For the passionate photographer, finding the most beautiful sights to capture on film can turn into something of an addiction. There are so many gorgeous places in this world that are just begging to be photographed, where you can find interesting sites to point your camera at around every corner.
Here are our nine favourite locations for a photography adventure, to get your imagination clicking.
Jump To a Section Below
Cambodia
A foray through the hallowed grounds of Angkor Wat, with a professional photographer leading the way, is the perfect expedition for the more adventurous shutterbug. An intoxicating mix of time-honoured tradition and creeping modernity, the Siem Reap Province is a fascinating place for a photography break. The sunrise atop the sacred temple complex is an oft scene image of this landmark. However, if you venture further afield, into the adjoining forests, you will find the wild moss and towering treetops have created an otherworldly atmosphere, littered with breathtaking panoramas of lush forests and picturesque waterfalls.
Venice
There is something about the city of Venice that is so incredibly romantic and beautiful. Truman Capote described it, “’Venice is like eating an entire box of chocolate liqueurs in one go” – overwhelmingly rich, indulgent and intoxicating. The city’s many canals will allow you to capture the beautiful reflections of the well preserved historic buildings and the traditional gondolas.
Edinburgh
Edinburgh is a remarkable juxtaposition of two clearly articulated urban planning phenomena. The contrast between the organic medieval Old Town and the planned Georgian New Town of Edinburgh provides a clarity of urban structure unrivalled in Europe. Deemed to be of such cultural significance, both sites have been granted World Heritage status by UNESCO. The Scottish Capital is a true sight to behold and a must-see for any photographer.
Istanbul
Focus your lens on the towering minarets of the Blue Mosque as they reach up into the sky or snap away at the Grand Bazaar capturing a whirlwind of colours and textures. Istanbul is a fascinating ancient city that straddles both Europe and Asia and has offered a blend of East and West for many centuries.
There are countless photo opportunities here and you can enjoy capturing the lights of the city reflecting in the Bosporus or the world-famous Byzantine architectural masterpiece that is the Hagia Sophia. This five star Istanbul photography break offers a chance to explore the city with a professional photographer and ex-National Geographic editor.
Budapest
Budapest is endowed with an incomparable combination of colour and light, which provide the perfect backdrop for the city’s long list of UNESCO World heritage sites. For any photographer, the effect this has is pure magic. The vibrant Hungarian capital has a rich and varied history that is reflected in its imposing architecture and that emanates from its streets. A city that glows in the late afternoon sun, Budapest simply begs to be captured on camera.
Rio de Janeiro
Rio is a truly gorgeous city, surrounded by sandy beaches and steep green mountains, blessed with sunshine and blue skies and populated by attractive locals who often wear tiny swimsuits. This eye-candy laden metropolis offers many opportunities to get some incredible shots, perhaps of the jaw-dropping view from Sugar Loaf Mountain or the joggers on Copacabana beach just after sunrise.
Santorini
There is a reason why the iconic image of the whitewashed houses with cobalt blue roofs perched on Santorini’s steep cliff sides is featured in so many travel brochures and inspirational material – it’s the ultimate Mediterranean travel daydream fodder.
Take to the Hellenic isle of Santorini and capture stunning scenes of the countryside, villages, and everyday life on Greece’s most beautiful island. Frame the unique cypress-topped hills and silvery olive groves as you traverse the land, taking in the exquisite details of the island’s unique architecture. The submerged slopes of Santorini provide the ideal foundation for the colourful hamlets that cling to the Mediterranean shores.
It’s hard to take a bad photograph on Santorini, as it is considered one of the most beautiful islands in Greece. Soak up the sunshine as you snap photos of the white beaches, crystal clear sea, black volcanic rocks and traditional villages.
The Jurassic Coast
Explore the Jurassic Coast World Heritage Site, stretching 95 miles (155km) from Swanage in the East to Exmouth in the West. It tells the story of 185 million years of the Earth’s history. The site’s unique value creates a ‘walk through time’ that includes the Triassic, Jurassic and Cretaceous periods. The varied geology also provides a spectacular laboratory of coastal change and supports rare and important ecosystem of plants and animals.
Vancouver
An attractive Canadian city surrounded by ocean beaches and wild mountains, Vancouver also lends itself well to photography. The city has plenty of well-designed green space, a laid back vibe and a stylish and modern skyline. Head to the North Shore or Kitsilano for the best city landscape views, or capture a few beach snaps at English Bay.
Go On a Photography Break Today
Whether you’re a point-and-shoot beginner or a budding Ansel Adams, you can explore the world, meet new people and hone your skills by taking a photography tour. You’ll learn techniques from photographers who are passionate about their trade, discovering new perspectives of stunning destinations alongside a seasoned professional.
What are you waiting for? It’s time to get snapping.
Tom’s travel writings are a testament to his insatiable curiosity and love for the road less traveled. Eschewing the typical tourist spots, Tom has built a reputation for uncovering hidden gems known only to locals.
From secluded mountain villages in the Himalayas to untouched beaches in the South Pacific, his adventures have taken him to the world’s most undiscovered corners.