Why 2025 is the Year for Photography Travel
In this guide, we’ll delve into the best photography tours in 2025, providing insider tips, expert techniques, and essential information to make this your most rewarding year of photography.
Iconic Locations Await
Imagine exploring the globe’s most awe-inspiring destinations, camera in hand, capturing moments that narrate potent stories. From the heart-pounding action of Kenya’s Great Migration to the mesmerising glow of Iceland’s northern lights, 2025 is an extraordinary year for photographers who are seeking to elevate their craft and create lasting memories.
Join us to uncover the world’s most iconic locations, rich with stories waiting to be told through your lens.
Best Photography Tours 2025
Table of Contents
Kenya’s Maasai Mara – The Great Migration
A Life-and-Death Drama in the Savannah
The Maasai Mara is undeniably the ultimate stage for nature’s most awe-inspiring spectacles—the Great Migration. Therefore, it stands out as one of the highlights of the best photography tours in 2025.
Capture Wildlife in Action
Each year, over 1.5 million wildebeests, zebras, and gazelles embark on a relentless journey through the Mara’s vast golden savannahs, driven by instinct and the search for greener pastures. To keep track of their movements, you can rely on interactive tools like the Discover Africa Migration Map. This isn’t just a migration; rather, it’s a life-and-death drama. Meanwhile, predators like lions, cheetahs, and crocodiles lie in wait, thereby turning the migration into breathtaking moments that showcase raw survival and the circle of life. Consequently, it’s an unparalleled opportunity for wildlife photographers to capture nature’s power and resilience.
For those seeking more information
The Kenya Wildlife Service offers detailed insights into the Maasai Mara and beyond. Additionally, conservation efforts led by organisations like the Mara Conservancy are vital to preserving this incredible ecosystem. These initiatives ensure that photographers and travellers alike can continue to experience the wonder of the Great Migration for years to come.
Mesmerising Landscapes of the Maasai Mara
A Photographer’s Dream
However, the migration is about more than just the animals—it’s also about the Mara’s mesmerising landscapes. Picture yourself standing under a fiery orange sky at sunrise, with a camera in hand, as thousands of wildebeests thunder across the Mara River. The mist rises gently from the water, refracting the golden light, while chaos unfolds below with splashing hooves and the ever-present threat of predators lurking nearby. This isn’t just photography—it’s witnessing the essence of wild Africa.
Pro Tips for Capturing the Migration
Gear Essentials
Telephoto Lens (400mm or More):
A telephoto lens is indispensable for isolating dramatic subjects, such as predators stalking their prey or the intense moment a wildebeest leaps into the Mara River. This gear helps you capture tight, impactful shots with stunning detail.
Wide-Angle Lens (16–35mm):
A wide-angle lens is perfect for showcasing the grandeur of the Maasai Mara. It allows you to capture sweeping savannahs and the breathtaking scale of the migration as herds move in perfect harmony across the plains.
Additional Must-Haves:
- A sturdy tripod ensures stability for low-light shots during golden hour.
- Pack extra batteries to power through long days in the field.
- Bring high-capacity memory cards to handle the rapid-fire images you’ll take during burst shooting.
Shoot in Burst Mode
Wildlife is unpredictable and fast-paced, making burst mode your best friend. Set your camera to capture rapid sequences of shots, ensuring you don’t miss key moments—like a wildebeest mid-leap or a crocodile launching its powerful strike. This technique gives you more frames to choose from, increasing your chances of getting the perfect shot.
Anticipate Behaviour
Patience and observation are the cornerstones of excellent wildlife photography. Spend time studying the movements and interactions of animals before clicking the shutter. Learn to read subtle cues, such as a predator’s intent gaze or a wildebeest’s hesitation at a riverbank. Anticipating action allows you to be ready for the split-second moments that define a great photograph.
Additional Tips
Golden Hour Advantage:
Plan your sessions around sunrise or sunset to take advantage of soft, golden light. This time of day creates dramatic contrast and adds a warm, atmospheric glow to your photos.
Strategic Positioning:
Work closely with your guide to position yourself for the best vantage points. Whether it’s a river crossing or a panoramic ridge overlooking the plains, the right spot can transform your composition.
Respect Wildlife:
Always maintain a safe and respectful distance from animals to ensure ethical photography and minimal disturbance to their natural behaviours.
With these tips and the right gear, you’ll be ready to capture unforgettable images that highlight the Maasai Mara’s raw beauty and iconic Great Migration.
When To Go
- The best time to visit Kenya’s Maasai Mara is during the peak migration season, which runs from July to October. During this period, dramatic river crossings occur, offering photographers unparalleled opportunities to capture the intensity of survival in the wild. To make the most of your trip, plan your shoots for early mornings and late afternoons. These times offer the most striking images, with soft golden light bathing the landscape, thereby giving your photos a painterly, ethereal quality.
- Our small-group tours are meticulously crafted to give you a unique advantage. You’ll gain exclusive access to private photography hides and benefit from the expert guidance of seasoned photographers. Whether it’s capturing a lioness mid-hunt or the intricate patterns of a wildebeest herd, our team ensures that you’re always in the right place at the right time to create extraordinary images that tell powerful stories.
Explore Our Kenya Tour
Ready to capture the Great Migration like a pro? Join our small-group tours to experience the drama and beauty of Kenya’s Maasai Mara. Let us help you turn your photography dreams into reality.
Uganda – Gorilla Trekking and Wildlife Photography
An Encounter Like No Other
Few experiences in wildlife photography rival the intensity of locking eyes with a mountain gorilla in its natural habitat—a defining moment on the best photography tours in 2025. These encounters are not just about photography; instead, they’re about connection. Standing just a few meters away from a towering silverback or watching a baby gorilla cling to its mother’s back offers a humbling and emotional experience that words and pictures can barely capture.
Biodiversity Beyond Gorillas
Nestled in Uganda’s lush, mist-covered forests, this adventure immerses you in one of the most biodiverse regions on the planet. The Bwindi Impenetrable National Park and Mgahinga Gorilla National Park, both UNESCO World Heritage sites, teem with life. For instance, you’ll find gorillas, a symphony of vibrant birdlife, rare butterflies, and playful chimpanzees swinging through the treetops.
A Symphony of Life
To plan your visit effectively, the Uganda Wildlife Authority is an essential resource for details on permits, gorilla tracking, and park regulations. Moreover, the UNESCO Bwindi Forest Information provides deeper insights into the park’s World Heritage status. By familiarising yourself with these guidelines, you’ll ensure a respectful and ethical experience in these protected areas.
The dense forest landscape feels like stepping into another world—untouched by time, filled with emerald green hues and dappled sunlight filtering through the thick canopy. Every step along the forest trails is an opportunity for discovery, whether spotting a rare species of orchid or capturing the vivid colours of a great blue turaco in flight. Ultimately, this isn’t just a photography tour—it’s a once-in-a-lifetime journey into the heart of nature’s sanctuary.
When To Go
- The best times to visit are January–February and June–September, during Uganda’s dry seasons. During these months, the trails are less muddy, making trekking easier and increasing the chances of capturing clear, sharp images of gorillas and the forest’s vibrant wildlife.
- Our tours are designed to give you more than a surface-level experience. You’ll trek alongside expert local guides who intimately understand the forests and the wildlife within them. Their knowledge ensures you can capture stunning, intimate shots of gorillas in their natural habitat. In addition, we provide personalised coaching tailored to the challenging environment. From managing low-light conditions under the dense forest canopy to composing impactful wildlife shots, our team ensures you leave with exceptional photographs and valuable skills.
Pro Tips for Gorilla Photography
Know Your Gear
Fast Lens:
A lens with a wide aperture (f/2.8 or faster) is crucial for working under the dim, dappled lighting of the forest canopy. This feature allows more light into your camera, ensuring sharp and well-exposed images, even in challenging conditions.
Zoom Capability:
A versatile zoom lens, such as a 70–200mm, provides flexibility for intimate portraits and wider environmental shots. As a result, you won’t need to change lenses mid-trek, saving time and ensuring you don’t miss key moments.
Stable Shots:
Bring a monopod for low-light stability while remaining mobile on uneven forest trails. This tool offers the support you need without sacrificing agility.
Respect the Distance
Always maintain a minimum distance of 7 metres (23 feet) from the gorillas. Not only does this safeguard their health by minimising the risk of transmitting human diseases, but it also ensures they remain comfortable in their natural habitat. In the end, ethical photography enhances both your experience and theirs.
Focus on Emotion
Capture Intensity: Look for the depth in their eyes—a silverback’s commanding gaze or a young gorilla’s playful curiosity can tell powerful, moving stories.
Document Interaction: Seek out moments that showcase their social bonds, such as a mother grooming her infant or a group huddled together. These interactions reveal the familial dynamics and intimacy of their world.
Use Depth of Field: Experiment with a shallow depth of field to isolate your subjects, thereby drawing attention to their expressions while softly blurring the textured forest backdrop.
Additional Tips
Shoot in Burst Mode: Gorillas are rarely still, so set your camera to burst mode. This ensures you capture a sequence of moments, from fleeting gestures to expressive movements, allowing you to select the best frames later.
- Blend In: Wear neutral clothing to avoid distracting the wildlife or disrupting the natural scene. Subtle colours help you become part of the environment, ensuring more authentic captures.
Prepare for the Trek: The trek can be physically demanding. Equip yourself with sturdy boots for navigating rugged terrain, and carry weatherproof gear to protect your camera equipment from the unpredictable forest climate. By mastering these tips and techniques, you’ll elevate your gorilla photography to a professional level while ensuring an ethical and memorable experience.
Discover Our Gorilla Trekking Adventure And Other Best Photography Tours 2025
Ready to connect with nature on a profound level? Join our Uganda tours for an unforgettable photography experience. This is one of the best photography tours in 2025.
Iceland – Chasing the Aurora
Auroras and Otherworldly Landscapes
Iceland is truly a playground for photographers, offering an unparalleled canvas of dramatic landscapes, cascading waterfalls, volcanic terrain, and the ethereal glow of the northern lights. Moreover, its ever-changing weather and unique light conditions create endless opportunities for breathtaking shots at every turn.
For up-to-date information
Use the NOAA Aurora Forecast, an invaluable tool for planning your northern lights photography sessions.
Hidden Gems Await
Imagine the aurora borealis dancing across the night sky, casting vivid green, purple, and pink hues above a sprawling glacier. Additionally, these celestial lights are often perfectly mirrored in the still waters of a serene lake, creating a composition that feels utterly otherworldly.
If you’re exploring Iceland for the first time, the Guide to Iceland’s Photography Spots offers an in-depth overview of must-visit locations. From iconic black sand beaches and jagged icebergs at Jökulsárlón to hidden gems waiting to be captured, this guide ensures you make the most of your trip.
When To Go
- Visit Iceland between September and March for the best chances of witnessing the mesmerising northern lights. During this period, Iceland transforms into a winter wonderland, offering unique landscapes that become a photographer’s paradise, with snow-capped mountains, frozen waterfalls, and crystal-clear ice caves.
- Our tours are meticulously designed to provide an unparalleled experience. We take you to off-the-beaten-path locations, far away from the crowds, ensuring uninterrupted views of the aurora borealis in full glory. With private transportation, expert guidance, and hands-on tips for perfecting your long-exposure shots, you’ll have everything you need to create breathtaking images that truly capture the magic of Iceland’s winters.
Pro Tips for Aurora Photography
Use the Right Settings
To capture the northern lights effectively, it’s crucial to adjust your camera settings carefully.
ISO Settings:
First, keep your ISO between 400–800. This setting helps reduce noise while maintaining image quality, ensuring your shots are both clean and vibrant.
Aperture:
Next, use a wide aperture (f/2.8 or faster). This setting lets in as much light as possible, which is essential for capturing the aurora’s vivid colours in low-light conditions.
Shutter Speed:
Additionally, set your shutter speed between 10 and 20 seconds. This range balances exposure without over-blurring the aurora’s movement. However, don’t hesitate to experiment with different durations depending on the brightness and speed of the lights.
Bring a Tripod:
Long-exposure photography demands absolute stability to avoid blurry images. Therefore, a sturdy tripod is indispensable for keeping your camera still during those critical seconds. If you plan to hike to remote locations, consider a lightweight yet durable option for ease of travel.
Scout During the Day
Before shooting at night, take the time to explore your chosen location during daylight hours. This will allow you to identify interesting foreground elements, such as glaciers, lakes, or volcanic rock formations, which can significantly enhance your composition. Furthermore, take note of potential hazards, safe paths, and the best angles to ensure smooth shooting once darkness falls.
Additional Tips
- Manual Focus:
Switch to manual focus and set your lens to infinity. This adjustment ensures sharp, detailed shots of the stars and aurora. Dress Warmly:
Since Icelandic nights can be freezing, it’s essential to wear insulated layers, gloves, and sturdy boots to stay comfortable during long shooting sessions.Bring Spare Batteries:
Keep in mind that cold weather drains batteries quickly, so pack extras to avoid running out of power mid-shoot.Use a Remote Shutter Release:
To minimise vibrations, use a remote trigger or your camera’s timer function. This small adjustment can make a big difference in ensuring sharp, crisp images.
By combining these settings and preparations, you’ll be well-equipped to capture the magical beauty of Iceland’s aurora-filled skies.
Join Our Iceland Tour - One Of The Best Photography Tours 2025
Witness the northern lights and explore Iceland’s stunning landscapes. Secure your spot on our aurora-chasing tours.
Italy – The Streets of Rome and Pompeii
History and Timeless Beauty
When To Go
- Visit in spring or autumn for mild weather, fewer crowds, and soft lighting that enhances landscapes and street scenes. Additionally, these seasons provide a more authentic experience of local life, allowing photographers to avoid the tourist rush and capture moments that feel more intimate.
- Our tours offer exclusive access to lesser-known spots, allowing you to escape the tourist-heavy areas and focus on photographing Italy’s authentic charm. Consequently, you can create unique and intimate images, whether it’s a quiet piazza, a hidden alleyway, or a local market.
Pro Tips for Urban and Architectural Photography
Use Leading Lines
For dynamic compositions, incorporate natural and architectural lines—such as streets, stairs, archways, or colonnades—to guide the viewer’s eye through the frame. For instance, in Rome, the curves of the Colosseum or the narrow alleys of Trastevere offer perfect opportunities for creating depth and perspective.
Blend Into the Scene
Opt for a 35mm or 50mm prime lens for street photography. These lenses are not only compact and lightweight, but they are also perfect for discreetly capturing candid moments. Their natural field of view mimics what the human eye sees, delivering a more authentic and immersive feel to your images.
Cultural Sensitivity:
When photographing in Italy, it’s important to respect local customs. For instance, blending into the environment by dressing modestly and observing quietly allows you to capture candid moments without disrupting the scene.
Focus on Details
Even the smallest elements can make a big impact. Turn your attention to intricate carvings on ancient ruins, colourful market displays, or the textures of cobblestone streets. By capturing these minor details, you add intimacy and storytelling to your portfolio while creating a striking contrast with expansive cityscapes.
Additional Tips
- Shoot During the Golden Hour: The soft, warm light at sunrise or sunset not only accentuates architectural features but also adds a cinematic depth to your street photography. By planning your shoots during these times, you’ll find your images bathed in rich hues that evoke an emotional connection with your viewers.
- Use Reflections: Seek reflections in puddles, windows, or even polished surfaces to add creative perspectives and dynamic compositions to your shots.
- Experiment with Angles: Elevate your photography by shooting from unconventional angles. For example, crouch low for ground-level drama or find a high vantage point for sweeping views that add intrigue and originality.
Experience Our Rome Photography Tour
Step into the heart of Italy’s culture and history with our exclusive tours. With us, you’ll have the tools and access you need to create a portfolio filled with iconic shots and unique moments.
Finland – Bear and Wildlife Photography
A Haven for Elusive Wildlife
When To Go
- For the best wildlife photography opportunities, plan your trip between May and August, during Finland’s peak bear-sighting season.
- Our tours feature hide photography setups, allowing you to capture uninterrupted wildlife shots in their natural habitat. Because of this, you remain concealed, providing an intimate and ethical way to photograph majestic creatures like bears without disturbing their environment.
Pro Tips for Wildlife Photography in Finland
Be Patient
Nature’s Rhythm:
Wildlife photography requires patience. Therefore, spend time observing the environment and allow the animals to move naturally. Often, the best shots come to those who wait.
Gear Essentials
Telephoto Lens:
A telephoto lens with a focal length of 400mm or more is crucial for photographing elusive creatures like bears and wolves from a safe distance while maintaining detail.
Tripod or Beanbag:
Bring a sturdy tripod or a beanbag for stability during long hours in the hides. These tools keep your shots sharp and steady, especially during low-light conditions.
Low-Light Equipment:
Finland’s twilight hours and the dazzling northern lights require specialised gear. A fast lens (f/2.8 or faster) paired with a high ISO setting will allow you to capture sharp, well-lit images even in dim conditions.
Master Low-Light Photography
Use Burst Mode:
Wildlife can be unpredictable, and their movements happen in a flash. By using burst mode, you can quickly capture multiple frames, ensuring you don’t miss that perfect moment, such as a running bear or a wolf on the move.
Experiment with Shutter Speeds:
Don’t be afraid to adjust your settings for creative effects. Slower shutter speeds can add motion blur to a running bear, while faster speeds can freeze action for dramatic clarity.
Understand Animal Behaviour
RResearch Beforehand:
Before heading into the field, it’s important to research Finland’s wildlife. Not only will this help you time your shoots better, but it will also improve your ability to capture authentic interactions. For example, learning about bear habitats or wolf pack dynamics can significantly enhance your shots.
Silent Shooting:
If your camera supports silent shooting mode, it’s a good idea to use it. This way, you can minimise noise, avoid startling your subjects, and preserve the natural atmosphere of the scene.
Dress for the Climate
Layer Up:
Finland’s wilderness can be unforgiving, with temperatures dropping even during summer. For this reason, wearing layers and investing in insulated boots and gloves is essential to staying comfortable during extended periods outdoors.
Pack Extras:
Additionally, bring hand warmers, spare batteries—since cold weather drains them quickly—and waterproof covers to protect your gear. By preparing properly, you’ll ensure your focus remains on photography rather than discomfort.
Take Advantage of Natural Light
Midnight Sun:
During summer, the extended hours of daylight mean you can capture soft, diffused light well into the evening. This unique phenomenon, often referred to as the midnight sun, is not just visually stunning but also perfect for creating warm and inviting wildlife portraits.
Northern Lights:
In winter, the aurora borealis becomes the ultimate backdrop for your shots. In particular, combining the northern lights with Finland’s snow-dusted forests creates magical, otherworldly images. For this reason, winter photography in Finland is a must for those seeking dramatic compositions.
Frequently Asked Questions About Top Photography Tours 2025
What are the best destinations for Top Photography Tours 2025?
Do I need professional photography equipment for these tours?
Are photography tours suitable for beginners?
The suitability of photography tours can vary widely, with some catering exclusively to beginners. At Photo Tours Adventures, we design our tours to accommodate all skill levels. Whether you’re a complete novice or a seasoned professional, you’ll benefit from our comprehensive support. We offer pre-trip webinars to prepare you, on-location coaching to enhance your skills in the field, and post-tour editing tutorials to refine your final images. Our aim is to help you grow as a photographer, no matter where you are on your journey.
What’s included in the photography tour packages?
Many tours only cover tuition and hotel fees, leaving you to navigate the rest. It’s essential to check the quality of accommodations and the expertise of your guide and photographer. At Photo Tours Adventures, we take care of every detail. Our packages include expert photography coaching, handpicked four and five-star accommodations, local transportation, exclusive access to prime shooting locations, and small-group setups for a personalised experience. For our safari tours, all meals are included, ensuring a seamless and stress-free adventure.
What about financial protection?
Your financial peace of mind matters. When planning a photography tour, it’s vital to ensure the company you choose provides comprehensive financial protection. At Photo Tours Adventures, we go above and beyond. All our tours are fully insured and comply with stringent UK and EU travel industry regulations. Under the Package Travel and Linked Travel Arrangements Regulations 2018, we hold business insolvency insurance, guaranteeing your investment is secure, even in unforeseen circumstances. Travel with confidence, knowing your experience is safeguarded at every step.
Top Photography Tours 2025 - Why You Should Consider Us
Exclusive Access
- Our photography tours take you beyond the beaten path, offering access to hidden gems and unique shooting locations that most travellers never experience. From exclusive hides in Finland to remote aurora-viewing spots in Iceland, we ensure you have the best vantage points to create extraordinary images.
Expert Guidance
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Learn from seasoned photographers with decades of experience. Whether you’re a beginner refining your skills or an advanced shooter seeking creative inspiration, our personalised coaching—offered before, during, and after the tour—helps elevate your craft.
Small Groups
- With group sizes typically ranging from 6 to 8 participants, our tours are designed to provide an intimate and supportive learning environment. This allows for one-on-one mentorship, tailored advice, and a more immersive experience.
Before, During, and After Training
We don’t just leave you to figure things out on your own.
- Pre-Trip: Webinars and prep sessions prepare you for the adventure.
- On Location: Get hands-on guidance tailored to your goals.
- Post-Tour: Receive detailed feedback to perfect your images.
Curated Experiences
Every detail of your journey is thoughtfully planned—from staying in handpicked accommodations to ensuring you’re at the right location at the perfect time. Whether it’s the soft light of sunrise or the thrilling moment of a predator’s strike, we ensure you’re able to capture it all.
These destinations aren’t just about photography—they’re about experiencing the world’s most stunning and diverse landscapes while transforming your skills and building a portfolio you’ll be proud of.
Ready to Elevate Your Photography in 2025?
Don’t wait to secure your spot—our tours are in high demand and tend to fill up quickly! By joining us, you’ll not only embark on an unforgettable journey to the world’s most breathtaking photography destinations but also immerse yourself in a transformative experience.
Along the way, you’ll capture iconic moments, refine your skills with expert guidance, and create a portfolio that vividly tells a story of adventure, beauty, and creativity. Ultimately, with the right opportunities and support, this could be the year that truly transforms your photography.
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