Jordan is one of those places where every scene calls to be captured. From the ancient ruins of Petra to the sweeping desert landscapes of Wadi Rum, this country is a photographer’s dream. But to really get the best photos and videos, you need to hustle a bit and know when and where to shoot.
The Best Locations for Photography in Jordan
Petra
Petra is probably at the top of your list—rightfully so. This ancient city is one of the New Seven Wonders of the World, with Instagram-worthy spots at every turn. The “Treasury” (Al-Khazneh) is the star here. Get there early, around 6 AM, to capture it before the tourist crowds fill up the scene.
Aside from the Treasury, walk around and explore other spots like the Monastery (Ad-Deir) and the Siq, the narrow canyon you walk through to enter the city. A wide-angle lens helps a lot because the scale of the structures is massive.
Wadi Rum
Wadi Rum will make you feel like you’re on another planet. Ridiculously vast and reddish landscapes, with rocks that look like they’re from Mars, provide endless opportunities for amazing photos.
The best time to shoot? During sunrise or sunset. The soft, warm light perfectly complements the red desert. It’s also when shadows appear and bring more dimension to your shots. A drone is a great idea here if you have one, to capture jaw-dropping aerial views.
Dead Sea
Another unique spot is the Dead Sea. There aren’t waves and no one is swimming around—you’ll float like you’re lying on a waterbed. Don’t forget to bring a waterproof camera or use a smartphone with a well-fitted waterproof case.
Shooting from the beach gives some epic compositions, especially with the mountains in the background during sunset. The deep hues of the sky and the reflection in the water make for memorable photos.
Amman Citadel
Amman is a beautiful mix of old and new. The Amman Citadel stands high up and is perfect for a landscape-wide shot of the city. If you arrive during the golden hour, which is usually an hour before sunset, the soft light will highlight both the ancient ruins and the city backdrop.
Best Times of Day to Shoot in Jordan
The time of day makes a huge difference in how your photos turn out, especially in a country like Jordan where the desert sun can be quite harsh.
Morning (Golden Hour)
The hour right after sunrise offers soft lighting, which is ideal for most landscapes. It’s perfect for Petra and Amman, where you want details in the structures but a natural, less intense glow on the surfaces.
Afternoon
Midday sunlight can be strong and create harsh shadows in your photos. This is a better time to relax, explore, or take candid shots indoors if you’re in an architectural site. However, if you’re in Wadi Rum, the vastness of the area makes it forgiving even during the midday sun.
Evening (Golden Hour) and Sunset
The golden hour around sunset is magical everywhere in Jordan. Whether you’re in Wadi Rum or standing by Jerash’s ancient ruins, the whole landscape glows. Shoot with the sun at your back to get warm, even lighting, or face the sun to capture dramatic silhouettes.
Blue hour, which is the short period after sunset, is also great for city shots in Amman or by the Dead Sea. The sky will take on deep blues, making for peaceful and vibrant images.
Cultural Considerations for Photography in Jordan
Respect Local Customs
Jordanians are incredibly hospitable, but it’s crucial to respect local customs, especially in more traditional villages and religious sites. Always ask for permission before taking pictures of people, particularly women. If someone doesn’t want to be photographed, don’t push them.
In places like mosques, like the King Abdullah Mosque in Amman, it’s okay to take photos but be mindful of your surroundings. Avoid taking photos of people in prayer, and always wear appropriate attire (covered shoulders and legs).
Don’t Use Drones Everywhere
Drones are great for wide, aerial shots, but not all places in Jordan allow them. In Petra, drones are prohibited, so if you love drone photography, leave it behind for this visit. However, Wadi Rum allows them and can be an excellent place to get unique aerial views.
Portraits of Locals
If you’re keen on photographing locals, especially Bedouins in areas like Petra or Wadi Rum, offer to pay them if they pose for you. It’s a respectful and appreciated exchange. They often have beautiful, expressive faces and clothing, which make for iconic portraits.
Equipment for High-Quality Images
For DSLR/Mirrorless Users
If you’re carrying a DSLR or mirrorless camera, a wide-angle lens (16-35mm) will be a lifesaver, especially for Petra or Amman. Also, consider packing a prime lens around 50mm or 85mm for portraits. A tripod isn’t critical, but it can be handy during sunrise or sunset shots.
For Smartphone Users
Smartphones have become powerful tools for photography. Make sure to turn on the HDR option in your settings—it helps balance the bright sky and darker subjects like the ruins of Petra. Use gridlines to follow the rule of thirds. Clean your lens often, especially if you’re in dusty places like Wadi Rum.
Try using panorama mode when you’re over at expansive landscapes like Wadi Rum. Don’t forget to take advantage of portrait mode for close-ups of locals or architectural details—it blurs the background, making your subject pop.
Portable Lighting
Jordan is blessed with natural sunlight, but it can be too intense at times. If you’re shooting indoors or want softer light on portraits, a portable light or even a small reflector can help a lot. You can carry a small LED light to brighten up shots in places like Petra where there’s a lot of shadow on the carved rock walls.
Extra Tips for Getting the Best Shots
Be Patient
Good photos often come from waiting for the right moment. If you’re in a famous spot like Petra’s Treasury filled with people, don’t rush the shot. Wait a few minutes—crowds thin out in intervals. Patience can also pay off during sunrise or sunset when the light changes quickly, offering different colors within minutes.
Be Unique
It’s easy to stand where every other person is taking the same shot. Try walking a bit farther back, or climb a small hill to get a unique angle. In Wadi Rum, go beyond where the usual tours stop to find uninterrupted views of the desert. In Petra, climb the hills around the Treasury to get it from above for a totally different perspective.
Don’t Forget to Focus on the Small Details
While landscapes are great, don’t overlook the small things. Focus on the details: inscriptions on ancient stones in Jerash, the embroidery on a local’s dress, or the texture of rocks in Wadi Rum. Those intimate details enrich your storytelling.
Conclusion
Jordan has much to offer visually and culturally, making it an incredible place to capture stunning photos and videos. From the sweeping mountain views to the intricate carvings at Petra, you just need an eye for detail and a bit of planning to get breathtaking shots. Remember to respect local customs, be mindful of the time of day, and carry the right equipment. Whether using a high-end camera or your smartphone, Jordan will reward your effort every time you press that shutter button.
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