Some Favourite Photography Locations

Welcome to this photography location guide which outlines a number of great destinations across the USA and Europe visited over the years by Philip Preston for his photo portfolio. Whether you're a landscape photographer or a cityscape enthusiast, these locations will inspire and elevate your photographic journey. From the rugged beauty of America's national parks to the iconic skylines of Europe's historic cities, information is provided on a variety of locations that offer endless opportunities for capturing beautiful images.

The aim is to give a brief overview of each location for photographers of all levels, from professionals to passionate hobbyists. Understanding that the right location can make all the difference, we've compiled insights on some of the most picturesque spots that promise to enrich your portfolio. Discover hidden gems and well-known landmarks, complete with tips on the best times to visit, optimal shooting conditions, and unique perspectives that will help you capture each location's essence.

Whether you're seeking the serene landscapes of national parks or the vibrant energy of urban environments, our information is intended to help you make informed decisions about where to go and point your lens next. Embark on your photographic adventures with confidence, knowing that each destination you visit has the potential to transform your vision into captivating art.

Locations mentioned below are not presented in any particular order of preference, they are all wonderful locations for landscape or cityscape photographers, and ultimately, all are worth a visit. Further destinations and information will be added to the page over the coming weeks and months, so do check back occasionally to see what's new.

Mobius Arch, Alabama Hills, Lone Pine, California, USA

Location and Geology: Mobius Arch is a stunning natural arch located in the Alabama Hills, near Lone Pine, California, USA. The arch is part of the Alabama Hills National Scenic Area and is situated at an elevation of 4,677 feet (1,426 meters). The area is known for its unique rock formations, which are considered to be between 85 and 200 million years old, and have been shaped by natural weather processes, creating intricate formations that make the area so visually captivating to photographers and film makers alike.

Formation: The Mobius arch gets its name from its resemblance to a Möbius strip, a surface with only one side. Over millions of years, erosion and weathering have moulded the arched rock into its current shape. The arch's window is approximately 6.5 feet (2 meters) tall, which provides a perfect picture frame for Mount Whitney and the Sierra Nevada mountains in the background, as can be seen in the photograph above.

Popularity with Photographers and Filmmakers: Mobius Arch is a favorite among photographers and filmmakers due to its unique shape and the dramatic landscapes it frames. The arch's ability to frame Mount Whitney makes it an ideal spot for capturing breathtaking landscape shots. The Alabama Hills have also served as a backdrop for numerous Western films and TV shows over many decades, adding to its allure and historical significance, and in honour of that history, the dirt road that travels through the Alabama Hills is named Movie Road.

Photography Tips:

1. Timing: one of the main things to know about Alabama Hills is that the valley they are located in is flanked to the east and west by tall mountains, which makes photography during golden hour and blue hour times difficult for the sun doesn’t light the valley interior until after the best light has passed. However, there can be nice light on mountain peak backdrops, such as Mount Whitney, during early morning and late afternoon, so good photo opportunities are available at any time of day.

2. Composition: Experiment with different angles and perspectives to capture the arch's unique shape. Try including other rock formations or Mount Whitney in the background for added depth and interest. For other parts of the Alabama Hills, everything from wide landscapes to close up details of rocks and desert life are available to photograph.

3. Weather: Check the weather forecast before your trip. Clear skies provide nice lighting, but clouds can add more drama to your photographs.

4. Equipment: Bring a wide-angle lens if you want to capture Mount Whitney viewed through the Mobius Arch, but a telephoto lens in the 70-200mm range will also be useful for getting closer details like mountain peaks as they are caught by early morning or late afternoon light. While many photos can be taken hand held, a tripod for stability, especially during low-light conditions or long exposure times, will be helpful.

5. Patience: Be prepared to wait for the right moment. The area can be popular, so you might need to wait for other visitors to clear out to get your perfect shot.

Whether you're an avid photographer or just looking to enjoy the natural beauty of the Alabama Hills, Mobius Arch is a must-visit destination. Its unique geological features and stunning vistas make it a perfect spot for capturing memories that will last a lifetime.

Hemispheric Building, City Of Arts And Sciences, Valencia, Spain

Location: The Hemispheric Building (Hemisfèric) was completed in 1998 and is part of the City of Arts and Sciences in Valencia, Spain. Designed by the renowned Spanish and local Valencia architect Santiago Calatrava, this futuristic structure resembles a giant human eye, symbolizing wisdom and observation. The building is located at Av. del Professor Lopez Pinero, 3, Valencia, Spain.

Purpose of the City of Arts and Sciences: The City of Arts and Sciences is a cultural and architectural complex that serves as a major modern tourist destination in Valencia. It houses various attractions, including an IMAX cinema, a planetarium, a laserium, and a science museum, all designed to educate and entertain visitors through innovative and interactive exhibits. Hemispheric was the first building in the City of Arts and Sciences to open to the visiting public.

Why Photographers Love It: Photographers are drawn to Hemispheric, and other buildings in the City Of Arts and Sciences, for its unique modern architectural designs, striking reflections on surrounding water, and the way it interacts with natural light. The Hemispheric building's resemblance to an eye and its use of hydraulic lifts to open and close the "eyelid" create captivating visual opportunities.

Tips for Photographing Hemispheric And City of Arts and Sciences.

1. Visit During Golden Hours: Sunrise and sunset can provide nice photographic opportunities when the light is soft and warm, but essentially, there are opportunities to get good photographs at any time of the day at this location. Use clear blue skies during daytime as backdrops to the sleek architectural shapes of these amazing buildings. Move around to observe different angles and watch out for direction of the sun (when its shining) to maximise your use of the best lighting opportunities available at the time.

2. Use Reflections: Capture the Hemispheric building's reflection on the water for a nice effect, and you could also use neutral density filters if you have a tripod to smooth out the water for a soft silky fine art look to your photographs.

3. Experiment with Angles: Try different angles and perspectives to highlight the building's unique features, such as the "eyelid" and the ovoid roof.

4. Include the Surroundings: Incorporate elements of the surrounding park and water features to add context and depth to your photos. But be aware, the City of Arts and Sciences is a popular tourist destination for Valencia, so you might have to be patient while people move out of your composition. Including people in architectural compositions can be a useful though as a way to add dimensions of scale to the buildings, so you might want to include people for some photographs.

5. Night Photography: The building is beautifully lit at night, so don't miss the opportunity to capture its illuminated facade. If you don't have a tripod for long exposure night photographs, you could also stand your camera on the small height wall that retains the water around the building. I used this along with a small table top tripod when taking some evening time photographs.

By following these tips, you can create visually striking images that showcase the architectural marvel of the Hemispheric Building and the innovative spirit of the City of Arts and Sciences.

Tip: See my blog post on table top tripods which includes night time photography at the City of Arts and Sciences, Valencia.

Oxbow Bend Overlook, Moran, Wyoming, USA

Location and Geology: Oxbow Bend Overlook is located along Highway 89/191 between Jackson Lake Junction and Moran Junction in Grand Teton National Park, Wyoming. This scenic overlook offers breathtaking views of the Snake River winding through the park, with the majestic Teton Range in the background. The area is characterized by its unique oxbow formation, where the river has created a crescent-shaped bend over time due to erosion and sediment deposits. This geological feature, combined with the stunning natural beauty, makes it a popular spot for photographers, in fact, Oxbow Bend is the most photographed location in the Grand Teton National Park, and the iconic view of Snake River with Mount Moran's reflection is the most recognized image of the area.

Why Photographers Love It: Oxbow Bend Overlook is a favorite among photographers for several reasons. The serene beauty of the Snake River, the reflection of Mount Moran on calm days, and the vibrant fall colours make it an ideal location for capturing stunning landscape shots (see 4 examples below). Additionally, the area is home to a variety of wildlife, including moose, elk, bald eagles, and even grizzly bears, providing ample opportunities for wildlife photography.

Photography Tips:

1. Timing: Visit during sunrise or sunset for the best lighting conditions. The soft, golden light during these times can enhance the natural beauty of the landscape.

2. Weather: Keep an eye on the weather forecast. Clear skies can provide stunning reflections on the water, while clouds can add drama to your shots.

3. Equipment: Bring a tripod for stability, especially during low light conditions. A wide-angle lens can capture the vastness of the landscape, while a telephoto lens is great for wildlife shots and bringing mountain peaks closer into view.

4. Patience: Landscape and wildlife photography requires patience. Spend some time at the overlook, and you might be rewarded with sightings of animals, or beautiful lighting suddenly appearing on the landscape as the sunshine breaks through clouds in the sky.

5. Respect Nature: Always maintain a safe distance from wildlife and follow park regulations to ensure the protection of the natural environment.

Oxbow Bend Overlook is truly a gem for photographers, offering a perfect blend of natural beauty and wildlife. Whether you're an amateur or a professional, this location is sure to provide you with memorable shots.

The Shard Building, South Bank, London, UK

The Shard, also known as the London Bridge Tower, is a striking 72-storey skyscraper located at 32 London Bridge Street, London SE1 9SG. Designed by the renowned Italian architect Renzo Piano, this pyramidal glass structure stands at an impressive 309.6 meters (1,016 feet), making it the tallest building in the United Kingdom. The Shard's design was inspired by a shard of glass, reflecting light in captivating ways and creating a stunning visual effect.

Surrounding Architecture: The Shard is situated in the bustling borough of Southwark, surrounded by a mix of other historic and modern architecture. Nearby landmarks include the Tower Bridge, Southwark Cathedral, and the Globe Theatre. The area also features contemporary buildings like the Gherkin and the Cheesegrater, contributing to a diverse architectural landscape that offers plenty of photographic opportunities.

Why London is Popular for Photographers: London is a photographer's paradise due to its rich history, iconic landmarks, and vibrant cityscape. The city's blend of old and new architecture, from medieval churches to modern skyscrapers, provides endless inspiration. Additionally, London's diverse neighborhood's, bustling markets, and picturesque parks offer a variety of subjects and settings for photographers of all genre's.

Tips for Photographing The Shard:

1. Timing: Capture the Shard during golden hour (shortly after sunrise or before sunset) for the best natural lighting and stunning reflections.

2. Perspective: Experiment with different angles and perspectives to showcase the Shard's height and unique design. Try shooting from nearby bridges, rooftops, or even from the river.

3. Foreground Elements: Incorporate interesting foreground elements, such as people, boats, or nearby landmarks, to add depth and context to your photos.

4. Night Photography: The Shard is beautifully illuminated at night, making it a perfect subject for long-exposure shots. Use a tripod and a slow shutter speed to capture the city lights and reflections.

5. Weather Conditions: Overcast days can provide soft, even lighting, while clear skies offer dramatic contrasts. Be prepared to adapt to changing weather conditions.

6. Tripods: The View area inside The Shard allows visitors to bring hand-held cameras and video equipment for personal, non-commercial use, but tripods and monopods are not permitted.

Photographing The Shard offers a unique opportunity to capture the essence of London's dynamic skyline. With its striking architecture and prime location, it's a must-visit spot for any photography enthusiast.

Tip: see my photography blog on popular photography locations in London, which gives additional information on the location for photographing The Shard as seen above.

Eryri / Snowdonia National Park, Gwynedd, Wales, UK

Location and Mountain Ranges: Snowdonia National Park, located in northwestern Wales, is a region of stunning natural beauty and diverse landscapes. The park covers an area of approximately 823 square miles (2,130 square kilometers) and is home to some of the most dramatic scenery in the UK. It includes the Snowdon Massif, with Mount Snowdon (Yr Wyddfa) standing as the highest peak in Wales at 3,560 feet (1,085 meters). The park's mountain ranges include the Carneddau, the Glyderau, and the Moelwynion, each offering unique and rugged terrain.

Types of Landscape: Snowdonia boasts a variety of landscapes, from towering mountains and deep valleys to serene lakes and lush forests. The park features glacially-carved valleys, cascading waterfalls, and pristine lakes like Llyn Llydaw and Llyn Tegid. Coastal areas, such as the Mawddach Estuary and Dwyryd Estuary, provide beautiful seascapes and wetlands teeming with wildlife. This rich diversity of landscapes makes Snowdonia a haven for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.

Why Snowdonia is Popular for Photographers: Photographers are drawn to Snowdonia for its breathtaking vistas and ever-changing light. The park's combination of rugged mountains, tranquil lakes, and dense forests offers endless opportunities for capturing stunning landscapes. The natural beauty of Snowdonia is complemented by its rich cultural heritage, with ancient castles, traditional Welsh villages, and historic sites adding depth to photographic compositions. Whether you're interested in landscape photography, wildlife, or capturing the essence of Welsh culture, Snowdonia provides an ideal setting.

Photography Tips:

1. Golden Hours: The best times to photograph Snowdonia are during sunrise and sunset when the light is soft and golden. These times enhance the natural beauty of the landscape and create dramatic shadows.

2. Weather: Be prepared for rapidly changing weather conditions. Mist and fog can add a mystical quality to your photos, while clear days offer expansive views of the mountains and valleys.

3. Wide-Angle Lenses: Use a wide-angle lens to capture the vastness of the landscape and include both foreground and background elements for depth and interest.

4. Foreground Interest: Incorporate elements like rocks, trees, or streams in the foreground to create a sense of scale and lead the viewer's eye into the scene.

5. Patience and Timing: Spend time exploring different locations and be patient for the right moment. The perfect light or an unexpected wildlife sighting can make all the difference in your photos.

Snowdonia National Park is a treasure trove of photographic opportunities. With its diverse landscapes and rich cultural heritage, it offers endless inspiration for photographers seeking to capture the beauty of Wales.