Being a freelance creative gives you more work-life balance, meaning you have more time to explore more things in life that you enjoy. Exploring open spaces and taking pictures is something I enjoy doing in my spare time, and I’ve done this quite a bit in my hometown, London.
So without further ado, here are 11 of London’s best photo spots outside that I’ve explored and captured myself as a freelance writer and photo enthusiast.
1. Southbank Photo Spots
Southbank has a good view overlooking the London Eye (which changes to beautiful colours at night), Oxo Tower, and the river Thames. It’s great to see the city skyline and to have a relaxed evening basking in the beauty of the city lights.
2. Deptford Wharf
Deptford Wharf is a hidden gem in South East London. Located along the River Thames, the river bank oversees Canary Wharf, and at night, it’s even more spectacular as you can see all the building lights sparkling at a distance. There are also residential boats alongside Deptford Wharf and apartments alongside the river. Deptford Wharf extends from Lewisham Borough to Southwark Borough.
3. Greenwich O2 – Tide Photo Spots
The Tide is an outside platform neighbouring the Greenwich O2. It also is surrounded by other unique architectures buildings for you to admire and are great to assist photoshoots. The lack of overhead here means that this is a great spot to work outside in the summer.
If you find the right spot, you may just be able to see people participating in climbing the roof of the O2 arena – what a stunning view to observe whilst working outside.
4. Chelsea Bridge
Adding to the list of great night sights in London is Chelsea Bridge. The lights from the bridge shimmer, giving off a real royal feel, and is an evident example of how pretty London can be at night.
5. Westcombe Park/ Maze Hill Photo Spots
At the top of Maze Hill in Blackheath is a beautiful sky view as the sun sets. If you’re a fan of morning jogs, why not try visiting Blackheath’s field and you may just get the chance to see this view whilst excersizing.
6. Peckham Rye Park
Peckham Rye Park has beautifully unique features, such as a rose garden and a Japanese bridge. It’s a great location to take an aesthetic outside photoshoot. The images captured above are of two friends who attended a cultural wedding, and I captured some shots of them ahead of the event in Peckham Rye Park.
7. Primrose Hill Photo Spots
Primrose Hill in Camden borough has a city hilltop view over London. I took this photo at sunrise. It’s such a peaceful way to start your day. It’s well worth waking up early for as it oversees London and is a serene way to start your day feeling, quite literally, on top of the world!
8. Royal Alberts Hall
Royal Alberts Hall famously hosts musical and theatrical productions. But as well as the interior of the building being stunning, the grounds surrounding it are also noteworthy. Here, I’m seen exploring the grand staircases opposite the Royal College of Music. It highlights the scope of open space around the Royal Albert Hall, ideal for photoshoots.
9. St Paul’s Cathedral Photo Spots
A huge building with beautiful architecture, St Paul’s Cathedral can be seen from miles away. You’re left with a profound sense of awe at whatever angle you view it. It’s a renowned building in England.
10. Battersea Park
Battersea Park is not far from the Chelsea Bridge, which has a water fountain and outdoor swimming pool – perfect for summer. As well as being very picturesque, it’s also great for participating in activities with family and friends. The stunning view of the River Thames makes it a great spot to capture at sunrise.
11. Dulwich Park
Dulwich Park is a fun-filled park that offers the option to hire bikes and ride in their boats in the pond. It also has a bridge crossing to the adjacent part of the park, where you can overlook the ducks swimming by. The bridge, in particular, is a scenic spot.
I hope these locations and photos have helped you come up with an idea of where you can next host photoshoots in London.
