Los Angeles is one of the most photogenic cities in the world. According to Dan Doyle, Pleasantville photographer, there’s no shortage of locations to snap photos. But with so much to see and do, it can be tough to know where to start. Here are eight tips for capturing amazing photographs in Los Angeles.
1. Get Up Early
If you want to avoid the crowds and capture some of LA’s most iconic landmarks without people in the frame, then getting up early is a must. Head to Venice Beach for a sunrise stroll along the boardwalk or watch the sunrise over Downtown LA from Grand Park. For the best views of the Hollywood Sign, hike up to Griffith Observatory before dawn and protect as the city comes to life below you.
2. Explore Downtown LA
Downtown LA is full of hidden gems just waiting to be discovered. Take a walk down Olvera Street, the oldest street in LA, or explore the Art Deco architecture of The Bradbury Building. Head to The Last Bookstore, housed in an old bank vault, for something unique. And don’t forget to snap a photo of Walt Disney Concert Hall – one of LA’s most photographed buildings.
3. Visit Santa Monica
Every trip to LA wouldn’t be complete without a visit to Santa Monica. Soak up the Californian sunshine on Santa Monica Pier or stroll down Ocean Avenue and admire the beautiful beachfront homes. For a different perspective, walk along the bluffs above Palisades Park and take sweeping views of Santa Monica Beach and beyond.
4. Explore Hollywood
Hollywood is one of LA’s most popular tourist destinations for a reason – there’s simply so much to see and do! Walk down Hollywood Boulevard and take in iconic landmarks like Grauman’s Chinese Theatre and the Hollywood Walk of Fame. Or explore off-the-beaten-path attractions like The Museum of Broken Relationships or The Bunny Museum (yes, that’s a thing!). And don’t forget to get a selfie with the Hollywood Sign in the background!
5. Take A Drive
One of the best ways to see everything LA has to offer is by taking a drive down Pacific Coast Highway (PCH). Start your journey in Malibu and enjoy stunning ocean views as you wind down PCH toward Venice Beach. Stop at Hermosa Beach or Manhattan Beach for sunbathing or surfing before continuing toward Redondo Beach, where you can watch dolphins swimming offshore. Finish your journey at Long Beach, where you can explore the Queen Mary or stroll along Shoreline Village.
6. Visit Pasadena
Pasadena is home to some of LA’s best museums and gardens, making it the perfect place to explore with your camera. Top attractions include The Huntington Library & Botanical Gardens, The Norton Simon Museum, and The Gamble House – an iconic example of Craftsman architecture. For something unique, visit The Jet Propulsion Laboratory where NASA’s Mars rovers are designed and built – you might even spot one being tested!
7. Get Creative
Los Angeles has vibrant street art, colorful murals, and architectural beauties. So get creative with your shots and look for interesting angles or framing devices to help make your photos stand out. And don’t be afraid to experiment – who knows what hidden gems you might discover!
8. Have Fun!
Above all else, have fun and enjoy the journey. Los Angeles is a vibrant and exciting place, so take your time to explore, and don’t be afraid to step out of your comfort zone. With these tips, you’ll find plenty of fantastic photo opportunities – so get out there and start shooting!
When it comes to Los Angeles photography, Dan Doyle Pleasantville already showed you there’s so much to explore and capture. With these tips, you’ll be well on your way to capturing amazing photos that remind you of your time in the vibrant city. From classic landmarks to off-the-beaten-path attractions, Los Angeles is full of hidden gems just waiting to be discovered – so get out there and start shooting! Have fun, take risks, and create stunning photos you’ll proudly show. Good luck!
Photo by Edgar Columba
