Paris Photography Guide

Planning a photo session in Paris?

Here is my guide to choosing the right location, time and light for your session.

Choosing the Right Time

Early Morning
Quieter streets, softer light and fewer tourists.

Late Afternoon
Warmer light and more atmospheric photographs.

Golden Hour
Warm, directional light and softer shadows.

Blue Hour
A different Paris atmosphere, especially around illuminated landmarks.

Choosing the Right Location

  • Best time:

    Early morning for fewer people and softer light. Sunrise is especially good around Trocadéro and Champ de Mars.

    Best locations:
    • Trocadéro
    • Champ de Mars
    • Rue de l’Université
    • Avenue de Camoëns
    • Rue Saint-Dominique

    Best for:
    • Couples
    • Engagements
    • Portraits
    • Classic Paris photographs

  • Best time:

    Early morning for quieter surroundings and cleaner compositions.

    The Louvre's Cour Napoléon and Cour Carrée open at 7:30 AM, while the Tuileries Garden opens at 7:00 AM during September and October.

    Best for:
    • Elegant portraits
    • Couples
    • Architecture
    • Editorial-style photography

  • Best time:

    Morning for quieter streets, or late afternoon for warmer light.

    Best locations:
    • Sacré-Cœur
    • Rue de l'Abreuvoir
    • Place du Tertre
    • Maison Rose
    • Montmartre side streets

    Best for:
    • Couples
    • Portraits
    • Romantic Paris atmosphere
    • Street-style portraits

  • Best time:

    Early morning or late afternoon.

    Best for:
    • Architecture
    • Couples
    • Classic Paris backgrounds

  • Best time:

    Around golden hour and sunset.

    Best for:
    • Couples
    • Walking photographs
    • Natural portraits
    • Evening sessions

Not sure which location suits your session? I’ll help you choose a location and time based on your style, the season and the type of photographs you want!