46 Amazing Los Angeles Photo Spots For Your Next Photoshoot
Los Angeles is such a large and diverse city, full of interesting people and culture, that it’s no wonder photographers flock here to capture the sights. If you’re planning a trip to LA and looking for unique and interesting photo spots, you might daydream of Chicago. Or, you might even be in Chicago, scrolling through Instagram as you mentally prepare for your upcoming trip. Either way, while Chicago photo spots are stunning in their own right, they hardly compare to the fantastic Los Angeles photo spots you’ll uncover on your next photoshoot. Whether you’re looking to capture the beauty of nature, colorful murals, stunning architecture, or any other aesthetically pleasing subjects, this guide will help you find your next go-to Los Angeles photo spot. One of the best ways to prepare for your upcoming shoot is to rent a nearby home studio for your photography.
Home Studio List can help you find styled house rentals for photography near your Los Angeles photo spots to give you a head start on your next shoot.
25 Stunning Los Angeles Photo Spots for Your Next Photoshoot
1. Modern Daze
Modern Daze is a stunning home with mid-century architecture. With multiple photo shoot approved locations on site, this space is one of our most versatile spots!
2. Byron Bungalow
The Byron Bungalow offers the aesthetic of Australia's Byron Bay, with an LA vibe and a touch of Mediterranean minimalism. We're obsessed with this home's brilliant use of natural texture, global prints and eclectic art.
3. Brentwood Hills
This lovely home in Brentwood Hills offers breathtaking ocean and city views, providing a stunning backdrop for photoshoots. Capture the beauty of elevated living in this picturesque setting, perfect for showcasing elegant and luxurious spaces.
4. Spanish-Style Stunner
The Spanish-Style Stunner is the perfect home for your next LA photoshoot! A blend of historic character, thoughtful details and modern design make this abode and all its exquisite natural light a must for your next shoot.
5. Pure Luxe
Pure Luxe offers a serene, lifestyle-inspired space featuring neutral tones and modern, yet casual furnishings. Its beautiful natural light and elevated design provides the perfect backdrop for lifestyle photo shoots, film productions, and content creation, adding a touch of luxury to every project.
6. Ethereal Escape
Ethereal Escape offers a serene, Japandi-inspired space that blends simplicity and natural beauty. Its calm, expansive environment provides the perfect backdrop for photo shoots, film productions, and creative projects.
7. Amusing Cabin
The Amusing Cabin is a charming and idyllic structure, reflecting a rustic and natural aesthetic. The coastal environment influences its design, blending harmoniously with the surrounding landscape.
8. Radiant Villa
The Radiant Villa is a beautiful newly-constructed modern farmhouse located in the middle of Los Angeles, with lush landscaping in both the front yard and backyard. The modern layout includes large living room open to dining room and kitchen.
9. Chic Oasis
A modern Spanish masterpiece in the heart of West LA, the Chic Oasis is a light-filled abode that is a haven of style and sophistication. From the sleek oak mantle above a Cle tile fireplace to the serene all-white master suite, every corner exudes elegance, making it the perfect backdrop for captivating photoshoots.
10. Holmby Hideaway
The Holmby Hideaway is a secluded oasis nestled in the heart of Holmby Hills. Surrounded by swaying palm trees and lush forestry, this estate offers a picturesque backdrop for capturing the essence of luxury and tranquility in every photoshoot.
11. Cali Oasis
The Cali Oasis is a new construction home on the Westside of Los Angeles, offering laid-back luxury with minimalist vibes and warm earthy tones. With high ceilings, clean white walls, and abundant natural light, this modern yet timeless space sets the stage for various photoshoots.
12. Airy Escape
The Airy Escape is a cozy yet spacious retreat with crisp white walls and abundant natural light, creating a serene atmosphere perfect for photoshoots. Capture the essence of tranquility and relaxation amidst the inviting outdoor pool and airy interiors.
13. Bright Mood
The Bright Mood mid-century adobe home features pops of color throughout the interior. This home will brighten your day and create a happy backdrop for your next photo shoot.
14. Serene Retreat
Retreat to the tranquility of your luxurious master suite, where panoramic views and refined finishes create an atmosphere of pure serenity. Each additional bedroom offers comfort and style, providing ample space for family and guests to unwind comfortably.
15. Southern Chic
From leathers to cowhides to calligraphy, Southern Chic shines with bright, direct sunlight on this thoughtfully decorated modern farmhouse. All the finishing and furniture is from West Elm, Joy Bird, and Crate & Barrel.
16. Urban Haven
Urban Haven is a sunlit, spacious loft nestled in the heart of DTLA's Historic Core, boasting a modern metropolitan vibe. This 2,000 sqft open space offers an ideal setting for vibrant and dynamic photoshoots.
17. Muy Bien
Every inch of the Muy Bien home is thoughtfully curated featuring a mix of midcentury, vintage, and design-forward décor. Ample natural light floods each room with tall white ceilings and original hardwood floors.
The kitchen is newly renovated featuring custom white oak cabinetry, terracotta tiles, and french doors that open out to the deck. This lovely home was featured on the Kitchn's Renovation Diaries.
18. Me Encanta
This new contemporary Spanish-style house in mid-city Heights is one for the books! The detail and thoughtful touches are truly exquisite.
19. Deck Haven
Deck Haven is a mid-century home nestled among the trees, featuring a beautiful deck and pool with stunning views of downtown. This serene and stylish property provides an ideal backdrop for productions seeking a blend of nature and urban elegance.
20. Adventure Awaits
Adventure Awaits is a uniquely stylized photo/video studio featuring three distinct intertwining sets, a glam station, and a fierce lifestyle area!
21. Lofted Experience
The Lofted Experience is a modern downtown loft light-filled with windows, but our favorite is the grand piano!
22. Mid-Century Mix
The combination of post modern and mid century modern has completely captured our heart. The combination of simplicity and statement creates the perfect balance and the ultimate versatility.
23. Abundant Space
Abundant Space is an industrial loft with abundant bright + airy styling. We are obsessed with the interior brick.
24. Artistic Anchorage
Artistic Anchorage is a creative haven in LA's oldest neighborhood, exuding the essence of a wooden ship. This 120-year-old house offers a unique and captivating backdrop for inspiring photoshoots.
25. Spanish Luxe
Spanish Luxe is a reimagined Spanish villa that blends timeless elegance with modern minimalism, featuring marble finishes and rich, moody floors. Outside, a sparkling pool and swaying palm trees create a serene Los Angeles oasis.
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Why You Need To Choose The Right Location For Your Photoshoot
A great photo doesn’t just capture an image; it captures a feeling. Imagine a couple’s engagement shoot in a cozy, sun-drenched field versus a bustling city street. One radiates warmth and intimacy; the other, energy and movement. The location doesn’t just support the story—it creates it.
It Affects How the Subject Feels (and Looks!)
Have you ever noticed how people act differently in certain places? Drop someone into a grand, historic building, and they’ll naturally carry themselves with more poise. Put them in a playful carnival setting, and they’ll loosen up.
The environment shapes not just the visual aesthetic but the energy of your subject, influencing their body language, expression, and overall vibe.
Lighting and Atmosphere Are Game Changers
Location affects light in ways you can’t always predict. An open desert at golden hour bathes everything in a dreamy glow, while a neon-lit alley at night gives a moody, cinematic effect.
Even indoor spaces play with light differently—think of how window placement in a studio or the reflection of water in an outdoor scene can change how your subject is illuminated.
It Separates the Pros from the Amateurs
Anyone can take a decent photo in a generic spot. But a carefully chosen location? That’s what elevates a shoot.
Knowing how to find, frame, and maximize an area—using leading lines in architecture or natural framing in a forest—shows a deeper understanding of composition and storytelling. It’s what sets professional work apart from everyday snapshots.
Unexpected Details Make the Shot
Some of the best moments in photography come from the unexpected. Maybe it’s how light bounces off a textured wall, how the wind moves through a field, or a reflection in a puddle that adds an extra dimension. The right location provides these unpredictable yet magical elements that can make a photo feel alive.
Practicality and Planning Save the Day
Let’s be honest—no matter how perfect a location looks in your head, if it’s impossible to shoot in, it’s not worth it. Thinking through access, lighting changes, crowds, and weather conditions differentiate between a smooth shoot and a logistical nightmare. A dream location is only great if it’s usable.
Location Is an Extension of Your Creative Style
Every photographer has a unique style; their chosen locations become part of that signature. A love for industrial cityscapes, soft natural settings, or bold, vibrant urban spots speaks volumes about an artist’s vision. Choosing a location isn’t just about the subject—it’s about defining your photographic identity.
The correct location isn’t just an afterthought; it’s a core ingredient in making a photo truly stand out. It shapes the mood, enhances the subject, and brings your creative vision to life.
Home Studio List: Rent Styled Photography Spaces Nationwide
Home Studio List connects photographers and brands with beautifully styled homes and photography studios available for hourly rentals across 40+ states, eliminating the need to haul props or hunt for perfect natural lighting. Our curated spaces are styled and shoot-ready, with on-site hosts to ensure a smooth experience from booking to production day.
With streamlined booking managed by our Reservation Managers, creatives can focus on their craft while we handle all the logistics. Simply browse, book, and show up to shoot.
Browse our spaces for your next shoot today!
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20 Other Public Los Angeles Photo Spot Locations
1. Griffith Observatory: A Photographer's Dream
Griffith Observatory is the crown jewel of LA's scenic photography spots. Perched high on Mount Hollywood, it offers an unparalleled panoramic view of Los Angeles, with the skyline stretching endlessly into the horizon. If you're after a breathtaking cityscape, this is the place to be—especially at night when the city lights shimmer like a sea of stars.
The observatory is an architectural marvel, with its white Art Deco facade and domed structure adding a classic Hollywood feel to any shot. Parking can be tricky, especially during peak hours, but hiking a short trail behind the observatory can give you even more unique angles if you're up for some adventure.
2. LACMA's Urban Light: Hollywood's Iconic Photo Spot
LACMA's Urban Light installation is one of the most Instagrammed places in L.A., and for good reason. This 202 vintage street lamp arrangement creates a stunning backdrop for portraits, night photography, and long-exposure shots.
Whether you're shooting in daylight, at dusk, or at night when the lamps glow, this spot never disappoints. The rest of LACMA's grounds also provide intriguing photo opportunities, with sculptures and modern installations that add variety to any photo shoot.
3. Angels Gate Park: A Hidden Gem
This hidden gem in San Pedro offers more than just a picturesque setting. The Korean Friendship Bell, an intricately decorated bronze bell housed in a beautifully detailed stone pavilion, is a unique subject for photography.
The surrounding park provides stunning ocean views and a distinctive basketball court with an arched hoop that has become a favorite for creative photographers. Since the park sits on a hill, you get a stunning coastal backdrop, making it a prime location for golden-hour shoots.
4. Santa Monica Pier: A Classic California Spot
Few places in L.A., such as Santa Monica Pier, capture the essence of California. The sunset over the Pacific, the Ferris wheel glowing in the background, and the boardwalk filled with life make this spot perfect for dynamic, lively photography.
Beyond the classic pier shots, exploring underneath the wooden structure gives a different perspective, with dramatic shadows and reflections from the tide.
5. Walt Disney Concert Hall: Futuristic Architecture
Designed by Frank Gehry, the Walt Disney Concert Hall is a photographer's dream with its futuristic, curving stainless steel panels. The reflections, angles, and shadows make for striking architectural photography.
A heads-up: the metal exterior can get extremely hot on sunny days, so be mindful of where you place your hands while setting up shots.
6. The Broad: Modern Geometric Design
Just steps away from the Walt Disney Concert Hall, The Broad Museum's honeycomb-like facade makes for a great backdrop. Its modern, geometric design creates a futuristic and artistic setting for portraits.
If you have time, stepping inside gives you access to iconic exhibits, including Jeff Koons' balloon dog sculptures. Admission is free, but expect a wait if you don't reserve tickets in advance.
7. The Queen Mary: Vintage Charm
Docked in Long Beach, the Queen Mary is an elegant and historic setting for photography. This retired cruise ship, which also serves as a floating hotel, has a vintage, almost ghostly atmosphere.
While you can explore the ship's interiors, even just capturing its grand exterior from the dock offers impressive shots. If you're short on time, you can use the free 30-minute parking window to snap quick photos.
8. Bradbury Building: Architectural Wonder
The Bradbury Building is one of L.A.'s most visually stunning indoor locations. The natural light here is incredible with its wrought-iron staircases, intricate railings, and massive glass ceiling.
Recent restrictions limit photography to phone cameras only, so bring a smartphone rather than a DSLR if you want to capture its old-school charm.
9. Downtown L.A. Underpasses: Urban Photography
Suppose you love urban photography; head to the underpasses beneath Grand Avenue. With the proper lighting, these dark, tunnel-like spaces create cinematic compositions that contrast with the city's bright skyline.
The best time to shoot? Late at night, when car headlights add movement to your shots.
10. The Last Bookstore: A Literary Wonderland
Stepping into The Last Bookstore feels like entering a literary wonderland. The tunnel of books, the stacked book sculptures, and the vintage decor make this a perfect location for cozy, whimsical photography.
Whether you're snapping creative portraits or capturing the ambiance of L.A.'s most famous independent bookstore, this spot is full of character.
11. 808 S Olive Street Parking Garage: A Unique Find
This might not sound like an exciting location at first, but trust me—the spiraling orange exit ramp of this downtown parking garage makes for a jaw-dropping shot. The vibrant color and symmetrical curves create an eye-catching visual, especially when captured from above.
You'll need a car to access this spot, and parking costs around $3 for 15 minutes, but that's more than enough time to get your shot.
12. Venice Beach Canals: A Peaceful Oasis
The Venice Beach Canals are a must-visit for a peaceful yet picturesque setting. These charming, European-style waterways are lined with:
Lush gardens
Unique homes
The reflections in the water at sunset add to the dreamy atmosphere. The walkways are pedestrian-friendly, making exploring and finding the best angles easy.
13. W 4th Street Bridge: Ultimate City Views
Head to the W 4th Street Bridge for the ultimate L.A. skyline shot. At night, this spot is a playground for photographers looking to capture long-exposure light trails from moving cars.
A tripod and wide-angle lens will help you get the best results. If you want more variety, walk down S Beaudry Ave for alternative cityscape views.
14. California Department of Transportation: Neon Lights
This is an unexpected but fantastic location for nighttime portrait photography. The red neon glow at the Caltrans Building creates an almost cyberpunk aesthetic perfect for moody, atmospheric shots. Since this spot is in downtown L.A., parking is relatively easy to find a block or two away.
15. Hike Behind the Hollywood Sign: Iconic Photos
For an iconic L.A. photo, hike up behind the Hollywood Sign. From this vantage point, you'll get a sweeping view of the city, with the famous white letters framing your shot.
There are a few different trails to choose from, and the best lighting is usually in the morning or just before sunset.
16. Grimes Canyon Road: Epic Landscapes
Grimes Canyon Road offers surreal winding roads for dramatic landscape photography, mainly when shot from above with a drone. A long-exposure shot at night captures the light trails of passing cars, creating a mesmerizing effect.
Be careful when setting up here, as the road is active and doesn't have sidewalks.
17. Pedestrian Bridge at Slauson Station: Moody Night Shots
This spot is perfect for moody nighttime portraits. The overhead lighting casts a dramatic effect, making it an excellent location for creative, cinematic-style shots. Since this area can be unsafe at night, bringing a friend or two for company is best.
18. Aerial Shots of L.A. via Helicopter: Unique Perspectives
For an unforgettable perspective of L.A., consider taking a helicopter tour. While it's a pricier option, the city looks stunning from above, especially at sunrise or sunset.
19. Elysian Park: A Quiet Escape
A hidden gem north of downtown, Elysian Park offers skyline views similar to Griffith Observatory but without the crowds. There's also a secret swing tucked away in the hills, offering a playful, scenic backdrop.
20. OUE Skyspace Los Angeles & Disneyland: High Altitude Adventure
For a high-altitude adventure, OUE Skyspace has a glass slide that offers thrilling city views. Meanwhile, Disneyland is filled with vibrant, fairytale-like backdrops that create magical, nostalgic photos.
10 Factors That Make a Great Photoshoot Location
1. Lighting: The Foundation of a Great Shot
Lighting is one of the most crucial elements of photography, and your location should provide the right light for your shoot. If you’re working with natural light, consider the time of day—early morning and late afternoon often offer the best soft, diffused light.
If shooting indoors, check whether there’s enough natural light or if you’ll need to bring additional lighting equipment. Harsh overhead lights or deep shadows from nearby structures can be challenging, so plan accordingly.
2. Color: Setting the Mood
The colors in your location impact your photos' atmosphere and how your camera captures them. Dark walls with bold, colorful decor can create a dramatic aesthetic but may require additional lighting to balance shadows.
Neutral backdrops, on the other hand, provide a clean canvas for subjects to stand out. Before committing to a location, consider how its color scheme complements the mood and tone you want to convey in your shoot.
3. Props and Clutter: Enhancing or Hindering the Shot
Depending on the type of shoot, props in the environment can add character or cause unnecessary distractions. If you aim for a clean, minimalist look, a location with too much clutter might require extra time to clear and organize.
Conversely, a lifestyle or editorial shoot might benefit from a naturally styled space with interesting decor. The key is ensuring the environment supports, rather than competes with, your subject.
4. Space: Room to Move and Create
A cramped space can make it difficult to execute your vision, especially if you're working with multiple people or need room for different angles and compositions. If your location is small but essential to your shoot, plan ways to optimize the space, such as using wider lenses or carefully arranging your subjects.
For larger shoots, ensure enough space for models, crew, equipment, and a waiting area if needed.
5. The Environment: Controlling Distractions
Even a visually stunning location can be problematic if environmental factors aren’t considered. Background noise, foot traffic, or reflective surfaces can interfere with the shoot.
Suppose you’re shooting in a location where people might walk in and out, such as a café or park; consider how it will affect the flow of your shoot. Controlling these elements will help maintain focus and efficiency.
6. Adaptability: Versatility for Different Shots
The best locations offer flexibility, allowing different setups and themes within the same space. If you plan to shoot multiple looks or concepts, an area that can be easily transformed is ideal.
Some studio spaces allow for set design changes, while outdoor locations with varied landscapes provide different backdrops without needing to move far.
7. Accessibility: Making Logistics Easier
A great location should be easy for your crew and subjects to access. If you’re hauling equipment, consider parking and transport logistics.
Is there a nearby entrance for loading gear?
Will models or clients have a comfortable space to prepare?
These details make a big difference in ensuring the shoot runs smoothly.
8. Private vs. Public Spaces: Avoiding Interruptions
Shooting in a private space usually means fewer disruptions and more environmental control. Public locations, like city streets or parks, require permits and come with unexpected interruptions.
If you need to shoot in a public space, check local regulations in advance and consider time-of-day strategies to avoid crowds.
9. Safety: A Non-Negotiable Priority
Every shoot location should be evaluated for safety hazards. Whether you’re working in a rugged outdoor environment, a historic building, or a studio with cables and equipment everywhere, keeping the team’s well-being in mind is essential.
Collaborating with a health and safety officer can ensure everything runs smoothly if shooting in a corporate or commercial space.
10. Weather Protection: Planning for the Unexpected
Always have a backup plan for outdoor shoots in case of unexpected weather changes. Overhead covers, like awnings, tents, or nearby indoor spaces, can save the day if conditions take a turn.
Even if the forecast looks perfect, preparing ensures your shoot isn’t derailed by rain, harsh sunlight, or sudden wind.
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Browse Our Spaces for Your Next Shoot Today
Home Studio List connects photographers and brands with beautifully styled homes and photography studios available for hourly rentals across 40+ states, eliminating the need to haul props or hunt for perfect natural lighting.
Our curated spaces are styled and shoot-ready, with on-site hosts to ensure a smooth experience from booking to production day. With streamlined booking managed by our Reservation Managers, creatives can focus on their craft while we handle all the logistics – simply browse, book, and show up to shoot.
Browse our spaces for your next shoot today!