5 of the Best Photography Locations in Paris

It’s no secret that Paris is my city—my first true love, the place that molded me into the artist I am today. From the croissants to the gorgeous, mysterious men to the best photography locations, Paris keeps calling me back, time and time again. 

How My Love-Affair Began

My affair with Paris began when I was 20. I quite literally packed my bags, hopped on a plane (for the very first time) and moved to Paris. It was my first time living away from my home and my first time traveling internationally. It was inevitable that I would be captivated and changed by the mythical City of Light… and changed I was, as a woman and an artist. 

Since my first time in Paris, I’ve been back again and again. I’ve long since lost track of the number of stamps on my passport. And I can’t remember how many baguettes I’ve eaten or how many hours I’ve lost at Shakespeare and Company.

It was truly a dream come true when I started booking weddings and shoots in Paris but it didn’t take long for me to figure out that I was going to have to step up my game in order to compete with all of the other amazing Paris-based photographers on the web.

What’s Your Dream?

If booking dreamy Parisian weddings and elevating your portfolio to a luxury level is on your bucket list, then you have found the perfect place to start.

In some ways, building a Paris portfolio is easy—beauty, quite literally, lies around every corner of this magical city. But in other ways, the popularity of this city with photographers makes creating a portfolio that stands out that much more difficult. 

Let me just say first—you will never stand out if you are replicating the thousands of other popular Paris photographs. You want to create images that scream Paris but you don’t want to take yet another image of a couple in front of a crowded Eiffel Tower.  

So just how do you find the best photography locations in Paris to start building your dream destination business? 

Here, my friend, is where I can step in to help. 

I know this city like the back of my hand and what I’ve learned over the two decades of travel here are tons of little secrets to help you get great Paris photos for your portfolio.

And, before we even begin, don’t be afraid to stray off the beaten track, explore, and just spend time wandering to find some new shots. It is never difficult to find beautiful spots in Paris. I’ve found some of my favorite spots by complete accident. 

So grab a glass of bubbly and say “À votre santé” and get started building a portfolio complete with the best photography locations in Paris! 

The Best Photography Locations in Paris

Avenue de Camoens

I think we can all agree that the Eiffel Tower is just iconic and almost every photoshoot will include The Iron Lady at some point. 

But what if I told you about a spot that is usually free of crowds and lends itself to the most spectacular Eiffel Tower views?

Close to the tower is a little street called the Avenue de Camoens. I’ve photographed couples and wedding parties here for years and this is one of my favorite nuggets of “locals only” wisdom that I love to impress my clients with. 

Just Google Avenue de Camoens to find this little gem. You’re welcome in advance. 

The Eiffel Tower/Trocadero

While we are on the subject of the Eiffel Tower – let’s talk about the Trocadero.  This one is definitely not a secret spot but stay with me for some insider tips on capturing this spot like a Parisian pro.

If you’re itching to grab an iconic shot that screams “Paris,” you must wake up early and start shooting by sunrise. Not only is that early Paris light just heavenly, but you can enjoy the time you’re saving Photoshopping out tourists later with another pastry at your favorite French cafe.  

Pro-tip: make sure you bring 5 euros with you to give to one of the men near the pigeons. They carry the pigeon food with them and are experts at getting the birds to fly at the exact right moment for an epic photo that will have your clients raving.

Louvre Museum

We all know that the Louvre is a Paris icon and can lend itself to some stellar portfolio pieces, but exactly how many hours do you want to spend Photoshopping people out of your photos? The crowds are extreme during most waking hours. 

Enter this little bit of insider-knowledge. Check out the Louvre on Tuesday mornings and be delighted when you have the entire place to yourself! The Louvre is closed on Tuesdays so it’s really the best time to go. The earlier the better (because it can still get pretty busy) but this early wake up call may be the one time when jet lag works in your favor.

Seine River

Walk along the banks of the Seine and revel in the romance and old world charm of all Paris has to offer. 

I like to stand on a bridge and get a higher perspective of my couple below. Or, if you plan it right, you can capture some truly stunning views of the Eiffel Tower from the water’s edge. Another truly Parisian shot is to grab some cheese, a baguette, and a bottle of French wine for a picnic like the French do.

Airbnb

If your vibe is closer to a cozy, indoor session but you still want it to ooze Parisian charm—consider renting an Airbnb for your portfolio building piece. Do your research to find one with a classic French balcony view overlooking some that famous French architecture or book one with a painfully chic design that begs to be photographed. 

Airbnb is changing the game when it comes to lodging like a local. Paris has hundreds of gorgeous, well-priced Airbnb properties with the views of your dreams. It just takes a bit of research to make it happen! 

Also, make sure you check out Paris Perfect Rentals. Their apartments aren’t easy on the wallet but they are easy on the eyes—and many come with views of the Eiffel Tower!

Building Your Dream Luxury Portfolio in Paris

It doesn’t take much to get great photos in Paris but it does take a bit of research to get those standout images you need to grow your destination clientele. 

And remember location is just one part of building your dream luxury portfolio. 

Posing, emotion, and high-end details play a big part in elevating your images from budget to luxury. You need to have the knowledge to create these powerful images that will propel your business to the next level. 

And whatever you do, don’t waste your money with a trip to Paris without preparing yourself first!   

Do you want to go deeper into Play it Brave? And BIG? And BOLD? Come listen to the Play it Brave podcast and binge your way to a better business and a better life.

Want to up level your portfolio so that it screams elegance and luxury? And brings in a luxury paycheck? Check out my most popular course, The Profitable Portfolio and be on your way to $10k wedding clients.