I’ve just returned from visiting the national parks in Nevada, Utah, and Arizona USA, including some of the top destinations in the area like Bryce Canyon, Antelope Canyon, and the Grand Canyon. A quick search online, especially on platforms like Instagram or Pinterest, shows these locations are amongst the most popular spots for travel photography. It’s easy to feel overwhelmed by the sheer number of photos shared online from these parks.

*“Forrest Gump Point” Monument Valley, Arizona - One of the most ‘Instagramed’ views on earth!*

When researching or planning a trip like this, you might start to wonder whether it’s even worth visiting, since it can seem like there’s nothing new left to see or capture.

As a photographer, how do you approach researching, planning, and making your trip successful in such a saturated environment?

I first visited Arizona and Nevada 30 years ago, and the experience was completely different. I wasn’t a photographer then, and the holiday my wife and I took was our first big trip together. It was a predefined package tour with little flexibility, and there was very limited information available about possible destinations. Our schedule covered most of the main locations, but it was a whirlwind trip and for the past 30 years we’ve wanted to return and spend more time in some of the places we literally just passed through.
Back then, there was no Instagram or Pinterest, and the internet was still in its infancy—there were no travel blogs or tourism websites to consult.

Read my “Planning a Trip as a Travel Photographer” blog here

Thirty years later, planning a similar trip feels radically different. Today, every feature of these national parks seems to have been photographed and shared online. A simple Google search for any park brings up an avalanche of opinions, guides, comparisons, and, of course, countless photographs. This abundance of information is both a blessing and a challenge, as it can make the experience feel less unique, less special.

‘Thors Hammer’, Bryce Canyon National Park, Utah

A simple Google search revealed in excess of 300,000 online images of this stunning sight.

This phenomenon is closely tied to the broader issue of over-tourism. The rise of social media has played a significant role in driving huge numbers of visitors to specific “Instagrammable” locations. Viral posts and influencer campaigns have turned once-quiet spots into must-see destinations almost overnight.
Antelope Canyon is a ‘viral sensation’, even if you’re not familiar with this stunning slot-canyon I guarantee you’ve seen photos of it (it’s featured as both Apple and Microsoft’s ‘highlight’ screen saver!)

Thirty years ago I was aware of Antelope Canyon but it was difficult then to even find out exactly where it was and how to visit it – I’ve spoken to people who stumbled across it 25 years ago and received a mind blowing, ad-hoc guided tour of the entire length at their own pace!
It’s recent surge in popularity, due to social media, has led to overcrowding and stricter regulations, including mandatory guided tours with limited group sizes and visit times, all aimed at protecting the delicate sandstone formations and cultural significance of the area whilst balancing demand with preservation needs.

In this Instagram-driven era, I believe the challenge for photographers and travellers is to seek out personal, meaningful experiences whilst respecting the places we visit.

Although it may seem impossible to create truly unique and new images in popular locations, it’s important to set personal objectives and keep an open mind. Approach even the most photographed subjects with your own creative plan, and focus on capturing the best images you can in the moment. Remember, conditions are always changing—weather, lighting, and even the landscape itself can offer fresh perspectives. Sometimes, a subject may be crowded or blocked by other visitors. Instead of seeing these as obstacles, treat them as opportunities to test and develop your photographic skills.

In my observation, although the world is extensively documented, it remains valuable to experience and experiences through my own lens. I try very hard to fully engage in each experience, to maximise each opportunity to capture an authentic experience and act responsibly to preserve opportunities for future generations.

Visiting Antelope Canyon had been on my personal bucket list for 30 years, so I was determined to make the most of my limited chances to see it—even if that meant joining one of the many guided tours, which, according to the internet, are often crowded and rushed. I went ahead and booked a tour, approaching it with an open mind whilst also preparing for disappointment; however, my experience far exceeded even my highest hopes. The tour operator—and likely others working in the area—clearly understood how delicate their operation was and took great care to ensure that groups were spaced out, giving each visitor time and room to fully enjoy their brief stay in the Canyon. Whether someone's goal was simply to take in the sights, photograph stunning natural formations, or snap a collection of Instagram-worthy selfies, there was space for everyone to appreciate the experience.

This single visit serves as a valuable reminder that viewing or reading about a location online can only convey a limited sense of a visit, compared to experiencing an iconic destination in person.
I recognise that no single photograph I take is entirely unique or can fully capture the experience on its own. Nevertheless, the opportunity to challenge myself and create images that meet my personal standards made every moment worthwhile.

Instagram, Pinterest etc are fantastic tools for researching and planning trips but it’s important to treat them, and the images you see on them, as inspiration and not as an objective or level to achieve - it’s vital to stick to your personal values and experience the world through your own lens or eyes.
It’s inevitable that high-profile destinations are going to be busy, but patience and taking an alternative approach can open up unique opportunities and images.