Discover Breathtaking Journeys and Fun Adventures
See below for some Q&A with tips to inspire your next adventure.
Fun Travel Ideas
This website is designed to inspire your wanderlust. Through sharing stories and practical tips, we aim to simplify your journey planning and encourage you to explore the world.
Authentic Destination Stories
Experience vivid tales from the road that capture the essence of each place, inspiring you to explore beyond the usual paths.
Practical Travel Resources
Find carefully curated tools and guides that empower you to travel confidently and safely, enhancing your overall journey.
Embark on Adventures with Blue Couch Travels
Find quick answers to your travel queries and tips to make your journeys smoother.
What inspired Blue Couch Studios to start this blog?
Our business began as a dream to create a cozy space for a music studio and evolved into a travel photo diary sharing adventures and tips.
How can I subscribe to Blue Couch Travels updates?
At present, we do not offer subscriptions or emails. Blog updates will be posted to social media or you can simply come back here for more.
What types of destinations does Blue Couch Travels feature?
We explore a wide range—from national parks to bustling cities to beaches — sharing authentic experiences.
Are there travel tips for beginners?
Yes, the blog is tailored around all travelers to immerse themselves in the journey while providing practical tips along the way. Feel free to email us with questions as well.
Can I contribute to Blue Couch Travels?
For now, these stories are only ours. Please reach out via our contact page to share your travel experiences.
Does Blue Couch Travels focus on budget or luxury travel?
Most of our content will focus on budget friendly trips.
Tools of the Trade
The camera gear, apps, and other gear I use to capture our journey.
Camera Gear
The photos on these blog were taken with either:
1. Leica Q3 (click for more or see below for an accessory list)
2. Canon 6D + 24-70mm f/2.8L II + 70-200mm f/2.8L II
3. Apple iPhone 16 Pro (or alternate)
Editing Photos
I highly recommend Adobe Lightroom for photo editing. I will share some tips of how to use it along the way.
Miscellaneous Tips
I love the new iPhone app, Project Indigo, from Adobe. Incredible control for a DSLR like experience.
I highly recommend Gura Gear backpacks and accessories. Mine has lasted me 15 years.
Gear: What Else I Got
After doing some research by watching videos online, reading some blogs, and discussing with B&H Photo, I settled on these accessories for the Leica Q3. You can see most of them in the photo I posted above. Click the name to open the link and read more about each.
ONA Bowery Camera Bag (Oak Brown Canvas)
Thoughts: Very nice bag with high quality snaps and a comfortable shoulder strap. Plenty of extra space for cleaning stuff or other gear. I got this mostly for every day carry.
Wish List: If only the front pocks sealed rather than being open…
SmallRig L-Shape Mount Plate With Handle
Thoughts: The SmallRig grip feels very natural in my hand.
Alternatives: Many recommended the He3 Handgrip but black was out of stock and at 5X the price, I couldn’t justify waiting.
Wish List: If only the color was black instead of charcoal…
Red Camera Shutter Button
Thoughts: Bought this after first use and love it. Gives some rise to the shutter to make it much easier to feel and click.
B+W MRC MASTER 007 Clear Filter (49mm)
Thoughts: Necessary neutral protection for the Leica fixed lens
Sony 128GB SF-G TOUGH Series UHS-II SDXC Memory Card
Thoughts: Necessary high speed to capture 8K video or a fast burst of 60 MP images. Got this one on sale along with a 64 GB backup.
Freewell Thumb Grip
Thoughts: Many recommended a thumb grip. I like how this one keeps a cold shoe on the top. Honestly have not attached it yet. I need so spend some time with it to see what I think.