A Photographer’s Guide to Capturing Morocco’s Beauty

Morocco’s diverse landscapes, vibrant cities, and rich cultural heritage provide endless opportunities for photographers. From the bustling medinas to the serene Sahara Desert, here’s a guide to help you capture the beauty of Morocco:

1. Marrakech

Marrakech is a city of contrasts, offering a mix of vibrant street scenes, historic architecture, and tranquil gardens.

• Jemaa el-Fnaa
  • Capture the bustling energy of Marrakech’s main square with its street performers, food stalls, and lively atmosphere. The best time is late afternoon to evening when the square comes alive.
• Koutoubia Mosque
  • Photograph the iconic Koutoubia Mosque at sunset, with its impressive minaret dominating the skyline.
• Bahia Palace
  • The intricate tilework, ornate ceilings, and beautiful courtyards of Bahia Palace make for stunning architectural shots.
• Majorelle Garden
  • The vibrant blues and lush greenery of Majorelle Garden provide a striking contrast and are perfect for macro and wide-angle photography.

2. Chefchaouen

Known as the Blue City, Chefchaouen’s picturesque streets and blue-washed buildings are a photographer’s dream.

• Medina Streets
  • Wander the narrow, winding streets to capture the varying shades of blue. Early morning or late afternoon offers the best light and fewer tourists.
• Ras El Maa Waterfall
  • Just outside the medina, this small waterfall and its surrounding greenery make for a serene nature shot.
• Panoramic Views
  • Hike to the Spanish Mosque for panoramic views of the blue city at sunset.

3. Fes

Fes offers a rich tapestry of history and culture, with its ancient medina and well-preserved architecture.

• Fes el-Bali (Old Medina)
  • Capture the maze-like streets, bustling souks, and historic buildings. Look for details like ornate doors and traditional crafts.
• Al Quaraouiyine Mosque and University
  • Photograph the stunning architecture of one of the world’s oldest universities. Note that non-Muslims cannot enter, but the exterior and surroundings are worth capturing.
• Chouara Tannery
  • The colorful dyeing vats of the tannery provide a unique and vibrant photo opportunity. Photograph from one of the overlooking terraces for the best view.

4. Sahara Desert

The vast Sahara Desert offers dramatic landscapes and unique cultural experiences.

• Erg Chebbi Dunes (Merzouga)
  • Capture the towering sand dunes at sunrise or sunset when the light creates beautiful shadows and textures.
• Camel Treks
  • Photograph the traditional camel caravans traversing the desert, especially during the golden hours for dramatic silhouettes.
• Desert Camps
  • Night photography opportunities abound, with the Milky Way and star-filled skies creating stunning astro-photography subjects.

5. Atlas Mountains

The Atlas Mountains offer breathtaking scenery and picturesque Berber villages.

• Toubkal National Park
  • Photograph the rugged landscapes, snow-capped peaks, and traditional Berber architecture. The best time is during early morning or late afternoon for softer light.
• Ait Benhaddou
  • This UNESCO World Heritage site is a photogenic ksar (fortified village) with its earthen buildings and dramatic setting. Sunset provides warm, golden light.

6. Essaouira

Essaouira’s coastal charm, with its historic medina and beautiful beaches, offers diverse photo opportunities.

• Medina and Ramparts
  • Capture the historic medina with its whitewashed buildings, blue doors, and bustling markets. The ramparts offer great views over the Atlantic Ocean.
• Fishing Harbor
  • The vibrant fishing boats and bustling harbor activities provide colorful and dynamic shots.
• Essaouira Beach
  • Photograph the wide, sandy beach and kite surfers in action. Sunset is a particularly beautiful time.

7. Casablanca

While more modern, Casablanca still offers unique photography spots, particularly for architecture enthusiasts.

• Hassan II Mosque
  • The grand Hassan II Mosque, with its intricate tilework and impressive minaret, is a must-photograph landmark. Early morning or late afternoon provides the best light.
• Art Deco Architecture
  • Explore the city’s downtown for examples of stunning Art Deco buildings.

Photography Tips for Morocco:

• Respect Local Customs
  • Always ask for permission before photographing people, especially in more conservative or rural areas.
• Golden Hours
  • Shoot during the golden hours (just after sunrise and just before sunset) for the best light.
• Use a Polarizing Filter
  • This helps to enhance the colors and reduce glare, especially useful in the bright Moroccan sun.
• Wide-Angle Lens
  • A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the vast landscapes and detailed architecture.
• Backup Equipment
  • Bring extra batteries and memory cards, as you’ll be taking lots of photos.

Morocco’s diverse and stunning scenery provides endless opportunities for photography, whether you’re capturing the vibrant life of the cities or the serene beauty of its natural landscapes.