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The Photo Adventure of a Lifetime

The world’s most creative and inspiring photo tours and cultural adventures, may all who come as guests… leave as friends ®.

We offer over 100 carefully curated small-group photo tours in over 40 countries. Our authentic adventures offer you a chance to combine a spectacular vacation with a wonderful creative learning experience. We blend travel, culture, photography, cuisine, and more. Our casual format provides a unique blend of hands-on learning techniques and skills mastered over many years, including our exclusive “The Art of Seeing” approach. Whether you are a beginner, an enthusiast, or a professional, we invite you to join us on a truly amazing photographic and cultural adventure of a lifetime.

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24 HOURS OF LE MANS

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CUBA | HAVANA

CUBA | PRIVATE

CUBA | VANISHING CUBA

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HISTORIC ROUTE 66

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INDIA | KERALA

INDIA | KERALA THEYYAM FESTIVAL

INDIA | LOST TRIBES OF GUJARAT

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INDIA | VARANASI

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VIETNAM | NORTHERN VIETNAM

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PHOTOGRAPHY TOURS - CAPTURE THE ATLAS

Download our Trip Catalog for detailed information on our many destinations for photography tours, workshops, and safaris.

Moscow Photo Tour

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Description

Highlights:.

• Discover scenic spots of Moscow
• Enjoy the icons of Moscow in style
• Explore off the beaten path routes of Moscow
• Expert commentary as you travel around the city
• Get 10 professionally edited photos of yourself, and all the rest unedited
• Savour delicacies from different regions of Russia in a traditional restaurant

Our goal is to make sure your experience with us is one that you will never forget. Our professional photographer will point out and help you discover the things that are best to be photographed, finding the most photographable and scenic shots - color, sights, and people in their everyday life. This tour will cover all of the main sights of Moscow, as well as some places ‘off-the-beaten-path,’ and a meal at a traditional Russian restaurant, if desired.

We offer private and group photo tours and customize each tour according to your interests. E.g. cityscapes, architecture, people and street photography, etc.

Suggested itinerary for our 3-hour photo walk:

St. Basil's Cathedral, GUM, Kazan Cathedral, State Historical Museum and Lenin's Mausoleum

Revolution Square and Theatrical Square

Bolshoy Theatre, Metropol Hotel, Chinese Wall, State Duma of Moscow

Alexander Garden

The Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, fountains, the Grotto, Central Exhibition center, Kutafya tower, Kremlin wall and towers

Historic City Center

Tverskaya street with its beautiful historical architecture, China town (Kitai-gorod), an old historical area of Moscow

Most beautiful metro stations

All-russian exhibition center (vvc).

+More places based on your requests! After this 3 hour tour you will receive 10 professionally edited photos and approximately 100 unedited photos.

If you desire a more elaborate experience, we can create a 5 or 10 hour tour, or a split 10 hour tour over 2 days (5 hours/day). Our photo tour adventure can focus on architecture, people, fashion, lifestyle, even rooftop scenes, and more!

Great restaurants, historical streets, urban and outdoorsy locations, metro stations, parks, cathedrals, squares, bridges, Kremlin walls, Stalin’s Neoclassical architecture or a river cruise… Experience all of Moscow in an amazing and relaxed photo session, making your Russian story unforgettable!

Highly recommended Bunker-42 , Cold War Museum , explore the place where Khrushchev lived during the Cuban Crisis. Go down 18 floors to a gigantic bunker under Moscow that was designed to withstand a nuclear attack. Watch a short film about the severity of the Cold War. If you lived through the Cold War, you will hardly believe it is possible that you are in Bunker 42! OR Sparrow Hills .

Sparrow Hills

Wander through Sparrow Hills and climb up to the highest observation deck of Moscow with stunning views of all seven Stalin’s skyscrapers, including Moscow State University . After that, experience the excitement of taking a river cruise on river Moscow and catch the views of the Kremlin and Soviet times.

Our TOP-20 most iconic places in Moscow, ideal for photoshoot

1. red square..

The heart of Moscow and all Russia, in fact. The place for the Kremlin, GUM and Mausoleum.

Spend at least an hour around St Basil's Cathedral - a luxurious temple with ten domes was built in 1561 on the order of Ivan the Terrible - in honor of the victory over the Kazan Khanate.

Drop in GUM for ice-cream, fountain and beautiful views. GUM is the main shopping center of the country. You'll find here countless boutiques, plus the famous "Deli №1» with lots of delicacies.

The rivalry between the republics of the Soviet Union in the decoration of their pavilions came to such an extent that the local steel construction resemble palaces and temples.

Don't miss the Worker and Kolkhoz Woman  - one of the most famous Soviet sculptures, the standard socialist realism.

Make sure to take a Big Ferris Wheel. One of the highest in Eastern Europe), the rate of turnover is seven minutes, enough to catch breathtaking views of Moscow from the height of 73 metres.

3. Alexander Garden.

Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, "Post №1" and Change of the Guard at the Eternal Flame, which can be seen every day every hour.

4. Sparrow Hills.

One of the best viewing platforms in Moscow with height of almost 80 meters. A popular place for honeymooners and bikers.

5. Old Arbat.

Old Moscow street is striking in its consistency. Despite numerous fires, reconstruction and destruction, there is still readable history of the city.

6. Manezh Square.

One of the most known works of the Georgian architect Zurab  Tsereteli - "Manezhka" - with cascading fountains, giant horses, benches and lighting.

7. Moscow Zoo.

The oldest zoo in Russia, which is home to almost 8000 animals. Plus, the Dolphinarium, a terrarium and exotarium.

8. Gorky Park.

Boat rental, gazebo, summer theater, and in winter - ice rink with mulled wine. The place to be when in Moscow!

9. Christ the Savior Cathedral.

The largest Orthodox Church in the world.

10. The State Tretyakov Gallery.

The emblem of Moscow, a page from Russia's history, a pleasant place to stroll, an educational center with excursions, art studios and lecturer.

11. Clean Ponds.

Chistoprudny Boulevard - a place that attracts all kinds of social strata and is loved by locals.

12. Big Stone Bridge.

The bridge offers a picturesque view of the Kremlin and its surroundings, as well as the Cathedral of Christ the Savior.

13. Monument to Peter I.

King-sized sculpture that received the nickname "Gulliver".

14. Tsaritsino Museum-Reserve.

Beautiful park in Moscow with the ancient architecture, chamber concerts and singing fountains.

15. Ostankino Tower.

Russian television tower with two viewing platforms.

16. Victory Park.

A large memorial complex at Poklonnaya Hill built in honor of the Soviet victory in the Great Patriotic War.

17. Kolomenskoye Museum-Reserve.

One of the oldest inhabited places in Moscow, and the former summer residence of the city authorities since the XIV century.

18. Bolshoi Theatre.

One of the largest theaters in Russia, which was once the stage for Fyodor Chaliapin, Galina Ulanova, Maya Plisetskaya, Maris Liepa, Galina Vishnevskaya

19. Trimphal Arch.

Monument to the victory of Russian troops over Napoleon that adorns the Kutuzovsky Prospect.

20. Patriarch ponds.

Quiet green area in the heart of bustling Moscow.

What you get:

• + A friend in Moscow
• + Private & customized tour
• + An exciting tour, not just boring history lessons
• + An authentic experience of local life
• + Flexibility during the tour: changes can be made at any time to suit individual preferences
• + Amazing deals for breakfast, lunch, and dinner in the very best cafes & restaurants. Discounts on weekdays (Mon-Fri)
• + A photo session amongst spectacular Moscow scenery that can be treasured for a lifetime
• + Good value for souvenirs, taxis, and hotels
• + Expert advice on what to do, where to go, and how to make the most of your time in Moscow

*This tour can be modified to meet your preferences

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• Photography tours & Workshops 2024

Japan Photo Tours

Details of a japan photo tour.

Check your favorite Japan photo tour and travel to the rising sun country in our guided tours. Visit Nippon during the Sakura, Momiji, or minimalist landscapes of Hokkaido or magic villages during winter. The Land of the Rising Sun, with plenty of contrasts from the main cities to the small villages.

Our workshops in Japan are always based on small groups tours of 4 participants with a photographer guide. It means that you will get personalized attention during all trips. Each package includes all transport during the trip, accommodations (hotels, ryokans &. hot springs), a professional photographer guide, admission fees, excursions & basic travel insurance.

Travel to Japan & capture the Fuji Five Lakes during our Japan photography workshop tour. Or the winter wonderland & snow-covered sea & of Northern Japan. Here you will find plenty of photo opportunities to capture the traditional Japanese culture. Zen gardens, temples shrines, torii gates … But also the wildlife like the red-crowned, whooper swans, steller’s sea eagles, fish owl …

Even if it’s fully booked, contact us for the next trips or new data!

Japan Autumn Nature  

Hokkaido  

Japanese Alps  

Sakura Road Trip  

What are the best photography tours in japan.

We have designed four different itineraries according to the season around Japanese geography. The Nippon country is one of the most complete international destinations for all kinds of photographers. You can capture everything from architecture, to landscapes, travel photography, or winter scenes.

Check the itineraries of our photography tours to Japan. You will have a great chance to capture the beauty of every city and landscape of the country.

Spring Photo Tour

We visit the main cities of Tokyo & Kyoto , but also Matsumoto, Osaka, or Himeji for example. During these 15 days, the tour is designed to capture the Sakura around the castles & parks. But also we have time to visit the Kiso Valley, Nara, or experience a day with monks in Koyasan including a tea ceremony. And a day tour to photograph the snow monkeys of Jigokudani . And of course, we don’t forget about the main spots around Fuji Five Lakes as the shrine Chureito Pagoda .

Autumn Photo Tour

As before, we do a tour in the main cities and nature spots. During the fall, we also come to the famous landscape of Nikko Valley . And a visit to the Unesco World Heritage of Shirakawa-Go . There we will spend a few days capturing fall colors and visiting autumn leaves festivals. Both trips have a departure from Narita Airport in Tokyo.

Japanese Alps Photo Tour

Discover Japan during winter with our two trips during January & February. Join both tours and get a 500€ discount!

In our Japanese Alps photography tour, you will capture the magic of Shirakawago or Gokayama. Also, we will have time to photograph snow monkeys at Jigokudani Park, hidden torii gates, and waterfalls… an epic adventure that of course also includes Mount Fuji photo sessions.

Hokkaido Photo Tour

During the Hokkaido photography tour, you will enjoy beautiful minimalistic landscapes . Also, Hokkaido offers you the best Japanese wildlife photography trip . We will do a full circle around the northern Japanese Island. A different tour than any European winter tour, like a Norway trip. A tour to capture the red-crowned cranes and whooper swans, and the unique nature of the northeast island of the country.

Inside a Japan Photo Tour

Do you doubt when to do a Japan Photo Tour? As specialists in trips to Japan , we can suggest the best season for your workshop. We have prepared different routes to photograph the main spots. So you can enjoy the beauty of Japan during spring, autumn, or winter .

Autumn & Spring are based on a round trip around the main cities in Central Japan. We will visit the regions of Hakone, Yamanashi, Tochigi, Nara, or Aichi as examples. During these trips, you will be able to take pictures of Tokyo & Kyoto. But also the Snow Monkeys, Koyasan, Osaka. Both have different itineraries, as each season has different things to offer.

Also, all our Japan Photography Tours have included some nights in an Onsens or Ryokans . This way, you can experience also the traditional Japan. Not only when we visit the Torii Gates or the temples & sanctuaries around the spots.

Best season to visit the Land of the Rising Sun

What do you want to see on your next Japan Photo Tour? Japan can be enjoyed all year, but each season has different things to do. If we need to define our group:

• Spring we focus on Japanese Culture and the cherry blossoms
• Autumn on the nature of central Japan.
• Winter on minimalistic landscapes and typical villages.

But all have much more things to do, check our itineraries and write us if you have any doubts about which one to choose.

Private Photo Trips

As an international operator, we also organize handmade Japan Photo Tours . Our photographer guides and locals guides will help you to create your trip. So you can choose to do any similar itinerary that we show you here. Or we can prepare a special itinerary for you in a private photo workshop.

Also, we will choose special accommodations ( like hot-spring or Onsen ). And define all characteristics you will prefer for your holidays in Japan.

Any of our tours are for everyone interested in visiting sightseeing photogenic scenes . We also go to far locations from the tourist spots of Japan. Even if you are not a photographer, we will bring you to hidden gems. For example, we can suggest places in the Shikoku, Kanazawa, or Kyushu regions.

We customize your private photography tour to visit your favorite spots at the right time. Thanks to our experience, we will offer you infinite possibilities to choose from during your next trip to Japan. If you are a photo lover, you will the photo opportunities that Japan has. But also if you do not need to capture with your camera you will experience breathtaking moments and capture Japanese architectural masterpieces.

Write to us, and we will prepare a perfect private photo tour. We can include the top locations we have in mind or discover new ones according to your wishes. Choose your favorite city, spots, or Prefectures and we will help you to create the best itinerary for you.

Why the trips are not by train with the Japan Rail Pass?

As we look to be at the right moment in the perfect place, moving by car it’s the cheapest and most comfortable way. Also, as our trips are based on groups of 4 persons with a guide, we move with small vans around Japan. This way we can adapt the schedules to our own interests. If we decided to use the JR Pass and travel by Shinkansen bullet train, we not will have the same freedom.

Can you take pictures in Japan?

For sure, you can take photos in all public places in Japan. You just need to ask for permissions if you have commercial purposes as in most countries of the world. And like other places, you can find the international signs that could tell you to not take photos. If you are not sure, kindly ask a local. Take a look at our gallery of Photos in Japan!

Can you travel now?

Yes, with the actual situation enter to Japan is possible for almost all countries. You can keep your seat now as bookings are going fast! 

You will need to travel with an official travel agency and get the ERFS certificate. We have our own local agency in Japan, so with us, travel to Nippon is easy!

Which currency is used?

In Japan, the currency is the Japanese Yen.

Don’t think that you can pay everywhere with a credit card in Japan. Although you can’t pay in euros , you can convert once there to the Japanese Yen at the same airport. We suggest changing around 300-500 euros or dollars and use your travel credit card  there.

How much money will you need for your trip?

You should plan to spend around ¥3,000 ($28) per day on our photo tours in Japan , which is the average daily price based on meals that are not included.

Why is food so cheap ?

It´s because the purchasing power and standard of living of the Japanese are very high. You can buy a decent meal with a low budget . As a basic necessity, Japanese cuisine is relatively inexpensive compared to the level of life in Japan.

Do I need a Visa to enter?

To  enter Japan you need a passport and a visa unless you are from a country that is visa-exempt . In case you need it, the Japanese government is going to introduce the e-visa. In case is not currently implemented, you will need to visit the Japanese embassy or consulate to apply for a  visa .

What month is the cheapest fly?

According to different flight searches, the cheapest months to take a flight to Japan is from January to April. Although in March is cherry blossoms, you can find economic flights. The high season is summer, so even in November-December, you can find good deals.

Why is tipping rude in the country?

The Japanese culture is based on the belief that the price includes already good service . This way, pay extra can be considered insulting. Respect the cultural rules, even if it looks strange for you. Simply be polite , and say thanks to the waiter or waitress after enjoying the service.

Book now your favourite tour

The price of these photography tours are based on the participation of a minimum of 4 participants. In case there are not enough participants, the possibility of making the trip will be offered with an increase proportional to the price, or a 100% refund of the total paid.

The last time of exchange rate calculation was January 1st, 2021, the final price can be modified up to 30 days before the tour start.

Accommodation

The accommodations offered are shared double rooms.

You can book an individual room during the process of the book your place for the photo tour or writing us at [email protected]

Meals are not included.

Our tours include basic insurance, we suggest contracting full cover insurance. Contact us to expand your insurance coverage.

Our tours include all internal transports (cars, vans, trains, or flights). We don’t include international flights, but we will guide you at the moment of your booking the best options to arrive to the destiny from your home.

The itinerary mentioned can be changed due to a force major reasons like weather conditions or accidents for example.

Payment & Refunds

To book your place you need to pay 25% of the total cost. The total payment must be made 45 days before the trip.

This tour is done by ¨Photography Tours PhotoWorldTours SLU¨, due to illness or other reasons the trip may be made by another guide.

If the tour doesnt have enough people, refund of the deposit will be done 45 days before the trip starts.

Cancellations

If the client cancel the trip will lose the deposit paid (25%), but refund other payments due this cancellation policy:

– More than 45 days but less than 60 days to the start of the tour: 50% of the total cost of the trip will be refunded. – Less than 45 days before the trip start: There will be no refund.

Other considerations

Please, check the section “This tour include” and “This tour not include” to know more details about meals, guides or other services include.

Write us for more info

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Cesar Araujo

Well-used and complete photography tour, with good photography scenes

Andrew Teakle

The spring tour through Japan was absolutely full of wonderful photographic opportunities and great camaraderie. With only four participants we all got to know each other well and got to see the most beautiful sites. Eduardo was easy-going with good humour (and excellent music taste) and tremendous photographic experience. The accommodations were excellent and this has to be the best value Japan Cherry Blossoms tour on the market.

This Japan tour was not only well organized, but also a lot of fun. We had a great group of photographers with a lot of camaraderie and humor visiting great sites, we would never have found without Eduardo’s fine insight. Highly recommended!

PhotoWorldTour’s JapanSakura tour was both a highlight and a sustained happy pill. In the course of a few days, we traveled in Spanish through large parts of Japan’s most beautiful areas. Eduardo – as well as his lucky mascot Missifou – is the best tour guide I’ve had. Relaxed, funny and so democratically oriented that we called him “our glorious leader” without being the least bit ironic. We stayed in good hotels and got up before sunrise to get the best possible photos. Then a small pause before the next image sequence..etc. Collectively, we covered larger parts of central Japan in a way that we certainly wouldn’t have been able to do without his knowledge. This was fun, simply 🌹

Andreu Ferrer

Private trip with wide freedom of movement. Eduardo’s professionalism turns any request into something easy and any problem into a trifle.

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Lumaria Workshops

International Travel Photography Tours and Workshops

Lumaria Work shops

International travel photography tours, “the camera is an instrument that teaches people how to see without a camera.”.

– Dorothea Lange

“There is nothing worse than a sharp image of a fuzzy concept.”

– Ansel Adams

“Taking pictures is savoring life intensely, every hundredth of a second.”

– Marc Riboud

“Oregon is right now the single most exciting winemaking area in the United States…”

– Eric Asmov

“For me, the camera is a sketch book, an instrument of intuition and spontaneity.”

– Henri Cartier-Bresson

“I am not interested in shooting new things – I am interested to see things new.”

– Ernst Haas

A Trip of a Lifetime

Tours & workshops.

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Regions Interested In

• Latin America
• Middle East
• North America
• Polar Regions

[email protected] Bob: 503-704-8463 Andrea: 503-801-0000

unique locations

Small Groups

photography instruction

Night Photography

Post Processing

800+ Client Reviews

Beyond the Badlands – Spring

Bisti Badlands – Spring

Redwoods Photo Workshop

Kenya by Land, Air, & Night

Palouse Harvest Photo Workshop

Mt. Rainier Wildflowers

White Pocket Monsoon

Arctic Landscapes & Wildlife

Fall in the Smokies

Cypress Swamps

Zion Fall Colors Workshop

Winter in Northern Utah

Canadian Rockies in Winter

Winter Horse Ranch

Iceland In Winter Photo Workshop

Patagonia Ablaze

Patagonia Pumas

Wild Tigers Safari India

Antarctica and South Georgia

Wild Horses in Utah

Private Group Workshop

Central Oregon Coast Photo Workshop

Grand Staircase and Beyond

Southern Oregon Coast Photo Workshop

Monument Valley and Native Cultures

Spring in the Smokies

South Dakota Badlands Photo Workshop

Tornado Alley

Spring in the Palouse Photo Workshop

Palouse Barns Photo Workshop

Spring in the Palouse – For Women Photographers

Olympic National Park Photo Workshop

Alaska Brown Bears Photo Workshop

Iceland Highlands Photo Workshop

Red Sails in Greenland

Grand Canyon Monsoon

Storms & Saguaros

Moab Monsoon Mania

Alaska Fall Colors

Lake Powell Houseboat Workshop

Beyond the Badlands – For Women Photographers

Southwest Drone Photography

Bisti Badlands – Fall

Northern Utah Fall Colors

Drama in the Dolomites

Nova Scotia Fall Colors

Beyond the Badlands – Fall Colors

Big Cats Africa Safari

Eastern Sierras Photo Workshop

Death Valley Photo Workshop

Secret Swamps and Wildlife

Hidden Gems Southwest Fall

Yellowstone & Grand Tetons in Winter

Lofoten Aurora Borealis

Alaska Aurora Borealis

Ecuador Tropical Birds Photo Workshop

Galapagos Photo Workshop

Custom Workshops

Loyalty Program

Trusted by Over 800 Reviews

Open workshops.

Central Oregon Coast Apr 28-May 2, 2024

Beyond the Badlands May 11-15, 2024

Redwoods May 29-June 2, 2024

South Dakota Badlands June 7-13, 2024

Iceland Highlands July 13-22, 2024

Rainier Wildflowers Aug 5-9, 2024

Grand Canyon Monsoon Aug 4-8, 2024

White Pocket Monsoon Aug 8-11, 2024

Northern Utah Fall Colors Oct 1-5, 2024

Meet the 2023 photo contest finalists.

Need More Information?

Contact us, 435-767-0222, info@actionphototours.com.

  P HOTO V ENTURES

Photography & wildlife tours  & workshops, where will your camera take you.

Workshops & Tours

Photoventure's Workshops & Tours combine outdoor adventure with photography and are open to photographers of all skill levels, using DSLR, mirrorless cameras or "crossover / bridge" cameras.   Our tours/workshops held in the U.S. and abroad, focus on landscape and wildlife photography.  Journey with us to some of the worlds most pristine and remote wilderness areas, to create visually stunning images.   Locations include, Costa Rica, Yellowstone & The Grand Tetons, Alaska, Isle of Skye, Iceland, South Africa, Lofoten and Namibia to name a few.

Our photography TOURS do not offer photographic instruction, but ensure that you are in the best locations at the right time of the day, to capture images in the optimal light.  They are better suited for intermediate to advanced photographers, who don’t feel they require as much instruction.  

Our WORKSHOPS are lead by professional photographers and are limited to small group sizes to ensure personalized tuition.  Attending a workshop is a great way to develop your photography skills, and master things such as  composition, exposure, focus and ISO.  You’ll receive instruction from a professional photographer on how to create stunning long exposure images, perfectly exposed sunsets, and tack sharp wildlife portraits, in a destination you’ve always dreamed of.  You’ll also learn useful post-production techniques in Photoshop and Lightroom.

You’ll also have the opportunity to travel and make friends with like-minded people.  There’s nothing worse than dragging your partner along on a photography shoot, where he/she stands around aimlessly while you spend half an hour composing a shot.  There’s also no non-photographers yelling at you to get back on the bus!  Trips are very flexible and there’s never any rush to head to the next spot.

We use local guides/photographers who are specialists in their respective areas, and offer a more authentic and unique experience.  They also have knowledge of some off-the-beaten-track locations that are not on the typical tourist route.  So you’ll bring home photos that few other people have.

Our tours and workshops include all lodging (including breakfast), ground transportation, National Park entrance fees, guide fees and other items that are essential to a successful trip, so you can sit back, relax and enjoy the experience.

Please note: In light of the current COVID-19 situation, we are limiting the group sizes of our tours & workshops. 

So what are you waiting for, come travel the world with us!

North America Photo Tours

From the High Arctic of Canada to the southern tip of Mexico, North America is a continent of great diversity and photographic opportunity. Our  North America Photo Tours  tap into both the diversity and opportunity with trips to photograph wildlife, rain forests, colonial towns, vibrant fall colors, spectacular mountain ranges, and so much more. Our schedule of trips in North America is an ever-evolving and revolving lineup of the very best photography locations throughout the US, Canada and Mexico.

We’re here to answer your questions about any of the trips that interest you, so don’t hesitate to  Contact Us !

One Space Available!

Arctic Birds and Musk Oxen of Nome, Alaska

Photograph the summer arrival of shorebirds, waterfowl and northern songbirds in Alaska’s arctic. Create images of grazing musk oxen, caribou, moose and red foxes on barren tundra hillsides and verdant valleys—all under the summer’s long hours of daylight.

Two Spaces Available!

Olympic National Park, Washington

Alpine scenery with wildflower meadows and dramatic vistas, plus a rugged coastline, sea stacks, waterfalls and verdant moss-draped rain forest set the stage for a quintessential Pacific Northwest photographic adventure.

Whales, Wildlife and Wilderness—Alaska

Experience the breathtaking excitement of humpback whale photography in the pristine waters of Alaska’s Inside Passage during the prime summer season. Whales breach, tail-slap, and bubble-net and lunge feed amidst snowcapped mountain backdrops on this luxurious photo cruise.

Now Booking for 2025!

Brown Bears of Lake Clark National Park, Alaska

A cozy private fly-in lodge is our base for a week of amazing brown bear photography amidst verdant marshes and tidal flats with serrate mountain backdrops. We encounter the bears—close up, on foot and at their eye level—as they forage, often with cubs in tow, in this vast unspoiled wilderness.

One Male Share Available!

Glacier Bay National Park, Alaska

Glacier Bay is among the world’s most active tidewater glacial areas. The deep ice-jammed waters support a variety of photogenic wildlife, both in these frigid waters and onshore. Whales, bears and seabirds abound. Cruise the bay and its glaciers by luxurious private yacht with special park permit.

Colorado Fall Colors

Photograph the blazing yellow aspen forests that punctuate the rugged Colorado Rocky Mountains topography—jagged summits and deep breathtaking valleys under blue sky. Improve your photography skills while learning about light, color and graphic design on location with our leader in his home state.

Acadia National Park and Coastal Maine in Autumn

Rugged, rocky headlands, a lighthouse carved into a granite ledge, a quiet harbor on a dreamy foggy morning, tide pools and crashing waves, or a hillside of flaming maples and birches—all these exciting photographic possibilities describe our classic Acadia National Park photo tour in October.

Yosemite in Autumn

The towering rock walls that form the bones of Yosemite’s spectacular valley are at their finest in the warm low-angled light of fall. The Merced River flows at a gentler pace and autumn-hued foliage and granite peaks are framed in mirror-like waters. Yosemite in autumn is a never-ending source of inspiration.

Caddo Lake and Big Cypress Bayou, Texas in Autumn

Autumn brings a blaze of color to the bald cypress trees of Caddo Lake and the Big Cypress Bayou in Texas.  Explore quiet backwaters by boat and photograph the graphic quality of these stately trees as ethereal fog drifts amidst the gnarled trunks as the sun rises and sets.

Yellowstone in Winter

Capture images of the very best of Yellowstone’s snowy interior—unique geothermal features, snow-encrusted landscapes, and iconic wildlife—with an expert leader who knows the park intimately. Flexible itinerary with five snow coach days and short walks to explore geothermal areas and landscapes.

Snowy Owls of the Canadian Prairies, Alberta

Photograph snowy owls, the extraordinary “Arctic Ghosts,” in Alberta’s snowy prairie habitats. Three shooting days provide great opportunities to capture portrait images, birds in flight and owls as part of the winter landscape.

Bald Eagles, Sea Otters & Coastal Wildlife of Kachemak Bay, Alaska

A spectacular wildlife shoot amidst Alaska’s most photogenic settings. Five full days of photography from a chartered boat along the Kenai Peninsula to capture dynamic in-flight and perched eagle images, endearing close-ups of sea otters, and wildlife in rugged winter landscapes.

Gray Whales of Mexico's Baja Peninsula

Experience the thrill of photographing at one of Earth's prime locations for marine photography! Photograph Pacific gray whales within touching distance. Capture images of blue and humpback whales, dolphins, Baja's desert landscapes, unique Boojum “trees” and timeless Mexican colonial architecture.

Florida Birds

Florida’s East Coast has become a great new focal point for nature photographers from all over the world. Shoot several exciting wading bird colonies at close range including wood storks, spoonbills, herons and egrets plus the world’s highest density of nesting ospreys—by boat and on shore.

Great Gray Owls of the North Woods, Alberta

Photograph these magnificent birds of prey, the “Phantoms of the Forest,” in the remote forests of central Alberta. Three full shooting days provide many opportunities to capture intimate photos of the great gray owls during the snowiest month of the year.

Whales, Wildlife and Wilderness, Alaska

Experience the breathtaking excitement of humpback whale photography in the pristine waters of the Alaska’s Inside Passage during the prime summer season. Whales breach, tail-slap, and bubble-net and lunge feed amidst snowcapped mountain backdrops on this luxurious photo cruise.

My philosophy in leading photo tours is simple.  The pictures are paramount.  The people who travel with me know they will take the best pictures of their lives.  My trips are not relaxing, however. We usually get up early and often stay out late, depending on the light.  We deal with heat, cold, dust, and sometimes long drives on bad roads, but it’s all about taking great photographs. Browse my photo tours and workshops for 2024 - 2026. If you have any questions about anything -- accommodations, inoculations, health, safety concerns, Covid requirements, what photo gear to bring, Internet availability, or anything else  -- Email me .    It would be a pleasure to have you on one of the photo tours or workshops, and I will do my best to make sure you have a wonderful experience. With many decades of experience in photography and leading photo tours, I will help you take the best pictures ever. 

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HOLLAND & BELGIUM

April 2024. Windmills, great architecture, and the most exciting flower photography in the world at Keukenhof Gardens!

COSTA RICA BIRDS

May, 2024. Costa Rica has some of the most beautiful and exotic birds in the world. You'll be within telephoto range to capture amazing shots.

LAVENDER FIELDS, FRANCE

July 2024. Infinite fields of purple lavender, quaint French towns, twilight photography at its best, and more.

FROG & REPTILE WORKSHOP

Aug 2024. This is a macro workshop for intriguing and colorful dart frogs and exotic reptiles. Guaranteed awesome photography!

ICELAND DRONE PHOTO TOUR

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England & wales.

Sept. 2024. Spectacular cathedrals, medieval castles, birds in flight, quaint villages, and awesome landscapes.

SWISS PHOTO TOUR

Sept. 2024. Stunning landscapes, majestic waterfalls, castles and medieval villages at twilight. Plus the awesome Matterhorn. Wow!

COLORADO AUTUMN

Oct. 2024. Spectacular landscapes, rugged mountains, shimmering golden aspens, reflections in glassy lakes. Wow! Southwestern Colorado is a landscape photographer's paradise.

MYSTICAL SWAMPS OF LOUISIANA

Nov. 2024. Awesome bird photography in Bosque del Apache and great nature shooting in the moon-like scapes of the Bisti Badlands!

AUTUMN FOLIAGE in JAPAN

Nov. 2024. Ancient Japanese temples framed by autumn color, Maiko models, landscapes, and more! Spectacular photography.

Jan. 2025. Up close and personal photo opportunities with stunning snowy owls in flight. Amazing photo opportunities.

ETHIOPIA PHOTO TOUR

Jan. 2025. Amazing primitive tribes, Gelada baboons, 11th century rock-hewn churches, and an incredible horse festival. Wow!

WINTER WILDLIFE

Feb. 2025. Capture stunning images of wolves, cougar, foxes, lynx, bobcat, and snow leopards in natural environments. Wow!

GREAT GRAY OWL ADVENTURE

Feb. 2025. Up close shots of wild great gray owls in flight, posing, and hunting in a beautiful winter environment. Don't miss this one!

CARNIVAL in VENICE

Feb. 2025. Outrageously beautiful costumes in a medieval environment. Wow! What a great way to experience Venice!

WHITE HORSES (France)

March, 2025. Spectacularly beautiful white horses running through marshes, running at the beach, stallions rearing, and more. Awesome photography!

BHUTAN PHOTO TOUR

April 2025. Photograph the most exotic country in the world, a fantastic culture surrounded by the awesome Himalayas. An incredible experience!

ABANDONED in GEORGIA

April 2025. Photograph abandoned mental hospital, an ante-bellum plantation house, piles of junker cars, 19th century grist mills, and much more.

FAROE ISLANDS

April 2025. Spectacular landscapes and seascapes everywhere. Waterfalls, quaint villages, sheer cliffs -- this is a landscape photographer's paradise!

Texas Bird Workshop

May 2025. Outstanding bird photography opportunities from a boat and from well-designed blinds. Capture lots of exotic birds in flight!

July or August 2025. Exact dates announced on Aug. 4. Exotic Bali, the incredible Jember Fashion Carnival, and amazing Singapore.

EXOTIC MOROCCO

Oct. 2025. Morocco is beautiful, safe, and exotic. Photograph camels in the Sahara Desert, veiled models, stunning architecture, and great landscapes!

PANTANAL, BRAZIL

Nov. 2025. Closeup encounters with breathtaking jaguars in the wild, unbelievable bird photography, and so much more!

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ALASKA: The Nature of Nome

Amazon 2025: peruvian riverboat photography & birding adventure, / birds & photo, antarctica: birding & photography cruise, argentina: patagonia’s pumas, birds and landscapes, arizona: wild horses of arizona, belize: birds and monkeys photo safari, brazil: pantanal photography adventure, california: a taste of anza borrego desert state park, california: san diego wildlife weekender, california: southern california summer wildlife photography adventure, california: wildlife of the central coast, churchill: polar bears in fall, costa rica: bird & wildlife photography, cuba: cultural immersion & endemic bird photography workshop, ecuador: bird photography safari, ecuador: western andes feathered photo safari, faroe islands: wild faroe islands photo tour, florida: sandhill crane colts & nesting birds, florida: wild everglades photography tour, galapagos 2024-06: wildlife & photography adventures, galapagos 2024-07: kevin’s 50th galapagos wildlife & photography adventure, galapagos 2024-08: wildlife & photography adventures, galapagos 2024-09: wildlife & photography adventures, galapagos 2025-06: wildlife & photography adventures, galapagos 2025-07: wildlife & photography adventure, galapagos 2025-08: wildlife & photography adventures, galapagos 2025-09: wildlife & photography adventures, glacier park: a fall montana photography adventure (om system only), grand tetons: fall wildlife photography workshop, grand tetons: spring wildlife photography workshop, grand tetons: winter in grand teton photography workshop, japan: hokkaido: birds & wildlife, kenya: wildlife photography safari, minnesota: photographing owls, nebraska: sandhill crane migration, new hampshire: nature photography retreat, new mexico: bosque nwr & sandhill cranes photography, northern california: wildlife photography safari, panama: birds & frogs photography workshop, pennsylvania waterfall photography workshop, raptors in flight workshop, texas: big bucks & birds, texas: colors of caddo lake, texas: san antonio street photography tour, texas: spring wildflowers photo tour, texas: whooping cranes & wading birds, washington: best of wildlife & landscape, washington: palouse landscape photography, wyoming: fall in grand teton & yellowstone np, yellowstone: spring photography, yellowstone: winter wildlife photography, zimbabwe & zambia: a wet season photography adventure, birds & wildlife, alaska: aurora borealis photography adventure, alaska: st. paul island, nome, kenai fjords, & utqiaġvik, alaska: utqiaġvik ross’s gull migration, alaskan adventure with manomet, argentina & chile with manomet: birding patagonia to tierra del fuego, argentina: birding patagonia to tierra del fuego, arizona 2024-08: sky island specialties, arizona: black hawk migration, belize & tikal 13-day: tropical birding bonanza, belize 11-day tropical birding with ted beedy, belize 9-day: intro to tropical birding, belize: private 9-day birding, botswana and victoria falls: wildlife safari, botswana: best of birding & wildlife safari.

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Shooter Files by f.d. walker

Street Photography Tips, Interaction, Travel, Guides

Apr 24 2017

City Street Guides by f.d. walker: A Street Photography Guide to Moscow, Russia

*A series of guides on shooting Street Photography in cities around the world. Find the best spots to shoot, things to capture, street walks, street tips, safety concerns, and more for cities around the world. I have personally researched, explored and shot Street Photography in every city that I create a guide for. So you can be ready to capture the streets as soon as you step outside with your camera!

At over 12 million people, Moscow is the largest city in Russia and second largest in Europe by population ( Istanbul is #1). An urban, cosmopolitan metropolis with more than enough glitz and glam to cater to the elite, but without losing its fair share of Soviet era roughness around the edges. It can be fast paced, brash, busy, and trendy like other big cities, but it has its blend of West meets Russia atmosphere and beauty that provides plenty of unique interest. The Red Square is as famous as it gets, but there’s so much more to this city, including the most beautiful subway system you’ve ever seen. It would take years to capture all of Moscow, but that means you have an endless amount of areas to discover.

So here’s a Street Photography guide so you can be ready to capture all that Moscow has to offer before you even arrive!

• Patriarch’s Pond
• Old Arbat Street
• Maroseyka Street
• Tverskoy Boulevard

Top 5 Street Spots:

1. red square.

The Red Square is the most famous square in not just Russia, but all of Eastern Europe. The name actually doesn’t come from the color of the bricks or communism, but from the name in Russian, Krásnaya, once meaning “beautiful” before its meaning changed to “red.” This large plaza is what you see on the cover of guide books and magazines for Moscow, with St. Basil’s Cathedral being the center piece next to Lenin’s Mausoleum surrounded by the Kremlin Wall. Of course, the Red Square attracts hordes of tourist due to the main attractions, but all that activity around an interesting atmosphere does provide street photo opportunities. It’s also the central square connecting to the city’s major streets, providing a good starting point to explore outward.

You’ll also find the popular pedestrian only Nikolskaya Street connecting the Red Square to Lubyanka Square. This line of expensive shops includes plenty of activity, while also leading you to another popular square. Filled with history rivaling any city, the Red Square and surrounding areas are the heart and soul of Russia.

2. Patriarch’s Ponds

Patriarch’s Ponds is one of the most exclusive neighborhoods in Moscow. Despite the name being plural, there’s only one large pond, but it’s worth a visit with your camera. It’s a popular spot for locals and expats to come relax or take a stroll around the pond. You get an interesting mix of young and old too, from young love to “babushkas” feeding pigeons. It’s a very peaceful park atmosphere in one of the nicer areas within the city center, while bringing enough activity for street photography. 

The pond is shallow and in the winter becomes a popular spot for ice-skating too. The area is also well-known for the location in the famous Russian novel, The Master and Margarita. 

3. Old Arbat (Stary Arbat)

Old Arbat is the most famous pedestrian street in Moscow, and dating back to the 15th century, also one of its oldest. Originally, it was an area of trade, but soon became the most prestigious residential area in Moscow. During the 18th century, Arbat started attracting the city’s scholars and artists, including Alexander Pushkin. Cafes lined the streets and impressive homes filled the neighborhood. Since then, New Arbat street was created as a highway in the area, while Old Arbat was paved for a 1km pedestrian only walkway.

Due to the historic buildings, famous artists that lived here, and the bohemian atmosphere, Old Arbat has become a big attraction for tourists today. Now, there’s a mix of cafes, restaurants, souvenir shops, street performers, street merchants and other attractions for visitors, and some locals, to come enjoy. It can get really busy here and there’s usually something interesting going on so it’s a good street to come walk with your camera for guaranteed life.

4. Gorky Park

One of the most famous places in Moscow is Gorky Park. The official name is Maxim Gorky’s Central Park of Culture & Leisure, which gives you an idea of what goes on here. When built, it was the first of its kind in the Soviet Union. Divided into two parts, it stretches along Moscow River. One end contains fair rides, foods stands, tennis courts, a sports club, a lake for boat rides, and more. This end brings more active life due to its number of attractions, while the other end is more relaxed, where you’ll find gardens, trees, older buildings, and an outdoor amphitheater.

Gorky Park attracts mostly locals so it’s a good spot to capture the non-tourist side of Moscow life. Muscovites come here to escape the city and unwind in a picturesque setting. The park remains alive outside of the warmer months too, especially when the lake turns into the city’s largest outdoor skating rink. I’d recommend taking the metro out here to spend at least half a day exploring the massive park’s life with your camera.

5. Maroseyka Street

Maroseyka Street is a popular area not too far from the Red Square. The long, winding street turns into Pokrovka and is lined with restaurants, cafes, bars and places to stay. It’s actually where I like to stay when I’m in Moscow due to its location and solid street photography opportunities itself. You have Kitay-gorod station near and if you keep walking southwest, you’ll get to the Red Square. But if you walk northwest, as it changes to Pokrovka, you can find a long street of activity for photography with its own interesting atmosphere.

6. Tverskoy Boulevard

Tverskoy Boulevard is the oldest and longest boulevard in Moscow, beginning at the end of Nikitsky Boulevard, and finishing at Pushkin Square, a spot to come for activity itself. The boulevard is made up of two avenues, with pedestrian walkways in-between. You’ll find grass, shrubbery, trees, benches and more walking it’s almost kilometer length. Many people come here to enjoy some relaxation, walk their dog, or just to use it to walk wherever they’re going. Its center location also provides a nice place to walk with your camera near plenty of other spots you’ll want to check out anyway.

Sample Street Walk:

For a full day of Street Photography, covering some of the best spots, you can follow this sample street walk for Moscow:

• Start your morning walking around the Red Square (1), while exploring the surrounding area, including Nikolskaya Street
• Then walk northwest to Patriarch’s Ponds (2) and slowly walk the pond and surrounding area with your camera
• Next, walk east to the Pushkin Monument and stroll down Tverskoy Boulevard (6)
• Once Tverskoy Boulevard (6) ends, it will turn into Nikitsky Boulevard. Follow this down until you get to the start of Old Arbat Street (3), across from Arbatskaya station
• After you’re done walking down Old Arbat Street (3) for more street photography, spend some time checking out Moscow’s beautiful metro stations
• To finish off the day with more street photography, get off the metro near Red Square (1) again, Maroseyka Street (5) or wherever you’re staying for the night.

3 Things I’ll Remember about Shooting in Moscow:

1. museum metro.

The Moscow metro system was the first underground railway system in the Soviet Union and today includes 203 stations across 340km of routes. The elaborate system has some of the deepest stations in the world too, with escalators that seem to go on forever. None of this is what makes it so special, though. Many of its stations feel like stepping inside a museum, making it without a doubt the most interesting and beautiful metro system I’ve been in.

When built, Stalin wanted to make the metro stations “palaces for the people” with marble, chandeliers, and grand architecture. The best part is the variety of architecture and styles used, making many of the stations a completely different experience visually. You could easily spend a whole day traveling the stations and there are even tours available for people who wish to do just that. My advice, though, would be just to buy a ticket and hop on and off at different stations, while exploring different lines. The museum-like surrounding mixed with the crowds of characters can make for a great photography experience.

Since there are so many stations, here are some of my favorites to check out:

• Novoslobodskaya
• Mayakovskaya
• Elektrozavodskaya
• Komsomolskaya
• Ploschad Revolyutsii
• Dostoyevskaya
• Prospekt Mira

2. Moscow is Big

It’s no secret that Moscow is a big city, but it can feel even bigger with how spread out much of it is. This is especially true if you compare it to cities outside of Asia. If I compared it to cities in Europe, I’d probably say only Istanbul would warrant more time to really discover the depths of this city. Most only explore around the Red Square and surrounding area, but that is such a small part of the city. Although, that central area does give you plenty to see on its own.

Fortunately, I had a good friend living in the city to show me around, but it opened up my eyes even more to how much there is to discover in Moscow. It’s a big city with a variety of atmosphere that can take you from “east” to “west” and trendy to rugged depending on where you go. I’d imagine you’d have to live here a while to really know the city.

3. Cosmopolitan Mix of East meets West

Modern skyscrapers mixed with amazing architecture, a world-class metro system with museum-like beauty, trendy fashion and chic clubs, Moscow is a rich mix of Russian culture and history in a more western cosmopolitan package. There is a push to keep the Russian culture, while also pushing forward with a modern metropolis the whole world will envy. This comes with an impressive skyline, that continues to grow, and endless modernities, but with soviet nostalgia and atmosphere mixed in for good measure.

Mixed in with this grand western cosmopolitan atmosphere, is a strong national pride in Russia. This includes their famous leader, Vladimir Putin. Maybe no other place will you see a country’s leader more often. All over, from the pricey tourist shops to the underground walkway stalls, you’ll find goods with Putin’s likeness covering them. From t-shirts to magnets to Matryoshka dolls. There’s a strong national pride that can be seen around the city, which also extends to their leader. Moscow is many things. It’s East meets West, modernizations meets Soviet era, and a whole lot more.

What To Do For a Street Photography Break?:

Eat at a stolovaya.

Stolovayas are Russian cafeterias that became popular in the Soviet days. You grab a tray and walk down the line of freshly prepared local dishes, and select whatever you want from the chefs. They’re usually inexpensive and a much better value than restaurants, while giving you the opportunity to try from a wide selection of everyday Russian food. They’re also very tasty. I always include some borsch on my tray and go from there. The places themselves are all over Moscow and usually come with Soviet-era aesthetics to complete the experience.

Street Safety Score: 7

*As always, no place is completely safe! So when I talk about safety, I’m speaking in general comparison to other places. Always take precaution, be smart, observe your surroundings and trust your instincts anywhere you go!

Being the 2nd largest city in Europe with over 12 million people, you’re going to have your dangerous areas, but for the most part, it feels safe walking around. Russia is statistically higher in crime compared to most of Europe, but this generally doesn’t apply to tourists and visitors. Around the Red Square and surrounding city center, you should feel completely safe walking around. Pick pocketing can happen, but no more than other touristic places. I always explore Moscow freely without coming across too much to worry about. It’s a spread out city, though, so of course it matters where you are. Just use basic street smarts, know where you are and Moscow shouldn’t give you a problem. 

People’s Reaction Score: 7

Moscow is fast paced, big city life, which usually means people aren’t too concerned with you, or your camera. I don’t find people notice or pay much attention to me when I’m out taking photos in Moscow. For the most part, people just go about their day. You shouldn’t get too many looks or concern. But it can depend on the area you are in. The more you stick out, the more you might get noticed with suspicions. I’ve never had any problems in Moscow, or Russia, but just be careful who you’re taking a photo of if you get out of the city center. Other than that, it’s about average for reactions. 

Street Tips:

Learn the alphabet .

Much of Moscow, including the metro system, doesn’t use english. The Russian alphabet uses letters from the Cyrillic script, which if you aren’t familiar with it and don’t know the sounds, can be hard to decipher the words. This is most important for street names and metro stops when trying to get around. It can save confusion and make it easier getting around if you learn the basic alphabet. At the very least then, you can sound out the words to see which are similar in the english conversion, which can help matching them to maps. When out shooting street photography, getting around is as important as anything. So save yourself some time and frustration by learning the Russian Alphabet.

Use the metro

While Saint-Petersburg feels very walkable for a city its size, Moscow can feel very spread out, even for its bigger size. Outside of the Red Square area, you can have plenty of walking before getting anywhere very interesting, so you’ll need to take the metro a lot if you really want to explore the city. Maps are deceiving here too, it will always be further than it looks.

Another reason it’s less walkable than Saint-Petersburg is its completely different set-up. Moscow’s streets are mostly contstructed in rings with narrow, winding streets in-between. This is common with medieval city cities that used to be confined by walls, but you usually don’t have it in a city this massive. Saint-Petersburg has a more grid-like pattern that also uses the canals to help you know your way around. When it comes to navigating on foot in Moscow, it can be more difficult, so bring a map and take the metro when needed. It’s why Moscow’s metro carries more passengers per day than the London and Paris subways combined.

Explore other areas if you have time

Moscow is really big. While most people stay around the Red Square within the Boulevard Ring, there’s so much more to the city. I covered some other spots outside of this circle, but if you really want to see the city, you’ll need time. If you do have time, some other areas I’d check out first are Zamoskvarechye, along some of the south and western Moscow.

Inspiration:

For some more inspiration, you can look through the Street Photography of Moscow photographer Artem Zhitenev  and check out 33 of my photos taken in Moscow .

Conclusion:

Moscow’s name brings a certain mystique, but once you’re there it might bring a different atmosphere than you expect. It’s big and sprawling, but beautiful in many ways. It can feel like a European capital on a grand scale, but you can definitely find its Russian side in there.

The urban sprawl of Moscow can be intimidating, but give it enough time and you’ll be rewarded with plenty to discover. All with the world’s best metro system to take you around.

I hope this guide can help you start to experience some of what Moscow contains. So grab your camera and capture all that Moscow has to offer for Street Photography!

If you still have any questions about shooting in Moscow, feel free to comment below or email me!

(I want to make these guides as valuable as possible for all of you so add any ideas on improvements, including addition requests, in the comment section!)

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(A New Guide Posted Every Other Wednesday)

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