Mallorca, the largest island of the Balearics, is to me much more than just a popular vacation destination for Germans. From a photographic perspective, this island offers a wealth of impressive subjects and countless opportunities to capture beautiful photographs.
Mallorca is known for its diverse landscapes. From the impressive mountains of the Serra de Tramuntana in the west, which are part of the UNESCO World Heritage, to the bays and beaches in the south and east of the island – the variety of nature is outstanding. The rugged coastline, the green forests, and the vast fields offer endless possibilities for landscape photography. Especially the sunrises and sunsets along the coast provide spectacular lighting conditions and unforgettable moments.
Mallorca’s architecture is another highlight for photographers like me.
The Gothic cathedral of Palma, the Bellver Castle, and the many historical mansions and monasteries are impressive structures waiting to be photographed. Even the modern buildings, such as the Es Baluard Museum of Modern Art, offer interesting perspectives and unique photo opportunities.
The flora of Mallorca is as diverse as its landscapes. The island is known for its beautiful gardens and parks, which offer a true riot of colours. Countless flowers bloom here, from bougainvillea to oleander to lavender.
Mallorca’s coastline is one of the most fascinating in the Mediterranean. The rugged cliffs, hidden coves, and endless sandy beaches are a paradise for photographers. Places like the beach of Es Trenc, the Cala Figuera, or the cliffs of Cap de Formentor offer dramatic landscapes and crystal-clear water that sparkles in the sun. I took this photograph from a boat.
Photo Tip
For impressive long-exposure shots during the day, I use an ND filter (neutral density filter) to reduce the amount of light and therefore increase the shutter speed. A stable tripod is essential to prevent camera shake, as the exposure time will be far beyond what can be held still by hand. I use a remote shutter release or the camera’s self-timer to avoid vibrations when pressing the shutter. I often experiment with different exposure times to achieve creative effects such as soft water and/or moving clouds (M-Mode).
The camera’s autofocus may not function correctly with the ND filter. To ensure proper focus, follow these steps: First, allow the camera to autofocus on the subject. Once focused, switch the lens to manual focus without adjusting the focus ring. Then, carefully mount the ND filter. (works with my Nikon system).
