25 Stunning Places To Take Pictures In Philadelphia (Indoor & Outdoor)
Finding the perfect place to take pictures can be challenging, especially in a city as photogenic as Philadelphia. Not only that, but locations can quickly lose their appeal with time, especially if you're taking photos for a special event or to capture memories from a trip. If you're traveling to San Antonio, you might be interested in exploring some of the stunning places to take pictures in San Antonio before your visit. While it might not seem relevant to Philly initially, some of the locations might inspire your search for places to take pictures in Philadelphia. This article will help you explore stunning places to take photos in Philadelphia, both indoor and outdoor.
One helpful resource to consider for your search is Home Studio List's stylish house rentals for photography. These unique properties can provide the perfect backdrop for your pictures while helping you achieve your objectives for shooting in Philadelphia.
5 Stunning Places to Take Pictures in Philadelphia
1. Breezy Homestead: A Cozy Photo Retreat
Breezy Homestead invites you in with its newly renovated, warm, and welcoming vibe. The charming yard features lush greenery, colorful plants, and modern decor that will add a unique twist to your pictures.
Inside, you’ll find an open layout with cheerful natural light and eclectic decor that will make you feel at home.
2. Lush Escape: An Outdoor Oasis for Pictures
Lush Escape is a fully renovated mid-century modern ranch home designed by a protégé of Frank Lloyd Wright. The property is surrounded by gardens and trees, creating a private retreat perfect for outdoor photos.
Inside, you’ll find a stylish space that perfectly blends modern amenities and classic design.
3. French Manor: Classically Elegant and Timeless
French Manor exudes timeless charm with its classic architecture and refined interiors. The elegant French-style home is surrounded by lush landscaping, creating a sophisticated backdrop perfect for capturing luxurious and cinematic scenes.
4. Philly Find: A Creative Urban Studio
This Philly Find is the quintessential city studio. Creatively curated with local elements, white brick walls, and artistic features, the space is perfect for those looking to capture the essence of Philadelphia. We love the minimalist design and uniqueness!
5. Industrial Boho: An Eclectic Set for Pictures
Industrial Boho combines industrial architecture with eclectic bohemian design. We love the matte black elements, colorful boho prints, and unique chalkboard wall in this Philly apartment. The space offers a fun backdrop for creative photos that will stand out.
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20 Outdoor Places to Take Pictures in Philadelphia
1. Pats & Geno’s Steaks: A Cheesy Photo-Op
You'll find a legendary cheesesteak rivalry between Pat’s King of Steaks and Geno’s Steaks in South Philadelphia. Open 24/7, these iconic eateries offer a delicious bite and a perfect setting for capturing the energy of Philadelphia’s food scene.
The bright neon lights, the hustle of hungry customers, and the unmistakable Philly charm make this a great photo location, especially at night.
2. Reading Terminal Market: Indoor Fun, Outdoor Shots
Although it’s an indoor market, the exterior of Reading Terminal Market provides a fantastic backdrop for urban photography. This historic farmers' market is a must-visit spot in the city, with colorful signs, bustling crowds, and unique food stalls that make for lively, candid shots.
3. Schuylkill Banks Boardwalk: City Views on the Water
For stunning cityscape shots, the Schuylkill Banks Boardwalk is a prime location. This picturesque extension of the Schuylkill River Trail hovers over the water, offering panoramic views of the Philadelphia skyline.
Whether you're shooting at sunrise, sunset, or night when the city lights reflect on the river, it’s an ideal spot for photographers looking for a scenic urban escape.
4. Logan Circle: Nature in the City
Logan Circle is a lush oasis in the middle of the city. It features a grand fountain, landscaped gardens, and stunning views of the surrounding architecture.
Positioned between the Franklin Institute and the Philadelphia Museum of Art, it’s a great place to capture the blend of nature and urban design.
5. Philadelphia’s Magic Gardens: Colorful Mosaic Wonderland
One of the most unique spots in the city, the Magic Gardens is a mosaic wonderland created by artist Isaiah Zagar. The outdoor spaces, covered in intricate mosaic designs made from bottles, tiles, bicycle wheels, and china plates, provide an artistic and vibrant backdrop for creative photography.
6. The El Train: Industrial Vibes and Urban Aesthetic
The Market-Frankford Line, known as "The El," offers a classic urban aesthetic. The 63rd Street Station is a great place to photograph the city’s skyline with trains in motion below, giving an authentic Philadelphia vibe. The mix of industrial design and the fast-paced energy of the trains creates a dynamic setting for urban photography.
7. Chinatown Friendship Arch: A Colorful Cultural Landmark
Standing 40 feet tall, this vibrant archway marks the entrance to Philadelphia’s Chinatown. The gate's bright red, gold, and green details make for a stunning subject, and the surrounding streets are filled with colorful storefronts and cultural elements that add depth to your photos.
8. Belmont Plateau: Sky-High Views of the City
If you’re looking for one of the best skyline views of Philadelphia, Belmont Plateau in West Fairmount Park is the place to go.
This vast green space offers a peaceful retreat from the city while providing a breathtaking panoramic skyline view. Bonus points if you recognize the reference from Will Smith’s "Summertime" song!
9. Spruce Street Harbor: Vibrant Photos on the Waterfront
Spruce Street Harbor is a lively waterfront destination that comes alive in the summer. From colorful hammocks to floating gardens and string lights reflecting off the Delaware River, it’s a dream location for capturing vibrant city life.
The mix of food vendors, people relaxing by the water, and boats in the harbor make for a lively and picturesque scene.
10. Eastern State Penitentiary: A Hauntingly Beautiful Landmark
This abandoned prison, once home to Al Capone, is now a hauntingly beautiful landmark perfect for moody, dramatic photography.
The crumbling walls, long corridors, and eerie lighting create a one-of-a-kind backdrop. It’s a must-visit for anyone looking to capture an atmospheric shot of Philadelphia’s past.
11. Rittenhouse Square Park: A Charming Urban Park
Rittenhouse Square is a favorite among locals, surrounded by elegant architecture and tree-lined paths. The park’s benches, sculptures, and fountains make it an excellent place for street photography and candid moments, especially when the leaves turn golden in the fall.
12. William H. Gray III 30th Street Station: An Architectural Gem
This grand neoclassical train station is an architectural gem. Whether you’re capturing its vast hallways, intricate details, or the morning light streaming through the windows, 30th Street Station is a stunning place for photography. The view of the Philadelphia skyline from outside the station is also impressive.
13. Boathouse Row: Picturesque Historic Houses
One of the city’s most photographed locations, Boathouse Row sits along the Schuylkill River and is incredibly stunning at night when the historic boathouses are lit with twinkling lights. It’s an iconic Philly landmark that perfectly blends history and scenic beauty.
14. Philadelphia Museum of Art & Rocky Statue: Capture the Culture
Not only is the Philadelphia Museum of Art home to incredible artwork, but its steps are also a famous pop culture landmark thanks to the Rocky movies.
Running up the steps and capturing the view of the city below is a must, and of course, taking a picture with the Rocky statue is essential for any visitor.
15. Philadelphia City Hall: An Iconic Landmark
A masterpiece of architecture, City Hall is one of Philadelphia’s most recognizable landmarks. The intricate details of the building and the towering statue of William Penn make it an excellent subject for photography. It’s incredibly stunning when framed by the surrounding streets at sunset.
16. Race Street Pier: Quiet Riverfront Views
Race Street Pier is situated along the Delaware River and provides a fantastic view of the Benjamin Franklin Bridge. It’s a peaceful spot, perfect for sunrise or sunset photography, capturing the city skyline against the shimmering water.
17. Elfreth’s Alley Museum: Vintage-Style Photography
As the oldest continuously inhabited residential street in the U.S., Elfreth’s Alley is a charming and historic location. The cobblestone streets, colorful colonial houses, and old-fashioned street lamps make it a beautiful place for vintage-style photography.
18. Ben Franklin Bridge: Stunning Skyline Vistas
Walking across the Ben Franklin Bridge is a must for breathtaking skyline views. The pedestrian walkway offers a perfect vantage point to capture the cityscape, whether during the golden hour or with the twinkling lights at night.
19. South Broad Street: Capture the Heartbeat of the City
If you want a classic shot of Philadelphia’s City Hall framed by the bustling city streets, South Broad Street is the place to be. This spot, also known as the Avenue of the Arts, is a popular location for capturing the heartbeat of downtown Philly.
20. The Liberty Bell: A Must-See Photo-Op
No visit to Philadelphia is complete without a photo of the Liberty Bell. This symbol of American freedom is one of the most visited landmarks in the country, and its iconic crack tells a powerful story. The surrounding area, including Independence Hall, also has historic photo opportunities.
Home Studio List: Rent Styled Homes & Studios for Photoshoots
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!
What Makes a Great Photo Shoot Location?
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.
Color: Setting the Mood
The colors in your location impact the atmosphere of your photos 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.
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.
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
Carefully arranging your subjects
For larger shoots, ensure enough space for models, crew, equipment, and a waiting area if needed.
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 if 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.
Adaptability: Versatility for Different Shots
The best locations offer flexibility, allowing different setups and themes within the same space. An area that can be easily transformed is ideal if you plan to shoot multiple looks or concepts.
Some studio spaces allow for set design changes, while outdoor locations with varied landscapes provide different backdrops without needing to move far.
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.
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.
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, the team’s well-being must be considered.
Collaborating with a health and safety officer can ensure everything runs smoothly if shooting in a corporate or commercial space.
Weather Protection: Planning for the Unexpected
Always have a backup plan for outdoor shoots in case of unexpected weather changes. Overhead cover, 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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How to Plan For Your Next Photoshoot
A solid foundation can make all the difference in conducting a successful photoshoot. Before you grab your camera and head to your favorite location, take some time to develop a concept for your shoot.
The idea behind your session will help inform decisions about locations, equipment, and even your editing choices.
Planning Your Photoshoot Theme
Start by nailing down a theme or style for your shoot.
Is there a movie, show, or book that inspires you?
What mood or emotion do you want to convey?
Will your images be in color or black-and-white?
Next, do some image research to help visualize your concept. Finally, create a mood board or a Pinterest page to help organize your ideas. This will help guide your creative direction on the day of the shoot.
Location, Location, Location: Choosing the Right Place for Your Shoot
Once you’ve developed a concept for your shoot, it’s time to pick a location. Choosing a place for your photoshoot can be tricky, as can determining where to conduct a professional photoshoot.
Here are some questions to ask yourself:
What type of set best compliments your concept?
Is it a set already existing, or a custom set you need to create yourself?
Will I need to get permission to shoot at this location?
If I am renting a location, how much does it cost?
Will the cost of my location eat into other items in my budget, such as paying a stylist or a makeup artist?
What type of light source will there be on the day of the shoot?
Is there natural lighting, or will I need to use artificial light?
Gear Up: Picking Equipment for Your Photoshoot
Now that you have your concept and your location, you must have the correct type of equipment on your shoot day. Even so, you should experiment with different equipment to achieve distinct looks.
Assemble a Cast: Selecting Models for Your Shoot
If you’re a commercial photographer or working in portraiture, selecting the right model to place in front of the camera is one of the most important decisions you can make. Here are some suggestions to help you choose the best model for your shoot:
Do you have any friends or family members who might be a fit for your shoot? If so, be sure to be upfront with them about the usage, terms, and time requirements of the shoot.
If your shoot requires a model with experience, try reaching out to talent or modeling agencies.
Always get a signed model release form from your model, whether they’re friends, family, or professionals.
This allows you to use their image and likeness and protects you from any issues arising if you decide to publish or sell your photographs.
Create a Positive Atmosphere: Make Your Subjects Feel Comfortable
Once your photoshoot is underway, you must ensure your subjects feel comfortable in front of and with you behind the camera. Your conduct will affect the shoot.
Talking alone with the subject before things start is the best way to establish a fruitful rapport. Communicate with them throughout the shoot, follow up to make sure they are comfortable, and take plenty of breaks so that everyone feels refreshed and energized.
Set the Mood: Creating the Right Atmosphere for Your Shoot
Creating an atmosphere that matches the desired mood of your photographs can help achieve the best possible results. One great way to do this is to play music during the photoshoot, which can help put your models and crew in the right state of mind and relax them.
Go With the Flow: Try Different Things to See What Works
Try different poses, outfits, expressions, and compositions throughout the shoot. Even if you’ve already gotten your “Plan A” shot, try something different. Sometimes, the best photographs come from spontaneous, unguarded moments.
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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!