A Photographer’s Guide to Bali: Top Spots and Tips for Stunning Shots
- Shawn Eastman
- Jan 7
- 10 min read
Updated: Mar 11
Bali, Indonesia, is a paradise for travel photographers, offering an array of breath-taking landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and vibrant scenes that seem custom-made for the lens.
During my photography trip to Bali, I explored everything from serene temples to lush rice terraces, capturing the island's diverse beauty. Sunsets are a prevalent theme, along with some of the most famous exotic landscapes in the world.
Below, I’ll share some of my experiences, insights, and tips for photographing several of Bali’s most iconic locations, along with advice for those planning their own photographic adventure.
When it comes to exotic travel and landscape photography, Bali has it all.
Table of Contents
Gorgeous Tropical Sunsets with Palm Tree Silhouettes
Bali’s sunsets are legendary, offering photographers a chance to capture vibrant hues of orange, pink, and purple that paint the sky. Beaches like Seminyak, Jimbaran, and Balangan provide ideal vantage points, while a simple drive into the inner island provides you with various rice paddies and rows of palm trees creating perfect silhouettes against the setting sun.
Tips for Photographing Bali’s Sunsets:
Timing is key: Arrive at your chosen location at least 30 minutes before sunset to set up your gear and scout the best compositions. Stay after sunset for the blue hour, where the soft glow adds another layer of beauty.
Use silhouettes strategically: Incorporate palm trees, people, or traditional fishing boats into your frame to add depth and context to your sunset shots.
Experiment with filters: A graduated neutral density (ND) filter can help balance the exposure between the bright sky and darker foreground.
Banyumala Twin Waterfalls
Nestled in the lush greenery of North Bali, Banyumala Twin Waterfalls offer a serene and dramatic setting for photography. The twin streams cascading down moss-covered rocks create an ethereal atmosphere, especially in the soft morning light. And yes - you can swim here. And yes, I did!
Tips for Photographing Banyumala Twin Waterfalls:
Start early: Arriving early not only avoids crowds but also ensures soft, diffused lighting that enhances the waterfall’s textures.
Use a tripod: For silky smooth water effects, use a slow shutter speed (1-2 seconds) with a tripod to keep your shots steady.
Bring waterproof gear: The area around the falls is misty, so protect your camera with a rain cover.
Getting There:
Tegallalang Rice Terraces (Ceking Rice Terraces)
The Tegallalang Rice Terraces (also known as Ceking Rice Terraces) in the tropical region of Ubud are iconic, with their tiered fields offering striking patterns that are a photographer’s dream. Early mornings here are magical, with soft light illuminating the terraces and workers beginning their day.
If there's one memorable shot of Bali you've seen, it's likely to have been a tropical shot taken at these famous rice terraces.
Tips for Photographing Tegallalang Rice Terraces:
Use leading lines: Focus on the natural curves and patterns of the terraces to guide the viewer’s eye through the image.
Capture local life: Include farmers at work or traditional scarecrows to add a storytelling element to your shots.
Drone photography: If you're into your drone photography, this is the perfect spot to capture stunning aerial views of the terraces.
Getting There:
Pura Luhur Lempuyang (Gates of Heaven)
Pura Luhur Lempuyang, often referred to as the Gates of Heaven, is one of Bali’s most photographed spots and is easily one of the most popular Bali Instagram shots going. The towering gates frame Mount Agung in the background, creating a scene of mystical beauty.
I managed to capture this sunset shot back in 2015 before the temple's viewpoint had really come to the attention of mass tourists - it's nigh on impossible to photograph a sunset here nowadays with a completely empty temple so I feel incredibly privileged to have had the opportunity to do so.
Big shout out to my private tour driver (and fellow photographer) who took me to many of these off the beaten track lesser known spots (they were back then!) - Dean at Bali Distinction Tours. If you decide to engage with his services, let him know Shawn Eastman the photographer sent you - he'll look after you!
Tips for Photographing Pura Luhur Lempuyang:
Arrive early: This location is incredibly popular, so arriving at dawn ensures fewer crowds and better lighting.
Capture reflections: If there has been rainfall, use the small pool near the gates to create mirror-like reflections for a symmetrical composition.
Be patient: Be prepared to wait your turn for the classic "Gates of Heaven" shot, especially during peak tourist seasons.
Getting There:
Uluwatu Temple
Perched on a cliff overlooking the Indian Ocean, Uluwatu Temple is a spectacular place to capture dramatic landscapes and cultural performances. The temple is especially stunning at sunset, with golden light bathing the cliffs and ocean below.
Tips for Photographing Uluwatu Temple:
Watch the Kecak dance: Schedule your visit to coincide with the traditional Kecak dance performance, which adds vibrant cultural elements to your shots.
Use a telephoto lens: Capture the intricate details of the temple architecture and the crashing waves below.
Keep your gear secure: Monkeys are abundant here, so keep an eye on your equipment.
Getting There:
Taman Ujung Water Palace
A blend of Balinese and European architectural styles, Taman Ujung Water Palace is a serene and picturesque location. Its reflective pools, archways, and pavilions make it a perfect spot for capturing elegant compositions. It's well worth a few hours exploration and there are tons of incredible stop-off's you can make during the journey to and from the palace.
Tips for Photographing Taman Ujung Water Palace:
Focus on reflections: Use the still water to create mirrored shots of the palace structures.
Frame your shots: Utilise the archways and bridges to create natural frames within your images.
Visit during golden hour: The soft light enhances the palace’s intricate details and tranquil ambiance.
Getting There:
Mount Batur
Mount Batur offers one of Bali’s most breath-taking sunrise experiences. Hiking to the summit rewards photographers with panoramic views of the caldera, Lake Batur, and the surrounding mountains bathed in warm morning light. Meanwhile, the surrounding mountains and land offer fantastic views of said summit.
Tips for Photographing Mount Batur:
Plan ahead: Start your hike early (around 3 AM) to reach the summit before sunrise.
Use layers: Capture the layers of mountains and clouds to add depth to your images.
Bring a wide-angle lens: This is ideal for capturing the expansive views.
Getting There:
General Tips for Travel Photography in Bali
Pack light: Bali’s terrain can be challenging, so carry only the essentials.
Stay hydrated: The tropical climate can be intense, so keep water handy during your shoots.
Plan Around the Golden Hours: The warm glow of sunrise and sunset enhances Bali's natural beauty. Early mornings are perfect for iconic spots like Pura Lempuyang, while sunsets at Tanah Lot or Balangan Beach create magical silhouettes.
Respect Local Customs and Traditions: Always ask for permission before photographing locals, especially in temples or sacred areas. A friendly smile goes a long way in creating a positive interaction.
Bring a Variety of Lenses: A wide-angle lens is essential for landscapes like the rice terraces and waterfalls, while a telephoto lens helps capture candid street photography or zoom in on architectural details.
Protect Your Gear: Bali’s climate can be humid and unpredictable. Pack silica gel packets to combat moisture and use weatherproof covers for unexpected tropical rain showers.
Capture the Everyday: Beyond landmarks, photograph the daily life of Bali - locals weaving offerings, bustling markets, or fishermen at work. These candid moments add depth to your collection.
Use Filters for Impact: A polarising filter enhances vibrant skies and reduces glare from water surfaces, while an ND filter is invaluable for long-exposure shots at waterfalls like Banyumala.
Hire a Local Guide: Guides can introduce you to hidden gems away from tourist crowds and provide valuable insights about Balinese culture, making your photography experience unique.
Stay Patient: Popular spots like Tegallalang Rice Terraces can be busy. Arrive early or wait for the perfect moment when the crowds thin, ensuring unobstructed shots.
Experiment with Drone Photography: Bali’s breath-taking landscapes are even more mesmerising from above. However, ensure you follow local regulations to avoid restricted zones.
Embrace Post-Processing: Editing tools like Adobe Lightroom can bring out the best in your photos, from enhancing colours to fine-tuning exposure. Keep edits natural to retain the authenticity of Bali’s charm.
Looking to explore more of Indonesia’s islands? Discover the stunning photography opportunities on Nusa Lembongan here.
My Final Thoughts
Bali is more than just a destination - it’s an experience, a vibrant tapestry of culture, nature, and life waiting to be captured through your lens. From the ethereal beauty of sunrise over Mount Batur to the intricate carvings of ancient temples, every corner of Bali offers a unique story.
As a travel photographer, Bali challenges you to see beyond the obvious. It invites you to delve into its rhythms - capture the ebb and flow of its daily life, the harmony of its spiritual traditions, and the raw beauty of its landscapes.
Whether you’re chasing sunsets at Balangan Beach or wandering through the serene rice terraces, Bali rewards patience, creativity, and an adventurous spirit.
So, pack your gear, open your heart to the island’s magic, and let Bali inspire you to create images that tell a story - yours and Bali’s intertwined.
FAQs About Travel Photography in Bali
What are the best times of year for photography in Bali?
The dry season (April to October) is ideal for clear skies and vibrant colours, while the wet season (November to March) offers dramatic skies and lush greenery. Each season has its own unique charm for photographers.
