The rainy season is often met with a collective groan from travelers who fear the damp and dreary conditions sabotaging their plans. But music to the ears of avid photographers and sightseers, there’s no denying that this time of year produces some of the most breathtaking and unique landscapes around. From misty mountain ranges to vibrant rainforest canopies, here’s why the rainy season should be on every photography enthusiast’s radar.
The benefits of visiting places during the rainy season
The rainy season is definitely the best time to visit places because it’s when it’s most comfortable and there is more rainfall. And not only is it more comfortable, but visits during the rainy season are also often more interesting because of the abundance of events that take place due to the wet weather. For example, river levels rise which makes for good photography opportunities as water droplets create reflections on all surfaces. Additionally, landslides are less likely to occur, making hiking or sightseeing a little easier.
Photosynthesis in the rain
Photosynthesis happens during the rainy season due to the many water droplets that fall from the sky. This enhances the process of photosynthesis and allows for more photosynthesis to occur than in other times of year. This is why rain is great for sightseeing and photography because it creates gorgeous light displays and backgrounds.
Why photography is great during the rainy season
During the rainy season, it is especially advantageous to photograph scenes because the weather conditions are conducive for capturing beautiful day- or night-time images. Fog and smog don’t have time to form, droplets do not bounce off the surface as much and trees can refract more light than in other times of the year. Fewer people on sidewalks and streets also makes for more candid photographs.
In addition to perfect lighting and weather conditions, photographers should also be aware of how to take advantage of these settings by using effective composition, shutter speed, ISO setting, etc. Overall, though photography can be challenging under any circumstances, the rainy season offers many unique opportunities that make it an ideal time for skilled shooters to capture stunning photos.
Top 10 places to visit in the rainy season
1. Angkor Wat – Perhaps the most well-known of Cambodia’s temples, Angkor Wat is a must-see for visitors to the country. As one of the largest religious structures in the world, it is not surprising that the site receives quite a bit of rain each year. This makes for lush, greener surroundings that are both photogenic and historically significant.
2. Siem Reap – Another top destination in Cambodia that benefits from plenty of rain each year, Siem Reap features some of the best sights and experiences possible while the weather cooperates. The city sits at an elevation of almost 2,000 feet above sea level, meaning views are commanding no matter where you are situated in town. Be sure to check out the ancient temple complexes at Angkor Thom and Bayon as well as countless other tourist attractions around town during this time of year.
3. Hat Yai – Known mostly for its beaches and nightlife, Hat Yai also has a lot to offer tourists who want to experience what life is like in Southeast Asia’s rainy season. Much like Siem Reap and other parts of Southeast Asia that receive significant rainfall due to their geography, Hat Yai features rich green forests and mountainside villages that are typically obscured by clouds and mist during other times of year. This makes for photography opportunities unlike any other time of year in Thailand or Laos!
4. Phnom Penh – One would be hard-pressed to find a more picturesque city in all of Cambodia than Phnom Penh. The mix of modern and ancient architecture, abundant greenery, and smooth flowing river make for a perfect backdrop to any photo session. Even during the wettest months, it’s not uncommon for downtown to stay relatively dry thanks to the widespread use of rainwater cisterns.
5. Koh Kong – Located on the disputed border between Cambodia and Thailand, Koh Kong is one of the most rugged areas in Southeast Asia. Parts of the region experience more than 150 inches of rainfall annually, which means that even in the driest months there is plenty to see and do. Aside from its lush jungle landscape, Koh Kong is known for its seafood and fishing communities as well as its vibrant nightlife scene.
6. Krabi – Known primarily for its world-renowned diving spots and stunning beaches, Krabi also offers visitors plenty of attractions that aren’t directly related to water sports. This includes ancient Buddhist temples, rugged mountain ranges, and a variety of other popular tourist destinations. The area receives quite a bit of rain each year, meaning that much of this area is typically obscured by clouds and mist at other times of year.
Conclusion
The rainy season is a great time to take in nature’s beauty and to photograph it. Not only will the sights be more beautiful due to all of the rain, but your camera will work better thanks to the damp conditions. With photographers like Martin Schoeller and Davidsson lending their expertise on this matter, there is no excuse not to capture amazing photos during this time of year!