Photographers visiting London — or who are living in the capital — are always looking for interesting and unique spots to shoot. London is one of the most diverse cities to shoot in with its numerous historic buildings, modern glass cladded skyscrapers and its vast green expanses.
Whichever style of photography you are into, London offers a myriad of different opportunities to get the perfect shot. Here is my list of the top 10 spots to snap photos in the city, in no particular order.
1. Tower Bridge and London City Hall
Tower Bridge and the surrounding City Hall area is a must-visit for photographers situated in London. The historic structure is a dream to snap, offers unique views of the city, and is a perfect spot for long exposure shots of cars zooming across the bridge.
The surrounding City Hall area offers interesting modern architecture with the backdrop of one of London’s most recognizable landmarks — the Tower Bridge.
While in the area, make sure to walk down to the banks of the River Thames when the tide is out to get a unique view of Tower Bridge.
2. Regent Street and Piccadilly
While many street photographers may object to shooting in crowded shopping districts, Regent Street offers several interesting features to consider. Firstly, the long curved nature of the street poses interesting lighting conditions at all times of day and the wide pavements make it ideal for taking snaps of London life in action. The upstairs windows from the shops lining the street also offer a unique perspective.
I also recommend walking down to Piccadilly Circus to capture the iconic Piccadilly Lights.
3. South Bank
The walk from Westminster to London Bridge via the South Bank has to be at the top of the list for any photographer visiting the metropolis. You have the option of shooting some of the city’s most iconic landmarks — including Big Ben, which is currently undergoing a facelift, the London Eye, and St Paul’s Cathedral — as well as city landscapes from the Tate Modern and the Skater community at the Southbank Skatepark.
I highly recommend taking a trip to the top of the Tate Modern’s newly built Switch House for some of the best views of the Shard and St Paul’s.
4. Soho
It’s possible to spend the entire day shooting the energetic streets of Soho, in London’s West End. The area is a huge contrast from the surrounding shopping districts of Oxford and Regent streets.
Soho was once notorious for its debauchery, and brothels, sex shops, and quirky bars lined the streets. But, times have changed. The locals aren’t too pleased with the gentrification process it has undergone in recent years, complaining that it has lost some of its character but it still retains its charm.
The district which encompasses Carnaby street and Chinatown, is a favorite among street photographers in the city. I highly recommend visiting Soho at night to shoot the area’s eccentric characters under its neon lights.
5. St. Paul’s Cathedral and One New Change
St. Paul’s Cathedral and the surrounding area has to be one of my favorite spots in London to take photos. While photography inside the iconic cathedral isn’t allowed without prior permission, I highly recommend you walk up to the Golden Gallery for some truly remarkable views of London.
Whilst in the area, head over the the terrace of the One New Change for the best view of St. Paul’s in the city.
6. Westminster and Leake Street
Westminster Bridge offers views of Big Ben. However, the historic clock tower is currently undergoing a facelift (throughout 2018) and could potentially spoil any London landscape shots.
While in the area, take a walk over to one of the lesser known spots in London: Leake Street Graffiti Tunnel. The location is slightly off the beaten path but is definitely worth a visit. The 300 meter-long tunnel is covered tip to toe in graffiti and cool signs.
The spot is a must-visit for street art lovers as well of those looking for interesting backdrops for photography or filming and is a favorite among portrait photographers.
7. Barbican
The Barbican is a concrete labyrinth situated in the middle of London. The housing complex has since been transformed into a performance and arts area while still retaining its original, unique architecture.
The Barbican Centre was designed by Chamberlin, Powell, and Bon and is one of the few remaining Brutalist buildings remaining in central London. The location is a dream for architecture and city photographers who could easily spend the day exploring its vast structures which include a botanical centre (only open on Sunday mornings).
8. Brick Lane and Shoreditch
Nestled in an inner city district in the East End of London, Shoreditch is quintessentially the street photography capital of London. With its hipster vibe, eccentric characters, and extensive collection of street art, Shoreditch is a must-visit for all photographers in the city.
Make sure you take a stroll down Brick Lane and its numerous side avenues and pop into the Nomadic Community Gardens for a totally different side of London.
9. London Underground
You can spend the entire day exploring and photographing the London Underground for its many unique spots and stations. One of my favorites is the Sloane Square station, which offers the opportunity to snap the London underground trains under daylight. London Bridge, Bakerloo, Tottenham Court Road, and Waterloo are also worth a visit.
10. Sky Garden and City of London
The City of London is the historic financial district of London and is home to both the Stock Exchange and the Bank of England. The area is ideal for city and architecture photographers interested in the juxtaposition between London’s historic buildings layered between the modern steel and glass skyscrapers.
The City of London is also a fantastic spot for street photographers to capture the walking suits in action.
While in the area, head up to Skygarden which sits at the top of 20 Fenchurch Street. Skygarden offers the best views of London as well as the opportunity to explore a surreal garden 160 meters up in the air.
Tell us: what’s your favorite spot to photograph in London?
