The Jurassic Park franchise has mesmerized audiences and photographers alike, transporting them to a world where dinosaurs rule the land. But have you ever wondered where the awe-inspiring island of Isla Nublar, home to these prehistoric giants, is located? Or where the captivating landscapes in both Jurassic Park and Jurassic World were filmed?
While the movies are set on a fictional island off the coast of Costa Rica, the actual filming locations for Jurassic Park span the globe. From the verdant jungles of Hawaii to the expansive deserts of California, the filmmakers scoured the earth to find the perfect backdrops for their cinematic vision.
If you’re ready to embark on an adventure to uncover the real-life locations behind Jurassic Park and Jurassic World, buckle up for a thrilling journey!
In This Article, You Will Learn:
- The Evolution of Jurassic Park: From Classic to Modern Blockbusters
- Where Was Jurassic Park Filmed?
- Where Was Jurassic World Filmed?
- Tips for Capturing Instagram-Worthy Shots at Jurassic Park Filming Locations
The Evolution of Jurassic Park: From Classic to Blockbuster Phenomenon
Welcome to the world of Jurassic Park, a franchise that has captivated audiences for nearly three decades. First released in 1993, the original Jurassic Park was a revolutionary film, blending cutting-edge special effects with a thrilling story. It quickly became a cultural sensation.
Based on Michael Crichton’s novel, the story follows a billionaire who brings dinosaurs back to life to populate his theme park. However, when these powerful creatures break free, chaos ensues.
Fast forward to 2015, and the franchise rebooted with Jurassic World, the fourth film in the series, which grossed over $1.6 billion worldwide, introducing a new generation to the wonder of genetically engineered dinosaurs. The action-packed Jurassic World series brought stunning visual effects and jaw-dropping landscapes that continued to ignite the imaginations of viewers.
But beyond the cinematic magic, it’s the breathtaking filming locations that continue to inspire both fans and photography enthusiasts alike.
Where Was Jurassic Park Filmed?
When Jurassic Park debuted in 1993, its lush jungle scenes and dramatic landscapes became iconic. Much of the franchise’s timeless visual appeal comes from the beautiful Hawaiian Islands, which served as the primary filming location for several movies in the series.
Kualoa Ranch, Oahu, Hawaii: The Heart of Isla Nublar
The original Jurassic Park brought us the stunning landscapes of Kualoa Ranch, located on the eastern coast of Oahu. A family-owned ranch, Kualoa Ranch spans over 4,000 acres of picturesque valleys, tropical rainforests, and pristine coastlines. Its Ka’a’awa Valley became the setting for some of the most memorable scenes in Jurassic Park, including the epic moments featuring towering dinosaurs.
Kualoa Ranch has also become one of Hollywood’s most recognized filming locations, with over 50 movies and TV shows shot here. Visitors today can explore the same valleys through guided tours, ATVs, or horseback rides—immersing themselves in the same breathtaking settings seen in the films.
Mojave Desert, California: The Unexpected Jurassic Scene
While most of Jurassic Park’s outdoor scenes were filmed in Hawaii, one exception was the iconic desert sequence. This scene was shot in the Mojave Desert in California, adding a different landscape to the movie’s primarily tropical settings.
Indoor scenes, on the other hand, were filmed on studio sets, further blending real-world and cinematic environments to create the full experience of Isla Nublar.
Here’s a great Jurassic Park filming locations breakdown video from YouTube:
Where Was Jurassic World Filmed?
With the release of Jurassic World in 2015, the filmmakers returned to Hawaii to capture the vast and diverse landscapes essential to recreating the world of Jurassic Park. Both the first and second films were largely filmed in Hawaii.
However, in Jurassic World: Dominion (2022), the plot development called for new and unique filming locations beyond Hawaii.
Malta: A Fresh New Setting in Jurassic World: Dominion
In Jurassic World: Dominion, some of the most breathtaking sequences take place in Malta. Key locations like St. Ursula Street and St. George’s Square feature prominently, with Chris Pratt racing through the city streets on a motorcycle. The charm of Malta’s historic architecture gave the film a fresh new backdrop for its dinosaur action.
While more scenes were initially planned in Malta, the global pandemic led to changes, limiting the number of locations that could be used. Nonetheless, the setting brought a new layer of excitement to the series.
Camberley and Fleet, England: Forest Scenes
In addition to Malta, Jurassic World: Dominion also used stunning forest backdrops for certain sequences. Drones captured aerial shots in the forests near Camberley and Fleet in England, creating atmospheric scenes that heightened the film’s tension and adventure.
Tips for Capturing Instagram-Worthy Photos at Jurassic Park Filming Locations
If you’re a fan of the Jurassic series and love photography, visiting the filming locations can provide excellent opportunities for Instagram-worthy shots. Here are some tips to help you capture the beauty of these iconic locations:
1. Research the Best Spots
Before setting out, research the specific scenes you want to replicate. Whether it’s the lush valleys of Kualoa Ranch or the historic streets of Malta, knowing where and when to visit will help you get the most authentic shots.
2. Choose the Right Time
Timing is everything in photography. Aim for the golden hours—right after sunrise or before sunset—for soft, warm lighting that will enhance your photos. This will add a cinematic glow reminiscent of the Jurassic films themselves.
3. Master Your Composition
Pay attention to how you frame your shots. The rule of thirds can be especially helpful in landscape photography, placing your subject along the gridlines for a balanced composition. Don’t be afraid to experiment with angles to capture a unique perspective.
4. Incorporate Natural Elements
Use the environment to your advantage. Foliage, rocks, or even the natural light can add layers of depth to your photos, giving them an extra dimension and aligning them with the vibrant, natural world of Jurassic Park.
5. Experiment With Angles
For a dynamic feel, try shooting from different angles. A low-angle shot can make the landscape feel vast and imposing, much like the towering dinosaurs of the Jurassic world.
Enhancing Your Photos with Azilian LifeMotion
Even after following all the tips for taking beautiful shots, some may not turn out as perfect as you’d like due to lighting or angles. This is where Azilian LifeMotion can be a game-changer.
Azilian LifeMotion offers a suite of editing tools that simplify the process of enhancing your photos. Whether adjusting the lighting, colors, or fine-tuning specific details, helps streamline the editing process, allowing you to bring out the best in your Jurassic Park-inspired images. The software provides customizable controls to make sure your photos are not only cinematic but also Instagram-ready.
Conclusion
The filming locations of Jurassic Park and Jurassic World are as captivating as the dinosaurs themselves. From the lush Hawaiian jungles to the dramatic streets of Malta, these real-world settings bring the movies to life, offering fans the chance to experience the wonder for themselves.
Whether you’re an avid photographer or simply a fan of the films, these locations provide endless inspiration for capturing stunning images. So pack your camera, explore the world of Jurassic Park, and let Azilian LifeMotion elevate your photos to cinematic perfection.