Short answer
Konark Sun Temple for architectural detail, Chilika Lake at dawn for boat and bird photography, and the Koraput-Rayagada region for landscape and market photography (with consent required for portraits) make up Odisha's strongest photography circuit.
Konark Sun Temple
Early morning light brings out the depth of the carved wheels and plinth sculpture; a tripod may require prior permission, and flash photography near sensitive carvings should be avoided.
Chilika Lake
Dawn departures from Satapada or Mangalajodi give the calmest water and best light for both dolphin and bird photography, along with fishing-boat activity that makes for strong documentary images.
Tribal markets and villages
Photographing individuals at Koraput or Rayagada's weekly haats requires asking permission each time, and some markets do not permit photography at all — a local guide will advise on where and how to ask.
Temple interiors
Photography is restricted or prohibited inside the inner sanctums of active temples such as the Jagannath Temple in Puri and the Lingaraj Temple in Bhubaneswar; exterior and precinct photography is generally permitted.
Practical gear notes
A polarising filter helps with Chilika's water glare, and a longer lens is useful both for Chilika's birdlife and for respectful distance-based portraits at tribal markets when consent has been given.
