Whether you’re a photographer looking for inspiration for your next big project, a travel blogger searching for some fantastic shots that will give your blog a boost, or someone who is always chasing the next perfect pic with your friends, finding the right locations to make this happen can sometimes be challenging.
The good news is if you’re planning a trip to Orlando, Florida, then you’re about to be spoiled for choice! There are countless photo opportunities that will give your online presence a boost or inspire you to create something really special for your next photography project. This vibrant city isn’t just about theme parks and zoos. Here, you’ll find iconic landmarks and hidden gems that will inspire and reenergize your online image.
Let’s take a closer look at these popular and unique locations in Orlando and how you can get those Insta-worthy shots.
Iconic Photo Spots
There are plenty of recognizable landmarks in Orlando that offer the perfect spot for taking some iconic photos. If you’ve flown into the city, then you may want to hire a car from the airport so you can get from location to location as easily as possible. Going under your own steam and not worrying about schedules means you can take your time while capturing those perfect photos, allowing your creativity to flow without feeling pressured to catch your bus on time!
Here’s where you’ll find some amazing photo opportunities:
Rollins College: With its Spanish architecture, lush gardens, and a thriving campus, here you’ll find a range of photo opportunities with picturesque views including The President’s House and Lake Virginia.
Lake Eola Park: Head to downtown Orlando and you’ll find Lake Eola Park. This beautiful urban oasis is a mecca for those looking for iconic photo spots in the city. For a great backdrop, consider taking photos with the impressive Linton E. Allen Memorial Fountain in the shot. If you’re hoping to catch some nighttime images then this is particularly impressive after dark!
Maitland Art Center: For one-of-a-kind photos, head to the Maitland Art Center. Here you can snap a Mayan chapel, a beautiful courtyard, garden ponds, and breathtaking architecture. The perfect backdrop for any travel blog or Instagram post.
Cinderella’s Castle: Of course, if you’re heading to Orlando, then taking a photo in front of Cinderella’s Castle in Walt Disney World is a must. This fairytale landmark is a timeless photo spot – and if you’re worried about the crowds, consider getting here early in the day or explore the area around the castle for new perspectives, angles, and inspiration.
Hidden Gems in Orlando
Hoping to discover something completely different for your photography portfolio or your online feed? Orlando has a treasure trove of amazing photo opportunities that you’ll hope to keep a secret for as long as possible! Here are my top suggestions for some truly unique images to add to your latest collection.
Dickson Azalea Park: Hidden away in downtown Orlando is a tranquil oasis that is bursting with lush greenery, eye-catching azaleas, and a picturesque creek. Dickson Azalea Park has a rich history and photographs beside the historic Washington Street Bridge will look great on any Instagram feed.
Orlando Wetlands Park: This haven for wildlife is completely man-made and can also serve as a breathtaking backdrop for some pretty unique photographs. Here you’ll find boardwalks, observation decks, and an incredible array of birds from the Osprey to the Purple Gallinule. If you’re a budding wildlife photographer, you won’t want to miss this.
Split Oak Forest Wildlife and Environmental Area: With over 1,600 acres to play with, photographers and bloggers alike can enjoy this unique photo opportunity, capturing a wide variety of wildlife in their diverse habitats. Here you’ll find scrublands, wetlands, marshes, swamps and pine flatwoods, the perfect backdrop for any kind of photography.
Tips for Photographing Orlando’s Best Spots
When you’re after that all-important shot, you must plan ahead as much as you can. To make the most of your time in Orlando behind the lens, check out these tips:
Check for Permits and Restrictions: Before you plan an afternoon or entire day at one specific location, find out if you need a permit to do so. Check online or with local authorities about any particular site you want to visit and any photography restrictions that might be in place. You may need a permit for locations such as Rollins College and the Maitland Art Center, but these are usually straightforward to get.
Plan for the Weather: Weather in Orlando can be pretty unpredictable, with scorching heat one minute and stormy downpours the next. Make sure your equipment is protected from the elements – and you too! It’s worth remembering that while sunny days provide vibrant colors and contrast, cloudy days can offer diffused light for softer images, so try not to let a cloudy day derail your plans.
Time of Day Matters: The golden hours of photography are important, and these are usually shortly after sunrise and just before sunset. The sun is low during these times, creating soft, diffused light that minimizes harsh shadows. Keep this in mind when taking photos! You may also want to consider the time of day you’re visiting certain locations and try to avoid the crowds!
Explore Different Perspectives: Orlando is such a beautiful and diverse city. So, don’t be afraid to experiment with different perspectives, colors, angles, and compositions. Try shooting from different heights or lenses to create a new style. With so many incredible photo opportunities in Orlando, it makes sense to make the most of your time here!
Final Thoughts…
Whether you’re passionate about gaming, writing, or photography, there’s no greater feeling than spending time doing something you love. There’s so much more to photography than pointing your camera at something interesting and adding a filter later. Orlando is the perfect place to experiment with your photography passion, with hidden gems and iconic photography locations across the city – you’ll be spoilt for choice. Where would you like to explore first?
