The Best Los Angeles Photography Locations: Part 1

My Favorite Los Angeles Photography Locations

Over the last 5 years, I’ve gotten to shoot in quite a few different areas of Los Angeles.  There are a few that make it to the top of my list.   I was inspired to write today’s blog post after reading Blaire’s favorite NYC locations.  So here you have it, the best Los Angeles photography locations…

RODEO DRIVE

I have probably shot more photos along Rodeo Drive than any other area in LA. I can’t help myself, the backdrops are gorgeous and unlike any other.

Sunday morning on Rodeo is always the best time to shoot. Free meter parking until noon and since the stores do not open until 11 am you have more time before the tourists arrive and start window shopping.

The staircase leading from Wilshire Blvd to Via Rodeo is a favorite spot of mine. Especially with the umbrellas in the background. Just make sure you get there early enough before the tourists arrive (8am-9am should be good.)

The gold walls of the Gucci store always stand out in a photo while Via Rodeo’s cobblestone walkway and light posts make it a favorite.

DOWNTOWN LOS ANGELES PHOTOGRAPHY LOCATIONS

DWP Building

The photos above were all taken at the Department of Water and Power Building in downtown LA (aka DTLA.) The building, the fountain and the skyline all offer various backdrops for amazing photos.

One of my favorite photoshoots ever was the black and white shot above Tony and I did in DTLA years ago with a view that overlooks the entire downtown skyline.

Pasadena City Hall

Pasadena has a lot of beautiful places for photography and decent parking. My personal favorite is Pasadena City Hall. Just an FYI, it is easiest to shoot here on Sunday mornings. Rumor has it they may start enforcing photographer permits, but if you’re stealthy about it you can get by. You will run into a lot of engagement and wedding photos taking place.

White Column Building

 This building does not have a name. All I know if the address: 20501 Ventura Blvd Suite 213, Woodland Hills, CA 91364.   My little-hidden gem in the valley with beautiful white columns and a wide staircase right off the 101 Freeway.

Venice Canals

The Venice Canals are such a fun place to shoot. Especially for summer photos. The very first photo of this blog post and the three above were all taken at the Venice Canals. It is a lovely walkway tucked behind a few houses around Ocean Ave in Venice. There are lots of cute boats and bridges to explore. Just note that certain times of the year the canals are less full than others.

La Tropezienne Bakery

This is a darling French Bakery at 211 South La Brea Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90036. Outside there are cute cafe chairs, inside is decorated with all marble and gold and you can pick up pastries and coffee for props.

After creating this blog post on the best photography locations in Los Angeles, I realized just how many more favorite photo shoot locations in LA I have to share with you.  I’ll likely do a part 2 of this post. If there are any specific photos I’ve shared that you’d like more information on the location for, please let me know!

xoxo,

Laura