Photo Opportunity 1 – Mosque
Taj is from the Mosque to the left of the Taj assuming you are looking at it front on. When looking at it front it will look like a mirror image. The building on the left is the one you want. An interesting fact about the Taj Mahal is that it looks identical on all four sides – so these photos that are framed by the beautiful arches are actually side on!
There are three stunning windows from which you can compose the image.
Recommended Camera Settings
Recommended lens for most of these shots will be a nice wide angle. I have a 10-24mm on my Fuji XT1. This allows us to get as much of the architecture in the frame.
Iso 200, shutter-speed set to auto and aperture at 5.6 or above. Finally, I would suggest a wide-angle or 35mm prime lens
Top Tips!
Pour a small amount of water on the floor to capture a beautiful mirror image shot. If you traveling with a partner or a friend, this is a great spot to also place them in the image too. Framing them within the arch can create a dramatic image. Ideally, you have come at sunrise so you get these stunning uninterrupted photos
Photo Opportunity 2 – Main Podium
The second option is from the right in front. The problem here is you’re going to be competing against everyone and their dog to get this shot. However, it’s your best chance of getting a picture of the Taj Model in perfect symmetry with the beautiful reflection in the pond.
Photo Opportunity 3 – Main Gate
Photo opportunity three for Instagram is a little different. For this one, you simply need to turn around at the main podium. Again the morning while the weather is still you’ll get a stunning reflection of the main gate amongst the water below. You won’t have as much difficulty getting a clear shot here since not everyone is bothered to take a photo of the main gate!
Photo Opportunity 4 – Side Profile
Iso 200, shutter-speed set to auto and aperture at 5.6 or above. Finally, I would suggest a wide-angle or 35mm prime lens
Photo opportunity four is to the right of the main water fixture/platform. You’ll notice a small garden here and you get the chance through the shrubs and trees to get a unique angle at the stunning monument.
Photo Opportunity 5
Iso 200, shutter-speed set to auto and aperture at 5.6 or above. Finally, I would suggest a wide-angle or 35mm prime lens
The final spot to grab that great Instagram spot, that I loved taking a photo of the Taj was from the main gate as you enter the monument. It’s a very high-contrast environment so suggest you dial back the exposure. You’ll be able to see the monument again perfectly framed from the main door. It’s always going to be a little busy so it may be hard to spend a lot of time composing the shot.