8 Must-Visit Locations for Travel Photographers
Photography and travel are a match made in heaven. Even if your camera equipment only goes as far as a fancy smartphone, you will always have photo opportunities while travelling the world and experiencing what is on offer.
With so many places to choose from, it can feel like a bucket list that you will never complete. But with time and resources, a select few places will be sure to make every wishlist. From nature and landscapes to bustling cities, these top locations will have you and your camera bag on the next flight out.
Iceland
Thousands of people travel to Iceland every year to take in this island country’s natural environment and unmatched landscape. While in recent years, it can be said that too many photographers travel here, when you experience the magical allure this place has to offer, you understand why.
It is a landscape photographer’s dream with a rugged coastline, active volcano, multiple hot springs, waterfalls, and the famous Vatnajökull glacier in Skaftafell National Park. This unique glacier site is one-of-a-kind, and by using the correct white feature on your camera, you can capture its raw beauty.
Iceland’s beauty can’t be captured on camera, but it’s worth a try and may just be the ultimate test of your photography skills. Time to make the necessary reservations for the trip to Iceland, including a campervan from Cozy Campers or other trusted rental businesses in Iceland to take you and your equipment everywhere. The campervan will also double as your accommodation to rest for another session of nature photography tomorrow or to wait for better weather in between takes.
Peru
Peru is the destination for any photographer who loves to travel and take large-scale landscape pictures. It is home to Machu Picchu, a 15th-century landmark and one of the official Seven Wonders of the World, located eight thousand feet above sea level.
This elevation offers spectacular views of the Andes and ancient Inca temples and ruins. At the foot of Machu Picchu is Aguas Calientes, a prime astrophotography location with breathtaking views of the Milky Way. If you choose to visit, pack a wide-angle landscape photography lens and wait for the sun to lower slightly to eliminate harsh shadows.
French Polynesia
No list can be complete without dreamy beaches and crystal clear water to explore the wonderful world of marine life. Bora Bora, located in French Polynesia, will give you this and so much more.
It is known for its extinct volcano, sandy white beaches, crystal blue waters, vibrant coral reefs and the world-famous turquoise lagoon, surrounded by islets. It is a popular destination for photographing both above and below the water, so don’t forget to pack your best underwater gear for your scuba diving adventure.
Nepal
The Himalayas, located in Asia, contains the highest mountains in the world, with more than 110 peaks towering over 7,300 meters. The crown jewel is, of course, Mount Everest, the tallest mountain in the world. While this range spans several countries, the section in Nepal is considered the most beautiful and accessible.
You come to Nepal to hike and climb mountains, starting from the country’s largest city, Kathmandu, a photographer’s dream in itself. While traversing these incredible peaks, you can access ancient mountain temples and prayer wheels, connecting nature to the spirited.
United States
Thanks to the size of the United States, there is a photo opportunity available for every type of photographer. The US stands out because every state is like a different country, with striking and varied environments, customs, traditions and food.
There are national parks for wildlife photographers, home to everything from bears to alligators. And over 12,000 miles of coastline to capture the beauty of the sea, with the Pacific Ocean striking the west coast and the chilly Atlantic along the east.
Furthermore, if people and cityscapes are your favourite subjects, head to a city like New Orleans in the south or the famous New York City to immerse yourself in historic urban environments.
Thailand
When you think of Thailand, you likely imagine majestic beaches that typically grace the cover of magazines. But there is much more on offer in this fantastic country. In Bangkok, you can spend hours wandering the local markets, immersing yourself in local life.
Or head up to one of the many sky bars for delicious cocktails and stunning sunset photo shoots. Explore floating markets and sacred temples, and for those on the adventurous side, head out into the rural countryside to document the authentic life of native villages and people.
Scotland
While Scotland may be a small country in Northwest Europe, nothing about this place feels anything less than epic. The remarkable feature of this country is not only the unmatched landscape but the history that comes with it.
Castles sitting on top of hills overlooking the many lochs, or small cosy cabins sitting at the foot of imposing mountains, you will struggle to find a better location to practice landscape and composition photography.
Italy
One of the biggest challenges new photographers face is gaining the confidence to take portrait pictures of strangers. For many, these shots are a large part of their art, and until you overcome this fear, you simply won’t advance.
Head to Venice for a carnival to tackle this fear and experience a unique and exciting event. Besides the fact Venice itself is a remarkable city with interesting architecture and stunning scenery to capture, during carnival, it becomes a massive studio, where those taking part will happily pose for any photo.