Let’s be real: your bucket list is probably already a mile long, and your camera bag is perpetually packed. We all have those "someday" spots: the ones we see on postcards or in the background of every high-end travel documentary. But when you’re a photographer, a trip isn't just about the flight and the hotel; it’s about that one split second where the light hits the architecture just right.
Welcome to day one of our 30-day series on the most iconic places to visit around the world. Whether you’re looking for the best photography locations or just want to find the most instagrammable places to make your friends a little jealous, I’ve got you covered. This isn't just a list; it’s a roadmap to the most visually stunning corners of our planet.
Before you set off, make sure you’re actually ready to capture these sights. Check out our guide on essential photography gear and maybe grab some sky overlays just in case the weather doesn't cooperate.
1. Santorini, Greece
There’s a reason those blue-domed churches and whitewashed walls are everywhere on social media. Santorini is the definition of a postcard. For the best photography locations, head to Oia at sunrise. Most tourists wait for sunset, but the morning light hitting the caldera is soft, magical, and: most importantly: crowd-free.
2. Machu Picchu, Peru
High in the Andes, this Incan citadel is a testament to human ingenuity. It’s a bit of a hike (literally), but the payoff is immense. If you’re debating Machu Picchu Vs Petra, Machu Picchu offers lush greens and dramatic mountain peaks, while Petra offers carved rose-red stone and desert vibes.
3. Petra, Jordan
Speaking of Petra, the Treasury is one of the most instagrammable places on earth. To get that iconic shot from above, you’ll need to hike the Al-Khubtha Trail. It’s a bit of a climb, but the view of the Treasury through the canyon walls is worth every drop of sweat. If you’re looking for things to do while you’re there, I highly recommend checking out some local tours via Viator.
4. The Grand Canyon, USA
You haven't seen "big" until you’ve stood on the edge of the South Rim. For travel photography tips, I recommend using a wide-angle lens to capture the sheer scale, but don't forget a telephoto lens to pick out the incredible textures in the rock layers. For more deep dives into the American wilderness, check out Edin Chavez’s blog.
5. Kyoto, Japan
Kyoto is where traditional Japan lives. From the orange gates of Fushimi Inari to the Arashiyama Bamboo Grove, the colors here are a photographer’s dream. If you want to see how these shots look as finished prints, take a look at the fine art gallery over at Edin Fine Art.
6. The Eiffel Tower, Paris
It’s a cliché for a reason. But don't just shoot it from the Trocadéro like everyone else. Walk through the side streets of the 7th Arrondissement to find unique framing opportunities through wrought-iron balconies and cafe awnings.
7. Banff National Park, Canada
Lake Louise and Moraine Lake offer water so blue you’ll think someone slipped a filter over your eyeballs. These are prime spots for landscape enthusiasts. Pro tip: Arrive at Moraine Lake before 5:00 AM. Seriously. The parking lot fills up faster than a free bar at a wedding.
8. Venice, Italy
Venice is sinking, so get there while you can! The narrow canals and gondolas provide endless street photography opportunities. It’s one of those rare places where getting lost is actually the goal. If you need a break from the crowds, look into cheap weekend getaways nearby to balance out the cost of those expensive Venetian espressos.
9. The Great Wall of China
Specifically, the Mutianyu or Jinshanling sections. They are less restored than Badaling, offering a more authentic, rugged look for your portfolio. The way the wall snakes over the mountains is a masterclass in leading lines.
10. Iceland
Whether it’s the Skógafoss waterfall or the Black Sand Beach at Reynisfjara, Iceland is an alien planet right here on Earth. If you’re chasing the Northern Lights, remember to bring a sturdy tripod and a lot of patience. For a community of folks who love gear talk as much as you do, head over to Shut Your Aperture.
11. Amalfi Coast, Italy
Positano is basically a vertical village of pastel-colored houses. It’s steep, it’s vibrant, and it’s incredibly photogenic. Rent a boat for an hour to get the "sea-to-land" perspective: it’s the best way to capture the entire town in one frame.
12. Taj Mahal, India
The symmetry here is mind-blowing. Most people shoot it from the front, but if you cross the Yamuna River to the Mehtab Bagh gardens at sunset, you’ll get the Taj reflecting in the water with a fraction of the crowd.
13. Serengeti National Park, Tanzania
Wildlife photography is a different beast entirely (pun intended). Watching the Great Migration is a life-changing experience. You’ll need a fast shutter speed and a lot of reach on your lens for this one.
14. Cappadocia, Turkey
The sunrise hot air balloons are the main event here. It’s easily one of the top five instagrammable places in the world. To get the best shot, stay at a cave hotel with a rooftop terrace. You can enjoy your coffee while hundreds of balloons drift right over your head.
15. New York City, USA
The "Joker Stairs" in the Bronx, the Brooklyn Bridge at dawn, or the view from the Top of the Rock: NYC is a playground for urban photographers. If you’re planning a shoot here, our photography booking experience can help you find the right local expertise.
16. Angkor Wat, Cambodia
The jungle literally reclaiming the temples at Ta Prohm is a sight to behold. It’s eerie, beautiful, and deeply historic. Wear comfortable shoes; you’ll be doing a lot of walking.
17. Great Barrier Reef, Australia
It’s time to invest in an underwater housing for your camera. The colors beneath the surface are unlike anything on land. Even if you aren't a pro diver, snorkeling with a GoPro can yield some stunning results.
18. Pyramids of Giza, Egypt
They are the only remaining Ancient Wonder of the World. To get a shot that feels "timeless," hire a camel driver to take you further out into the dunes so you can frame the pyramids without the modern city of Cairo creeping into the background.
19. Sydney Opera House, Australia
The architecture is iconic, but the light is what makes it. The "white" tiles actually have a pearlescent quality that picks up the colors of the harbor at sunset.
20. Swiss Alps, Switzerland
Whether it’s the Matterhorn or the valleys of Lauterbrunnen, the Alps offer a sense of scale that’s hard to replicate. It’s reassuring to know that some places in the world still look exactly like the fairy tales described them.
Travel Photography Tips for Your Big Trip
Planning a trip to these iconic locations can feel overwhelming, but don't let the logistics kill your creativity. Here are a few quick tips to keep in mind:
- Research Local Customs: In places like Kyoto or Petra, being respectful of local traditions will often get you better access (and better photos) than being the "pushy tourist."
- Backup Your Photos: Don't wait until you get home. Use a portable SSD to back up your shots every night.
- Book Activities in Advance: Places like the Colosseum or the Eiffel Tower have massive lines. Save yourself the headache and book your tours via Viator before you leave.
- Check the Weather: Use apps to track the "Golden Hour" specifically for the coordinates of where you’re standing.
Which Destination is Calling You?
Whether you're deciding between the lush peaks of Peru or the desert sands of Jordan, remember that the best photography locations are the ones that move you. It’s not just about the "likes": it’s about the memory of being there.
If you’re just starting your journey into professional photography, take a look at our educational category for more tips on how to turn these vacation snaps into gallery-worthy art.
Travel is one of the few things you buy that makes you richer. So, grab your camera, pack an extra battery, and get out there. The world is waiting for its close-up.
