If you’re a creative person, you know that there’s nothing better than a change of scenery to spark inspiration. This is especially true when it comes to photography. Whether you’re a landscape photographer who loves capturing the sunrise from a mountaintop, or a portrait perfectionist seeking unique cultural moments, Indonesia is the best location to make your portfolio stand out from the crowd. This Bali travel guide for photography groups will map out Bali’s hidden gems and legendary landmarks, helping you plan a creative trip that fosters inspiration.
From ancient villages and water rituals to vibrant markets and wildlife, Indonesia is a dream for all kinds of photographers. Traveling as a group is a great way to share tips, build real-world connections with other creatives, and ensure you always have models on hand. Already want to start planning your next group adventure? Do it with TourHero. Epic views, iconic culture, and timeless temples await!
Mount Batur at sunrise
If you’re a landscape photographer looking for breathtaking moments, hiking up Mount Batur is an experience you can’t live without. Journey to the summit, allow the clouds to part, and experience a stunning sunrise. Take your time finding the perfect frame, and leave with a stunning collection of images. Mount Batur is one of Indonesia’s most notable landmarks, and you can’t visit Bali without seeing it for yourself.
On your way back down, indulge in Mount Batur’s natural hot springs for relaxation and lovely lake photography. For tranquil moments and endless beauty, this spot has you covered.
🌄 Psst, check out our epic guide to the 7 best mountain hikes in Indonesia for more magical views!
Nusa Penida
Dramatic cliffs, glistening waters, and beautiful beaches! Nusa Penida has all of this and so much more! Take a day trip and tour the island’s most photogenic spots. Start with Kelingking Beach, one of the most renowned beaches in Indonesia. It earned this status because of its T-rex-shaped limestone cliff formation overlooking turquoise waters, so be sure to find the perfect angle to capture this. The challenging hike down to the secluded, sandy shore is considered a must-do for many photography and nature enthusiasts.
Next, venture to Angel’s Billabong, a striking natural lagoon carved into limestone cliffs, where clear turquoise waters settle into a serene, infinity-like pool. The surrounding rock formations rise dramatically against the ocean backdrop, creating a scene that feels both raw and otherworldly. Admire its beauty from a safe vantage point and remain mindful of the powerful tides — swimming is unsafe here, especially during high tide, when sudden surges can sweep in without warning
To complete this stunning trio, head to Broken Beach, where a natural rock arch and vibrant blue waters await. The arch was formed from a collapsed sea cave, giving this landscape some more character for your photographs. For lovers of nature and landscape photography, Nusa Penida is definitely worth adding to your bucket list… and posting on your Instagram!
Rice terraces at Tegallalang, Jatiluwih, and Sidemen
Are you even a photographer in Bali if you don’t visit the most iconic rice terraces on the island? Tegallalang is one of the best attractions in Indonesia, with its lush emerald-green glow and manicured scenery. It’s also home to one of the best activities in Indonesia: the Bali swing!
Whether you’re seeking action-packed images or landscapes that you’ll never forget, Tegalalang is a must-see for all travel photographers. Frame your friends as they swing over jungle canopies, capture the detailed layers of this sustainable irrigation system, or explore this spot at sunset for the ultimate golden hour photoshoot. Tegallalang is crowned one of the most Instagrammable spots in Indonesia and it’s not hard to see why.
If the vibrant beauty of rice terraces captures your attention, Bali has plenty more to offer. There are several spots to choose from off the beaten path. Feast your eyes on the endlessly lush Jatiluwih Rice Terraces that are great for a gorgeous trek. If you’re seeking a spot for dramatic landscape photography, the Sidemen Rice Terraces has the powerful Mount Agung in the background, and is considered one of Bali’s best hidden gems. It’s also further from the tourist crowds to give you space to exercise your creative vision.
The Gate of Heaven
Photographers often find themselves drawn to Bali because of its spiritual architecture and captivating landmarks. If you’re planning a creative trip to Indonesia, you have to make time for Lempuyang Temple, also known as the “Gate of Heaven”. This breathtaking location is a top destination for travel photographers and tourists alike. The temple features a gateway that opens up to frame Mount Agung, with sunlight and clouds making each image more mystical than the last.
If you’re a skilled photographer leading a group trip, Lempuyang Temple is a fantastic opportunity to share your knowledge as there’s a special trick you can do that is a guaranteed crowd pleaser. By holding a mirror beneath your camera lens, you can create the illusion of a water reflection, turning this beautiful temple into sensational photographs. The budding photographers you are traveling with will never forget this experience!
If this style of temple is up your street, you should also check out the Handara Iconic Gate. This is another landmark with a Balinese gateway structure, featuring intricate details and stunning scenery in every direction.
Various timeless temples across the island
Of course, it wouldn’t be a trip to Bali without exploring the many temples in this region. Detailed, spiritual, and beautifully designed, each temple offers something special for photographers. You can visit water temples such as Tirta Empul, Tirta Gangga, and Ulun Danu Beratan to capture stunning architecture and authentic culture, as well as the traditional water purification rituals performed by locals.
If you want to combine this rich cultural experience with photographing the ocean, you can visit the unique Tanah Lot Temple, which is perched on the edge of the water. This temple is especially beautiful at sunset and, when the tide is high, it looks like it’s floating.
Another Bali temple that is great for photographers is Besakih Temple. Besakih is known as the “Mother Temple”, and is considered the most sacred temple in Bali. A symbol of Balinese Hinduism, Besakih is the largest temple complex on the island, meaning there’s an incredible amount of detail to capture in your photographs. It features a staircase with a gate at the top, and beautiful plants framing it on either side.
Goa Gajah, known as the Elephant Cave, blends both Hindu and Buddhist influences. This temple in particular is ideal for photographers because of its intricate stone carvings, lush gardens, and spiritual offerings.
Uluwatu Temple with Kecak fire dance
Keeping in the theme of Bali’s temples, there is one landmark that will give you a range of opportunities to craft memorable images. Uluwatu Temple is a dramatic structure on the edge of a cliff that will provide endless opportunities for landscape photographers. If you visit at sunset, you can also watch a traditional Kecak fire dance. This gives you a window into the rich cultural heritage of Indonesia, and the fire dance in particular will help any travel photographer build a unique body of work.
For panoramic shots, indigenous traditions, and sunset spectacles, Uluwatu Temple is a must-see in our Bali travel guide for photographers.
Wildlife photography (yes, including monkeys!)
Bali is home to a range of animals that make it a great destination for wildlife photographers. The Sacred Monkey Forest in Ubud is the perfect playground for fun photos in nature, with winding jungle pathways, ancient statues adorned by moss, and (of course!) some friendly primates! You can spend hours walking around this sanctuary, finding new frames and photogenic details everywhere you turn.
If you’re traveling to Bali for wildlife photography, you should also visit West Bali National Park. This is the only national park in Bali and it’s known for its rich biodiversity. From birds and wild boar, to mangrove forests, Menjangan Island, and Pemuteran Beach, West Bali National Park is a haven for wildlife, nature, and landscape photographers.
The lively hotspots in Seminyak
Seminyak is a chic beach town in Bali that has become a hotspot for nightlife, water sports, and blissful beach days. If you’re looking for photography spots in Indonesia that are a bit more lively, Seminyak will be a great destination for you. From luxury living and modern vibes, to beach parties and snorkeling, Seminyak will give you a good mixture of inspiration.
For photographers who seek more action, you can spend days on the beach capturing the surf spirit that Seminyak is known for. If you’re a people watcher looking for incredible street photography or your next portrait, explore the bustling markets, iconic beach clubs, and nightlife that draws travelers to this area. Or, if a beach photoshoot is more up your alley, explore the shores of this trendy town and take endless snaps of Seminyak’s sparkling waves.
Campuhan Ridge Walk
Another great location for nature photographers is the Campuhan Ridge Walk. This scenic spot in Ubud features a track that winds uphill, giving incredible views of the nearby rice terraces, jungle canopies, and hills. Vibrant green scenery surrounds you, providing a moment of peace in one of Bali’s top destinations.
If you prefer photographing people, the soft natural light and expansive ridgelines offer an equally striking stage complete with an open-air backdrop that frames every subject against some of the island’s most breathtaking biodiversity.
The Gili Islands
This wouldn’t be a Bali travel guide without mentioning the underwater wonders that Indonesia is known for. The Gili Islands in particular are an idyllic marine region to go snorkeling and take incredible underwater photographs. On top of the vibrant colorful reefs and abundant marine life, you’ll also find the Gili Meno underwater sculptures.
Called the “Nest”, this sculpture project features 48 statues made from the casts of real people. They are arranged in a circle and were originally created to support the growth of coral. This is a must-see for marine photography and gives you a unique glimpse into environmentally friendly innovation in Bali.
Another perk of visiting the Gili Islands is that the sea turtles in this location are very friendly and accustomed to humans, which means you can capture these incredible creatures up close! You’ll also get to experience some of the most beautiful sunsets in Indonesia, and capture the serenity of island life.
If this list of epic locations in Indonesia has caught your eye, why not plan a group photography trip and make these sensational shots a reality? As well as visiting Bali’s best attractions, you can craft an incredible experience for other photographers. If you’re technically skilled with certain equipment, you could include a workshop that shares your expertise. Are you an expert at playing with color in post? Run your own masterclass on style, and show your group how to elevate their work.
Come together with your creative community and go on the trip of a lifetime. The best part? You can get help! If the stress of planning a trip is preventing you from traveling to bucket-list destinations, we can take care of all the arrangements for you. Simply invite your crew, pack your camera, and get ready to take your portfolio to the next level. Start planning with TourHero today!
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