A Photographer’s Information to Paris
The place to take stunning footage in Paris
Paris evokes a sense of surprise. Avenues exude French character; monuments painting magnificence with gothic structure, to not point out the Parisian rooftops, cafes and gardens.
Photographing Paris is certainly a journey by way of time and also you’ll wish to go to well-known icons and distinctive areas to safe one of the best view potential of this unimaginable metropolis.
What began out as my prime 5 areas quickly developed into extra of a information to the unimaginable sights and hidden gems you possibly can {photograph} across the French capital. It’s positively too onerous to slim this checklist down any additional so you’ll want to give your self a number of days to discover all that this stunning metropolis has to supply.
Under you will see a listing of one of the best images areas in Paris alongside a set of pictures I’ve personally taken at every one.
Just a little tip – for those who’re planning on visiting plenty of monuments, museums and sights throughout your keep, choosing a 2, 3, 4 or 6 day Go Paris Go might help you save as much as 47% off common ticket costs and have entry to over 70 areas, experiences + 50 museums in Paris. It additionally consists of wine tastings, Seine cruises, strolling excursions and essentially the most iconic sights.
** Paris Images Location Map: Scroll to the underside of this information for a Google Map with a prompt strolling route + all Paris images areas mapped out to your subsequent go to to this attractive metropolis. There’s additionally a helpful little part with hyperlinks to different photogenic areas in France!
eBook Announcement – If you wish to skip the advertisements and obtain a Paris eBook for photographers straight to your gadget, I’ve simply launched my model new ‘Paris Images Location Information’, it’s massive, stunning and full of over 65+ images areas, 75 pages, customized maps and self-guided strolling excursions to comply with in my footsteps.
D’accord, allons-y (okay, let’s go!)
Paris Images Areas:
#1 Basilique du Sacré-Coeur – Panoramic Views + Sundown
Overlooking all the metropolis, the Basilique du Sacré-Coeur affords what’s in my view, one of the best view in Paris. Few folks realise you possibly can entry the highest of the dome so at sundown you’ll be sharing with solely a handful of tourists who dared to tackle the 300 stair climb. The height of the dome has a slim walkway that provides you 360degree views, an unimaginable scene to witness because the solar units over Paris. You should definitely verify closing occasions earlier than you begin the climb as they differ from month to month and typically even each day. View the Basilique du Sacré-Coeur website with additional customer info right here.
Paris Photograph Tip –
In summer time the solar doesn’t set till late within the night, providing the prospect to wander the streets and absorb the attractive golden mild. Plan a path to comply with or just wander again from Montmartre and get splendidly misplaced alongside the way in which. Learn extra about ideas for photographing in sundown and golden hour here.
The trail across the dome with a lot of picture home windows to see and seize the town from.
#2 Saint-Michel + The Latin Quarter – Road Scenes + Cafes
For quaint cobbled streets lined with cafes and eating places that ooze allure, that is the place to wander. You’ll discover this space simply over the river to the south of Notre Dame. Roam alongside Rue de la Bûcherie and Rue Saint- Séverin for pictures of conventional Crêperies and road scenes.
Paris Photograph Tip –
Wander from the banks of the Seine in the direction of Tour Montparnasse to go by a variety of the highlights of Saint-Germain-des-Pres and Left Financial institution. Learn extra about my adventures photographing the Left Financial institution of Paris right here.
#3 Montmartre – Artisans + French Character
Top-of-the-line locations to take footage in Paris and residential to resident creatives and road artists, Montemartre is the epitome of French character. At first look it’d look like a vacationer frenzy however for those who enterprise away from the Place du Tertre (artist sq.) you’ll discover a village like ambiance with a novel atmosphere in contrast to anyplace else in Paris. Have a peek on the cute pink restaurant ‘La Maison Rose’ and the draping vines alongside Abreuvoir Road then head all the way down to the windmill of Moulin de la Galette on the nook of Rue Lepic and Rue Girardon.
Paris Photograph Tip –
Visiting Montmartre within the early afternoon offers you loads of time to wander the streets after which benefit from the altering ambiance as night approaches. Road images alternatives are nice round lunch time then once more as soon as the crowds begin showing for dinner.
#4 Notre Dame Cathedral – Low mild interiors and panoramic metropolis views
*Replace 01/05/2019 – Because of the hearth inside Notre Dame in April 2019, it’s not potential to at the moment entry this magnificence from the within. You’ll be able to nevertheless nonetheless see and {photograph} Notre Dame from varied spots alongside the banks of the Seine River.
One of many most interesting examples of French Gothic structure, Notre Dame is a necessary picture cease in Paris, even for those who can’t enterprise inside. Reap the benefits of glowing morning mild alongside the Seine and head straight for Pont Saint-Michele the place you’ll have a good looking vantage level towards Notre Dame. The roof and spire in the back of Notre Dame have been broken essentially the most within the hearth, nevertheless the entrance towers are nonetheless as they have been, albeit with slightly extra scaffolding.
I’ll additionally point out my description from previous to the fireplace as I liked visiting Notre Dame and hope that someday, for those who haven’t already, you’ll have the ability to go inside too. The inside is dimly lit providing shadowed arches, intricate detailing and patterned flooring. When you arrive early sufficient within the day (earlier than 10am) you’ll keep away from prolonged queues to climb to the highest of the cathedral…an absolute should for a wonderful view! Climbing the slim staircase to the highest is an expertise in itself then when you arrive to the open air walkway circling the tower you’ll be greeted with views alongside the Seine River all the way in which to the Eiffel Tower. My favorite angle was trying down upon the Parisian rooftops the place the Gargoyles sit, such a novel technique to view the town! Be warned nevertheless it’s extremely popular and may really feel slightly rushed attributable to teams being ushered by way of to keep away from congestion.
Up to date picture by Google – A present view of the development at Notre Dame. It’s finest to {photograph} from Pont Saint-Michel in the interim to seize the entrance facades, compose your picture to exclude the cranes/scaffolding and as a substitute {photograph} Notre Dame with the Seine within the foreground. *Except you prefer to doc the development, by which case you’ll discover many angles to do that from!
#5 Eiffel Tower – Iconic Scenes + Photograph Areas
I’m fairly certain that for those who’re going to Paris you need a minimum of one shot of the magical Eiffel Tower, proper? Nicely the good information is you’ll see this mighty icon popping up from completely different vantage factors all around the metropolis. The preferred spot is after all proper beneath it or from the gardens of the Champ de Mars however for those who’re in search of someplace completely different listed here are a number of choices…
- Printemps Division Retailer. Catch the elevator as much as the rooftop café and luxuriate in views over the Parisian roof tops with the Eiffel Tower standing tall behind them.
- Chaillot Hill and the Trocadéro. You positively gained’t be alone right here however the view is tough to beat and you should utilize the Fontaine de Varsovie (Warsaw Fountain) as an amazing topic to compose your picture in opposition to the Eiffel Tower.
- The banks of the Seine. Stroll alongside the river banks to take some distinctive pictures of the Eiffel Tower framed with bushes, as boats go by or only a various metropolis scene from the norm.
Learn extra – “Views: 14 Locations to {Photograph} the Eiffel Tower in Paris“
The Eiffel Tower framed by the Warsaw Fountains.
The Eiffel Tower peeking from behind the Carousel on the banks of the Seine River.
#6 The Louvre – Historical past + Structure
As a central landmark in Paris and probably the most inspirating Paris images areas, the Louvre was initially constructed as a fortress within the 12th century. Now essentially the most visited museum on the planet housing over 30,000 objects from historical past, you would spend all day right here taking images and that’s simply the inside. Exterior are the peerlessly landscaped areas, The Carrousel Backyard and The Tuileries. When the climate warms up you’ll discover folks sharing picnics and absorbing the solar within the gardens creating an amazing ambiance! The Cour Carrée is one other nice picture location throughout the Louvre complicated. This sq. courtyard was accomplished by King Louis XIV as a part of the ‘Outdated Louvre’ and is ideal for composing linear angles.
#7 Jardin du Luxembourg – Fountains + Gardens
A inexperienced oasis amongst the 6th arrondissement of Paris, the Jardin du Luxembourg is understood for tree lined promenades and chestnut groves. The proper place to set your self up for the day to seize way of life pictures and have a picnic on the identical time! You’ll additionally discover little crusing boats obtainable for rent to drift round within the fountain in entrance of the Palais du Luxembourg. Fontaine Medicis is nestled in slightly nook and is nicely value a peek too.
#8 Avenue des Champs-Élysées – Night Gradual Movement Photographs
Maybe essentially the most well-known road on the planet, the Avenue des Champs-Élysées is bustling all through the day with buyers, vacationers and locals visiting the shops and workplaces that reside right here. The very best time of day to {photograph} right here can be within the night as soon as the shops have closed and the streets are slightly emptier. You’ll discover the attractive Arc de Triomphe sitting fairly on the prime of the road ready to be photographed because the visitors lights glow under. In the midst of the highway are pedestrian islands so you possibly can cease and take sluggish movement photographs with out worrying about being hit by a automotive!
#9 The Paris Metro – Murals + Structure
Beneath the streets of Paris you’ll discover inventive areas and tunnels to {photograph}. After all not each metro station is picturesque however some are little gems of creativity with murals, themed designs and artwork nouveau entrances. When you really feel like coaching it across the metropolis take a peek at Arts et Métiers, Saint-Michel, Varenne (Rodin Museum), Concorde (designed as an enormous phrase puzzle), Abbesses and Cité stations.
#10 Marché aux fleurs Reine Elisabeth II
A flower markert on Ile de la Cite – Just a little oasis simply close to Notre Dame
Nestled in a quiet sq. one block away from Notre Dame is the tranquil Marché aux fleurs Reine Elisabeth II market of Paris, certainly one of my favorite Paris images areas. Right here you’ll discover what seems like a greenhouse of goals with so many blooming florals in rigorously organized bunches, it’s onerous to imagine you’re proper within the centre of the town. Little inexperienced market stalls hyperlink collectively to type a maze of all issues gardening and decor, boy is it photogenic!
#11 Galeries Lafayette Haussmann
Positioned on Boulevard Haussmann within the Opera district, this division retailer is a purchasing dream! It’s additionally for photographers, go to for the spectacular theatre-like design within the centre of the shop, a stunning bazaar! Take the steps to the highest stage for views throughout the town, it’s out of doors panoramic deck affords an alternate view of the Eiffel Tower and also you’ll have the ability to seize spectacular photographs above the Palais Garnier.
Different notable Paris images Areas –
Marché Mouffetard: A slim road market described by Hemingway as ‘A Moveable Feast’. Vibrant recent meals stalls and a vibrant ambiance!
Place de la Concorde: A predominant thoroughfare for vacationer buses and pedestrians, it is a excellent spot to take a seat on the stone partitions and watch the world go by. Positioned on the finish of the The Tuileries Backyard not removed from the Louvre, it’s an enormous public sq. embellished with fountains. Facet observe…you’ll additionally discover THE finest public rest room in Paris right here on the entrance to the backyard. I’m not even joking, you’ll thank me later!
Palace of Versailles: A 40minute prepare journey out of the town will take you to the Palace of Versailles, an extravagant royal chateau. Have a peek inside right here.
Resort de Ville: The city corridor of Paris is residence to the town’s administration workplaces nevertheless it’s exterior is much much less boring. Trying extra like a palace, the Resort de Ville includes a attractive Gothic roof and in winter it’s the backdrop to an enormous ice skating rink…it appears to be like stunning lit up within the night too!
Le Stade Roland Garros: Even for those who’re not on the town for the French Open in Could, Roland Garros is a good day journey for tennis followers like me! You may get fortunate and see a event or take a tour behind the scenes. Catch the Metro to Porte d’Auteuil and wander the beautiful space and parks too!
St Etienne du Mont: A formidable Gothic church with distinctive particulars similar to stone spiral staircases and large stained glass window panels…mild and ethereal.
Galeries Vivienne: A hidden little arcade off Rue Des Petits Champs full of character.
Roland Garros…tennis followers get your self right here!
The ceiling of Galeries Lafayette in Paris.
Resort de Ville in winter
Galeries Vivienne (picture from Google Maps)
Palace of Versailles
The courtyard of Versailles Palace
The place to Keep in Paris
When protecting quite a few Paris images areas, there are after all 1000’s of resorts, flats and boutique properties to decide on between relying on which areas go well with you finest. For me, there’s one spot I really like to remain when photographing Paris. Proper close to the Eiffel Tower. Not solely as a result of this iconic magnificence is correct outdoors the window, however since you’re near the Seine and a brief stroll from a number of the most stunning areas within the metropolis.
Mercure Paris Central Tour Eiffel – If you’re in search of someplace fabulous to remain in Paris that doesn’t break the price range BUT affords views of the Eiffel Tower out of your room I’ve discovered simply the place! The Mercure Paris Central Tour Eiffel just isn’t solely a cool and actually snug lodge however it’s positioned one block from the Eiffel Tower! Out of your room you possibly can watch because the tower sparkles earlier than you drift off to sleep, solely to wake and watch the dawn glow behind the French icon. As a result of I solely checklist locations I’ve personally stayed, you’ll want to ask for room #1031, #1131 or #1211 for one of the best views of the Eiffel Tower! To verify room charges go to – Mercure Paris Central Tour Eiffel
Take a peek on the view from the room…
Take me with you: Maps to Paris Images Areas
Map: DIY Paris Photograph Stroll
Begin your strolling tour in Saint-Michel then stroll to the entire main websites of Paris, ending on the Luxembourg Gardens. This stroll takes over 4hours with out picture stops or going into museums and many others, so I extremely suggest breaking it up into a number of days! If you’re quick on time, bounce on the metro to zip between areas simply.
Map: Paris Images Areas
Now for those who’re extra into catching the metro or selecting which areas you wish to see, here’s a map to the entire images areas listed under on this information. It is best to have the ability to click on open this map and add your personal areas, or create a personalized strolling tour. By clicking the ‘add instructions’ button on the map it’ll deliver up a Level A + Level B to work out instructions for driving or public transport.
Paris Images Assets + Different Photogenic Areas in France
For all different articles regarding Paris and France, take a peek at my France Archives.
Wish to share a few of your secret Paris images areas? When you’re keen, I’d love to listen to about them within the feedback under!
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Howdy! I’m the founder and photographer behind The Wandering Lens.
With 17+yrs expertise as an expert journey and panorama photographer, all recommendation discovered on this website is from my private expertise on the highway. I hope it’s helpful to your personal travels and would love to listen to within the feedback about your journeys and experiences world wide.