The Eiffel Tower is one of the most iconic landmarks in the world and is usually a must-have for your Paris photo shoot. With its intricate metalwork and stunning city backdrop, the Eiffel Tower is a must-see attraction for anyone visiting Paris. But where are the best spots to photograph this magnificent structure? As a passionate photographer myself, I have spent countless hours exploring the beautiful city of Paris and discovering the perfect locations to capture the Eiffel Tower’s beauty. In this article, I will share with you the top 5 best places to photograph the Eiffel Tower, from the classic viewpoints to the lesser-known gems. Whether you’re a professional photographer or just looking for the perfect Instagram-worthy shot, these spots will not disappoint. So grab your camera and let’s explore the best places to photograph the Eiffel Tower!
Place du Trocadéro – The Perfect Spot for a Full View Shot
Place du Trocadéro is undoubtedly the most popular location to photograph the Eiffel Tower. Located on the opposite side of the Seine River, the spot offers an unobstructed view of the tower. It’s the perfect location to capture the tower in its entirety, and the panoramic view of the city is breathtaking. The best time to visit Place du Trocadéro is at sunrise, when the light is soft and warm, providing a beautiful glow to the tower and the city. It’s also when there are the least amount of tourists. The best time to arrive in the summer is around 6:30 am because by 10am the area is already too crowded for photos.
Champ de Mars – The Best Place to Capture the Tower’s Scale
Champ de Mars is a large public park located at the foot of the Eiffel Tower. It’s a popular spot for picnics, strolls, and of course, photography. The park offers a unique perspective of the tower, allowing you to capture its scale and grandeur. The best time to visit Champ de Mars is also in the morning when the light is bright and crisp, providing a clear view of the tower.
Pont de Bir-Hakeim – A Unique Perspective of the Eiffel Tower
Pont de Bir-Hakeim is a bridge that crosses the Seine River and offers a unique perspective of the Eiffel Tower. The bridge has two levels, the upper level for cars and the lower level for pedestrians. The lower level is the best spot to capture the tower, as it provides an unobstructed view of the tower’s base and the river. The best time to visit Pont de Bir-Hakeim for a photo shoot is in the morning, before traffic and cyclists take over the bridge and when the light is soft and colorful, providing a beautiful contrast to the tower’s metal structure.
I love that the location has both the lightness of the river, combined with stunning Parisian architecture as well as classic industrial elements. There are so many backgrounds to choose from during a photo shoot.
Pont Alexandre III – an Opulent View of the Eiffel Tower
The Pont Alexandre III is located near the Grand Palais and Petit Palais and offers a stunning view of the Eiffel Tower. It’s richly decorated with elaborate sculptures and the best time to do your photo shoot there is just after sunrise, when the light is warm and soft, providing a beautiful glow to the tower and the bridge.
In the morning, there is little traffic and few pedestrians crossing the bridge, so one of my favourite shots is walking towards the camera with the Invalides in the background. There are also some beautiful spots at the base of the bridge for photos.
The Seine River – A Romantic View of the Eiffel Tower
The Seine River is the heart of Paris and offers a romantic view of the Eiffel Tower. There are many locations along the river that offer beautiful views of the tower, but the best spot is near Pont Iena. It’s a private location along a cobblestone path (watch out if you’re wearing heels!). This secluded location is very popular for photo shoots, especially vow renewals, elopements and surprise proposals.
Tips for Capturing the Perfect Shot
Capturing the perfect shot of the Eiffel Tower requires planning, patience, and creativity. Here are some tips to help you achieve your goal:
1. Research the best locations to photograph the Eiffel Tower and hire a photographer that knows the best spots and times (ahem, hi there!).
2. Check the weather forecast to ensure you wear the right outfit.
3. Arrive early to secure the best spot and avoid the crowds.
4. Take your time and enjoy the experience.
Conclusion
The Eiffel Tower is a dream location and there are so many possibilities to choose from for your Paris photo shoot. As a Paris photographer, I have shared with you the top 5 best places to photograph the Eiffel Tower, from the classic viewpoints to the lesser-known gems. Whether you want to take family photos, propose to your loved one or just want the perfect Instagram-worthy shot, these spots will not disappoint.
