Whether you’re an amateur photographer or a professional, capturing unique and unusual photo opportunities around the world can be both exciting and challenging. Through careful research, you can find dynamic and extraordinary places to take photos in different parts of the world that will make your portfolio stand out from the rest. Hunter Hobson explores some unique photo spots that can inspire your creative eye.
Tianzi Mountain Nature Reserve – China
This breathtaking nature reserve is located in the Wulingyuan Scenic and Historic Interest Area of Zhangjiajie City, Hunan Province, China. This area comprises over 3,100 quartzite sandstone pillars, varying in height from 40 to 200 meters (131 to 656 feet). Numerous trails throughout Tianzi Mountain allow visitors to see this magnificent landscape up close. The best time to visit Tianzi Mountain is during the fall, when its many deciduous trees turn into vibrant autumn hues.
Gaudi’s Park Guell – Spain
Park Guell in Barcelona, Spain, is an intriguing site offering unique photographic opportunities. Designed by the artist Gaudi, it is a prime example of Modernism architecture shaped in fantastical fashion with distinctive features such as the colorful ceramic tiled lizard fountain. Visitors are surrounded and captivated by splashes of bright color, fascinating shapes, and curved mosaics from the Park’s unusual aesthetic. These delightful details provide plenty of chances to capture an artistic shot, from vibrant flowers to winding pathways to mosaic dragon-headed benches and grand terraces with half-open undulating columns.
The Canals Of Amsterdam – Netherlands
The canals of Amsterdam are unique in that they provide visitors with some beautiful sights, perfect for taking pictures. Visitors can get up close and personal with the canals, allowing them to capture various angles and perspectives during their outing. The iconic architecture in some parts of the city jutting out over the canals provides a lovely contrast between nature and man-made structures, sure to make for an interesting photograph. Whether it be a gondola ride at dusk or a stroll along one of its many towpaths, the canals of Amsterdam offer a wide array of photo opportunities like no other.
Petra – Jordan
Petra in Jordan is one of the most iconic and breathtaking locations in the entire world, making it a must-visit spot for those seeking unique photo opportunities. The rock-cut architecture set against desert backdrops will take any photographer’s breath away. With its hand-carved sculptures, monolithic structures, and intricate detailing virtually untouched by time, Petra offers a one-of-a-kind opportunity to capture a truly unique image. Whether taking snapshots of the Treasury or Temple of Al Khazneh or admiring the Siq Canyon from above, Petra ensures that no photograph will be like another.
The Iguazu Falls – Between Argentina And Brazil
Look no further than the Iguazu Falls between Argentina and Brazil for unique photo opportunities. This location boasts cascading drops surrounded by lush jungle vegetation leading to its status as a UNESCO world heritage site. It is one of South America’s most captivating attractions due to its sheer scale, with nearly 700 smaller waterfalls among 275 cascades stretching more than 2 miles across the Brazil-Argentina border.
The Northern Lights
Seeing the ethereal and captivating Northern Lights is a once-in-a-lifetime experience that few people on Earth witness. It’s an incredible opportunity for photography enthusiasts from all around the world. The Northern Lights can be seen from certain parts of the northern hemisphere, including Alaska in the United States, Canada, Russia, Norway, and Iceland. These areas offer excellent opportunities for capturing one of nature’s greatest spectacles. Photographers have often been able to capture breathtaking shots of the colorful sky that adorn art galleries and calendars across the world. Capturing a photograph of the Northern Lights requires patience, as you might have to wait until December through March when they are most prominent.
Glass Beach – USA
Glass Beach in Fort Bragg, California, stands out as one of the world’s most interesting environmental success stories. Here, decades of garbage being thrown into the ocean has transformed into a beach scattered with colorful seaside gems. Shard by shard, eroded glass has become tumbled and softened by the waves and sun. These gorgeous art-like pieces add an eccentric layer of texture to the sand along this picturesque coastline.
The Fairy Pools On The Isle Of Skye – Scotland
Located on the Isle of Skye in Scotland, the Fairy Pools are a stunning collection of vivid blue pools and rivers surrounded by greenery and jagged mountain landscapes. This awe-inspiring scenery provides unusual photo opportunities for those seeking the perfect image of nature. Visitors travel from across the globe to take advantage of this dream-like setting, which showcases a kaleidoscope of colors that merge with the rolling hills and stunning cliffs of Scotland. From close-up macro shots to sweeping aerial views, photographers marvel at the range of pictures they can capture at these Fairy Pools – home to waterfalls, rock formations, and even some resident sea life.
Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park – Australia
The Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park, located in Northern Territory, Australia, is home to two iconic rock formations: Uluru (Ayers Rock) and Kata Tjuta (The Olgas). These two immense sandstone monoliths provide endless possibilities for photographers looking for unique perspectives on their subjects. The park also offers various trails depending on your experience level and guided tours with Aboriginal guides who can share stories about their culture with you while providing insight into their way of life in this ethereal landscape.
Conclusion
No matter where you travel, there will be plenty of incredible photo opportunities waiting for you. But if you really want to capture something special, Hunter Hobson suggests taking a closer look at some of the locations above. You can create a spectacular portfolio full of original photographs with careful planning and research.
