Photography Wishlist Destinations
Although I love being a photographer in New Jersey, I’d be lying if I said there weren’t a few destinations on my photography bucket list! I thought it would be fun to share my list with you, in case you’re a family or couple that either has the same destination on their list or happens to live in one of these locations and you’re ready for a tourist in your town!
Newport, RI
Yachts yachts yachts. All kidding aside, there is something incredibly unique and magical about Newport. The vibe everything you’d imagine in a coastal town. The adorable lighthouses, the sweeping ocean views, the quaint downtown shops.
But the most surprising part to me is the insanely gorgeous architecture. It’s opulent and otherworldly! From The Breakers to Rosecliff to the International Tennis Hall of Fame - every building is mind-blowingly beautiful!
I’m obsessed with Cliff Walk as well - it’s no surprise it’s an extremely popular destination in New England. The rock jetties (which are actually slate, metasandstone, and metaconglomerate) are straight-up dreamy! Anything along the 3.5-mile stretch would be an absolutely gorgeous choice for family, maternity and engagement sessions.
Oh! And how does a lifestyle engagement session on a chartered yacht or sailboat sound? Yeah, sounds pretty spectacular to me too! Check out this beauty and tell me it isn’t tempting!
Florida State University
Fun fact- FSU is my alma mater! I've always wanted to go back and photograph it! Truth be told, I’m open to any southern state university. People aren’t lying about “southern hospitality” and a slower pace of life.
Something that’s always surprising to me is how green Florida is! I think we all assume that it’s all palm trees and oceans. But Florida State has really beautiful brick architecture. The Westcott Fountain is one of my favorite spots. And the capitol building (where I interned as a runner for a senator) is really impressive as well!
University campuses are a wealth of hidden gems - in a relatively small footprint, I can find endless backdrops, which helps mix up a session without having to travel or change clothes.
Malibu, CA
The “cool” California lifestyle isn’t a myth- it’s magic! Like all those commercials lead you to believe, there is something special about California that can’t always be put into words! However, I really have my heart set on getting out to Southern California (ask SoCal).
There is a reason that songs are written about Malibu (It’s not just Miley Cyrus either)! The scenery is fantastic, plain and simple! As a photographer, I’m inspired by lots of everyday moments. Adding a landscape that could make you stop in your tracks is the icing on the cake for me. And that yummy golden light is heavenly!
Plus, my clients are much more likely to actually print their images when they select a location that is either gorgeous or near and dear to them (bonus if it’s both).
These next two might be on every photographer’s bucket list. But hey, I’m OK with that. We all have our own unique style and will interpret the location differently!
The Mediterranean
While I researching my absolute favorite Mediterranean locations, I was actually quite surprised to see just how many choices I had! The Mediterranean is actually made up of Spain, France, Monaco, Italy, Slovenia, Croatia, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Montenegro, Albania, Greece, Turkey, Syria, Lebanon, Israel, Egypt, Libya, Tunisia, Algeria, and Morocco. Technically, Malta and Cyprus are island countries in the sea and the Gaza Strip, British Overseas Territories of Gibraltar and Akrotiri and Dhekelia have coastlines on the sea as well.
I think more traditionally, people often think of Spain, France, Italy and Greece first when they envision the Mediterranean. I’ll tell you, I’m not feeling particularly picky at the moment. I’ll take any or all of these locations! Bring on the history, natural beauty and rad architecture. Bring on the relaxed and vibrant cultural difference. And please give me all the food. It may sound a bit romanticized, but I truly believe that it’s because it deserves to be!
Let’s just go, okay?
Tuscany
I have a hard to believing that Tuscany isn’t on everyone’s list. I may date myself here, but after discovering Under The Tuscan Sun I was determined to see Tuscany one day.
I ended up living in Florence for two months as a student and then revisited with my husband four years ago. As an experienced tourist, I saw the destination in a whole new light.
There is something to be said for the magical golden hour sunsets, endless grape fields and the relaxed, welcoming setting. But even more so, the unexpected beauty that can be found in the tucked-away side streets. The way the Italian people are casual cool, so refined and chic, yet always ready for laughter.
Can’t you imagine yourself enjoying a glass of wine al fresco, feeling relaxed in a way that you’ve never felt? Gazing at the rolling hills of Tuscany or strolling the surrounding towns without a care in the world? Tuscany has some much to offer from the architecture, lifestyle, and rich history. We can weave our way into the corners of Tuscany and Florence at leisure as you please. All the while, I’m capturing the incredible moments of discovery and reverent enjoyment.
So, now that I’ve given you my wishlist, where are we going?!