Capturing Beauty: Top Five Vacation Destinations for Amateur Photographers

Juliet Weller
12 minutes ago
4 min read

Eye-level view of a colorful street in Chefchaouen, Morocco — Chefchaouen, Morocco, perfect for capturing vivid colors and textures

Finding the right vacation spot can transform your photography hobby (and your vacation) into an unforgettable experience.

For amateur photographers, the ideal destination is one that offers stunning scenes, accessible locations, and diverse subjects on which to practice different techniques.

The possibilities are countless, you will agree. How will you choose?

This guide highlights five locations that combine natural beauty, unique culture, and photographic opportunities that are perfect for those still building their skills.

Capturing Beauty in Travel: Five Must-Visit Destinations for Amateur Photographers

Chefchaouen, Morocco – The Blue Pearl

Chefchaouen is famous for its striking blue-painted buildings and narrow alleys. This small town offers a rich palette of blues contrasted with earthy tones, making it a playground for photographers who want to experiment with color and composition.

Why it’s great for amateurs: The town’s compact size means you can explore on foot, finding countless photo spots without needing advanced planning or equipment.
What to capture: Focus on the interplay of light and shadow in the alleys, vibrant doorways, and local markets filled with colorful textiles and pottery.
Tips: Visit early in the morning or late afternoon for soft, diffused light that enhances the blue hues without harsh shadows.

Santorini, Greece – Iconic Sunsets and Architecture

There is no way to NOT include Santorini’s whitewashed buildings with blue domes perched on cliffs overlooking the Aegean Sea. They create a postcard-perfect setting.

The island’s dramatic landscapes and sunsets offer a variety of subjects for photographers.

Why it’s great for amateurs: The island’s well-known views are easy to access, and the contrast between the white buildings and deep blue sea helps beginners understand color balance.
What to capture: Try wide-angle shots of the caldera, close-ups of architectural details, and the famous sunset from Oia village.
Tips: Use a tripod for sunset shots to avoid blur in low light. Experiment with framing to include both the sky and sea for depth.

Wide angle view of Santorini’s white buildings and blue sea — Santorini’s cliffside village

Banff National Park, Canada – Majestic Mountains and Lakes

For those who love nature photography, Banff National Park offers stunning mountain ranges, crystal-clear lakes, and abundant wildlife. The park’s diverse landscapes provide endless opportunities to practice different photography styles.

Why it’s great for amateurs: Well-marked trails and accessible viewpoints make it easy to find great shots without needing advanced hiking skills.
What to capture: Reflections in Lake Louise, the lake's stunning turquoise hue, the rugged peaks of the Rockies, and wildlife like elk or birds.
Tips: Early morning is best for calm water reflections and soft light. Use a polarizing filter to reduce glare on water and enhance colors.

Kyoto, Japan – Timeless Temples and Gardens

Kyoto blends traditional Japanese culture with natural beauty. Its temples, shrines, and gardens offer peaceful scenes that are ideal for practicing composition and capturing serene moments.

Why it’s great for amateurs: Many sites are easy to reach and provide a variety of subjects, from architecture to seasonal flowers.
What to capture: The red torii gates of Fushimi Inari Shrine, the golden pavilion of Kinkaku-ji, and cherry blossoms or autumn leaves depending on the season.
Tips: Use leading lines created by pathways or gates to draw the viewer’s eye. Visit during off-peak hours to avoid crowds in your shots.

Iceland – Dramatic Landscapes and Northern Lights

Iceland’s otherworldly landscapes include waterfalls, glaciers, volcanic fields, and geothermal springs. For amateur photographers ready to explore nature’s extremes, Iceland offers dramatic scenes that challenge and inspire.

Why it’s great for amateurs: Many iconic locations are accessible by car, and the variety of landscapes encourages experimenting with different settings.
What to capture: Waterfalls like Seljalandsfoss, black sand beaches at Reynisfjara, and if visiting in winter, the Northern Lights.
Tips: Bring weatherproof gear and dress warmly. Use long exposure techniques for waterfalls and night photography to capture the aurora.

Majestic waterfall cascades between mossy green cliffs, with mist rising and a river flowing beneath a cloudy sky, creating a serene scene. — Seljalandsfoss waterfall, Iceland

Final Thoughts on Vacations for Photographers

Choosing a vacation spot that offers both beauty and accessibility can make a huge difference for amateur photographers.

These five destinations provide diverse environments to practice and improve your skills while enjoying memorable travel experiences.

Whether you prefer vibrant city streets, serene nature, or dramatic landscapes, each location invites you to explore photography in a way that fits your pace and interests.

I could go on. Or rather I wish I could go on. As a former amateur photographer myself (who has the time???), writing this article took me back to that era of my life.

I cannot take credit for any of the photos I used here; instead I will give them credit for two things - making me want to travel, and making me want to unearth my equipment from wherever I have stashed it.

Maybe I'll write on this topic again, adding other destinations. Maybe you can tell me your hobby and I can tell you where the ideal places are to experience your interest in a new way.

If this article inspires your travels (with or without camera bag in tow), let's talk about the destination(s) that are calling your name.

Let's find those places that everyone isn't looking for on Google.

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