Our aesthetically-pleasing Instagram feeds influence so many areas of life, from food and fashion to wellbeing – not to mention our travel choices.

In fact, a staggering 98% of millennials are influenced by picturesque images they see on social media when making travel plans, according to new research from Admiral Travel Insurance.

But a new series of photographs highlight just how deceptive social media can be when it comes to getting picture-perfect shots.

It seems the The Taj Mahal, The Eiffel Tower, Big Ben, Santorini and The Sydney Opera House are the worst offenders for this artificiality – as many are actually rammed with tourists all desperate to get the perfect snap.

So, if you’re making plans to visit them any time soon, you might want to take note.

Below is a snapshot of these frequently-tagged ‘scenic’ travel locations and the hustling and bustling reality.

However, for those still keen to capture them, professional photographers share how to get the best pictures at these popular spots.

The Taj Mahal – opt for an alternative vantage point

Photgrapher Parikshit Rao says: ‘The most popular vantage point to get the typical Taj Mahal shot is from the raised platform within the complex – just after the marble bench popularly known as the Diana seat. With the right angle and sunlight, it’s possible to also get the Taj’s reflection in the pond. 

‘But if you want to capture something different, travel across the Yamuna river (behind the Taj Mahal) and scout for a vantage point from where you can zoom into the Taj.’

Big Ben and the Palace of Westminster – go for golden hour

‘Often the best times to capture beautiful images are dawn and dusk, so either get up early, or stay late,’ says photographer Ben Pipe.

‘After the sun has set, stay around to watch how the scene changes as twilight begins, as this can be particularly magical in a city. Around 20 minutes after the sun passes the horizon will be the optimum time when the fading ambient light is evenly balanced with the brightening artificial lights of the urban landscape.’

Sydney Opera House – sunrise and sunset

Sydney-based photographer Ben Williams advises: ‘The best time of the day generally for the best light is an hour or two just after sunrise or just before sunset for the best light.

‘A great place to photograph Sydney Opera House is from is right outside the Museum of Contemporary Art as you get a good angle showing the building by itself. First thing in the morning when the sun is slightly behind the building looks great to create shadows on the subject to make the photo more dramatic and impressive.’

The Eiffel Tower – the devil is in the detail

Paris-based photographer Brett Walsh says: ‘Exposure is easily adjustable on any type of camera, including smart phones. A well-exposed image will show all the detail of the landmark, whereas an underexposed image on a bright day will create a silhouette highlighting its outline. You could also try focusing on certain sections of the tower, too.

‘Like many other landmarks, the Eiffel Tower is full of intricate and interesting architectural elements.’

Santorini’s serene skyline  – practice patience

Photographer Dimosthenis Christopoulos says: ‘With so many tourists flocking to visit the iconic Blue Domes of Oia and surrounding landscape all year-round, budding photographers will have lots of competition.

‘Even at quieter times you’ll likely need to wait for others to finish shooting at the most recognisable viewpoints, so a little bit of patience goes a long way. When it’s your turn, try to consider those that are also waiting and avoid taking too long, but capture lots of different shots so you have multiple to choose from.’

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