Every year thousands of people descend upon tourist hotspots hoping to take some great photographs. But are these tourists attractions over-rated, or do they really live up to hype? Sometimes the most photogenic places can be found off the beaten track. This list will take you through some great locations for you to discover.
Machu Picchu, Peru
The pre-Columbian site located 8,000 ft above sea level in Peru isn’t called ‘The Lost City of the Incas’ for nothing. Reaching it may be hard, especially since restrictions have been put in place to limit the negative effects of heavy tourism, but it’s well worth the effort. Voted one of the new Seven Wonders of the World by a worldwide poll in 2007, Machu Picchu is one of the most enduring and iconic symbols of the Inca Empire.
Ölüdeniz, Turkey
Ölüdeniz is a picturesque town nestling on the south west coast of Turkey. Its tranquil sandy beach and twinkling azure seas make it one of the most photographed beaches in the Mediterranean – get higher up for panoramic views and magical shots overlooking the bay.
Angkor Wat, Cambodia
The former center of the capital of the Khmer Empire is a stunning temple complex that’s revered as one of the planet’s most significant architectural sites. Aim to get there for sunrise for the best shots of the east facing temples, when the light is at its very best.
Maya Bay, Thailand
Made famous by the 90s movie The Beach, Maya Bay is a beautiful bay ringed by steep limestone hills on the island of Koh Phi Phi. Its varied and exotic marine life makes it a huge draw for diving enthusiasts. If you’re lucky enough to have an underwater lens there are magical shots lurking beneath those tranquil turquoise waves.
New York
In the city that never sleeps the photo opportunities are almost endless. But still it’s the Empire State Building that most people want for their perfect shot. Once you’ve got the standard front-facing shot of the monument in the bag, head 16 blocks north to Rockefeller Centre and its 70-floor high Top of the Rock Observation Deck. That’s the spot for the best view of the Empire State Building, plus magical panoramas of the entire city.
Barcelona, Spain
Barcelona is filled with amazing architecture which is a delight to photograph. Sagrada Familia, Gaudi’s unfinished masterpiece is impossible to capture in a single frame. Instead focus on detailed shots of the carvings, stained glass and steeples.
Queenstown, New Zealand
For those who love to photograph, the mountains and lakes of Queenstown is a must. Visit in the winter for glistening snow-capped mountains, and in the summer for the gorgeous sunsets over Lake Wakatipu.
Venice, Italy
Always popular with travel photographers, Venice has to be included on this list. With its pigeons, people, carvings and imposing arches, Piazza San Marco is one of Venice’s most photographed sites. The main square is never quiet, so try to arrive at first light or dusk to avoid jostling for space with the other camera-w ielding visitors.
What are some of your favorite places to photograph? Let us know in the comments!
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Article by Claire
Claire writes for Printer Inks. Claire is a budding photographer and enjoys travelling and taking photos of new and interesting places.
Claire has written 6 awesome articles for us at Photoble
