What really goes into a travel blog post? When people land on one of my posts, they often see a blend of words and imagery but the short answer? A lot more than you’d think.
As my blog is centred around travel and photography there is usually a bit of planning. However, I don’t usually set out on a hike or road trip knowing that I’ll write about it. I explore because I genuinely love it. If I find a place that feels special–visually stunning, peaceful, or underrated that’s when the idea to share it is born.
I write because I think someone else might want to experience that moment, even if just to snap a photo and feel that same feeling, too.
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INSPIRATION COMES FROM THE JOURNEY, NOT THE PLAN
More often than not, I have a blogging calendar in mind with dates of what I’d like to write and when. But I don’t exactly have a strict list of posts I have to write. Instead, the blog tends to grow organically, shaped by past travels, stories or experiences that stood out.
Take this post for example. It’s only now, a year down the track that I’ve noticed I’ve never once written about my process and what really goes into a travel blog post. Hence this post was born.
However, if I do plan ahead, it’s usually because I feel strongly about sharing a particular place.
While I’m out exploring, I keep mental notes (and sometimes scribble a few down). I take notice of the best time to visit, unexpected trail conditions, or small details that might help someone else. These observations all weave their way into the story later on.
CAPTURING THE STORY THROUGH IMAGERY
Photography isn’t an afterthought. It’s central to how I tell the story.
Every image I share is from a place I’ve actually stood in, explored, and taken the time to appreciate. I don’t just shoot the classic views; I try to capture what the moment felt like. The stillness, the light, the mood. And it’s usually it’s with my Canon EOS R6 (did someone say “shameless plug?”)
Sometimes, I write a post simply because a place was that photogenic. Not everyone who reads my blog is an avid hiker or camper. But they might be someone looking for a quiet sunrise spot or a dramatic coastal view. And if my images inspire them to go, that’s a win.
Also, depending on the length of the hike, day out or overseas adventure, I take hundreds of images on each trip. Not just of the views, but of textures, lighting, and moments that reflect how the place felt. Capturing the image is only half the job though, because then comes editing.
Editing is its own creative process and it’s one of the crucial parts of what really goes into a travel blog post. No one wants to look at awful images. So, I’ll sift through what works, usually cutting the number in half. Then comes cropping, adjusting brightness and contrast, and fine-tuning the overall mood. The goal? To make each image reflect, as closely as possible, what it looked and felt like on the day.
Whether it’s a moody mountain or a sunlit beach, I want people to see something that makes them stop scrolling. Hopefully, it’s what inspires them to travel, or take on the same challenge.
WRITING WITH INTENTION, NOT JUST INFORMATION
Once I’m back, I outline the key information I want to share. That usually then influences which images I choose to include.
I like to write in a conversational tone, like sharing tips with a friend over coffee. I want the experience to feel accessible, not overly polished or out of reach.
The goal isn’t just to say, “here’s a cool place,” but to answer the bigger question: “Why should I go?”
SEO ISN’T THE STAR, BUT IT’S IN THE ROOM
Let’s be real, Google won’t find my posts unless they’re structured right. That means smart use of headings, internal and external links, and keywords that match what real travellers are searching for.
This is often the not-so-fun part of the blogging process and shows more of the effort of what really goes into a travel blog post.
But I never write for SEO. I write for humans first–travellers, photographers, adventurers, and even casual wanderers who just want a beautiful new spot to visit. Mainly those in or planning to visit Aotearoa, and those who are curious in the rest of the world too.
FROM DRAFT TO PUBLISHED, THE FINAL TOUCHES
Once the story is written and photos are ready, the process shifts into polish mode.
I check for flow, add affiliate links where they make sense, and double check everything looks good on mobile. I schedule the post and create Pinterest graphics. Social media platforms like Instagram and TikTok aren’t my main focus (dare I say it)–though every now and then, I’ll share a story or two.
SHARING THE STORY
Publishing a blog post isn’t the end. It’s just the next step in helping people discover these places for themselves.
Whether someone’s chasing a sunrise shot or deciding if a trail is worth it, my hope is that whatever they’ve read or seen on I Am Casey Lee helps satisfy their curiosity. As my homepage says, this is a place all for and about exploration–capturing every adventure and beautiful corner of New Zealand and the world.
My hope? That you find something here that inspires you to go out and see it for yourself.
SO.. IS IT WORTH IT?
Yes. Every time.
Not every blog post is easy. Some take longer than I’d like.. perfectionist problems. But I get to turn real experiences into something lasting.
I get to help someone else find a view that made me pause, a trail that surprised me, or a coastline that felt like magic.
And if that gives them a reason to visit, even if it’s just for the photo, then it’s all worth it.
WHAT’S NEXT?
If you’ve enjoyed this behind-the-scenes look at what really goes into a travel blog post, I hope it inspires you to explore more.
And if it does.. I’ve got you. My comprehensive travel guides are here to help. Growing up in a small country I’ve been able to visit some beautiful New Zealand destinations so you’ll see most of my content revolves around this incredible place. However, there are some other incredible spots that have captured my attention and I hope to visit soon.
Till the destination…