A Photographer’s Information to Paris
The place to take lovely footage in Paris
Paris evokes a sense of marvel. Avenues exude French character; monuments painting magnificence with gothic structure, to not point out the Parisian rooftops, cafes and gardens.
Photographing Paris is unquestionably a journey via time and also you’ll need to go to well-known icons and distinctive areas to safe the very best view potential of this unbelievable metropolis.
What began out as my high 5 areas quickly developed into extra of a information to the unbelievable sights and hidden gems you may {photograph} across the French capital. It’s positively too arduous to slim this record down any additional so you should definitely give your self just a few days to discover all that this lovely metropolis has to supply.
Under you’ll find a listing of the very best images areas in Paris alongside a set of photos I’ve personally taken at each.
Just a little tip – should you’re planning on visiting various monuments, museums and sights throughout your keep, choosing a 2, 3, 4 or 6 day Go Paris Cross may also 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 contains 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 in your subsequent go to to this attractive metropolis. There’s additionally a useful 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 machine, I’ve simply launched my model new ‘Paris Images Location Information’, it’s massive, lovely and stuffed with over 65+ images areas, 75 pages, customized maps and self-guided strolling excursions to observe in my footsteps.
D’accord, allons-y (okay, let’s go!)
Paris Images Places:
#1 Basilique du Sacré-Coeur – Panoramic Views + Sundown
Overlooking the whole metropolis, the Basilique du Sacré-Coeur gives what’s for my part, the very best view in Paris. Few individuals realise you may 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 unbelievable scene to witness because the solar units over Paris. Make sure to verify closing instances earlier than you begin the climb as they differ from month to month and generally even day after day. View the Basilique du Sacré-Coeur website with additional customer data right here.
Paris Picture Tip –
In summer time the solar doesn’t set till late within the night, providing the prospect to wander the streets and absorb the gorgeous golden gentle. Plan a path to observe or just wander again from Montmartre and get splendidly misplaced alongside the way in which. Learn extra about suggestions for photographing in sundown and golden hour here.
The trail across the dome with a lot of picture home windows to see and seize town from.
#2 Saint-Michel + The Latin Quarter – Road Scenes + Cafes
For quaint cobbled streets lined with cafes and eating places that ooze appeal, 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 images of conventional Crêperies and avenue scenes.
Paris Picture Tip –
Wander from the banks of the Seine in the direction of Tour Montparnasse to go by a number 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
Probably the greatest locations to take footage in Paris and residential to resident creatives and avenue artists, Montemartre is the epitome of French character. At first look it would look like a vacationer frenzy however should you enterprise away from the Place du Tertre (artist sq.) you’ll discover a village like environment with a novel atmosphere not like 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 Picture Tip –
Visiting Montmartre within the early afternoon offers you loads of time to wander the streets after which benefit from the altering environment 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 gentle interiors and panoramic metropolis views
*Replace 01/05/2019 – As a result of hearth inside Notre Dame in April 2019, it’s not potential to at present entry this magnificence from the within. You’ll be able to nonetheless nonetheless see and {photograph} Notre Dame from varied spots alongside the banks of the Seine River.
One of many best examples of French Gothic structure, Notre Dame is a necessary picture cease in Paris, even should you can’t enterprise inside. Reap the benefits of glowing morning gentle alongside the Seine and head straight for Pont Saint-Michele the place you’ll have a gorgeous vantage level towards Notre Dame. The roof and spire behind Notre Dame have been broken essentially the most within the hearth, nonetheless 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 in the future, should you haven’t already, you’ll be capable to go inside too. The inside is dimly lit providing shadowed arches, intricate detailing and patterned flooring. In the event 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 superb 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 wanting down upon the Parisian rooftops the place the Gargoyles sit, such a novel approach to view town! Be warned nonetheless it’s very fashionable and may really feel slightly rushed resulting from teams being ushered via to keep away from congestion.
Up to date picture by Google – A present view of the development at Notre Dame. It’s greatest to {photograph} from Pont Saint-Michel in the intervening time to seize the entrance facades, compose your picture to exclude the cranes/scaffolding and as an alternative {photograph} Notre Dame with the Seine within the foreground. *Until you wish to doc the development, by which case you’ll discover many angles to do that from!
#5 Eiffel Tower – Iconic Scenes + Picture Places
I’m fairly positive that should you’re going to Paris you need at the very least one shot of the magical Eiffel Tower, proper? Properly the good information is you’ll see this mighty icon popping up from completely different vantage factors everywhere in the metropolis. The preferred spot is in fact proper beneath it or from the gardens of the Champ de Mars however should you’re searching for someplace completely different listed below are just a few choices…
- Printemps Division Retailer. Catch the elevator as much as the rooftop café and revel in views over the Parisian roof tops with the Eiffel Tower standing tall behind them.
- Chaillot Hill and the Trocadéro. You positively received’t be alone right here however the view is difficult to beat and you should utilize the Fontaine de Varsovie (Warsaw Fountain) as an important topic to compose your picture towards the Eiffel Tower.
- The banks of the Seine. Stroll alongside the river banks to take some distinctive photos 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 one of the inspirating Paris images areas, the Louvre was initially constructed as a fortress within the 12th century. Now essentially the most visited museum on this planet housing over 30,000 objects from historical past, you possibly can spend all day right here taking images and that’s simply the inside. Exterior are the superbly landscaped areas, The Carrousel Backyard and The Tuileries. When the climate warms up you’ll discover individuals sharing picnics and absorbing the solar within the gardens creating an important environment! The Cour Carrée is one other nice picture location inside the Louvre advanced. This sq. courtyard was accomplished by King Louis XIV as a part of the ‘Previous 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 right place to set your self up for the day to seize way of life photos and have a picnic on the similar time! You’ll additionally discover little crusing boats out there 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 avenue on this planet, the Avenue des Champs-Élysées is bustling all through the day with buyers, vacationers and locals visiting the shops and places of work that reside right here. One of the best time of day to {photograph} right here could be within the night as soon as the shops have closed and the streets are slightly emptier. You’ll discover the gorgeous Arc de Triomphe sitting fairly on the high of the road ready to be photographed because the visitors lights glow under. In the course of the street are pedestrian islands so you may cease and take sluggish movement pictures with out worrying about being hit by a automobile!
#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. In the event you really feel like coaching it across the metropolis take a peek at Arts et Métiers, Saint-Michel, Varenne (Rodin Museum), Concorde (designed as a large 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, considered one of my favorite Paris images areas. Right here you’ll discover what looks like a greenhouse of goals with so many blooming florals in rigorously organized bunches, it’s arduous to imagine you’re proper within the centre of town. Little inexperienced market stalls hyperlink collectively to kind 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 procuring dream! It’s additionally for photographers, go to for the spectacular theatre-like design within the centre of the shop, a blinding bazaar! Take the steps to the highest stage for views throughout town, it’s outside panoramic deck gives an alternate view of the Eiffel Tower and also you’ll be capable to seize spectacular pictures above the Palais Garnier.
Different notable Paris images Places –
Marché Mouffetard: A slim avenue market described by Hemingway as ‘A Moveable Feast’. Vibrant contemporary meals stalls and a vibrant environment!
Place de la Concorde: A fundamental thoroughfare for vacationer buses and pedestrians, this can be a good spot to sit down 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 a large public sq. adorned with fountains. Aspect word…you’ll additionally discover THE greatest public bathroom 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 practice journey out of town will take you to the Palace of Versailles, an extravagant royal chateau. Have a peek inside right here.
Lodge de Ville: The city corridor of Paris is house to town’s administration places of work nonetheless it’s exterior is much much less boring. Trying extra like a palace, the Lodge de Ville incorporates a attractive Gothic roof and in winter it’s the backdrop to a large ice skating rink…it seems lovely lit up within the night too!
Le Stade Roland Garros: Even should you’re not on the town for the French Open in Might, Roland Garros is a superb 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 stunning space and parks too!
St Etienne du Mont: A powerful Gothic church with distinctive particulars equivalent to stone spiral staircases and large stained glass window panels…gentle and ethereal.
Galeries Vivienne: A hidden little arcade off Rue Des Petits Champs stuffed with character.
Roland Garros…tennis followers get your self right here!
The ceiling of Galeries Lafayette in Paris.
Lodge 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 in fact hundreds of accommodations, flats and boutique properties to decide on between relying on which areas swimsuit you greatest. 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 true exterior the window, however since you’re near the Seine and a brief stroll from a few of the most lovely areas within the metropolis.
Mercure Paris Central Tour Eiffel – In case you are searching for someplace fabulous to remain in Paris that doesn’t break the finances BUT gives views of the Eiffel Tower out of your room I’ve discovered simply the place! The Mercure Paris Central Tour Eiffel shouldn’t be solely a cool and actually snug resort however it’s situated one block from the Eiffel Tower! Out of your room you may 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 record locations I’ve personally stayed, you should definitely ask for room #1031, #1131 or #1211 for the very 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 Places
Map: DIY Paris Picture Stroll
Begin your strolling tour in Saint-Michel then stroll to all the main websites of Paris, ending on the Luxembourg Gardens. This stroll takes over 4hours with out picture stops or going into museums and so on, so I extremely advocate breaking it up into just a few days! In case you are quick on time, soar on the metro to zip between areas simply.
Map: Paris Images Places
Now should you’re extra into catching the metro or selecting which areas you need to see, here’s a map to all the images areas listed under on this information. It is best to be capable 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 is going to convey up a Level A + Level B to work out instructions for driving or public transport.
Paris Images Assets + Different Photogenic Places 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? In the event you’re prepared, I’d love to listen to about them within the feedback under!
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Whats up! 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 street. I hope it’s helpful in your personal travels and would love to listen to within the feedback about your journeys and experiences world wide.
