Instagrammable spots in Juneau make the city one of Alaska’s most stunning photography backdrops for tourists and content creators alike. Whether you want to capture art to adorn your home or you prefer to share your experiences with friends and family digitally on social media, here’s a look at the most Instagrammable parts of Juneau.
Few parts of the U.S. boast a massive glacier. But Juneau does, and you can see it by traveling just 12 miles outside of downtown. You’ll be amazed at how the landscape changes from busy streets to quiet hiking paths.
Before you pull out your smartphone or camera, pause and take in the majestic beauty the landscape offers. Breathe the fresh air. Then capture the surreal photo to share with others.
While visiting Mendenhall, you can also explore ice caves when the weather permits. Those photos are incredible and show nature’s wonder. Snap photos of the glacier’s water melting for additional captivating shots.
The whale sculpture is another photo backdrop you won’t want to miss. It simulates “Takhu,” a humpback whale, in one of the most incredible moments nature can offer – when it breaches the water as it leaps into the air.
But the statue is just one aspect of the area that is perfect for photos. Head to the Juneau-Douglas bridge for stunning photos of the Gastineau Channel. You’ll see the waterfront as well as boardwalks that frame photos beautifully.
Take the Goldbelt Tram up Mount Roberts for panoramic views of the city and a lofty photo of Gastineau Channel. Up top, you’ll also capture photos of the mountains that surround Mount Roberts.
But don’t just go for the photos. Plan to spend some time atop Mount Roberts once you get there. You’ll find many excellent hiking trails. Hike Father Brown’s Cross. Along the path, you’ll see diverse photo opportunities that are well worth the ride up Goldbelt Tram.
Plan to spend a day or at least an afternoon at Auke Lake. The serene waters offer the perfect vacation getaway to help you de-stress and make memories as a family that you’ll hold dear for your lifetime.
Wildlife is ever-present in the area, and you’ll have the perfect photo framing thanks to the lush forests that surround the lake and the mountains that form the backdrop. It can create ideal mirror-like images that you’ll be proud to share across your social media accounts.
For dramatic cliffs, floating icebergs and vibrant blue waters, head to Tracy Arm Fjord. You likely will need to take a boat tour to capture the best photos, as the photos from land don’t do it justice.
Go for more than the photos, though. This area is untouched by human interventions in nature, outside of the occasional tour boat. Soak in that natural beauty, and pause to capture landscape photography you’ll cherish.
If wildlife photography is your area of expertise or interest, Eagle Beach is the place to go. Rest yourself near the waters for a while and you might spot eagles, sea lions, or, during certain times of the year, bears. This offers a dynamic photo opportunity and a restful afternoon.
Birds fly overhead as you enjoy watching the whales and sea lions play in the water. Consider getting a cabin and staying at Eagle Beach for a longer adventure and closer nature experience in Juneau.
Downtown is colorful thanks to the murals you’ll find alongside buildings. These are especially common near the cruise ports as shops and restaurants aim to draw in cruise visitors.
Many of the murals also depict important moments and people in the city’s history. Don’t just capture the photo. Pause and learn more about the events that shaped the city you’re visiting.
If you’re new to photography, spend time familiarizing yourself with tips for capturing the best Instagram photography.
There are two times of day when Mother Nature offers the best lighting for photographs in nature.
The first is one you’ve likely heard of. It’s called Golden Hour and it happens just after sunrise and right before sunset each day. These times of day offer warm, soft glow for the most flattering lighting for subjects and the most dramatic lighting for nature.
The second is Blue Hour, which happens right before sunrise and just after sunset. During these times of day you’ll capture more moody, ethereal vibes.
As you work to capture the most stunning social media photography, consider the age-old rule of thirds. Photography experts recommend splitting your photo into a 3×3 grid (most smartphones offer the option to show this grid while capturing your photo). You want the elements in your photo to be at the intersections of the grid. This helps build a balanced photo.
When capturing photos of people, it’s easy to include a focal point for the image because it’s the person. But when capturing photos of nature, consider what you want to be your focal point. Perhaps it is a mountain, a soaring bird, or a small cabin situated in the landscape.
Consider how you can make your landscape photo unique with a creative angle in how you frame the photo. Consider rock formations or trees that point to what you want to be the focal point for your photo.
Be prepared to move around as you work to capture your ideal Juneau photo. Avoid taking photos exclusively from eye level. Crouch down to take from below or attempt a higher vantage point for a unique view of the landscape.
Photos with a subject should remain clean and clear. This gives the photo context and keeps everything in perspective for the viewer. If there’s too much going on in the background of your photo, try moving a bit to one side or the other to give your photo context.
If you’ve captured a good photo, it should need minimal editing. Allow nature to shine in all its beauty and wonder without changing the photo’s temperature or natural color. In some photos you might need to make minor adjustments for clarity, but avoid doing too much to your photos to where they look unnatural.
We offer full washers and dryers in every suite.
If you’re visiting Juneau for its stunning photography backdrops, stay at Juneau Hotel. You’ll be in the heart of downtown so you can walk around and capture the boardwalk and landmarks while having easy access to public transportation to get to Mendenhall Glacier, Auke Bay and more. Book your stay now for comfortable, enjoyable accommodations in the heart of the city.
Further Reading:
Juneau cruise passenger limits may impact your summer travel plans—affecting crowd sizes, port access, and the overall visitor experience.
Juneau’s Annual Maritime Festival draws visitors from all over—find the best accommodations in town to make the most of your stay.
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