Comprised of a boardwalk with multiple signs warning visitors to stay on the trail, the Ansel's Cave trail doesn't offer much flexibility in terms of creativity. I generally prefer to skip locations like this. However, my great-grandparents used to live on some property that is now part of the park, and my great-grandmother used to come visit the cave. Here are three tips you can use to make your photographs stand out at popular destinations like this.
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1. Lighting
As you probably know, lighting makes a huge difference in photography. I prefer soft early morning light. Other conditions such as fog would also make this photograph more interesting.2. Lens selection
Telephoto or standard lenses are generally the best option for a developed site like this. They help crop out less-attractive surroundings. My favorite shot at the cave was shot at 53mm providing a close crop on the rocks.3. Angle
Even though you are limited to the boardwalk, try to use creativity to adjust your angle and find the best shot. I shot through the railing so I could get a lower perspective.

