Los Angeles is an incredible city with so much to offer. From the vibrant Hollywood scene to the stunning beaches, it’s no wonder people worldwide flock here for photo ops. But how do you capture these iconic landmarks and dazzling views and photograph LA like a local? Hunter Hobson, a professional photographer, offers some tips for taking amazing photos of Los Angeles like you were born and raised in the city.
Know Your Locations
Los Angeles has an endless array of photogenic locations, but some are more iconic than others. The Hollywood Sign is one of the most popular spots for visitors, as are Griffith Observatory and the Venice Canals. If you want to capture something unique, check out Abbot Kinney Boulevard in Venice or take a stroll through Echo Park. Of course, there are also plenty of hidden gems in LA that can be discovered through exploring or doing research online.
Pick the Right Time
When it comes to photography, timing is everything. If you want the perfect shot at any of these locations—or any other spot in LA—make sure you know when to go. Many places look best during different times of day or night, so do your research beforehand and plan accordingly. For example, if you want a great sunset photo, try heading down to Santa Monica Pier around 7:30 PM on clear days for some fantastic shots.
Make Use of Natural Light
Using natural light is one of the best ways to bring out all the details in your photos and make them look professional-grade. Shooting outdoors during the golden hour (about an hour before sunset) is recommended. There’s still plenty of light at this time, but it’s not too harsh or direct.
The quality of light also varies depending on what type of sky you’re shooting with. Overcast days give off a softer glow that can bring out warm tones in your photos. On the other hand, sunny days tend to create harsher shadows that could throw off your composition if not used correctly.
Try Different Perspectives
The key to capturing unique images is by getting creative with your perspective. Try different angles and see what works best for each location. This could mean shooting from up high (don’t forget about rooftops), crouching low near the ground, or even playing around with reflections in windows or puddles (if they’re available).
If you’re feeling adventurous, try using drones for aerial shots. Whatever approach you choose, just remember that having fun with it will help keep things fresh and engaging for viewers who come across your work online.
Have A Plan
If you want more variety in your photos, try going to places with different themes. You can start your day early and explore Echo Park, Silver Lake, and Los Feliz neighborhoods. All three neighborhoods are in east LA and offer a unique mix of cultures, architecture, and scenery. You’ll find plenty of local restaurants, coffee shops, and boutiques to keep you busy all day long.
Then, you can head downtown for a mix of contemporary and classic architecture. The towering skyscrapers of the Financial District stand in sharp contrast to the ornate buildings of the Historic Core. If you’re looking for a taste of classic LA, head to Olvera Street, where you’ll find Spanish-style facilities and street vendors selling traditional Mexican food. Check out the Broad Museum or the Walt Disney Concert Hall for a dose of modern culture.
Taking amazing photos in Los Angeles can be easy. Just use these tips from Hunter Hobson as guidelines for getting started. With enough practice and experimentation, soon enough, you’ll be able to photograph LA just like a local pro.
Feature photo by @damse87 on Instagram.
