The 8 best photography spots in London you need to know about
London is a little paradise for photographers. Both urban photography and street style photography can easily be practiced in the streets of the city. It is mainly the diversity, the different perspectives and the attractive motives, which make London a popular spot for photographers. Whether you are just a traveller with a love for the camera or a professional photographer, there are a few best photography spots in London that you should know about. This guide contains popular places and locations as well as secret spots you should visit with your camera.
The best time for photography in London
Before starting with the different photography spots in London, you should know when it is best to take pictures in the city. Of course, London is not tied to any season and during every time of the year, you will be able to capture it at its best.
In the winter months, London does look extremely romantic and cozy and you can get some festive Christmas shots in Oxford street. During spring and summer, you can capture the positive atmosphere of the city, the blossom in the beautiful neighborhoods and the long summer nights in the parks. And during autumn, you will witness the stunning colors of the trees through your lenses. Yes, London really has something special during every season.
The best time during the day for photography in London is either right after the sunrise or in the late afternoon. During these hours, the lightening is usually at its best. If you love to photograph the lights of a city, you should obviously get your camera out as soon as it is dark.
For some unique shots with as less people as possible, the best option is to head out for an early shooting in the morning. Yes, this does involve an early alarm, but it will absolutely be worth it.
The best neighborhood for photographers in London: Notting Hill
One of the best photography spots is Notting Hill. Actually, this is even a whole area where photographers can be all creative. The area is mainly known for its photogenic streets and the pretty houses. You could even say, this is the prettiest neighborhood in all of London and therefore ideal for you and your camera.
There is not one specific street in Notting Hill. To get the best out of this photography spot, you should arrive early in the morning. The first sun rays create a magical atmosphere and will allow you to get your own shot of the area. Of course, Notting Hill is as well perfect if you are modeling or looking for an instagrammable place in the city.
A beautiful street to check out is the Lancaster Road, which is known for the bright colorful houses.
The Picadilly Circus at night – capture London´s lights
If you love to take city photographs during the night and mainly focus on the different lights, then Picadilly Circus is your place to be. That does not mean, you should capture the famous display panels. Rather, focus on what´s around. The beautiful houses, the view over to the beginning of Oxford Street, the busses and the Underground signs. As the Picadilly Circus is always quite busy, you can capture a typical London image.
Use the game of lights for your advantage and spend some time around the Picadilly Circus. Wait for a red bus or a typical London taxi to drive by. You will see!
Yes, the Picadilly Circus really is among the best places to be all around London. But there are many more you need to put on your list. To not miss out on anything, click here.
One of the best photography spots: The Tower Bridge from More London Riverside
Surely, you have heard of the Tower Bridge. Of course, this is one of the main landmarks of the city and cannot be missed on any trip to London. But instead of capturing it like everyone else does, you need to know about this specific place.
If you cross the Tower Bridge from the Tower of London, make your way to the other side of the bridge and leave to the right side. Walk along the Potters Fields Park. The City Hall and the water fountains and follow straight into the narrow street. The street itself is called More London Riverside and has some take outs, bars and a business building on its right and left. You will notice it as it appears to be quite dark with only pedestrians allowed to use it. Follow the street for about 100 meters and then turn around. You will notice that the Tower Bridge is located directly in the middle of these buildings, like a frame. Find your own distance or position to put this into a unique photograph.
In this photography spot, the lightening is everything. Pay attention to not arriving to late or you will have trouble capturing the view. The best light is usually around 4 pm.
The laid-back atmosphere of Soho
Soho is part of the most popular area of London and the central streets. It is located close to the Regent Street. Soho is filled with cute corners and photogenic streets. Especially if you are photographing for Instagram or Social Media in general, this is a photography spot in London you need to know about.
Especially during the festive season, Soho is beautifully decorated and you will have a blast simply strolling around. But as well during the other months of the year, the area is worth a visit and needs to be on your list. Try to capture the beautiful shops, the houses and the empty streets in the morning for your unique Soho shot.
One of the best photography spots in London: St. Paul´ s Cathedral from Millennium Bridge
This once used to be a secret angle for urban photographers in London. During the past years and social media, it has become more and more popular. But still, it is one of the best photography spots in London and definitely needs to be checked out.
The St. Paul´s Cathedral is located in the center of the city and can be reached by exiting at the St. Paul´s Underground station. The church itself is beautiful as well and you can enter it on a guided tour. But even better is the view from the nearby Millennium Bridge. The Millennium Bridge crosses the River Thames to the Tate Modern Museum and is famous for its impressive architecture.
For the best angle and the best shot of the St. Paul´s Cathedral make sure to cross the bridge almost to the other shore before turning around for your shot. The more you got in the picture of the bridge, the better.
If you want to capture this view with as less people as possible, you need to arrive shortly after sunrise. As this is a very popular and busy area, it seems almost impossible to get a good shot without anybody crossing the bridge. The earlier the better and with a little luck and patience, you can get the most out of this amazing photography spot in London.
Jackpot: if you even catch a typical London seagull flying through the picture, you might have your best London photograph! Yes, not kidding.
The St. Paul ´s Cathedral from the One New Change Shopping Mall – a unique photography spot in London
You think that was the only way to capture the beautiful St. Paul´s Cathedral? You´re wrong. If you want to do it a little different and try out something new than the other photographers, this spot is for you.
Instead of leaving the St. Paul´s Cathedral to go to the Millennium Bridge, stay in the area. Depending on where you are coming from, head to the One New Change Shopping Mall, which is located Northeast of the cathedral. You will notice the building quite quickly as it is filled with different shops – and it has glass windows. And that´s where the magic begins.
If you reached the shopping mall, you need to enter it. The photography spot is located directly in the hallway between the COS Clothing Store and Mango, just in front of the elevator. Once you arrive, you will know immediately what to capture. The St. Paul´s Cathedral reflects in the glass and produces not only a unique angle but as well a great photo.
If you want, you can as well take the elevator and play a little with this (still) secret photography spots of one of London´s most stunning cathedrals.
The London Eye from Westminster Bridge
Wondering how to best capture the London Eye? No, you do not need to book yourself a ticket to get the best out of it. One of the best photography spots for the London Eye is the Westminster Bridge just in front of the Big Ben. Overlooking the River Thames and the building of the London Dungeon, this is a typical city picture.
Capture the local´ s life on the Sunday markets
For another photography opportunity, you need to visit the Sunday markets. Some of the best markets are either the Flowers Market in Colombia Road or the Brick Lane. Both allow you to get local insights and capture the everyday life in London.
For some photographers, this is what travel photography is about. Getting to know the locals and capture some casual daily scenes. This kind of photos do reflect best on what a city is about and what story to tell.
Capture the beautiful flowers, the people strolling over the market, the busy streets or the food stands. Be creative and let London catch you!
London – a photographer´ s paradise full of unique photography spots
Yes, London really is full of unique spots. If all these places were listed in this guide, it would crash the blog (probably). No, but seriously, London really is amazing if you want to photograph or get into it. You can use different styles and techniques and find your own best photography spot in London. And if you do, make sure to share it!
