I recently had the opportunity of a lifetime to travel to Norway to photograph the northern lights (and many other Nordic wonders).

It's a place I've been dying to visit for years and years, and it certainly didn't disappoint.

More specifically, I explored the Lofoten Islands, a mecca for photographers that has beautiful sights everywhere you look.

Since it was my first trip to Norway, I wanted to create a short series of articles that act as a Lofoten Islands photography and travel guide.

In this installment, I want to give a broad overview of the trip, from the travel arrangements and accommodations to the areas I visited.

In future parts of this series, I'll take a deep dive into these topics so when it's time for you to head to Norway with your camera, you'll know where to go, what to do, where to stay, and so forth.

Let's get started!

Norway Travel Tips: My Travel Arrangements

^{Photo by Miguel Ángel Sanz on Unsplash}

My journey from Los Angeles to Norway began at LAX on SAS Airlines.

I flew non-stop from LAX to Stockholm, Sweden, and then from there to Oslo and on to Bodø.

Bodø has a very small airport, and was the final leg that SAS flies. At that point, I flew from Bodø to Svolvær on Wideroe Airlines, which, as you can see above, was on a much smaller plane. I didn't mind, though, being that I'm a trained pilot.

I made arrangements for a car before I left Los Angeles with a company called Rent a Car Lofoten.

Rather than renting from a big, multi-national company, I wanted to keep my money local, and I'm glad I did.

Upon arriving in Svolvær, I was met at the curb with my car, which was already on and warmed up for me.

That was just the start of the four-star service I got with Rent a Car Lofoten. Their representatives were knowledgeable, friendly, and ready to go the extra mile.

That was true on the tail end of the trip, too. I was able to drop off the car and be on my way in mere minutes - something that is not so easy to do over here in the U.S.

In fact, everywhere I went in Lofoten, the people were friendly, warm, welcoming, and most spoke English, which I greatly appreciated since I definitely cannot speak Norwegian.

^{Photo by f9photos via iStock}

As an American used to driving a big car on big roads, it took a little getting used to the very narrow roads in Lofoten. Not only that, but Norway in the winter means slippery roads with black ice. Living in Southern California as I do, that's something else I had to get used to, and fast.

The roads in Lofoten are also very curvy. Curves come up faster than you think, so it's important to slow things down and take it easy. I saw many cars getting towed out of ditches while I was there, and fortunately for me, being road aware prevented me from suffering the same fate.

I'd also recommend that you gas up your rental car at every chance you get. There are long stretches of road without filling stations, and about the last thing you want to do in Norway in the winter is sit on the side of the road with no gas!

Where to Stay in Norway: Svinøya in Svolvær

Svolvær was the ideal place to stay because it was smack in the middle of everything.

Aside from its central location, this quaint fishing village is absolutely drop-dead gorgeous.

We stayed in a traditional Norwegian hut, which we rented through Svinøya.

Sure, there are hotels in the area, but why come all this way to stay in a cookie-cutter hotel when you can stay in a beautiful cabin right on the water's edge?!

Our cabin was well-appointed with everything we might need during our stay.

Thankfully, there were large windows so we could take in the breathtaking views, even if we weren't out exploring.

Speaking of views, as you can see above, the view from our deck wasn't bad at all.

It was a gorgeous sight to see each morning when we woke up, and one that inspired us to get ourselves together and into the car so we could get out there and see more of what Norway had to offer.

What to Wear in Norway in the Winter

Naturally, visiting Norway in the winter meant I needed to be prepared to keep myself warm for the long days and nights out shooting.

I want to give a shout out to Columbia for making some truly killer winter clothes.

I picked up their Bugaboot Plus IV boots a couple of months before I left, and man, was that a good investment!

Those suckers are waterproof, seam-sealed, and insulated, in addition to having soles made by Michelin. Yes, that Michelin.

Needless to say, my feet were warm and dry and I didn't slip or fall one time with these babies on!

In the photo above, you can see my Columbia Heatzone TurboDown II jacket.

If you're a warm-weather kind of guy or gal and you head up north to a place like Norway, this jacket is exactly what you need.

The reflective heat technology on the inside of the jacket is no gimmick - it works extremely well. It's called 3D Thermal Reflective Omni-Heat, and it kept me toasty warm, even though it was obviously very cold while I was in Norway.

The shell is waterproof and breathable as well, so I was warm but not overly warm. It was perfect!

Underneath my jacket and pants was more Columbia gear - Titanium Omni-Heat 3D crew shirt and knit pants.

Again, Columbia's Omni-Heat 3D technology kept me perfectly warm, even as the temperatures dropped while I was out shooting late into the day.

But what I like even more about this top and these pants is that they are super soft. There's no itchiness to constantly bother you. Instead, they feel great against the skin while keeping you warm. It's a win-win!

My Ridge 2 Run III Pants - which themselves are waterproof and breathable and have the heat-reflective technology described above - also feature pockets all over the place for keeping cash, keys, lens caps and other items, internal gaiters to keep the snow out, and leg vents in case things get a little too toasty.

In other words, from head to toe, I had the ideal winter-weather outfit for exploring Norway!

Quick Tip: When you go to Norway in the winter, you need to bring a TON of clothes. That means having the right luggage to bring everything you need. To do so in comfort, I highly recommend the Nomatic Check-In roller bag. With space for 78 liters of gear (yes...78 liters!!) there is no shortage of space for your warm winter clothes. For items you don't want to check, the Nomatic Carry-On Pro is a rock star bag with TSA locking zippers, a removable tech compartment, and the same polycarbonate construction of the Check-In.

Filters to Bring to Norway

I often get asked what filters you should have with you when you visit a place like Norway. For me, there are two filters you need above all others.

First, as you can see from my photos above and below, the Lofoten Islands are surrounded by beautiful blue waters. All that surface area of water is a prime spot for glare from the sun, and to combat that, you need a polarizing filter.

I used my PolarPro Quartzline circular polarizer while traveling around Lofoten to help fight sun glare, to boost the contrast in the sky, and to help minimize atmospheric haze that made distant land formations look a little soft.

Additionally, I had ND64 and ND1000 filters on hand to tackle daytime long exposure photography.

This set of three filters is all I needed to capture the shots I wanted, and with PolarPro quality, getting my shots was a simpler task!

I have been a fan of PolarPro for some time because their filters are simply spectacular.

Not only are these filters made of 99.9 percent pure fused-quartz glass (which gives them impeccable clarity and durability), but they also have superb temperature stability. That's certainly a bonus when you're that far north in the winter!

The brass frames of these filters are super rugged, thread on smoothly, and are extremely durable. Even the harsh Norway winter was no match for these things!

I love how color neutral these filters are too. PolarPro has implemented a new coating process that results in zero color shift. Add to that a 16-layer coating that prevents scratches and repels water and oils, and I had the makings of a pretty remarkable set of filters for my trip.

So, what filters should you take with you to Norway?

You can't go wrong with the Quartzline filters I used, but PolarPro has a newer line of filters - the Summit series - that's even more impressive than the Quartzline filters I took on my trip.

One of the best updates PolarPro implemented with these filters is the fingerprint-free install. Each filter has an aluminum frame that enables you to install the filters without the worry of smudging the filter glass.

What's more, the frames are crafted from super lightweight aluminum, so you get the durability you want without the added weight to carry around.

The Summit Core has an integrated slot for a circular polarizer, which offers you easy access for controlling the polarizer. It's also a fully light-sealed system, so you don't have to worry about light leaks messing up your shot.

The Summit Core also offers tool-free mounting, a snap-on hood attachment, and a filter lock for your convenience.

The Summit filters carry on the tradition of impeccable build and image quality with fused Quartz glass and multi-layer coatings. With a user experience that makes them a breeze to use, the PolarPro Summit series would be my choice for a return trip to Norway!

What to Photograph in the Lofoten Islands 

Norway is a huge country full of breathtaking landscapes, but if you're like me, one location - the Lofoten Islands - stands out among the rest as a must-visit location for photography.

I'll just say that seeing these islands in photos on a computer screen does no justice to the unbridled beauty of this area.

Its location in far northern Norway means it's far enough off the beaten path that it remains a relatively unspoiled area.

^{Photo by sara_winter via iStock}

Surrounded by the churning waters of the Norwegian Sea, the islands are closely intertwined with the fishing industry.

The soaring mountains that dot the landscape are truly impressive, as are the majestic fjords with cool blue waters.

Naturally, many photographers like myself trek to Lofoten, so tourism has become a primary industry in this area.

Fortunately, Loften's residents are working to keep their lands accessible and unspoiled while also striving to preserve their culture and traditions.

In fact, Lofoten is pursuing a Sustainable Destination designation. This certification signifies a dedication to providing visitors like me with the experience of a lifetime while focusing on reducing the negative impacts of the tourism industry.

It's a truly humbling experience to be amongst such incredible beauty, and the fact that the residents of Lofoten are working hard to preserve that beauty for future generations is quite inspiring.

I'll get into the specifics of the locations we spent most of our time in future articles in this series, but to give a broad overview, Hamnøy, Reine, and Svolvær are must-see locations when you're in this neck of the woods.

Reine, shown above, was one of my favorite spots because of the gold-colored huts.

As you can see, there is the potential for some truly dramatic skies during the afternoons there!

Hamnøy is the "it" spot in the Lofoten Islands. It's a tiny island and fishing village with the iconic red fishing huts dotting the rugged coastline.

But now that I think about it, there are tons of "it" photography spots in Lofoten. It's just incredible how much beauty there is to see.

Like I said above, I'll be writing more detailed Norway photographic and travel guides in the coming weeks, so stayed tuned for those so you can get more specific details on this magical place.

---

^{Photo by Steven-Baranek via iStock}

Last week, we published the first in a series of five Nevada photography and travel guides.

Where that one featured photography hot spots in the Vegas area, this one focuses on much more natural terrain - Lake Tahoe.

The Tahoe area of Nevada is unparalleled in its beauty, with opportunities for photographing the lake itself, as well as its beaches, interesting rock formations, and gorgeous sunsets, just to name a few.

Below, we've outlined our top three picks for photography spots in Tahoe, and have also provided details about where to stay, where to eat, points of interest, and so forth.

What to Photograph in Tahoe - Bonsai Rock

^{Photo by Spencer Jones via iStock}

Bonsai RockBonsai Rock is a giant boulder just off the eastern shore of Lake Tahoe that has a few small trees growing on it.

While it's an interesting sight on its own, it really takes on an extra level of beauty during sunset, when the sun dips behind the Sierra Nevadas to the west.

As you can see in the photo above, the fiery colors of the sunset bring interest to the sky and to the calm waters of the lake, which helps brighten up the foreground as well.

The little cove in which Bonsai Rock resides is a popular spot for photographers, so get there early to get a premium spot.

^{Photo by Jesse Gardner on Unsplash}

Planning Your Lake Tahoe Trip

• Where to Stay:The Hard Rock Hotel & Casino is in a great location on the southern tip of Lake Tahoe, offers 4-Star service, plentiful opportunities for gambling, lake views, and poolside cabanas. Prices are as low as $109/night.
• Where to Eat: Cafe Fiore is just across the state line in California on the southern shore of the lake. It's a tiny restaurant with tons of ambiance and rave reviews for their authentic Italian cuisine.
• Must-See Attractions: Emerald Bay State Park is a must-see spot across the border in California. The bay itself is breathtaking, but add in the fact that the only island in Lake Tahoe is in the bay and that there's a gorgeous, historic mansion on the bay as well, and you have a recipe for tons of gorgeous photographs. Sunrise is the ideal time to visit. Don't miss out on Eagle Falls, either.
• Check the weather in Lake Tahoe right now.

Sand Harbor is Prime Photo Territory

^{Photo by MariuszBlach via iStock}

One of the most picturesque beaches in Lake Tahoe is found in Sand Harbor along the northeastern shore of the lake.

As the name indicates, Sand Harbor is a quiet, calm inlet with beautiful sandy beaches that make it an ideal place to take photos (and swim, too!).

During the summer, the area is virtually overrun with tourists during the day. But once the sun starts to go down, most of the crowds disappear, leaving you and other photographers alone to find the perfect spot for a shot of the harbor at sunset.

Note that there is a $10 entrance fee to Lake Tahoe Nevada State Park and that Sand Harbor closes one hour after sunset.

^{Photo by NeilLockhart via iStock}

Planning Your Sand Harbor Photography Trip

• Where to Stay: The Hyatt Regency Lake Tahoe is a 4-Star hotel just north of Sand Harbor and offers rooms starting at $156/night. The hotel's private beach is a must-see, and for some fun and relaxation, you can enjoy the on-site casino or the spa.
• Where to Eat: Lone Eagle Grille is a fine-dining experience with an extensive menu of American cuisine and an impressive wine list as well.
• Must-See Attractions: The large granite boulders that litter the landscape in and around Sand Harbor are worth a few clicks of your shutter button. Their shape, color, and texture add wonderful visual interest to photos of the harbor. Check out all the recreational opportunities in the Sand Harbor as well, including boating, fishing, swimming, and hiking.
• Check the weather at Sand Harbor right now.

Find 360-Degree Views of Lake Tahoe From Cave Rock

^{Photo by TrevorFairbank via iStock} 

To get a little more perspective on Lake Tahoe, Cave Rock should be on your list of top spots to photograph in Tahoe.

Just a short climb up the rocks, you'll find yourself with a breathtaking view of the lake from above.

Just park on the street and follow the path up the rock. You'll likely have fellow photographers at the top, so just be patient to get a prime spot to set up.

Wide-angle shots from this vantage point can be breathtaking, but don't discount the value of bringing a telephoto zoom with you to get more detailed and intimate shots of the surrounding area.

The area is open sunrise to sunset, and a $10 fee is required to enter (the fee gets you into all areas within Lake Tahoe Nevada State Park).

^{Photo by Sharon Lynn via iStock}

Planning Your Cave Rock Photography Trip

• Where to Stay: The Hard Rock Hotel & Casino is one of the nearest hotels to Cave Rock, but if you prefer something a little different, Harrah's Lake Tahoe offers a similar level of service and amenities for a smaller price tag.
• Where to Eat: For a quick bite to eat, Fatburger at Harrah's is a great option.
• Must-See Attractions: The Cave Rock area is rife with recreational opportunities, including boating, fishing, hiking, swimming, and beaches.
• Check the weather at Cave Rock right now.

This Nevada Photography and Travel Guide is Sponsored By:

Click Props Backdrops

Based in Las Vegas, Click Props Backdrops offers a wide selection of premium photography backdrops and floors.

Kat Armendariz of hushXpose owns the U.S. district for Click Props along with her husband Ephraim.

Their backdrops are constructed of heavy-duty vinyl yet are lightweight, wrinkle resistant, and easy to hang with either reinforced grommets along the top or by using a magnetic backdrop support system.

If you need gorgeous, easy-to-use backdrops, this is the place to find them!

Click here to learn more about Click Props Backdrops

SIRUI Tripods

SIRUI has built a solid reputation over the years for crafting precise, easy-to-use, feature-packed tripods for photographers of all types and experience levels.

No matter if you need a tripod for studio photography work, landscape photography, on-location portraits, travel photography, or something in between, SIRUI's extensive line of products will help you get the shots you need. Their tripods even come with a six-year warranty.

There's a reason why SIRUI is the choice of so many photographers - their tripods represent exceptional quality and value.

Learn more about SIRUI tripods

Acratech

From ball heads to quick-release clamps, video heads to camera and lens plates, Acratech crafts some of the highest-quality photography gear on the market today.

Acratech's family-run business is based in Pomona, California, where they use the finest materials and the highest-quality workmanship to manufacture their products.

If it's precision, durability, and affordability you're after, Acratech is it!

Learn more about Acratech

Columbia Sportswear

Whether you're exploring the desert southwest in the summer, the far reaches of Scandinavia in the winter, or points between, Columbia Sportswear has the gear you need to be comfortable on your photography adventures.

You can get outfitted from head to toe for any season with high-quality products from Columbia that show their dedication to providing adventurers of all types with the gear they need.

There's a reason why Columbia has been at it for 80 years - their gear is dependable, comfortable, and affordable too!

Learn more about Columbia

Kenko Filters

Kenko filters are precision-crafted with high-quality materials to give you the best photographic results.

Kenko offers a wide line of filters that includes circular polarizers, neutral density filters, and variable neutral density filters as well.

Their combination of quality and price makes Kenko filters a top choice for photographers of all kinds!

Learn more about Kenko filters like the Nyumon Circular Polarizing Filter shown above

Nomatic Luggage

For a fun weekend away in Nevada, you need a mid-sized bag that will accommodate all your clothes and other personal items while keeping them neatly organized. For that task, the Nomatic Carry-On Pro is an ideal choice.

With capacity for up to 28 liters of stuff, this roller bag is well-sized for a weekend trip. The magnetic compression straps keep your clothes right where you want them while the tech compartment makes for easy organization of your electronics. The removable tech compartment means you can grab your laptop when you need to do a little work without unpacking the entire bag.

Made of durable polycarbonate, this bag can stand up to the rough-and-tumble journeys you take in Nevada!

---

If you're traveling to the Silver State with your camera in tow, don't leave before consulting this Nevada Photography and Travel Guide.

Though it would be virtually impossible to offer tips and hints for the all the best places to photograph in Nevada, we've got three top photography hot-spots you need to visit outlined below.

Additionally, we've taken the liberty of helping you with your planning by recommending places to stay, places to eat, and points of interest along the way.

All told, this guide gives you insights into beautiful photography spots from Las Vegas to Red Rock Canyon to Hoover Dam.

Let's get started!

What to Photograph in Nevada - The Strip

Though the glitz and glam of Las Vegas' Strip isn't for everyone, it's undeniable that there is a lot to photograph along the 4.2 miles of tarmac that runs through the heart of the city.

From bright neon lights to incredible architecture to dancing water features, there's no lack of subject matter for creating eye-catching photos.

Street photography opportunities abound as well, with millions of people from all corners of the globe trekking to Vegas each year to try their hand at lady luck.

Be sure to visit the Fremont Street Experience for eye-popping photos of neon lights, check out the outdoor sculptures at the Smith Center for opportunities for portraits set against interesting backdrops, and visit Eldorado Canyon for a little landscape photography and ghost town experience as well.

Planning Your Las Vegas Photography Trip

• Where to Stay: The Palazzo at the Venetian Resort is in a great location on The Strip, offers 5-Star service, and has excellent reviews from guests. Prices are as low as $110/night.
• Where to Eat: Top of the World has an excellent old-school Vegas menu, and with a location atop the Stratosphere tower, it also has the best views of the city.
• Must-See Attractions: For a wild ride, try the X-Scream Roller Coaster at the top of the Stratosphere tower.
• Check the weather in Las Vegas right now.

Red Rock Canyon is a Photographer's Dream

Just a few miles west of Las Vegas, the Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area is a must-see location for photographers.

With nearly 200,000 acres of wilderness within the Mojave Desert to explore, you have plenty of room to roam and subjects on which to train your camera.

The beautiful vistas, red rocks, and different flora and fauna will challenge your photography eye and inspire your creativity.

Note that taking photos for casual or personal use is fine and does not require a permit. However, if you're a professional photographer or videographer, you'll need to get a permit before conducting any work. There is a $15 per vehicle charge to enter the area.

Planning Your Red Rock Canyon Photography Trip

• Where to Stay: Since the canyon is so close to Las Vegas, you don't need different accommodations. However, if you'd rather be away from The Strip, the Red Rock Casino Resort and Spa is a top choice.
• Where to Eat: Bonnie Springs Ranch Restaurant is just south of the park and offers American food in a country-western style dining hall.
• Must-See Attractions: The 13-mile scenic drive through the park is a must, with pull-outs and trails along the way for you to get out and explore the area with your camera. 
• Check the weather at Red Rock Canyon right now.

Photograph Nevada History at Hoover Dam

It's not that Hoover Dam is particularly beautiful or anything, but its sheer size and the story behind its construction makes it a top spot to photograph in Nevada.

Constructed between 1931 and 1936, the dam is nearly 730-feet high and cost $41 million to build (in 1931 money). Today, it would cost nearly $700 million to construct.

When photographing the dam, walk across the Memorial Bridge Walkway on Highway 111 for the best view of the dam. Another prime vantage point to consider is from the Arizona side just east of the spillway, which affords views of the back of the dam and the intake towers, which light up beautifully at night.

Planning Your Hoover Dam Photography Trip

• Where to Stay: Again, Hoover Dam isn't all that far from Las Vegas, so you could stay in the same hotel on The Strip and make a day trip out of visiting the Dam. Another option is the Westin Lake Las Vegas Resort, which offers 4-star service and a spa.
• Where to Eat: If you like BBQ, it's tough to beat Fox Smokehouse BBQ in Boulder City.
• Must-See Attractions: The official tour of Hoover Dam is well worth your time.
• Check the weather at Hoover Dam right now.

This Nevada Photography and Travel Guide is Sponsored By:

Click Props Backdrops

Based in Las Vegas, Click Props Backdrops offers a wide selection of premium photography backdrops and floors.

Kat Armendariz of hushXpose owns the U.S. district for Click Props along with her husband Ephraim.

Their backdrops are constructed of heavy-duty vinyl yet are lightweight, wrinkle resistant, and easy to hang with either reinforced grommets along the top or by using a magnetic backdrop support system.

If you need gorgeous, easy-to-use backdrops, this is the place to find them!

Click here to learn more about Click Props Backdrops

SIRUI Tripods

SIRUI has built a solid reputation over the years for crafting precise, easy-to-use, feature-packed tripods for photographers of all types and experience levels.

No matter if you need a tripod for studio photography work, landscape photography, on-location portraits, travel photography, or something in between, SIRUI's extensive line of products will help you get the shots you need. Their tripods even come with a six-year warranty.

There's a reason why SIRUI is the choice of so many photographers - their tripods represent exceptional quality and value.

Learn more about SIRUI tripods

Acratech

From ball heads to quick-release clamps, video heads to camera and lens plates, Acratech crafts some of the highest-quality photography gear on the market today.

Acratech's family-run business is based in Pomona, California, where they use the finest materials and the highest-quality workmanship to manufacture their products.

If it's precision, durability, and affordability you're after, Acratech is it!

Learn more about Acratech

Columbia Sportswear

Whether you're exploring the desert southwest in the summer, the far reaches of Scandinavia in the winter, or points between, Columbia Sportswear has the gear you need to be comfortable on your photography adventures.

You can get outfitted from head to toe for any season with high-quality products from Columbia that show their dedication to providing adventurers of all types with the gear they need.

There's a reason why Columbia has been at it for 80 years - their gear is dependable, comfortable, and affordable too!

Learn more about Columbia

Kenko Filters

Kenko filters are precision-crafted with high-quality materials to give you the best photographic results.

Kenko offers a wide line of filters that includes circular polarizers, neutral density filters, and variable neutral density filters as well.

Their combination of quality and price makes Kenko filters a top choice for photographers of all kinds!

Learn more about Kenko filters like the Nyumon Circular Polarizing Filter shown above

Nomatic Luggage

For a fun weekend away in Nevada, you need a mid-sized bag that will accommodate all your clothes and other personal items while keeping them neatly organized. For that task, the Nomatic Carry-On Pro is an ideal choice.

With capacity for up to 28 liters of stuff, this roller bag is well-sized for a weekend trip. The magnetic compression straps keep your clothes right where you want them while the tech compartment makes for easy organization of your electronics. The removable tech compartment means you can grab your laptop when you need to do a little work without unpacking the entire bag.

Made of durable polycarbonate, this bag can stand up to the rough-and-tumble journeys you take in Nevada!

---

^{Photo by Elizabeth M. Ruggiero via iStock}

Northeastern Nevada presents photographers with a wide range of subject matter.

From desolate deserts to bustling cities to national parks to ghost towns, it's an interesting and lonely place.

Best known for Highway 50, the loneliest highway in the world, as well as Elko, the Ruby Mountains, and Great Basin National Park, northeastern Nevada is certainly a place worth exploring and getting lost amongst the breathtaking landscapes.

This travel and photography guide for northeastern Nevada offers you some insights into what to see and photograph, where to stay, and what to eat.

What to Photograph in Northeastern Nevada - Highway 50

^{Photo by Boogich via iStock}

Though Highway 50 stretches across the entire United States - from West Sacramento, California to Ocean City, Maryland - its best-known stretch is perhaps that in Nevada.

A long, ribbon of tarmac, Highway 50 takes you through some of the most desolate areas in the Continental United States. There are many stretches in which there are few - if any - signs of civilization.

But the highway winds its way through some of Nevada's most iconic locations - Lake Tahoe and Carson City, alpine forests, ghost towns, desert valleys, and Great Basin National Park as well.

^{Photo by Gunter_Nezhoda via iStock}

Planning Your Highway 50 Trip

• Where to Stay: The La Quinta Inn & Suites Ely is clean and affordable. And since Ely is the last town for 162 miles as you travel west on Highway 50, it's really the only place to stay!
• Where to Eat: If you're looking for good down-to-earth food and a large selection of drinks, give Racks Bar & Grill in Ely a try.
• Must-See Attractions: The Nevada Northern Railway Museum is a must-see for train enthusiasts. The night sky-themed train ride is highly recommended.
• Check the weather in Ely right now.

The Ruby Mountains are a Photographer's Paradise

^{Photo by Joesboy via iStock} 

Tucked in northeastern Nevada about 21 miles southeast of Elko, the Ruby Mountains are one of the most beautiful mountain ranges in the state.

Known for their abundances of wildlife, the Rubies offer spectacular views of mountains, lakes, valleys, and streams as well.

You can hike the Ruby Crest National Recreation Trail that takes you along the spine of the range or visit the Ruby National Wildlife Refuge to scope out migratory birds. The Ruby Mountains Wilderness is a must-see as well, with over 90,000 acres of protected landscapes to delight your eye and serve as subject matter for your photos. 

^{Photo by Justin R. Ray via iStock}

Planning Your Ruby Mountains Trip

• Where to Stay: The Best Western Elko Inn has excellent reviews and is centrally located on the eastern edge of Elko, giving you easy access to local attractions and restaurants.
• Where to Eat: The Star Hotel gets rave reviews for its authentic Basque menu.
• Must-See Attractions: The tiny hamlet of Lamoille, located at the base of the Rubies, is nestled along a creek amongst mature trees and is home to a postcard-worthy church - Little Church of the Crossroads - that's a must-see.
• Check the weather at the Ruby Mountains right now.

Get Lost With Your Camera in Great Basin National Park

^{Photo by milehightraveler via iStock}

Though Great Basin National Park might not have the name recognition of Yellowstone or Yosemite, it certainly doesn't short you on opportunities to take breathtaking landscape photos.

From the majestic Wheeler Peak to the mysterious Lehman Caves, there are landforms aplenty that will astonish you.

This area is also home to ancient Bristlecone pines that make ideal subjects for your photos.

A can't-miss photo op in this region is night photography, thanks to crystal clear skies that reveal a blanket of stars over the basin on most nights throughout the year.

^{Photo by johnnya123 via iStock}

Planning Your Great Basin National Park Photography Trip

• Where to Stay: The Stargazer Inn has excellent reviews and is one of the closest motels to the park.
• Where to Eat: Kerouac's Restaurant at the Stargazer Inn offers fresh takes on American classics and is open seasonally, April-October.
• Must-See Attractions: The Lehman Caves are a spectacular sight that can't be missed when in Great Basin National Park. Tours run daily throughout the year and are led by park rangers that explain the history and geology of the caves. Make reservations early though, as the tours often sell out.
• Check the weather at Great Basin National right now.

This Nevada Photography and Travel Guide is Sponsored By:

Click Props Backdrops

Based in Las Vegas, Click Props Backdrops offers a wide selection of premium photography backdrops and floors.

Kat Armendariz of hushXpose owns the U.S. district for Click Props along with her husband Ephraim.

Their backdrops are constructed of heavy-duty vinyl yet are lightweight, wrinkle resistant, and easy to hang with either reinforced grommets along the top or by using a magnetic backdrop support system.

If you need gorgeous, easy-to-use backdrops, this is the place to find them!

Click here to learn more about Click Props Backdrops

SIRUI Tripods

SIRUI has built a solid reputation over the years for crafting precise, easy-to-use, feature-packed tripods for photographers of all types and experience levels.

No matter if you need a tripod for studio photography work, landscape photography, on-location portraits, travel photography, or something in between, SIRUI's extensive line of products will help you get the shots you need. Their tripods even come with a six-year warranty.

There's a reason why SIRUI is the choice of so many photographers - their tripods represent exceptional quality and value.

Learn more about SIRUI tripods

Acratech

From ball heads to quick-release clamps, video heads to camera and lens plates, Acratech crafts some of the highest-quality photography gear on the market today.

Acratech's family-run business is based in Pomona, California, where they use the finest materials and the highest-quality workmanship to manufacture their products.

If it's precision, durability, and affordability you're after, Acratech is it!

Learn more about Acratech

Columbia Sportswear

Whether you're exploring the desert southwest in the summer, the far reaches of Scandinavia in the winter, or points between, Columbia Sportswear has the gear you need to be comfortable on your photography adventures.

You can get outfitted from head to toe for any season with high-quality products from Columbia that show their dedication to providing adventurers of all types with the gear they need.

There's a reason why Columbia has been at it for 80 years - their gear is dependable, comfortable, and affordable too!

Learn more about Columbia

Kenko Filters

Kenko filters are precision-crafted with high-quality materials to give you the best photographic results.

Kenko offers a wide line of filters that includes circular polarizers, neutral density filters, and variable neutral density filters as well.

Their combination of quality and price makes Kenko filters a top choice for photographers of all kinds!

Learn more about Kenko filters like the Nyumon Circular Polarizing Filter shown above

Nomatic Luggage

For a fun weekend away in Nevada, you need a mid-sized bag that will accommodate all your clothes and other personal items while keeping them neatly organized. For that task, the Nomatic Carry-On Pro is an ideal choice.

With capacity for up to 28 liters of stuff, this roller bag is well-sized for a weekend trip. The magnetic compression straps keep your clothes right where you want them while the tech compartment makes for easy organization of your electronics. The removable tech compartment means you can grab your laptop when you need to do a little work without unpacking the entire bag.

Made of durable polycarbonate, this bag can stand up to the rough-and-tumble journeys you take in Nevada!

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^{Photo by DennyThurstonPhotography via iStock} 

Though northwestern Nevada might not have all the glitz and glam of Las Vegas or the name recognition of Lake Tahoe, there are still plenty of photography opportunities in this area.

Perhaps best known for Black Rock City - the host location for Burning Man - this part of Nevada is desolate, rugged, and full of beautiful and interesting landscapes.

In this travel and photography guide for northwestern Nevada, we offer insights into three of our favorite locations for photography.

Let's get to it!

What to Photograph in Northwestern Nevada - Black Rock Desert

^{Photo by mattnomad via iStock}

The Black Rock Desert is a massive, protected area of nearly 315,000 acres.

Amongst all that acreage are an abundance of opportunities to photograph canyons, mountains, and even hot springs.

Much of the area is actually a playa - an enormous alkali flats - where you can take photos of the desert scene, capture images of landsailing, watch as people launch homemade rockets, and if you're timing is right, you can even catch the Burning Man Festival as well.

^{Photo by wundervisuals via iStock} 

Planning Your Black Rock Desert Trip

• Where to Stay: The Holiday Inn Express Winnemucca is about 76 miles away and is one of the closest hotels to the Black Rock Desert.
• Where to Eat: Bruno's Country Club offers a menu of traditional comfort food, and its location on Main Street in the town of Gerlach makes it one of the closest eateries to Black Rock Desert.
• Must-See Attractions: The Burning Man Festival turns the playa into a must-see event each year in the late summer. Visit the Burning Man website for dates and other details.
• Check the weather in Black Rock City right now.

Sheldon National Wildlife Refuge is Prime Wildlife Photography Territory

^{Photo by milehightraveler via iStock}

Established in 1931 as an area to protect American pronghorn, the Sheldon National Wildlife Refuge is awash with all kinds of wildlife, including mule deer, sage grouse, pygmy rabbit, and many varieties of song birds and migratory birds, like the American bittern shown above.

The refuge is mostly high desert with wide-open spaces of sagebrush-covered prairie with narrow canyons and rolling valleys interspersed throughout.

There are also many mountain peaks and steep cliffs, giving you opportunities for many different kinds of landscape photography in addition to wildlife photography.

Some restrictions apply regarding photography. Visit the refuge's permit page to learn more.

Planning Your Sheldon National Wildlife Refuge Trip

• Where to Stay: The Royal Peacock Opal Mine has a small RV Park, tent camping, and cabins. Be aware that the nearest full-service grocery store is 100 miles away and the closest gas station is 34 miles away. This area is extremely desolate!
• Where to Eat: Your best bet is to pack a lunch (maybe dinner too) ahead of time as there are very few places to eat, and what is available is prohibitively far away.
• Must-See Attractions: This area has an abundance of wildlife and sweeping vistas. Take a break from taking photos and simply enjoy watching wildlife or take in the sunset! The Thousand Creek Gorge (shown in the video above by Scott Waters) isn't bad either.
• Check the weather at the refuge right now.

Photograph the Mysterious Fly Geyser

^{Photo by Spencer Jones via iStock}

Perhaps one of the most interesting features in northwestern Nevada is Fly Geyser.

The geyser is actually not natural - it was accidentally created as a result of drilling a well in 1964. When the drilling commenced, geothermal water emerged and has been flowing ever since.

The travertine mound that surrounds the geyser has continued to grow over the years, and will keep doing so while water is still flowing. Inside the mound, quartz has already started forming, which is unusual since quartz usually takes about 10,000 years to form.

Fly Geyser used to be on private property, but Burning Man has since purchased the land. There are guided tours are available depending on the time of year.

^{Photo by Pixonian via iStock}

Planning Your Fly Geyser Photography Trip

• Where to Stay: Iveson Ranch offers primitive camping and a few dude ranch buildings that have been converted into guest rooms.
• Where to Eat: Since the Fly Geyser is close to the town of Gerlach, Bruno's Country Club is a good bet.
• Must-See Attractions: The so-called "Burner Byway" offers all kinds of interesting activities from photo ops to history lessons to scenic byways and much more.
• Check the weather at Fly Geyser right now.

This Nevada Photography and Travel Guide is Sponsored By:

Click Props Backdrops

Based in Las Vegas, Click Props Backdrops offers a wide selection of premium photography backdrops and floors.

Kat Armendariz of hushXpose owns the U.S. district for Click Props along with her husband Ephraim.

Their backdrops are constructed of heavy-duty vinyl yet are lightweight, wrinkle resistant, and easy to hang with either reinforced grommets along the top or by using a magnetic backdrop support system.

If you need gorgeous, easy-to-use backdrops, this is the place to find them!

Click here to learn more about Click Props Backdrops

SIRUI Tripods

SIRUI has built a solid reputation over the years for crafting precise, easy-to-use, feature-packed tripods for photographers of all types and experience levels.

No matter if you need a tripod for studio photography work, landscape photography, on-location portraits, travel photography, or something in between, SIRUI's extensive line of products will help you get the shots you need. Their tripods even come with a six-year warranty.

There's a reason why SIRUI is the choice of so many photographers - their tripods represent exceptional quality and value.

Learn more about SIRUI tripods

Acratech

From ball heads to quick-release clamps, video heads to camera and lens plates, Acratech crafts some of the highest-quality photography gear on the market today.

Acratech's family-run business is based in Pomona, California, where they use the finest materials and the highest-quality workmanship to manufacture their products.

If it's precision, durability, and affordability you're after, Acratech is it!

Learn more about Acratech

Columbia Sportswear

Whether you're exploring the desert southwest in the summer, the far reaches of Scandinavia in the winter, or points between, Columbia Sportswear has the gear you need to be comfortable on your photography adventures.

You can get outfitted from head to toe for any season with high-quality products from Columbia that show their dedication to providing adventurers of all types with the gear they need.

There's a reason why Columbia has been at it for 80 years - their gear is dependable, comfortable, and affordable too!

Learn more about Columbia

Kenko Filters

Kenko filters are precision-crafted with high-quality materials to give you the best photographic results.

Kenko offers a wide line of filters that includes circular polarizers, neutral density filters, and variable neutral density filters as well.

Their combination of quality and price makes Kenko filters a top choice for photographers of all kinds!

Learn more about Kenko filters like the Nyumon Circular Polarizing Filter shown above

Nomatic Luggage

For a fun weekend away in Nevada, you need a mid-sized bag that will accommodate all your clothes and other personal items while keeping them neatly organized. For that task, the Nomatic Carry-On Pro is an ideal choice.

With capacity for up to 28 liters of stuff, this roller bag is well-sized for a weekend trip. The magnetic compression straps keep your clothes right where you want them while the tech compartment makes for easy organization of your electronics. The removable tech compartment means you can grab your laptop when you need to do a little work without unpacking the entire bag.

Made of durable polycarbonate, this bag can stand up to the rough-and-tumble journeys you take in Nevada!

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^{Photo by bluebeat76 via iStock} 

While southeastern Nevada is best known for Las Vegas and the Hoover Dam, there are plenty of other must-see locales that are worth your time as a photographer.

In fact, there are gorgeous vistas, beautiful lakes, stunning canyons, and other landscape features in this part of the state that make it a veritable playground for landscape photographers.

In this travel and photography guide for southeastern Nevada, we offer an overview of three top destinations for photographers, where you can stay, and a few good places to eat as well.

What to Photograph in Southeastern Nevada - Valley of Fire State Park

^{Photo by LeoPatrizi via iStock} 

One of the most photographed landscapes in all of Nevada, Valley of Fire State Park has over 40,000 acres of bright red Aztec sandstone formations that make for a beautiful subject for your photos.

Set amongst gray and tan limestone, these bright red sandstone formations look otherworldly.

Add to that a host of petrified trees and petroglyphs that are thousands of years old, and you have the makings of a photography spot that will keep you busy all day long. Just note that there is a $10 entrance fee and that the park is open from sunrise to sunset, apart from the campgrounds which are open 24 hours a day.

^{Photo by rickberk via iStock}

Planning Your Valley of Fire State Park Trip

• Where to Stay: The North Shore Inn gets very good reviews from guests and is budget-friendly with rooms starting at under $100 per night. It's also one of the closest accommodations to the park.
• Where to Eat: The Inside Scoop has a menu of comfort food and their ice cream gets rave reviews.
• Must-See Attractions: The park's Visitor Center is a must-see, with exhibits on the area's ecology, geology, and prehistory. Also be sure to check out the park's many hiking trails.
• Check the weather in Valley of Fire State Park right now.

Get Your Feet Wet in Lake Mead

^{Photo by 4kodiak via iStock} 

The Lake Mead National Recreation Area is one of the most popular tourist spots in Nevada.

But it isn't just for boating and swimming...

There are many areas on and around the lake that are certainly worthy of your time as a photographer, including the steep rock cliffs that line the lake, sunsets and sunrises over the lake's waters, and the nine wilderness areas within the area's boundaries where you can capture photos of plant and animal life.

Entrance fees to the park are $25 per vehicle, but the pass is good for seven consecutive days.

^{Photo by ericfoltz via iStock}

Planning Your Lake Mead Trip

• Where to Stay: The Westin Las Vegas Resort and Spa might not be the closest hotel to Lake Mead, but it's certainly worth the drive for the four-star service, impeccable facilities, and the amenities, which include a spa, golf course, fine dining, and more. Prices start at under $100 per night.
• Where to Eat: Take a break from taking photos and head to Las Vegas Boat Harbor, Lake Mead Marina where you'll find various snack bars and restaurants where you can refuel for another day's adventures.
• Must-See Attractions: Pipe Spring, which is home to strange granite and metamorphic rock formations, and the ancient sand dunes of Redstone (shown above) should be on your list of places to see and photograph.
• Check the weather at the Ruby Mountains right now.

Sloan Canyon is a Must-See Nevada Photography Destination

^{Photo by Gromit702 via iStock}

The Sloan Canyon National Conservation Area is a quiet, lonely place where you can certainly find some solitude to be alone with the beauty of nature.

With nearly 50,000 acres, the conservation area protects a variety of cultural and geologic features, including ancient petroglyphs that date to thousands of years ago.

In fact, the Sloan Canyon Petroglyph Site is one of the most important cultural areas in Southern Nevada, with more than 300 rock art panels and 1,700 individual designs created by native cultures.

^{Photo by LordRunar via iStock} 

Planning Your Sloan Canyon Photography Trip

• Where to Stay: The M Resort is one of the closest hotels to Sloan Canyon, and offers gorgeous rooms, tasty restaurants, and bars and pools for fun. Prices start at under $100.
  
• Where to Eat: The Munch Box in Henderson offers quick, healthy meals and gets top reviews from customers for its food and service.
  
• Must-See Attractions: Boulder City is just east of Sloan Canyon and offers many opportunities for recreation, including many parks, trails, sporting opportunities, and photo ops throughout the area.
• Check the weather at Sloan Canyon right now.

This Nevada Photography and Travel Guide is Sponsored By:

Click Props Backdrops

Based in Las Vegas, Click Props Backdrops offers a wide selection of premium photography backdrops and floors.

Kat Armendariz of hushXpose owns the U.S. district for Click Props along with her husband Ephraim.

Their backdrops are constructed of heavy-duty vinyl yet are lightweight, wrinkle resistant, and easy to hang with either reinforced grommets along the top or by using a magnetic backdrop support system.

If you need gorgeous, easy-to-use backdrops, this is the place to find them!

Click here to learn more about Click Props Backdrops

SIRUI Tripods

SIRUI has built a solid reputation over the years for crafting precise, easy-to-use, feature-packed tripods for photographers of all types and experience levels.

No matter if you need a tripod for studio photography work, landscape photography, on-location portraits, travel photography, or something in between, SIRUI's extensive line of products will help you get the shots you need. Their tripods even come with a six-year warranty.

There's a reason why SIRUI is the choice of so many photographers - their tripods represent exceptional quality and value.

Learn more about SIRUI tripods

Acratech

From ball heads to quick-release clamps, video heads to camera and lens plates, Acratech crafts some of the highest-quality photography gear on the market today.

Acratech's family-run business is based in Pomona, California, where they use the finest materials and the highest-quality workmanship to manufacture their products.

If it's precision, durability, and affordability you're after, Acratech is it!

Learn more about Acratech

Columbia Sportswear

Whether you're exploring the desert southwest in the summer, the far reaches of Scandinavia in the winter, or points between, Columbia Sportswear has the gear you need to be comfortable on your photography adventures.

You can get outfitted from head to toe for any season with high-quality products from Columbia that show their dedication to providing adventurers of all types with the gear they need.

There's a reason why Columbia has been at it for 80 years - their gear is dependable, comfortable, and affordable too!

Learn more about Columbia

Kenko Filters

Kenko filters are precision-crafted with high-quality materials to give you the best photographic results.

Kenko offers a wide line of filters that includes circular polarizers, neutral density filters, and variable neutral density filters as well.

Their combination of quality and price makes Kenko filters a top choice for photographers of all kinds!

Learn more about Kenko filters like the Nyumon Circular Polarizing Filter shown above.

Nomatic Luggage

For a fun weekend away in Nevada, you need a mid-sized bag that will accommodate all your clothes and other personal items while keeping them neatly organized. For that task, the Nomatic Carry-On Pro is an ideal choice.

With capacity for up to 28 liters of stuff, this roller bag is well-sized for a weekend trip. The magnetic compression straps keep your clothes right where you want them while the tech compartment makes for easy organization of your electronics. The removable tech compartment means you can grab your laptop when you need to do a little work without unpacking the entire bag.

Made of durable polycarbonate, this bag can stand up to the rough-and-tumble journeys you take in Nevada!

---

^{Photo by pixdeluxe via iStock}

Hitting the road with your camera?

It's not quite as simple as throwing your camera over your shoulder and hopping in the car...

If you want to have the best experience, the most productive experience, and the most comfortable experience, you'll need a few items in your camera bag.

There's tons of choice when it comes to the top travel photography accessories, but in my book, the items I've listed below are absolute must-haves!

Top Travel Accessories for Photographers: Camera Bag

You can't exactly get a lot of traveling done if you don't have a bag that can accommodate all your personal items and your photography gear...

The f-stop Sukha Expedition Bag is an impressive piece of gear that will get your stuff from Point A to Point B safe and sound - all in one bag, too!

This bag holds a whopping 70 liters of gear, so even if you're hitting the road for a couple of months, you can fit everything you need in this big rig.

What makes this such a great travel bag is that you can get it with an Internal Camera Unit (as shown above), that helps you organize your gear to maximize the space in the bag.

Not only that, but the ICU is heavily padded to keep everything safe, and with all sorts of cubbies and dividers, there's no end to the possibilities you have for storing your photography gear.

Better still, f-stop has ensured it'll be a comfortable carrying experience even if this sucker is loaded to the brim. That's thanks to big, cushy shoulder straps and a waist belt that helps transfer the weight of the bag to your hips.

This is a bag you have to see to believe. But take my word for it - it's a fantastic companion for any photographer that's traveling!

Top Travel Photography Accessories for Photographers: Battery Backup

When you're traveling, you don't want to be tied to outlets the whole time, which is why a battery backup is an essential item.

I use the RAVPower 32000mAh battery pack because it offers a faster recharging time than comparable battery packs and has days and days of power for your phone, tablet, and other small electronics.

The three iSmart 2.0 USB ports charge three devices at the same time in case you're in a group and everyone's phones are dying.

It comes with a lifetime warranty, two micro USB charging cables, and a carrying pouch as well.

Top Travel Accessories for Photographers: The Right Clothing

Obviously, the time of year and the locations to which you're traveling will influence the kind and type of clothing you bring with you on your trip.

Since it's winter (and since I have a quick trip to Mammoth, California coming up), I'll focus on my go-to recommendations for winter clothing.

I'm a Columbia guy head to toe when I'm out shooting in the winter.

Up top, I keep ultra warm with my Columbia Heatzone TurboDown II jacket. Seriously, this thing keeps me warm even in frigid conditions thanks to the reflective heat technology on the inside of the jacket (something called 3D Thermal Reflective Omni-Heat).

The jacket's waterproof shell is a nice touch when it's spitting rain or snowing, and it's breathable too, so I stay warm without getting too warm.

My base layer of choice is the Titanium Omni-Heat 3D knit crewneck shirt and knit pants.

Again, it can be cold as can be out, but thanks to these bad boys, I experience no heat loss and I'm toasty warm.

They're incredibly soft against the skin, too, which I appreciate because I've tried other base layers in the past that felt itchy and scratchy, and I did not like that one bit!

Lastly, to keep my feet warm, I wear the Columbia Bugaboot Plus IV.

These suckers are waterproof, have a thermal-reflective lining, and 200 grams of insulation. That means that even when I'm trudging through the snow, my feet are nice and toasty warm.

Columbia even integrated a significant amount of insulation under the footbed, again to keep the cold out and the heat in.

The seams on the boot's exterior are sealed and waterproof, and the boot is breathable. In other words, Columbia has thought of everything to keep your feet warm and dry.

Top Travel Accessories for Photographers: Battery Chargers

When you're traveling the last thing you want is to run out of juice for your camera.

I shoot with a Nikon D850 and a Sony a6300, so I picked up a dual battery charger for each. Because why spend the time charging one battery when you can charge two, right?!

I bought the RAVPower 2100 mAh charger for my D850 (it's compatible with tons of other Nikon cameras) and it's been a rock-solid performer. I liked it so much I bought the RAVPower 1100 mAh dual charger for my a6300 too!

Top Travel Accessories for Photographers: Travel Microphone

You never know when you might want to get some good B-roll or just ambient sounds of nature and your surroundings, and to do that, you'll need a high-quality microphone.

After all, why shoot gorgeous 4K video on your camera and then have terrible-sounding audio?!

I'm a big fan of the little mic shown above - the Rode VideoMic GO.

It's a small mic that packs a big punch with directional audio that's super clear and crisp. This thing is compact and lightweight so you can easily add it to your camera bag too!

Top Travel Accessories for Photographers: Video Editor

If you've got a camera that shoots high-quality video and a microphone to pick up awesome audio, you need a video editor that you can use on the road to put it all together.

I've been using Kizoa for a while now, and it's been an impressive addition to my videography workflow.

It's cloud-based, so it's easy to use when you're traveling and back at the hotel for the night.

Better still, they have a free iOS app so you can get your editing done in the car, on the train, or on the plane to your next destination.

In fact, with this handy app, you can create amazing videos in just a few minutes. You can add as many photos and videos as you like, as well as special effects, different fonts, 3D effects, slides, fades, and more.

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