Looking for the best photo spots in Paris? After more than a decade photographing proposals, quinceañeras, couples and families in the city, these are the 15 places where photos look most beautiful, with real examples from my sessions, the best time to go and a posing tip for each one.
If you want to go home with professional photos in these spots, see the options for a photoshoot in Paris.
1. Trocadéro: the classic shot with the whole Eiffel Tower
The Trocadéro esplanade is the most famous viewpoint in Paris: from here you see the whole Eiffel Tower, straight on. It is the photo everyone wants to take home.
2. The Trocadéro steps
The steps leading down to the gardens add depth and are perfect for showing off a long dress with the Tower behind.
3. The Trocadéro gardens and fountains
Below the steps are the Warsaw fountains and gardens with lawns and paths. Quieter than the esplanade, with the Tower very close.
4. Bir-Hakeim bridge
Its iron columns form a corridor that frames the Eiffel Tower. One of the most cinematic spots in the city: scenes from films like “Inception” were shot here.
5. Avenue de New York
By the Seine, with the street sign and the Eiffel Tower across the river. A very Parisian shot that few people take.
6. The Seine banks at sunrise
Walking down to the river gives you the Eiffel Tower with water in front and incredible golden light early in the day.
7. The Eiffel Tower lit up at night
At night the Tower lights up and, at the start of every hour, sparkles for five minutes. Night photos are stunning, but you need professional lighting for your face to look good.
Want your photos in these spots?
I guide you, choose the best time to avoid the crowds, and you get your edited photos within a week.
8. The Louvre pyramid
The Louvre courtyard, with its glass pyramid and the palace behind, is pure elegance. A perfect alternative to the Eiffel Tower.
9. The Louvre arches
From the Richelieu passage the arches frame the pyramid like a painting. A different, very stylish shot.
10. The Tuileries Garden
Tree-lined paths, statues and the famous green Paris chairs, with the Louvre behind. Natural and very romantic.
11. The Arc de Triomphe
Monumental and majestic, ideal for gowns and photos with real presence.
12. The Luxembourg Gardens
A palace, a large pond and flowers in every season. A calm, elegant spot away from the crowds.
13. The golden gates of the Petit Palais
The Petit Palais entrance has spectacular gilded gates. A luxurious backdrop few people know.
14. A Parisian balcony facing the Eiffel Tower
An apartment with a balcony and Eiffel Tower views allows intimate, private photos with nobody around.
15. Montmartre and the Sacré-Cœur
Narrow streets, steps and the white basilica at the top of Paris. A bohemian feel, very different from the rest of the city.
Frequently asked questions about taking photos in Paris
Where are the best photo spots in Paris?
The Trocadéro is the most famous spot for photos with the whole Eiffel Tower. Bir-Hakeim bridge, the Seine banks, the Louvre pyramid, the Tuileries Garden and Montmartre also stand out.
What is the best time to take photos at the Eiffel Tower?
At sunrise: very few people and soft light. At sunset the light is golden, and at night the illuminated Tower sparkles for five minutes at the start of every hour.
How do I avoid tourists in my photos?
Go very early and stand to one side of the viewpoints, not in the middle. In a professional session I choose the time and angle so it looks like you are alone.
How much is a photographer in Paris?
A couple, family or solo session starts at €150 (30 minutes, 20 edited photos). Proposals and quinceañera sessions start at €250.
Bring these spots into your photos
Tell me your date and the kind of session you would like. I reply personally.
