If you’re anything like me, you’re a little bit obsessed with getting good photos for Instagram #sorrynotsorry
My time in London provided many a fabulous Insta-background. Here are some of my favourites!
Shoreditch, E1
If you’re new to London and need a guaranteed photo hotspot, whatever your style, then Shoreditch is a must-visit! Here you’ll find brilliant grafitti, quirky indie shops, and a plethora of super-stylish individuals. You’re also within walking distance to the famous Brick Lane, which is a vintage-loving curry fan’s dream come true. Can you tell why I loved this area?!
The grafitti wall in this photo is a one minute walk from the Overground station, so even if you just have a few minutes to spare in Shoreditch then you’re guaranteed a great Instagram photo (note: professional photographer not included).
Notting Hill, W11
Notting Hill is famous for its Carnival, its market, and the beautiful multi-coloured houses. Bright houses are surprisingly common in London (I found more in Kentish Town) and they are amazing for outfit photos!
The great thing about this area though is that it can offer a bit of everything- bright colours for your quirky looks AND pristine white mansions for your classic looks. My advice is pack a few outfits and make the most of this location.
Covent Garden, WC2E
This former fruit and vegetable market is now one of the busiest areas of London. But on a sunny day, it’s also one of the most beautiful. All bloggers live for a photo on the floral benches. Sadly, the main ones out front had a queue of people waiting for their new profile picture but we found another beauty hidden deep inside the market.
Covent Garden turns into a winter wonderland at Christmas, so this location offers a whole new range of photos with the changing season.
Millenium Bridge, SE1
The classic beauty of St. Paul’s paired with the modern architecture of Millenium Bridge: what more could anyone ask for? This has to be one of my favourite photo locations of all time. For such a small space this is a really versatile backdrop. You can see most of London from the bridge, which means there are so many options.
A word of warning though if you plan to use this location: get there early! This is one of the busiest areas in London. I shot these photos at 6am. #doitforthegram
The Barbican Centre, EC2Y
Some may call the Barbican a 1980s Brutalist monstrosity, but all that concrete provides a surprisingly wonderful photo backdrop. I’ve seen so many boss bloggers rock photoshoots at The Barbican, such as Shewa Jay.
But the Barbican has a (not so hidden) secret: if you want a photo shoot with some added botanical beauty then check out the Conservatory. It’s only open on Sundays and it’s always full of other bloggers trying to get great shots so be there sharp for opening time at 12pm.
Peggy Porschen, SW1W
If you haven’t seen Peggy Porschen yet then do you even Instagram girl?! This gorgeous café is a favourite of London bloggers for obvious reasons. When I went I was sure to wear pink to make the most of this stunning backdrop, though Peggy P is currently changing to their autumn installation – us bloggers all wait with bated breath to see if the colour scheme will continue!
Like anywhere worth photographing in London this place is HEAVING (also because they do great cake but that’s just an added bonus really). If you want a shot like the above then you’ve got to get there early or late, and week days are the best bet for a clear photo.
Where are you taking the best snaps right now? Do share them with me in the comments below!
Thank you to Alice Greenfield Photography, Bluebird and Thorn Photography, Shoyebz and Ruth MacGilp for the beautiful photos in this post.
Okay, so now I miss living in London. Ah some of these spots are my absolute fav. I love how you’ve captured them.
Yasmin x
Author
Thanks Yasmin! x
I LOVE the bridge shot! And the dress is amaaaazing too. Good post, i’ll bear it in mind if I head down to London soon 🙂 xx
Author
Thank you! Millennium Bridge is my ultimate fave too xx
I love the composition of your Peggy Porschen photo! Love the fact you got to Millennium Bridge at 6am – that’s dedication gal and the golden hour lighting was worth it. It’s pretty tricky to find good spots up here in Manchester :(. I find that the grey lighting and building shadows make it a real challenge.
Author
Thank you. The talent is more my dedicated photographers than me haha! Yes, I haven’t seen many locations in Manchester yet that really jump out at me sadly.
I seriously need to learn how to pose for a photo – I’m literally like the most awkward person ever when it comes to that! Do you have any good tips? I think one of my favourite things about taking photos for the blog is waking up early for them – we did it in Santorini in the middle of August and it was such a fun memory in itself!
Marianna
http://www.brewandbloom.blog
Author
It is tricky, and it definitely helps if the person taking the photos is someone you’re comfortable with. I think finding your ‘pose’ helps – you’ll notice from my blog I play with my hair a lot and love a side eye!Also I find thinking less about what I look like and more about showing the outfit I feel less self-conscious. Waking up early for a photoshoot in Santorini sounds MUCH lovelier than a drizzly, dreary London!