There are many reasons why a person might book a vacation. Perhaps it's to get away from an ordinarily mundane routine such as a nine-to-five job coupled with some relatively boring free time. Or perhaps it's to get a tan and sip exotic drinks poolside at a top-rated resort. Or, maybe, it's to explore a remote land and immerse oneself in the culture of a country. Another reason, however, could simply be that they're looking to capture a destination's beauty in all of its rawness.
Travel photography is no longer solely a professional hobby. While there are many out there who have made a career out of it and garnered great respect for their skill, there are amateur photographers who have also made it their goal to see the world through a camera lens. With the advancements that social media has made it seems that every phone is now equipped with an unbelievable camera, making it even easier to find that perfect shot. Therefore, to anyone who enjoys photography - professional or not - the world has become an oyster for that once-in-a-lifetime landscape, starting with these destinations.
The Grand Canyon
Believe it or not, this popular tourist attraction isn't just a popular destination for families and those interested in rock formations. The Grand Canyon seems to exude its own magic depending on which time of the day one visits, and it's a treat to capture this on camera. From its one-of-a-kind sunsets to the many wonderous astronomical events that can be recorded at night, this is a photographer's heaven.
Iceland
There is no shortage of landscapes to capture on camera in Iceland. This northern country has it all from humbling waterfalls to fjords that make us feel as though we've just entered Arendelle. Its landscape is stunning any time of day and its unique time zone allows for the 'midnight sun' which means more daylight to capture all of these magnificent sights. When it does get dark out, the sky lights up with more stars than you've likely ever seen in your life.
Thailand's Many Beaches
Thailand has had some issues with its more popular beaches becoming overrun with tourists but that doesn't mean they're not worth seeing. There's a reason for this and it's due to the fact that this country's beaches are some of the most beautiful in the world. Framed by enormous cliffsides that meet crystalline waters and flawless sandy shores, it's the only place in the world that showcases beaches as it does.
The Temples Of Kyoto
It's true that many people opt to visit Tokyo over any other location in Japan but Kyoto is a popular second, and it's certainly not due to a city life atmosphere. Kyoto is the opposite of Tokyo, featuring historic charm and beauty that has been steeped in tradition for a very long time now. The temples and forests of Kyoto are all part of its history and it's at these locations that photographers appreciate its natural beauty.
South Africa's Untamed Landscape
Going on safari in South Africa is one thing but being able to capture its wildest terrains is something truly special. Visitors are guarantee to witness anything from a lion takedown to a great white shooting up and out of the sea while they're on any number of tours in this country, and it's definitely not for the faint of heart. However, a quick photographer could capture all of these things in all of their glory, which is part of the thrill of visiting a destination such as this.
New Zealand
Similar to Iceland's landscape, New Zealand also offers natural beauty unlike any other in the world. Much of the country is still left rural, which is something photographers love about it. From snowcapped mountain ranges to lakes that seem to span forever, and all the wildlife that calls it 'home,' New Zealand is one of the most popular destinations for landscape photographers, any time of the year.
Peru's Many Colorful Deserts
Sometimes, color is what draws the human eye in. The many colorful deserts of Peru are breathtaking both in person as well as in photographs which is why so many people strive to experience it in-person. For photographers, there's something about these colorful landscapes that opens up so many options and avenues for both photo editing as well as unique vantage points.
Jordan's Historic Landmarks
When history and photography unite, destinations such as Jordan become havens for photographers. One of the most popular destinations in Jordan is Petra, which is one of the seven wonders of the world, but the Wadi Rum desert and the Dead Sea are also incredible landscapes to commit to film.