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Home to abundant wildlife, spectacular peaks, and over 500 active geysers, Yellowstone National Park is one of the most inspiring and captivating natural locations in the world. Along with happy memories, taking a collection of beautiful photos is the best souvenir you can bring back from your visit. In fact, in the face of such awe-inspiring beauty, you’ll find it impossible not to pull your camera out. So, it’s important to know how to take the best snaps possible.
Get out early
If you’re an early bird, venture out before sunrise to explore and take some magical shots you won’t be able to replicate at other times of the day. The sunrise, colorful skies, and soft morning light offer a beautiful opportunity to capture Yellowstone’s geothermal features, including, hot springs, mudpots, and geysers — get a snap of Old Faithful which erupts several times each day. There may even be early morning mist and fog to add to the atmosphere. This time of day is also very quiet, allowing you to take photos without interruption.
Be creative
Rather than just sticking to the main attractions, explore the mountains, forests, lakes, and waterfalls in and around Yellowstone. Making your way “off the beaten path” will take you away from the crowds and provide you with a better experience and better photo opportunities. You can also get creative with your shots to avoid unoriginal photos. Use filters to increase the contrast. Tilt the camera to get a unique perspective. Edit your photos with a black and white filter to change the mood. These creative techniques will provide you with plenty of beautiful shots which can be curated onto a canvas photo collage for display.
Consult a ranger
When in doubt, ask a West Yellowstone ranger. If you want tips on the best spots for photography, they’ll be happy to advise you. Rangers can give you insider tips, explain where to find unique scenery, and locations where animals are likely to be most active and at what time of day. Yellowstone is home to roughly 311 species of birds and 67 species of mammals, including, bison, elk, bears, and antelope. Head to the Grizzly & Wolf Discovery Center in West Yellowstone, to capture bears, wolves, and birds of prey.
Most people leave the park before sunset, but it’s one of the best times to take photos. You’ll find beautiful light at this late hour and wildlife roaming and grazing. Once you leave, you’ll have a new appreciation for West Yellowstone and great photos to remember your visit.
AUTHOR: JACKIE EDWARDS