Looking for The Best Places to Take Pictures in LA? This Guide is All You Need!
Los Angeles is more than just a city, it’s a canvas waiting to be painted with your camera lens. Whether you’re drawn to the laid-back vibes of the coast, the energetic pulse of the streets, or the serene beauty of hidden gardens and parks, LA offers photo opportunities that can satisfy every photographer’s dream. It’s a place where natural beauty coexists with architectural wonders, where every corner has a story, and where every story is just waiting to be captured.
The goal of this guide is simple: to help you discover the best photo spots in Los Angeles with insider tips that ensure you get the perfect shot every time. Whether you’re a pro or visiting LA for the first time with a camera in hand, this guide will lead you to the most and instagrammable places around the city.
The Allure of Los Angeles for Photographers
Los Angeles offers a diverse and dynamic range of settings that make it a paradise for photographers, and why so many go to LA. Imagine capturing the soft, golden hues of a Malibu sunset, the vibrant murals of Venice Beach, or the sleek, modern lines of the Walt Disney Concert Hall. These aren’t just great places to take photos—they’re iconic.
What makes LA truly special is its blend of natural beauty and urban sophistication. One moment, you’re standing on a rugged cliff overlooking the Pacific Ocean, and the next, you’re amidst towering skyscrapers that reflect the brilliant Southern California sun. This juxtaposition of nature and architecture offers unique photo opportunities that can’t be found anywhere else. You could be taking a picture of a palm tree-lined street in Beverly Hills, one of LA’s scenic places, one day and capturing the artistic vibe of Melrose Ave the next.
The Iconic Beach Locations: Sun, Sand, and Surf
When it comes to beaches, the coastline here is dotted with some of the most beautiful places in the world, each offering its own unique charm and vibe. The beaches of Los Angeles aren’t just about the ocean, they’re about the energy, the culture, and the endless possibilities for stunning photography.
Venice Beach: Where Art Meets Ocean
Venice Beach is one of those spots that captures the essence of LA in a single frame. It’s where the quirky meets the classic, and where the ocean breeze carries with it the scent of creativity and freedom. The moment you step onto the boardwalk, you’re greeted by a riot of colors, sounds, and scenes that beg to be photographed.
The Venice Boardwalk
The Venice Boardwalk is a sensory overload in the best possible way. Here, street performers entertain crowds with everything from acrobatics to music, while the walls are adorned with some of the most vibrant murals you’ll ever see. These murals are pieces of art that tell stories of the city’s past and present. One of the most iconic things about Venice Beach is its ability to blend the old-school charm of classic beach life with the modern, urban edge of street art.
For photographers, the best time to shoot on the Venice Boardwalk is late afternoon. This is when the light softens, casting a warm glow over the scene without washing out the vibrant colors. The energy is still high, but the crowds are just starting to thin out, making it easier to frame your shots without too many distractions.
Also, make sure to explore the side streets. Abbot Kinney Blvd, just a short walk away, is known for its boutique shops and more murals that aren’t as heavily photographed. These lesser-known murals can give you a unique perspective of Venice Beach that’s a bit off the beaten path. You might even stumble upon a hidden piece of art that becomes one of your personal favorites.
Venice Canals: A Hidden Gem
Just a few blocks away from the boardwalk, you’ll find a completely different side of Venice, one that feels like you’ve stepped into a serene European village. The Venice Canals are a series of picturesque waterways that were originally built to mimic the famous canals of Venice, Italy. Today, they offer a tranquil escape, making them one of the most peaceful photo locations in LA.
The best time to take photos at the Venice Canals is early morning. This is when the water is still, reflecting the charming houses and palm trees that line the canals. The light at this time of day is gentle and diffused, perfect for capturing the delicate details of the bridges and the soft colors of the homes.
As you explore the canals, make sure to take a walk along the bridges and walkways. Each bridge offers a unique angle, and by moving around, you can find the perfect composition that showcases both the water and the charming architecture. The walkways and bridges here are like something out of a painting, quiet, serene, and utterly photogenic. And because this area is somewhat of a hidden gem, you’ll often find it less crowded, allowing you to take your time and really get a great shot.
Pay attention to the smaller details. The reflections of the palm trees in the water, the texture of the walkways, and the quaint boats docked along the canal can all add layers to your photos that tell a richer story. The Venice Canals might not be as flashy as the boardwalk, but they offer a depth of beauty that’s worth exploring!
Santa Monica Pier: Nostalgia by the Sea
Santa Monica Beach: Classic California Vibes
Malibu’s Coastal Magic
If Santa Monica is the embodiment of classic California, then Malibu is its more rugged, dramatic cousin. The coastline here is a stunning blend of rocky cliffs, hidden coves, and pristine beaches, each one offering its own unique flavor of beauty. Malibu is where you go when you want to capture the wild, untamed side of the Pacific—a place where nature reigns supreme and every photo feels like a scene from a movie.
El Matador Beach
One of the best ways to capture the beauty of El Matador is by focusing on the contrast between the rugged rocks and the soft, gentle waves. Whether you’re shooting a wide-angle landscape or a close-up of the water as it crashes against the rocks, this beach offers endless opportunities for stunning compositions. And don’t forget to explore the hidden coves—these little pockets of seclusion offer a perfect backdrop for romantic, intimate shots that feel like they belong in a storybook.
Point Dume: Panoramic Ocean Views
If you’re looking for a photo spot that offers breathtaking, panoramic views of the Pacific, then Point Dume is the place to be. This rocky promontory juts out into the ocean, providing some of the most spectacular views in all of Malibu.
Point Dume is especially magical just before sunset. As the sun dips towards the horizon, the sky explodes in a riot of colors—pinks, oranges, and purples that reflect off the water and create a scene that’s nothing short of breathtaking. It’s a moment that feels almost sacred, where the beauty of nature is on full display, and you can’t help but feel a deep sense of awe and gratitude. Capturing this moment on camera is a joy, and your photos will reflect the peaceful yet powerful energy of the setting sun over the Pacific.
If you can, visit Point Dume during the week when it’s less crowded. This will give you more freedom to explore and find the perfect spot without having to worry about other people in your frame. And don’t forget to look out for wildlife—dolphins, sea lions, and even whales can often be spotted from the cliffs!
LA’s Architectural Photo Spots
Los Angeles isn’t just about sun, sand, and surf, it’s also a city that celebrates architectural brilliance in every corner. The city’s skyline is a showcase of modern design and historical grandeur, offering photographers a playground of dynamic structures and artistic spaces. Whether you’re intrigued by the sleek lines of contemporary buildings or the ornate details of historical landmarks, LA provides a wealth of photogenic spots that are as varied as the city itself.
The Walt Disney Concert Hall
In the heart of downtown Los Angeles, the Walt Disney Concert Hall rises like a futuristic ship, its metallic sails reflecting the ever-changing California sky. Designed by architect Frank Gehry, this building is nothing short of a modern masterpiece. The moment you see it, you’re struck by its sweeping curves and reflective surfaces that seem to dance with light. It’s a place that doesn’t just stand still, it interacts with its environment, changing with the time of day and the angle of the sun, making it one of the most instagrammable places in LA.
For those who appreciate the timeless appeal of black-and-white photography, the Walt Disney Concert Hall offers an incredible opportunity. Stripping away the color emphasizes the architectural lines and shapes, highlighting the contrast between light and shadow. The result is a series of images that feel both modern and classic, capturing the essence of Gehry’s design in a way that’s powerful and evocative. The building’s reflective surfaces and intricate details are accentuated in monochrome, creating images that are as striking as they are elegant.
And don’t just focus on the building from a distance! Get up close and personal with the details. The seams where the metal panels meet, the reflections of nearby buildings, and the way the light bounces off different surfaces all provide unique opportunities for creative compositions.
LACMA and Urban Light
Just a short drive from downtown, you’ll find the Los Angeles County Museum of Art (LACMA), a complex that’s as much about the architecture as it is about the art within its walls. LACMA is home to one of LA’s most iconic photo spots—the Urban Light installation. This outdoor exhibit, designed by Chris Burden, consists of 202 restored cast-iron street lamps arranged in a grid, creating a luminous forest of lights that has become one of the most Instagrammable places in the city.
The Urban Light installation is a dream for photographers, offering endless possibilities for creative shots. During the day, the rows of antique street lamps stand tall and proud, their intricate details casting delicate shadows on the ground. But it’s in the early evening when the real magic happens. As the sun begins to set and the lamps flicker to life, the entire area is bathed in a soft, glowing light that feels almost otherworldly. It’s a moment that transforms this urban landscape into something truly special, a place where art and architecture come together in perfect harmony.
When photographing Urban Light, it’s all about playing with angles and perspectives. Try shooting from a low vantage point to emphasize the height of the lamps, creating a sense of endless rows stretching up to the sky. Or, move in close and capture the details of the lamps themselves—their ornate designs and weathered textures tell a story of history and craftsmanship. For an even more dramatic effect, experiment with long exposure shots. The combination of the glowing lights and the movement of people passing through the installation can create stunning images that capture the energy and vibrancy of the scene.
The Bradbury Building
Step inside the Bradbury Building, and you’re transported to another era. This architectural gem in downtown Los Angeles, is one of the city’s oldest landmarks, yet it feels timeless, like something out of a movie set. In fact, it has been featured in numerous films, from classic noir to science fiction, and it’s easy to see why. The Bradbury Building is a stunning example of architectural craftsmanship, with its intricate ironwork, open atrium, and grand staircases that seem to spiral endlessly upward.
The moment you walk through the doors, you’re greeted by a flood of natural light pouring in from the glass ceiling above. This light filters down through the atrium, casting soft, diffused shadows that add a sense of mystery and drama to the space.
One of the most striking features of the Bradbury Building is its staircases. These grand, sweeping structures are the focal point of the atrium, drawing the eye upward and creating a sense of movement and flow. Photographing the staircases from multiple levels allows you to capture their full grandeur, with the intricate iron railings and open landings creating layers of depth and perspective. The interplay of light and shadow on the stairs adds to the dramatic effect, making each shot feel like a scene from a classic film.
Nature and Cityscapes
Griffith Observatory: LA’s Best Views
The Iconic Hollywood Sign
Elysian Park: A Hidden Urban Oasis
If you’re looking for a spot that feels a little more off the beaten path, Elysian Park is the perfect escape. Located between the bustling neighborhoods of Echo Park and Chinatown, this park offers a peaceful retreat with stunning views of the city. It’s a place where you can take a walk among the trees, discover hidden trails, and stumble upon some of the best photo spots in LA—often with hardly another soul in sight.
One of Elysian Park’s best-kept secrets is a hidden swing that offers one of the most Instagrammable spots in the city. Perched on a hill with an incredible view of downtown LA, this swing is the perfect place to capture a moment of whimsy and fun. The swing itself is simple, but it’s the view that makes it truly special. As you sit and sway, the city spreads out before you, framed by the branches of the trees and the sky above.
Finding the swing can be a bit of an adventure, but that’s part of the charm. It’s located off one of the less-traveled paths in the park, so you’ll need to do a bit of exploring to uncover it. But once you find it, you’ll be rewarded with one of the most unique photo locations in LA.
Glitz and Glamour: Capturing LA’s Famous Landmarks
Los Angeles is a city that thrives on glamour. It’s the place where luxury and elegance meet creativity and edge, creating a landscape that’s as diverse as it is dazzling. From the opulent streets of Beverly Hills to the eclectic vibes of Sunset Blvd, Hollywood Blvd or Melrose Ave, LA’s famous landmarks offer unique photo opportunities that capture the city’s unique blend of old Hollywood charm and modern-day allure.
Rodeo Drive
When you think of luxury in Los Angeles, Rodeo Drive is likely the first place that comes to mind. This iconic shopping street is synonymous with high-end fashion, designer boutiques, and a sense of opulence that’s palpable the moment you step onto its polished sidewalks. But Rodeo Drive is more than just a place to shop, it’s a visual feast that encapsulates the elegance and glamour of Beverly Hills.
The Beverly Hills Hotel
Just a short distance from Rodeo Drive, you’ll find the legendary Beverly Hills Hotel. Known affectionately as “The Pink Palace,” this hotel has hosted countless stars and served as the backdrop for many a Hollywood tale. Its distinctive pink facade, flanked by towering palm trees, is instantly recognizable and quintessentially Los Angeles. The hotel’s entrance, with its lush greenery and grand, sweeping driveway, offers a picture-perfect setting that harks back to the golden age of Hollywood.
The best time to capture the Beverly Hills Hotel in all its glory is early in the morning. At this time, the soft morning light gently illuminates the hotel’s pink walls, casting a warm, flattering glow that enhances the building’s charm. Early morning also means fewer people around, allowing you to capture the beauty of the hotel without the distraction of crowds.
A tip for getting that iconic shot would be position yourself across the street from the hotel’s entrance. This angle allows you to include the hotel’s famous palm-lined driveway in your composition. The tall palm trees, reaching up towards the sky, frame the building beautifully, creating an image that’s both elegant and instantly recognizable.
Canon Drive
Just a stone’s throw from Rodeo Drive, Canon Drive offers a slightly different, yet equally captivating, slice of Beverly Hills. This picturesque stretch is lined with luxury shops, upscale restaurants, and lush greenery, all bathed in the California sunshine. It’s the kind of street that feels straight out of a movie set, where every corner seems designed to showcase the perfect blend of old Hollywood glamour and modern sophistication.
To truly showcase the elegance of Canon Drive, try capturing the street from multiple angles. Whether you’re photographing the luxurious storefronts up close or taking a wider shot that includes the greenery and architecture, each angle offers a different perspective on the street’s unique character.
Melrose Ave & Melrose Place
If Beverly Hills is all about polished elegance, then Melrose Avenue is where LA’s creative spirit truly shines. This vibrant street, closely connected to the stylish Melrose Place, is a mix of high-end boutiques, trendy cafes, and some of the city’s most striking street art. It’s a place where fashion and art collide, creating a colorful, eclectic atmosphere that’s as photogenic as it is dynamic.
Melrose Avenue is a photographer’s dream, offering everything from chic storefronts to bold murals. The contrast between luxury boutiques and vibrant street art creates a unique, quintessentially LA vibe. As you explore, you’ll discover hidden gems—lesser-known murals, stylish cafés, and unexpected art—that offer fresh, unique photo opportunities. Whether capturing a famous mural or a tucked-away masterpiece, Melrose Avenue is full of surprises waiting to be discovered.
Hollywood Boulevard
Hollywood Boulevard is a must-visit street in Los Angeles, famous for its iconic Walk of Fame, where stars of the entertainment world are immortalized in the pavement. Whether you’re visiting day or night, this vibrant boulevard offers countless opportunities for a photo shoot, capturing the essence of LA’s glitz and glamour. From the historic TCL Chinese Theatre, where countless movies were filmed, to the vibrant street performers, there’s always something worth seeing. If you’re driving, it’s best to plan ahead and find parking nearby, though it’s highly recommended to park your car and explore on foot to soak in the atmosphere. Hollywood Boulevard is the perfect spot to add some classic LA flair to your Instagram feed.
Sunset Boulevard
Sunset Boulevard is another iconic street in Los Angeles that stretches from downtown LA to the Pacific Palisades, offering a diverse array of places to visit along the way. This legendary boulevard is lined with historic venues, trendy restaurants, and picturesque spots that are perfect for a photo shoot. Whether you’re cruising along Sunset during the day or night, the energy and scenic views make it a memorable experience any time of the year. If you’re in the area, don’t miss the chance to get a great view of the city from one of the many lookout points. While finding parking can be tricky, it’s worth it to explore this famous street and its hidden gems. Sunset Boulevard is a quintessential LA experience that captures the city’s unique blend of culture, history, and natural beauty.
Universal Studios
For anyone with a love of movies, Universal Studios is an absolute must-visit. This iconic theme park is not just a place to enjoy thrilling rides and attractions—it’s a living, breathing movie set where some of Hollywood’s most famous scenes were filmed. From the bustling streets of New York to the wilds of Jurassic Park, Universal Studios offers endless creative possibilities for photography, making it one of the best spots in LA to capture the magic of the movies. Iconic films like “Back to the Future” and “Jurassic Park” were partially filmed on these very sets, allowing visitors to walk through scenes that have been immortalized on the big screen.
Stepping into Universal Studios is like stepping into a different world—a world where fantasy and reality blend seamlessly together. The park is filled with meticulously designed sets and attractions that transport you to different times and places, all within the span of a single day. Whether you’re walking down the cobblestone streets of a European village or standing in front of the towering gates of Jurassic Park, every corner of Universal Studios offers a new adventure and a new photo opportunity. The “War of the Worlds” set, with its eerie, post-apocalyptic vibe, is another spot that’s not to be missed, offering amazing views of one of the most iconic scenes from the film. If you’re lucky, you might even catch a glimpse of a live film shoot happening right before your eyes! I highly recommend going early to avoid crowds and secure the best spots for photography.
Oxana Alex – Los Angeles Photography Studio
In a city as photogenic as Los Angeles, finding the perfect location for your next photo session can be overwhelming, but what if you could have it all? A stunning backdrops, perfect lighting, and a seamless, stress-free experience, without ever worrying about the weather or fighting for space in a crowded spot? That’s where our Los Angeles photography studio, located in Beverly Hills, comes in. We’ve created a haven where creativity flourishes, where every detail is tailored to your vision, and where the magic of LA is captured with every click of the shutter.
Why Choose Our Los Angeles Photography Studio?
When it comes to photography, the right environment can make all the difference. At our Los Angeles photography studio, we’ve taken the unpredictability out of the equation, providing a controlled setting where the lighting is always perfect, and the weather is never an issue. Imagine walking into a space where every detail has been considered, from the angle of the lights to the temperature in the room, so that all you have to do is focus on looking and feeling your best.
Our studio is more than just a space, it’s a creative playground where the possibilities are endless. Whether you’re dreaming of a classic Hollywood look or a chic, modern vibe, we’ve got the perfect setup to bring your vision to life. And because we’re in a controlled environment, we can easily switch between different looks and styles in a single session, giving you a diverse portfolio of images that truly capture your unique personality.
Designer Wardrobe, Accessories, and Jewelry: All Provided at No Extra Cost
One of the things that set our studio apart is our commitment to making sure you not only look your best but also feel like the star of your own story. That’s why we offer a selection of high-end designer wardrobe, accessories, and jewelry at no extra cost.
We believe that photography is a personal experience, and we’re here to ensure that your session reflects your individuality. So whether you’re dressing up for a fashion shoot, preparing for a professional headshot, or creating memories during a maternity session, you can trust that we have everything you need to make your photos as special as you are.
Convenient Location in the Heart of Beverly Hills
Our studio is perfectly situated in the heart of Beverly Hills, just minutes away from some of LA’s most iconic spots like Rodeo Drive and the Beverly Hills Hotel. This prime location means that you can easily combine a studio session with a quick trip to nearby landmarks, giving you the best of both worlds, controlled, flawless studio shots, and the glamorous, real-world backdrop of Los Angeles.
Imagine starting your session in our studio, where we capture the perfect business portraits or fashion photos with precise lighting and attention to detail. Then, with just a short drive, you’re in front of the Beverly Hills Hotel, capturing the iconic pink facade and palm-lined driveway that’s synonymous with Hollywood glamour. Or maybe you want to stroll down Rodeo Drive, using the luxury storefronts and manicured streets as the backdrop for your selfies. The possibilities are endless, and our location makes it all so easy to achieve.
Our studio is located at 2100 Sawtelle Blvd UNIT 307 Los Angeles, CA 90025, USA. You can see our photoshoot pricing here & our photography reviews here.
Fashion, Headshots, Maternity, and Family Photography
Oxana Alex Los Angeles photography studio is a versatile space designed to accommodate every kind of photo session, from high-fashion shoots to intimate family portraits. We’ve crafted an environment that’s as flexible as it is inspiring, with a layout that allows for easy transitions between different types of photography. Whether you’re here for a sleek fashion shoot, a professional headshot, a glowing maternity session, or a heartwarming family portrait, our studio is equipped to bring your vision to life.
What makes our studio truly unique is the attention to detail we bring to every session. The lighting is perfect, the backdrop options are endless, and the atmosphere is designed to make you feel comfortable and confident. For fashion photography, we can create a variety of looks, from edgy and modern to timeless and elegant, all within the same session. For headshots, we focus on capturing your best angles with lighting that enhances your features and presents you in the most professional light. And for maternity and family sessions, we create a warm, inviting environment where you can relax and enjoy the moment, knowing that every smile, every laugh, every tender moment is being beautifully captured.
See tips for your maternity photoshoot in Los Angeles here.
Book Your Session Today
At Oxana Alex Photography, we’re not just taking photos, we’re creating experiences, crafting images that tell your story in the most beautiful, authentic way possible. Whether you’re looking to update your professional portfolio, commemorate a special occasion, or simply celebrate yourself, we’re here to make sure your session is as unique and memorable as you are.
We believe that photography is a collaborative process, and we’re passionate about working with you to bring your vision to life. From the moment you step into our studio, you’ll feel the difference, an environment where creativity is encouraged, where your ideas are valued, and where the end result is always something truly special.
So why wait? Let’s create something beautiful together. Book your session today and discover why our Beverly Hills studio is the perfect place to capture the magic of Los Angeles, and the magic of you.
Conclusion
Los Angeles is a city that never ceases to inspire. From its iconic landmarks that have graced countless postcards to its hidden gems, every corner of this vibrant city has a story to tell. Whether you’re drawn to the sun-drenched beaches of Malibu, the urban elegance of downtown’s architectural marvels, or the quiet beauty of a secret garden in the hills, LA provides a backdrop as diverse and dynamic as the people who call it home.
I encourage you to take these ideas and make them your own. Explore the well-known spots, but don’t be afraid to venture off the beaten path. Seek out those moments of unexpected beauty, the ones that catch you by surprise and make you see the city in a new light. Let your creativity guide you, the possibilities are truly endless!
And if you’re looking for professional headshots, magazine-quality editorial fashion shots, maternity or family photos, see the benefits of a studio maternity photoshoot here and don’t hesitate to contact our Los Angeles photography studio. At Oxana Alex Photography, we offer a space where your ideas can come to life, where every detail is taken care of, and where you can create images that you’ll treasure for years to come.
How do I schedule my session?
You can schedule your session by emailing [email protected] or by texting our studio at (310) 854-9695.
