new, creative ways.
Tips to use your old travel photos by…
Mirela Letailleur is a Romanian travel blogger living in the South of France. She writes on The Travel Bunny travel blog about affordable travel in Europe, creator of unique free travel guides, local travel expert. Problem solver. Wannabe coffee guru.
Read more about Mirela Letailleur
More ideas for your old travel photos on The Travel Bunny blog Photo backup: why you need it & which service is best
- Pictures of Real Time Trave...
- Horror Movies About Time Tr...
- Top Current Shows About Tim...
- Unforgettable Time Travelin...
- Underrated Time-Travel Horr...
- These Time Travel Movies Ar...
- Real People Who Time Traveled
- Totally Convincing True Sto...
- All About the Montauk Project
- Film Plot Holes You'll Neve...
- Berenice Abbott
- Brooklyn Museum Collection
- No known copyright restrictions
Crazy Pictures Of People Who Might Just Be Time Travelers
Would the discovery of modern people in old pictures be enough to convince the world, or even you, of the existence of time travel? If so, then you're about to find out for yourself as you get a load of the following photographs, which some people claim are actually old photos of time travelers who were accidentally caught on film. In other words, some may believe this is proof of time travel. Whether you believe these time travel photos are simple coincidences or eyebrow-raising evidence of the ability to chill in other eras is up to you, but along the way you'll get the chance to get a look at some pretty interesting pictures - images weird enough to make even the boldest skeptic take a second look.
Among the following would-be time traveler pictures you'll see some evidence of modern technology being used long before it was invented. You'll also get the chance to pick a couple of folks in eerily modern clothing out of crowds of people who lived long ago and decide whether they were just super fashion-forward or travelers from another time altogether.
So strap on your time-traveling seat belts and get ready for a creepily modern blast from the past as you check out what some claim is evidence of time travelers who accidentally got caught on film. After all, if these people could do it, maybe there's something to the idea? Maybe ?
Greta Thunberg's 19th Century Doppelganger
- University of Washington Libraries, Special Collections
- Wikimedia Commons
The Guy Taking A Photo With His Phone In 1962
- Felipe Alvear
- CC-BY-SA 4.0
This Guy Talking On A Cell Phone Long Before They Were Invented
This Woman On A Cell Phone At The Premiere Of A Charlie Chaplin Film
This Time Portal Caught On A Security Camera
This iPhone-Wielding Time Traveler In A 17th Century Painting
- Pieter de Hooch
- Public Domain
This Photo Of A 'Time Traveler' Allegedly Taken During The Civil War
- Library of Congress
- No known restrictions on publication
A Guy Checking His Phone On The Beach In The 1940s
- @StuartHumphryes
A time-traveling tourist may have been spotted hanging out with beach-goers in Cornwall, England. In a photograph dated 1943, a man in a brown suit appears to be checking his phone in that all-too-familiar, hunched-over, squinty-eyed pose to which we all conform when checking those important playoff game scores and what our ex is up to on Instagram. Yet this was WWII-era - there were certainly no cell phones around. One skeptic surmised the bespoke man was probably just rolling a cigarette or something similar; regardless, he still looks a little odd in his dark suit, standing out among even the more modestly-dressed swimsuits of the day.
- Interesting
- Time Travel
- Optical Illusions
As they say in well-written scripts, "You mean... like time travel?" + also a few bizarre stories about real people who have claimed, despite every law of physics, they have traveled through time.
COMMENTS
Everett Collection / Shutterstock. By Laura Geiser Aug 12, 2021. Bossa Nova bands playing in Rio in the 1960s. Nature enthusiasts watching the geysers blow at Yellowstone National Park in 1912. Families cruising in a Cadillac on a cross-country road trip in the 1940s. There was something downright magical about traveling in eras past.
These vintage photos show the timeless allure of travel. 1 of 41. Brownsville, Texas: 1938 Women in period dress greet travelers arriving on a Pan Am flight. Photograph by B. ANTHONY STEWART, Nat ...
Life 100 years ago was different in many ways, especially when it came to traveling. Driving cross-country, boarding a train, or hopping on a cruise ship looked much different in the 1920s than it ...
Through this photo collection, we take a journey through time to show you what air travel looked like from the 1930s to the 1950s. ... These vintage photos show what air travel looked like between 1930s to 1950s. From the early days of flight and the "golden age of travel", to modern-day airlines, air travel has changed a lot over the past ...
Last updated: January 18, 2023. My Grandfather was a published travel writer and I found tons of amazing Vintage Travel Photos in his archives. Today I'd like to share them with you! I've also mixed in some amazing vintage photos from my parents archives, as well as some of my own childhood. Let me know which photo is your favourite!
These vintage photos show what the world's top tourist destinations looked like throughout the 1800s and 1900s. ... We decided to go back even further in the timeline of travel photos, ...
Browse 436,610 authentic vintage travel stock photos, high-res images, and pictures, or explore additional vintage travel poster or vintage stock images to find the right photo at the right size and resolution for your project.
Vintage Vacation Photos is the best site to view many old travel and vacation photos from around the world. The idea for this site sprang from a simple purchase: an old case filled with slides of a family vacation to Europe in 1962. Not only were the photos spectacular, they also represented a slice of history that isn't often seen on today's ...
Browse 624,245 vintage travel photos photos and images available, or start a new search to explore more photos and images. three children sitting on back of estate car taking photographs - vintage travel photos stock pictures, royalty-free photos & images.
Sense of Adventure: Vintage travel photos embody the spirit of exploration and adventure. They evoke a time when travel was often a daring escapade into the unknown, highlighting the curiosity and bravery of early travelers. Escape from the Mundane: Vintage travel photography offers an escape from the ordinary.
Browse Getty Images' premium collection of high-quality, authentic Vintage Travel stock photos, royalty-free images, and pictures. Vintage Travel stock photos are available in a variety of sizes and formats to fit your needs.
Browse 651,455 authentic vintage travel stock photos, high-res images, and pictures, or explore additional vintage travel poster or vintage stock images to find the right photo at the right size and resolution for your project. Deal Pier, Deal, Kent, 1890-1910. The Blowing Stone, Kingston Lisle, Oxfordshire, c1860-c1922.
Free vintage and retro photos at vintagestockphotos.com. High-resolution vintage stock images, free for commercial use. Menu. About ; Contact ; FAQ ; Register; Login. Username Password. Vintage Stock Photos. Free. See the world as it was Vintage travel photos. Exclusive images Licensed for commercial use. Retro and mid-century photos Only ...
This photo comes from the 1962 World Cup and shows the celebrations as the Brazilian team lifts the trophy. If you look closely though, you'll see in the bottom centre of the image what looks like ...
Browse 672,505 vintage travel photo photos and images available, or start a new search to explore more photos and images. three children sitting on back of estate car taking photographs - vintage travel photo stock pictures, royalty-free photos & images.
The Little Switzerland of America. Lenscap / Alamy. Surrounded by Colorado's piercing San Juan Mountains, the city of Ouray has earned the nickname, "The Little Switzerland of America." Ouray was originally settled by miners and incorporated in 1876, but it became a prime attraction in the 1960s (as seen in this photo).
Download the perfect vintage travel pictures. Find over 100+ of the best free vintage travel images. Free for commercial use No attribution required Copyright-free
Create your own photo book. 3. Make a photo-collage. 4. Make your own personalized postcards. 5. Use your old travel photos as wall decor. Tips to use your old travel photos by…. You probably have your old travel photos taking up the storage space in your phone, or printed up as yellowing polaroids stacked inside an old shoebox in your closet.
Browse 5,518,700+ old travel stock photos and images available, or search for old travel photos or old travel documents to find more great stock photos and pictures.
The Tourist - Cool Camera Sombrero Humor Hawaiian. of 100. Explore Authentic Old Travel Photos Stock Photos & Images For Your Project Or Campaign. Less Searching, More Finding With Getty Images.
Vintage Camper Photo Poster, Travel Van Printed Photography, Desert Retro Illustration, Canyon Print, Wild Road Art, Volkswagen Wall Decor. (474) $16.69. $20.86 (20% off) FREE shipping.
Whether you simply want to flip through the photos from your last trip or print them off in a creative way, here are four ways to rediscover your past travels through the photos you took. Share ...
Photo: @StuartHumphryes. Twitter. A time-traveling tourist may have been spotted hanging out with beach-goers in Cornwall, England. In a photograph dated 1943, a man in a brown suit appears to be checking his phone in that all-too-familiar, hunched-over, squinty-eyed pose to which we all conform when checking those important playoff game scores ...