15 Places in the World That Every Landscape Photographer Has to Visit
Are you looking for inspiration for your next landscape photography trip? There are some places in the world that are just made for your camera. The key to bringing home a stunning portfolio of photos is to know where they are and what to photograph once you’re there.
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With so much to see in this world and so little time, it can be difficult to decide where you should go next. So here, we share with you our top 15 places in the world that you need to visit for landscape photography at least once in your lifetime.
#15 - Italian Dolomites
The Italian Dolomites is full of inspiring scenery. Photo by: 'Iceland Photo Tours'.
Italy is home to some incredible mountainous landscapes. In the north east, you’ll find the imposing mountain range of the Dolomites, where 18 jagged alpine peaks give way to pretty meadows, picturesque lakes and gorgeous, scenic valleys.
You can spend days, even weeks exploring in the Dolomites. Photo by: 'Iceland Photo Tours'.
At Val di Funes, you can expect to see green pastures tumbling at the foot of the mountains. For those wanting to get a bit closer, try hiking to the Tre Cime di Lavaredo, an amazing rock formation in the heart of the Dolomites that makes for stunning photographic opportunities. Other locations of note for landscape photographers include the blue waters of the Lago di Braies, the wooden huts and panoramic vistas of Alpe di Siusi, and Lago di Antorno with its glassy reflections of Tre Cime in the distance.
Join us on an 8-day photography workshop as we capture the incredible Dolomites mountain range!
- See also: Photography Tutorials
#14 - Bolivia
Bolivia has some unique scenery. Photo by: 'Iceland Photo Tours'.
This small but incredible country in South America is where you’ll find some of the most unique and spectacular scenery on Earth. This is where the imposing peaks of the Andes mountains come face to face with the Atacama desert and the lush paradise of the Amazon rainforest.
The Salar de Uyuni is Bolivia's most famous location for photography. Photo by: 'Iceland Photo Tours'.
Its best known wonder is Salar de Uyuni, the world’s largest salt flat. During the rainy season from January to March, the landscape here takes on a surrealism afforded by floods, which turns the salt flats into a giant mirror of reflections blending seamlessly with the sky.
Check out our 13-day photography workshop in Bolivia to explore the diverse nature and fascinating culture of this dynamic country.
#13 - China
China is a diverse place for landscape photography. Photo by: 'Iceland Photo Tours'.
It’s hard to know where to start with China. The country is so large and the opportunities for photography are so diverse that you’ll need to dedicate a large portion of time to be able to explore everything in detail.
Outside the megacity of Beijing with its bustling streetlife, you’ll find a plethora of beautiful places to visit. The Yellow Mountains are one of the most famous attractions in China, where the sun rises amidst a sea of clouds around mystical, rocky peaks. Meanwhile, the breathtaking pillars of Zhangjiajie National Forest Park are another must-see destination, while the layered Rainbow Mountains of Zhangye's Danxia region is a treasure trove of compositions for landscape photographers.
The rice terraces are one of the biggest attractions in China. Photo by: 'Iceland Photo Tours'.
Of course, no visit to China is complete without a photo or two of the astonishing Yuanyang terraced rice fields, which have been labelled as the most beautiful in the world. With so much on offer, it’s not hard to see why this spectacular country in Asia a popular photography location.
Discover the secrets of China on this 9-day photography workshop!
#12 - Scotland
Scotland is well-known for its fairytale atmosphere. Photo by: 'Iceland Photo Tours'.
Cascading waterfalls, rocky landslips, spectacular geological formations and charming castles are some of the many sights that make the Scottish Highlands such an incredible place for landscape photography.
One of the top locations to visit in Scotland is the Isle of Skye, where the rugged and dramatic countryside looks like something out of the Lord of the Rings. Here you’ll find photographic gems such as the Neist Point Lighthouse, enchanting Fairy Pools, Sligachan with the majestic Cuillin mountains in the background, astonishing views from Quiraing, the otherworldly landscape of Fairy Glen and the classic photography location that no one should miss – The Old Man of Storr.
Explore the storied land of Scotland on this brilliant 8-day photography workshop to the Isle of Skye and the Scottish Highlands.
#11 - France
The white horses of Camargue are a stunning sight to behold. Photo by: 'Iceland Photo Tours'.
Believe it or not, there is a lot to see in France besides the city of Paris! During summer, photographers from across the world make the journey to Provence, a beautiful region in the southeast of France that borders Italy and the Mediterranean Sea. The reason? To capture extraordinary lavender fields in full-bloom.
Valensole in Provence has been touted as one of the best places in the world to photograph lavender flowers. The sun-soaked commune features endless rows of purple blooms, as well as sunflowers, which make the perfect bakcdrop for portraits as well as landscape shots. Nearby, the local village of Aix en Provence provides a myriad of opportunities for street photography, with its maze of winding alleyways and colourful market scenes.
France is also home to some beautiful lavender fields. Photo by: 'Iceland Photo Tours'.
Another place to visit in France for photography is the UNESCO Biosphere Reserve of Camargue. Here you’ll be able to capture the famous ancient white horses of Camargue as they gallop across the wetlands, as well as a plethora of wildlife including pink flamingos and wild boars.
#10 - Tuscany
Tuscany is the home of rolling hills. Photo by: 'Iceland Photo Tours'.
There’s a good chance that Tuscany is already on the top ten list of places that most photographers want to go. That’s because the rolling hills of this region in central Italy make for picture-perfect postcard shots. The fields bloom with sunflowers during the months of June and July, though you’ll also find other types of flowers such as poppies at other times of the year.
Perhaps the most well-known location for landscape photography in the Tuscan countryside is the Val d’Orcia, which offers breathtaking views of the green hills and rustic farmhouses across the undulating landscape. Here you will find the famous Madonna di Vitaleta chapel, as well as the Garden of La Foce where rows of cypress trees zigzag around a road that leads into the gardens.
When you’ve had enough of photography, stop in one of the many villages for a glass of wine and to explore the history and art that make this region so popular for photographers and travellers alike.
Join us on a photography tour of the rolling green hills and steep alleyways of Tuscany!
#9 - Lofoten Islands
Northern Lights, ice and charming winter delights may be found in the Lofoten Islands. Photo by: 'Iceland Photo Tours'.
The Lofoten Islands are considered to be one of the most beautiful places in the world. Located above the Arctic Circle, this Norwegian archipelago is a great place to visit any time of the year, though you’ll be able to witness the Northern Lights if you travel between September and April.
Lofoten beaches are some of the most pristine in the world. Photo by: 'Iceland Photo Tours'.
The mountainous landscape with its rugged, snow capped peaks provides a stunning backdrop for photography, while deep fjords, pristine beaches and quaint fishing villages are nothing short of a photographer’s delight. Unmissable locations for photography include a view of the red fishing cabins from the Hamnøy Bridge, the tiny harbour of Nusfjord, the yellow village of Sakrisøy, as well as the charming village of Reine.
Discover this winter wonderland on a 7-day photo workshop to the Lofoten Islands.
#8 - Kamchatka
Kamchatka is Russia's hidden gem. Photo by: 'Iceland Photo Tours'.
The Russian Kamchatka peninsula is a wild and geologically active expanse where around 160 volcanoes flank the landscape. It is remote and largely unexplored, though the opportunities for photography here are endless.
This unexpectedly beautiful destination is known for its unspoiled nature, impressive scenery, steaming geysers, thermal hot springs and incredible wildlife including brown bears, fur seals, sea otters, whales and Arctic foxes. The region is also a habitat for a number of rare species of birds, such as the black brant, Steller’s eagle and the gyrfalcon.
The Mutnovsky volcano and ice cave is one of the biggest attractions in Kamchatka. Photo by: 'Iceland Photo Tours'.
Some of the top spots for photography in Kamchatka include the Mutnovsky volcano and ice cave, the Kurilskoye lake where bears fish for salmon, the volatile volcano range of Tolbachik, the Dead Forest within the UNESCO Klyuchevskoy Volcano Nature Park, as well as the extremely photogenic mega volcano Klyuchevksaya, which makes for a stunning backdrop to any landscape.
Immerse yourself in the rugged landscapes of Kamchatka on this 15-day photography tour!
#7 - Japan
Fushimi Inari shrine in Kyoto. Photo by: 'Iceland Photo Tours'.
Japan is one of the most popular travel destinations in the world and one that should be on every landscape photographer’s list of places to visit. The contrast between the heavily populated urban areas with the sprawling nature of the countryside is one that has to be witnessed to be believed.
Mount Fuji surrounded by autumn foliage. Photo by: 'Iceland Photo Tours'.
From the neon lights of Tokyo and Osaka to the peaceful temples and forested shrines of Kyoto, there is a lot in this island nation to keep you occupied. One of the more famous spots is the bustling Shibuya crossing, which also happens to be the busiest crosswalk in the world. However, if you’re looking for something a little more quiet, then there is nothing more relaxing than to explore the bamboo forests of Arashiyama. Other notable stops include the To-ji Temple at sunset, the popular Chureito Pagoda with Mt Fuji forming a glorious backdrop, as well as the stunning red gates of the incredible Fushimi Inari Shrine.
Join us on a 10-day photography tour in Japan, the Land of the Rising Sun.
#6 - Mongolia
Golden Eagle Hunters are on the decline in Mongolia. Photo by: 'Iceland Photo Tours'.
Once hidden from the rest of the world, Mongolia is quickly rising on the lists as a must-see travel photography destination. This amazing country with its endless blue skies is just waiting to be discovered. Its starkly rugged landscape is home to the almighty Altai mountains and nomadic tribes that roam across the breathtaking Gobi desert. What’s more is that the Mongolian people are very friendly and welcoming of guests, so prepare to be invited into their homes and immersed in their culture!
From capturing the colour and excitement of the traditional Golden Eagle Hunter Festival to getting up close and personal with portraits of the locals, you’ll find yourself completely enthralled by the ancient traditions in this wonderful part of Asia.
Capture the far-reaching landscapes of Mongolia on this 11-day photography tour!
#5 - Faroe Islands
The Faroe Islands is full of enchantment. Photo by: 'Iceland Photo Tours'.
The Faroe Islands are like something out of a long-lost fairytale. This mythical archipelago in the North Atlantic Ocean harbours some of the most dramatic scenery on the planet that is yet to be discovered by all the fanfare.
Expect to be confronted by breathtaking fjords, staggeringly beautiful mountains and wild, windswept coastlines, where waterfalls tumble from soaring cliffs straight into the ocean below. Interspersed amongst the majestic landscape are quaint villages, colourful lighthouses and historic buildings with turf roofs that date back to the Viking Age.
Waterfalls tumble straight into the ocean. Photo by: 'Iceland Photo Tours'.
The chance to photograph wildlife abounds, as the islands are teeming with sheep, puffins, skuas, fulmars and Arctic terns.
Experience the magic of this forgotten place. Come away with us on this 6-day photography workshop in the Faroe Islands.
#4 - Patagonia
Patagonia is a stunning area in South America, shared by Chile and Argentina. Photo by: 'Iceland Photo Tours'.
Patagonia, the southern section of South America that is shared by Chile and Argentina, is an absolute photographer’s paradise. The landscape is unforgettable, marked by spectacular mountain peaks, glaciers, windswept grassy steppes and glorious icefields. The soaring granite peaks of Los Cuernos loom in the distance, while the glacial Lake Pehoe sparkles with a luminescent blue hue – an enticing location for photographers on any given day. Other attractions include the massive Perrito Moreno Glacier, as well as the glorious mountains of Fitz Roy and Cerro Torre lit up by alpenglow during sunrise.
You can encounter mountains, glaciers, waterfalls and extraordinary wildlife in Patagonia. Photo by: 'Iceland Photo Tours'.
In the Torres del Paine National Park, you’ll find unique wildlife such as guanaco, puma and the South Andean deer. There are also hundreds of species of birds, making it a treasure trove for wildlife and nature photographers alike.
With magical light, extraordinary weather conditions and dramatic landscapes, Patagonia is certainly a landscape photography destination that is not to be missed.
Get off the beaten track with us on a summer photography adventure in Patagonia!
#3 - Lake Baikal
Lake Baikal is a massive freshwater lake that is perfect for photography when frozen. Photo by: 'Iceland Photo Tours'.
This massive, ancient freshwater lake in Russia is one of the clearest and deepest bodies of water in the world. It becomes incredibly special in winter, when the water freezes over to reveal stunning textures within the ice.
The opportunities for photography at Lake Baikal are endless, with many extraordinary capes and grottoes by the coastline taking on a life of their own during the winter months. Spectacular ice floes and ice caves dot the shores against a mountainous backdrop that stretches as far as the eye can see.
Sunrises and sunsets are particularly enchanting, when the frozen winter landscape is bathed in an ethereal light.
Take a winter photo tour of Lake Baikal!
#2 - Greenland
Red sails in Greenland. Photo by: 'Iceland Photo Tours'.
Greenland is home to some of the most pristine natural landscapes in the world and there is no better way to see them than by sailing through the Greenland Sea in summer, beneath the golden glow of the Midnight Sun. Along the way, you’ll likely pass colossal icebergs of magnificent shapes and sizes, explore remote Inuit settlements on the coastline and have the chance to glimpse Arctic wildlife such as sea eagles, walruses, seals, whales, musk oxen and polar bears.
Whales, birds and other marine life may be seen in Greenland. Photo by: 'Iceland Photo Tours'.
One of the most magical places for landscape photography in Greenland is Scoresby Sound. Lying off the east coast, this is where huge icebergs drift through the still waters on a backdrop of mountains and glaciers. Meanwhile in west Greenland, Disko Bay offers further opportunities to capture amazing landscapes and awe-inspiring icebergs in the spectacular icefjord of Ilulissat.
Sail around icebergs beneath the Midnight Sun in Greenland on this summer photography workshop.
- See also: Wildlife Photography
#1 - Antarctica
Antarctica is one of the last frontiers on Earth for landscape photography. Photo by: 'Iceland Photo Tours'.
It’s one of the last frontiers on Earth that is yet to be explored in-depth. Antarctica, the southernmost continent and home of the South Pole, is as remote and exhilarating as you can get.
The crossing from South America will have you sailing through the Drake Passage, notorious for being the world’s roughest seas. This dramatic crossing will culminate in one of the most unforgettable experiences of your life as the frozen beauty of Antarctica comes into view.
Seals, penguins, whales and seabirds are only some of the variety of wildlife that you can expect to encounter. Photo by: 'Iceland Photo Tours'.
Colossal icebergs, penguin colonies, seals, historic huts, whales and seabirds will awaken the explorer within you. Zodiac landings make it possible to get closer to the wildlife onshore.
Join world-renowned landscape photographer Daniel Kordan on an Antarctica Photography Expedition in 2021!
About the author: Serena Dzenis is a landscape photographer based in Iceland. You can find more of her work on her website or by following her on Facebook and Instagram.
Are there any amazing places that you’d add to this list? What are your top destinations for landscape photography? Share them with us in the comments below!
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