World photography day: the world’s most beautiful spots to capture

World Photography Day (19 August) is an annual, worldwide celebration of the art, craft, science and history of photography. Celebrate one of the finest arts by discovering 12 spots of outstanding beauty around the world.

LAKES AND SEAS

Gilpin Lake – Steamboat, Colorado
Located in northern Colorado, Gilpin Lake is a picturesque spot surrounded by alpine mountains and pine trees. Accessible by a gentle hike through the Medicine Bow–Routt National Forest, the entirety of which spreads across Colorado and Wyoming, those who reach the lake are rewarded with vivid blue water and an abundance of nature. colorado.com

Nuku Hiva island, The Islands of Tahiti
The Marquesas Islands are located 932 miles northeast of Tahiti spreading out over 12 islands. Known as the ‘Mysterious Island,’ Nuku Hiva is the second largest island located in Marquesas. There is a wealth of photo opportunities on the island – get shots of extraordinary waterfalls, magical volcanic mountain masses, incredible historical sites, rare beautiful black sand beaches and marvellous deep valleys. Local Polynesian culture thrives on this island offering fascinating experiences of old traditions. tahititourisme.uk

Pismo Beach – SLO CAL, California
The colourful beach town of Pismo Beach – located along California’s Central Coast in SLO CAL – offers year-round fun in the sun, with plenty of activities on both land and sea. Refresh the soul in the sea air, whether surfing or kayaking, or stroll the beachfront and savour the spectacular sunset views. If visiting between October – February, don’t miss the vibrant orange and black monarch butterflies that take their home at Pismo Beach Monarch Butterfly Grove. slocal.com

Dana Point Harbour – Dana Point, California
The Dana Point Harbour has been welcoming visitors, sailors and fishermen alike since the 1800s. The cliff-lined cove is now where travellers can book excursions, grab a bite to eat or simply relax and watch the world go by. Head to the Upper Harbour Pathway which gives a panoramic view of the harbour, ocean and beautiful houses atop the cliffs. visitdanapoint.com

Kurushima-Kaikyō Bridge, Ehime prefecture, Japan  
Mt. Kiro Observatory Park in the Ehime prefecture plays host to the best views of the Seto Inland Sea. Get first-rate 360-degree views of the bridge from the platform located at 307.8 meters above sea level. This platform was built in response to photographer Kitao Ando’s request and rightly so. Head up and watch the sun rise and set over the seas offering a superbly dramatic photo opportunity as the clouds draw in around the bridge.setouchitrip.com

MOUNTAINS AND TREES

Mt. Diablo – Tri-Valley, California
The other-worldly fog that swirls over the highest mountain range in the Bay Area is the perfect setting for some seriously stunning photographs. The surrounding park is one of California’s ecological treasures, filled with beautiful wildflowers, an extensive trail system, fascinating wildlife and distinctive rock formations.  View the stars from its lofty heights, bike to the summit or explore the more remote trails by horseback. visittrivalley.com

Yosemite Park – Yosemite Mariposa County
There are few places in the world that are as awe-inspiring and beautiful as Yosemite. Home to icons such as the Half-Dome and Yosemite Falls, the park has been an inspiration to photographers, artists and authors for decades. Visit in winter to escape the crowds and witness some truly spectacular snowy peaks. yosemite.com

Mount Hood – Portland, Oregon 
Towering over northern Oregon and visible from the streets of Portland, Mount Hood stands at 11,240 feet and is the highest mountain in the state. This dormant volcano is home to ski resorts, summer recreation areas and historic tourists attractions. The centre is more than one million acres of national forest, so be sure to enjoy the park’s raging waterfalls, hot springs and glaciers alongside alpine wildflowers and winter skiing.travelportland.com

Mount Hood at sunset from Portland, Oregon.

Hoh Rain Forest – Olympic National Park, Washington
The Hoh Rain Forest in Olympic National Park is one of the most carefully preserved rainforests in the northern hemisphere. It receives around 14 feet of rain every year, resulting in a unique ecosystem that’s home to a plethora of towering trees, most covered with hanging moss and ferns, rushing waterfalls and wildlife. The best time to visit and snap photographs is during the rainy season when the landscape is at its most luscious and green.visitseattle.org

Mission Trails Regional Park – San Diego, California
San Diego may be known for its world-class attractions and lively nightlife but just outside of the city centre is Mission Trails Regional Park, a stunning stretch of land where visitors will find hiking trails, wildlife and picturesque views. In the distance, the snow-capped Cuyamaca Mountain can be seen, contrasting with the bright blue sky. Every year, the park also organises The Mission Trails Regional Park Amateur Photo Contest, where budding photographers can showcase their beautiful shots of the park. sandiego.org

Okama Crater, Miyagi prefecture
The Miyagi prefecture in northern Japan has an abundance of locations perfect for stunning holiday snap shots to boast about. Located between the Miyagi and Yamagata prefecture is the Zao volcanic mountain range. Situated on the 1841-meter-high Mount Zao is the Okama volcanic crater lake glistening a spectacular emerald green. The colour of the lake changes throughout the day according to the angle of the sunlight. Hike to Zao’s highest peak for beautiful 360 panoramic views of the mountain range baefore hiking an additional 45 minutes to the upper station to catch the Zao Ropeway back down to Zao Onsen. visitmiyagi.com

Henry Cowells Redwood State Park – Santa Cruz, California
The Santa Cruz Mountains are an ecological paradise – with a combination of moderate temperatures, winter rains and frequent fogs creating the perfect home for redwoods, some of the oldest and largest living organisms on the planet. In the 19^th century, Cowell’s old-growth redwoods were famous enough to attract luminaries like Presidents Benjamin Harrison and Theodore Roosevelt. santacruz.org