Los Angeles isn’t just a city; it’s a canvas of urban landscapes, iconic landmarks, breathtaking beaches, and hidden gems. LA offers countless opportunities to capture vibrant scenes—from bustling city streets to serene ocean views. As I strolled through some of LA’s most photogenic locations, I discovered the best angles, lighting tricks, and vantage points. Here’s my guide to capturing the most beautiful places in LA, complete with travel tips and insider knowledge to make your photography journey smooth and memorable.
1. Griffith Observatory & The Hollywood Sign
Why Visit
Perched on Mount Hollywood, the Griffith Observatory is one of LA’s most iconic locations for photography. It not only offers panoramic views of the entire city, including the downtown skyline, but it’s also one of the best spots to photograph the Hollywood Sign. Whether you’re aiming for a classic shot of LA or want to capture the sign from a distance, Griffith Observatory provides a stunning backdrop.
Best Times & Photography Tips
- Golden Hour: Early morning and late afternoon are the ideal times to capture the Hollywood Sign and the cityscape with warm, soft light.
- Night Photography: If you’re interested in city lights, the observatory opens up a world of night photography possibilities. Use a tripod for long exposures to capture the twinkling lights of LA against the night sky.
- Best Angles: For a unique perspective, head to the back of the observatory where you’ll find the best views of the Hollywood Sign. The observatory itself, with its beautiful architecture, makes a great subject.
Practical Information
- Transportation: Parking can be challenging, especially on weekends. If you’re traveling by car, try to arrive early to secure a spot, or consider taking the DASH Observatory shuttle from the Metro Red Line Vermont/Sunset station. The shuttle is inexpensive and convenient.
- Tips: The observatory itself is free to enter, so budget-conscious photographers can take full advantage without any extra cost. Bring a telephoto lens to capture a close-up of the Hollywood Sign.
2. Santa Monica Pier & Beach
Why Visit
The Santa Monica Pier and Beach are must-visit spots for seaside photography. The pier’s iconic Ferris wheel and amusement park provide a colorful, vintage backdrop. And the surrounding beach, especially at sunset, offers a serene landscape for a mix of action and landscape shots.
Best Times & Photography Tips
- Sunset Magic: Sunset here is spectacular, with the sky painting the ocean and pier in hues of orange, pink, and purple. This is the best time to capture that classic Santa Monica shot with the Ferris wheel illuminated against the backdrop of the Pacific Ocean.
- Silhouettes: Use the Ferris wheel as a focal point to create stunning silhouette shots during sunset. Place the sun behind the Ferris wheel to achieve a beautiful, dramatic effect.
- Action Shots: Head to the beach for shots of surfers and swimmers, or even snap some candid beachgoers and street performers for an authentic LA vibe.
Practical Information
- Transportation: Parking near the pier is available but can be pricey. Alternatively, take the Metro Expo Line to Downtown Santa Monica, which is just a short walk from the pier.
- Tips: Bring a wide-angle lens for landscape shots and a telephoto for candid beach photography. Make sure to secure your camera gear as the pier can get crowded.
3. The Getty Center
Why Visit
The Getty Center is an architectural masterpiece and offers diverse photo opportunities, from the modern structure itself to the gardens and panoramic city views. You’ll find countless angles for capturing the interaction between art, architecture, and nature.
Best Times & Photography Tips
- Morning Light: Mornings offer soft light that accentuates the architecture and minimizes the number of visitors in your shots.
- Garden Photography: The Central Garden, with its intricate design and colorful blooms, is a haven for macro photography. I spent hours photographing the winding hedges, fountains, and floral displays.
- Cityscape Views: The Getty also provides an incredible view of Los Angeles from above. Capture sweeping vistas with a telephoto lens for compressed views of the cityscape.
Practical Information
- Transportation: The Getty provides free admission, but parking is $20. Alternatively, take the Metro Rapid 761 bus, which drops you close to the entrance.
- Tips: Tripods are allowed but may be restricted in certain areas, so check with the museum’s policies beforehand. Be mindful of the crowds, especially during weekends, and be respectful in quieter areas of the garden.
4. Venice Beach and Abbot Kinney Boulevard
Why Visit
Venice Beach offers a lively, eclectic atmosphere, perfect for street photography. From skateboarding parks to vibrant murals and the iconic Muscle Beach, there’s plenty to capture. Just nearby, Abbot Kinney Boulevard provides a contrasting vibe, with chic boutiques and colorful street art.
Best Times & Photography Tips
- Afternoon to Sunset: Venice Beach is bustling in the afternoon, offering great lighting and plenty of people for candid shots. Sunset also provides a beautiful glow along the beach.
- Murals and Street Art: Abbot Kinney Boulevard is famous for its street art, so I recommend visiting around midday when the sun illuminates the vibrant colors of the murals. The street is also quieter at this time.
- People Photography: Venice Beach is one of the best spots in LA to practice street photography. From skateboarders to artists, the characters you’ll meet here are as colorful as the setting itself.
Practical Information
- Transportation: Parking in Venice is limited, so consider taking a ride-share or bike if you’re staying nearby. Alternatively, Metro Bus 1 travels along Pacific Avenue, which is close to the beach.
- Tips: Venice Beach has a lively yet unpredictable environment. Keep an eye on your equipment, and consider bringing a mix of lenses, including a wide-angle for landscapes and a portrait lens for street shots.
5. Downtown LA: The Broad Museum & Walt Disney Concert Hall
Why Visit
Downtown LA’s Broad Museum and the Walt Disney Concert Hall are architectural wonders that create stunning modern backdrops. The concert hall’s metallic curves and the Broad’s honeycomb-like facade offer fantastic contrasts, making these buildings perfect for creative compositions.
Best Times & Photography Tips
- Early Morning: The Broad and Walt Disney Concert Hall are quieter in the early morning, giving you the freedom to experiment with different angles without the crowds.
- Reflections and Angles: The curved walls of the concert hall are great for abstract photography. Try shooting close-ups of the reflective surfaces for unique images.
- Artistic Shots at The Broad: The Infinity Mirror Rooms at The Broad are mesmerizing for photography, but be prepared for a wait as entry is timed.
Practical Information
- Transportation: Downtown LA can be accessed via the Metro Red or Purple Line. Parking is available but can be costly.
- Tips: The Broad has free admission, but you’ll need to reserve tickets online in advance. For Walt Disney Concert Hall, check ahead if you plan to photograph the interior, as there are sometimes restrictions.
Photography Tips and Reminders for LA
Los Angeles is generally welcoming to photographers, but keep these tips in mind for a hassle-free experience:
- Plan for Golden Hour: In LA, the light at sunrise and sunset is beautiful year-round. Planning your locations around these hours will enhance your shots with soft, flattering light.
- Be Mindful of Crowds: Popular spots like the Griffith Observatory and Santa Monica Pier can get crowded, especially on weekends. Early mornings or weekdays are generally quieter.
- Security and Equipment: In busy areas like Venice Beach or Downtown, be cautious of your equipment. A cross-body camera bag is helpful for keeping your camera accessible yet secure.
- Weather Considerations: While LA is known for its sunny weather, it can be foggy in the early mornings, especially near the coast. The marine layer can either add a dramatic effect or limit visibility, so check the weather forecast ahead of time.
- Parking and Public Transit: LA has extensive public transit options, including the Metro and DASH buses, which are affordable and convenient. Parking can be pricey, especially in popular areas, so plan accordingly.
- Permits for Professional Shoots: If you’re doing a professional or commercial photoshoot, some locations may require a permit. Research this in advance to avoid any surprises.
With its diverse landscapes and cultural landmarks, Los Angeles offers an endless array of photo opportunities. By planning ahead, timing your visits, and being mindful of your surroundings, you can make the most of this photographer’s paradise. Each of these spots has its own unique character and charm, ensuring that every shot captures the essence of the city from a new perspective. Happy shooting!
