Planning your dream Paris wedding photo session? Whether you’re a bride-to-be, a photographer looking for educational content, or simply in love with the magic of Paris, this list is your ultimate guide to the city’s most photogenic spots! From timeless landmarks to cozy, off-the-beaten-path locations, these 7 places are perfect backdrops for capturing love stories.
As the legendary photographer Henri Cartier-Bresson once said, “To photograph: it is to put on the same line of sight the head, the eye and the heart.”
Let’s explore my handpicked favorites!
- Place du Louvre – Where elegance meets history
- Colonnes de Buren – Contemporary and chic
- Petit Palais – Romantic architecture and golden gates
- Pont Alexandre III – Parisian grandeur over the Seine
- Streets with Eiffel Tower view – Quintessential Paris
- Trocadéro – The classic Eiffel Tower photo spot
- A typical Parisian café terrace – Cozy and intimate
- FAQ – Everything you need to know about a Paris Wedding photo session
Place du Louvre – Where elegance meets history
Why the Place du Louvre is a dreamlike backdrop for a Paris Wedding Photo
I’ll never forget the first time I shot a Paris wedding photo session at Place du Louvre. It was one of those mornings where the air was crisp and the city felt like it hadn’t quite woken up yet. The Louvre itself, with its grand façades and delicate details, seemed to whisper secrets of the past, which gave my photos this understated elegance I hadn’t captured anywhere else.
I quickly learned the importance of timing here. The first time, I showed up just after sunrise, expecting to have the place to myself. To my surprise, even at dawn, a few dedicated tourists and early risers were already staking out the best spots. That’s when I realized that if you want that perfect shot with no one in the background, you’ve got to be there even earlier—before sunrise. I started arriving 30 to 45 minutes before the official sunrise time. It’s not just about avoiding the crowds but also about catching that soft, golden light that bathes the classical architecture in a gentle glow.
Tips for framing the perfect shot with natural light
Framing shots here is both a challenge and a joy. I found that using the Louvre’s archways as natural frames helped add depth to the images, especially for a romantic couple pose. One of my favorite tricks was positioning the couple just off-center under an arch, using leading lines created by the stone columns to draw the eye right to them. The symmetry of the space does so much of the work for you! But don’t over-rely on it, sometimes breaking that symmetry a little adds a candid, natural feel to the photo.
Have a look at one of my favorite Paris Wedding photo session in Louvre.
Natural light can be your best friend at Place du Louvre. I remember one shoot where the light was almost too perfect, a soft overcast that diffused the sunlight like a giant softbox. That kind of light works wonders on skin tones, and it also reduces harsh shadows, especially when you’re working with a white wedding dress. I always recommend photographers bring a reflector to bounce some of that gentle light back onto the couple’s faces, especially if the sun starts to peek through.
On a practical note, try to limit gear. I once brought too much : tripods, extra lenses, props… And found myself juggling everything while trying to keep up with the couple’s energy. Now, I bring just one fast prime lens (like a 50mm f/1.4) and maybe a lightweight zoom for wider shots.
This keeps things fluid and lets me focus on those fleeting candid moments that make wedding photography so special.If you’re planning a Paris wedding photo session here, remember it’s not just about the grandeur of the location. It’s about capturing those little, in-between moments, when the bride laughs, when the couple shares a glance, when the early morning light catches the edge of a veil. Place du Louvre is truly where elegance meets history and where a skilled photographer can turn a simple stroll into an unforgettable story.
Colonnes de Buren – Contemporary and chic
Capturing artistic, modern vibes for your Paris Wedding photo
I’ve always liked the Colonnes de Buren at the Palais Royal. They’re such an unexpected contrast to the classical architecture surrounding them, and every time I photograph a Paris wedding photo session there, I feel like I’m stepping into a living art installation. The black-and-white striped columns seem to dance under the light, creating this vibrant, almost playful backdrop that adds a completely different mood compared to more traditional Paris spots.
How to use symmetry and lines effectively
With my experience as a Paris wedding photographer, I know that playing with the symmetry of the columns is a good idea but lacks originality. It is the obvious approach—lining up the couple dead-center, perfectly framed between the rows. It looks clean, but something misses when doing that.
A few years ago, I realized that sometimes, a little asymmetry creates more visual interest. Positioning the couple slightly off-center, letting the lines of the columns lead the viewer’s eye across the frame and getting down low to shoot from a near-ground angle, make the couple look like they are towering amidst the playful chaos of the stripes and it’s more interesting.
Ideal timing for dramatic lighting
One thing I quickly learned: the light changes everything here. Early morning is often best if you’re looking for soft, even light with minimal crowds. But if you’re feeling bold, shooting in the late afternoon when the sun dips lower can give you these dramatic, almost theatrical shadows that slice across the columns. It’s a bit trickier to balance exposure, especially if you’re working with a bright wedding dress and a darker background, but the effect is worth the effort.
I like to bring a lightweight diffuser or even just a sheer scarf to soften the sunlight on the couple’s faces, while still letting those crisp shadows play across the ground.
There was one session where I underestimated how much harsh midday light could flatten the scene. The photos looked too contrasty and lacked depth. After that, I learned to scout the location at different times of day before the shoot, taking a few test shots and making mental notes of when the light kissed the columns just right. Now, I always advise couples to schedule their session either during the golden hour or on slightly overcast days. It makes such a difference : the light wraps around the couple, and those iconic stripes really pop.
One fun trick I tried was using the repetitive pattern of the columns to create a sense of depth. By shooting from a lower angle and focusing on the couple with a wide aperture (like f/1.8), I could blur the background just enough to keep the pattern recognizable but let the couple stand out. It gives this dreamy, artistic vibe that perfectly matches the contemporary chic atmosphere of the Colonnes de Buren.
But here’s my favorite lesson from shooting here: embrace movement. I once had a couple just naturally start walking hand-in-hand between the columns, laughing and spinning around. Those candid moments, combined with the rhythmic backdrop of the stripes, created images that felt alive and joyful. Now, I always encourage my couples to just be themselves here : dance, play, lean against a column and steal a kiss. The Colonnes de Buren are more than just a graphic pattern; they’re a space where you can capture the artistry of love against the urban heartbeat of Paris.
Petit Palais – Romantic architecture and golden gates
Embracing a fairytale-like location
I’ll be honest, the Petit Palais has this almost storybook quality that makes every Paris wedding photo I take there feel a little more magical. The moment you step through its ornate golden gates, it’s like you’ve been transported into a fairytale.
Best angles to highlight both architecture and love
The architecture here is so rich in detail that I quickly learned I couldn’t just stick to wide shots. At first, I tried to capture the grandeur by pulling back as much as possible to include the towering facades and all the ornate carvings. But the photos felt distant, almost like the couple was lost in the scene.
What really worked was balancing those grand shots with tighter compositions, focusing on intricate details like the wrought iron gates, the golden leaf designs, or the graceful curve of a stone arch. When I combined these with soft, intimate poses from the couple, like a forehead touch or a gentle hand on a shoulder. It created this blend of elegance and romance that felt so natural.
Maximizing golden hour’s dreamy light
The golden hour here is absolutely unmatched. The way the light streams through the ornate arches and filters into the lush gardens is just beautiful. I’ll never forget one late afternoon shoot when the sunlight turned everything this warm, honey gold. The bride’s dress seemed to shimmer, and the groom’s silhouette popped against the illuminated columns.
Since then, I always plan my Petit Palais sessions to hit that window about an hour before sunset. It gives me just enough time to play with the light, find those glowing pockets near the columns, and catch a few sun flares as the couple moves.
It reminds me of some of the photo shoots I have had in many wedding venues in France.
One thing I learned the hard way is that this location can get surprisingly busy, even during off-peak times. The first time I shot there, I didn’t anticipate the flow of foot traffic around the front steps and gardens. Now, I arrive about 30 minutes earlier than the couple to scout out the best spots, and I’m ready to adjust on the fly. Sometimes, the best angles are tucked away in less obvious spots, like near the side arches or along the curved garden paths where the crowds thin out.
Another tip: when working with the romantic architecture, I love using a longer lens. It lets me compress the background a bit, making the couple stand out while still capturing the grandeur. Plus, it helps me work from a distance if there are lingering tourists.But what truly sets the Petit Palais apart for me is the mood. It’s where I’ve seen couples forget the camera and just sink into the magic of the moment. If you’re planning a Paris wedding photo session here, give yourself time to linger. Let the place wrap you in its quiet elegance, and you’ll leave with photos that feel timeless and full of heart.
Pont Alexandre III – Parisian grandeur over the Seine
The perfect backdrop for dramatic and cinematic photos
If there’s one place that screams Paris wedding photo magic, it’s Pont Alexandre III. The sheer grandeur of those golden statues, the intricate ironwork, and the ornate street lamps, everything feels so cinematic.
One thing I learned early on is that you’ve got to think about scale here. The bridge itself is massive, with towering pillars and extravagant detailing. If you don’t position the couple just right, they can easily get lost in the frame. I found that shooting from a low angle helps emphasize the bridge’s dramatic lines while making the couple stand out.
One of my favorite shots was with the couple standing just under one of those iconic lamp posts, with the Seine stretching out behind them and the Eiffel Tower just peeking in from the corner. It looked so cinematic, like a still from an old Parisian film.
Capturing romantic silhouettes
Speaking of cinematic, I love capturing silhouettes here, especially during sunset or the blue hour. I remember one evening when the sky turned this deep coral pink as the sun dipped behind the skyline. I had the couple face each other, hands clasped, with the light streaming between them. The effect was pure magic : their figures perfectly outlined against the glowing sky, with the bridge’s ornate details framing them like a painting.
How to pose without disrupting traffic
But let’s talk about the practical side. Pont Alexandre III is busy, especially during the day.
I always aim to shoot either early in the morning or later in the evening when foot traffic thins out. But even then, you have to be quick. I learned to position the couple close to the railings or on one of the less-traveled lanes, and I always keep an eye on the flow of people. Sometimes, I’ll have them lean casually against the balustrade or walk slowly hand-in-hand to create natural movement, so we don’t have to pause the flow of passersby.
Another tip: shoot wide open to blur the background just enough and minimize distractions from the crowd while keeping the couple sharp and romantic.What I love most about Pont Alexandre III is that it offers endless possibilities. Whether you want that dramatic grand shot with the entire bridge stretching behind the couple or a tight, intimate frame with just a lamp post and a kiss, it’s a place where creativity can run wild. And every time I leave, I’m reminded of why I fell in love with photographing Paris wedding photos in the first place, the perfect blend of historic venues, romance, and artistry.
Streets with Eiffel Tower view – Quintessential Paris
Discovering lesser-known Eiffel Tower streets for your Paris Wedding photo
Ah, there’s something truly special about those charming Parisian streets where the Eiffel Tower peeks through the buildings, almost like it’s casually photobombing your frame.
The magic of these lesser-known streets lies in their intimacy. Unlike Trocadéro or Champ de Mars, where crowds swarm for the iconic view, these little streets offer a more private, authentic backdrop for a Paris wedding photo. My favorite spots are around Rue de l’Université and Avenue de Camoëns.
The trick is to arrive early, before the streets get busy with locals heading to work or tourists taking selfies. I’ve learned that just after sunrise, the light is soft, the streets are quiet, and you can really capture that quintessential Paris vibe.
I made the mistake once of scheduling a shoot there in the late afternoon. The light was harsh, and cars were parked along both sides of the street, blocking the view. Since then, I always advise couples to aim for golden hour or early morning. It’s not just about avoiding traffic, it’s also about capturing that soft, buttery light that flatters both the couple and the architecture.
How to create an authentic Parisian vibe
For the photos themselves, I love emphasizing the layers of the street. I’ll position the couple halfway down the block, using the lines of the buildings to draw the eye toward them, with the Eiffel Tower rising gracefully in the distance. A wide aperture, like , helps blur out distractions while keeping the couple sharp. If there’s a charming café sign, wrought iron balcony, or even a vintage lamppost nearby, I’ll incorporate those elements to add texture and depth to the frame.
Styling tips for blending into the scene
Now, let’s talk styling. These streets have that effortlessly chic Parisian feel, so I always recommend couples lean into that. Flowy dresses, tailored suits, simple accessories, they all complement the backdrop. Once, I worked with a bride who wore a simple white midi dress and carried a bouquet of wildflowers.
The photos felt just right, like they could’ve been taken in any era and even for a magazine. For grooms, I suggest classic neutrals, think navy suits, crisp white shirts, maybe a silk pocket square. It’s all about harmonizing with the surroundings without overshadowing the scene.
One little trick I love? Have the couple walk naturally down the street, laughing or looking at each other, instead of posing stiffly. It creates that relaxed, candid feel, as if they’re just enjoying a stroll in their favorite city. Honestly, these quiet streets with a view of the Eiffel Tower are some of my favorite places for a Paris wedding photo session. They feel like secret corners of the city, where love stories unfold against the most iconic backdrop in the world.
Trocadéro – The classic Eiffel Tower photo spot
Trocadéro is that one spot where the Eiffel Tower feels like it’s standing just for you. Every time I take a couple here for a Paris wedding photo session, there’s this moment of awe as we walk up those sweeping steps.
Best times of day to avoid crowds
When shooting at Trocadéro, like some of the others places I suggested to you, there is one thing I can’t stress enough : timing is everything. When I am passing by midday, it is always packed with tourists, street vendors, and selfie sticks everywhere. The photos would feel rushed and chaotic if I planned photo shoots at that time of the day.
That’s why I always plan to shoot early in the morning, ideally just after sunrise when the light is soft and golden. Not only do you avoid the crowds, but you also get this gentle glow on the couple’s faces, making the whole scene feel almost ethereal. Late evenings can also work, especially in the summer when the sun sets late and the sky turns pastel pink.
Iconic angles for timeless photos
When it comes to angles, I love playing with symmetry. Trocadéro’s broad esplanade and the steps leading down to the fountains offer so many framing opportunities. One of my favorite shots is having the couple stand on the lower level near the fountains, with the Eiffel Tower soaring up behind them. A wide lens lets me capture the whole scene : the couple, the steps, the fountains, and that iron Lady rising in the background. But for some variety I also make sure to switch it up and capture tighter shots with just the couple and a portion of the tower. This keeps the gallery dynamic and tells a more authentic story.
How to capture movement and candid moments
Now, let’s talk about incorporating movement. The same way as when I photograph at Pont Alexandre III, I like to give freedom to the bride and groom. And the result is always a series of candid, joyful shots that they love. Another trick I use is asking the bride to let her veil or dress catch the wind as she moves, adding a sense of drama and elegance.
One challenge here is balancing the light, especially if you’re shooting later in the day when the sun is high. I’ve found that using a reflector or positioning the couple with their backs to the sun helps create that soft, even lighting without harsh shadows. And don’t be afraid to embrace the silhouettes! If the sky is particularly stunning, I’ll expose for the background and let the couple become part of the dramatic skyline.
Contact me if you would like to learn more about photography as a professional Wedding photographer in Paris.
Trocadéro might be the classic, go-to spot for Paris wedding photos, but it never gets old. With the right timing, thoughtful composition, and a touch of movement, you can create images that feel timeless yet uniquely personal.
A typical Parisian café terrace – Cozy and intimate
Nothing quite captures that cozy, parisian vibe better for a Paris wedding photo session than a parisian cafe terrace. I still remember one time I convinced a couple to stop for a quick coffee shoot in a little café off Rue Cler. We had just wrapped up a session at the Eiffel Tower and were walking past a café with those iconic red chairs and tiny round tables.
The scene felt so “Parisian chic”, I couldn’t resist. So I suggested they sit down, order an espresso, and just relax. It turned out to be some of the most intimate, authentic photos I’ve taken that day.
Creating intimate, candid moments
The secret here (I think you’ll understand by now) is to keep things natural and candid. When the couple sits down, I don’t immediately start snapping photos. I let them settle in, maybe sip their coffee, and chat for a bit. This way, they start to relax, and their genuine connection shines through. I’ll quietly capture those little moments, the way she brushes her hair back, the way he leans in to whisper something. It’s those unscripted gestures that make the photos feel real and timeless.
Sometimes, I show to my couples a few photos of a Ritz Paris wedding photo session I did to inspire them a little and they immediately get what poses would be nice for them.
How to style and what café you should pick ?
But to look good, you have to feel good. And one thing I learned from experience is to choose the right café. Avoid tourist traps that are packed with people and too much clutter. Instead, I look for quiet, charming spots with a bit of character. Think handwritten chalkboard menus, tiled floors, and that unmistakable Parisian charm. And I always check the light before settling in, a table by a window or under a soft awning offers the best natural light.
When it comes to styling, I encourage couples to keep it simple and chic. For her, a flowy dress, a classic trench coat, or a cozy knit paired with ballet flats always looks effortlessly Parisian. For him, a tailored blazer, crisp white shirt, and well-fitted jeans or chinos work perfectly. The key is to blend into the scene without looking too posed or formal.
In the end, a photoshoot in a Parisian café terrace is a way of telling your story that I really like. Although it may sound like a cliché idea, it’s actually a way to let the photographer’s creativity and the bride and groom’s freshness shine through in a scene in which they are comfortable and at ease.
Paris is obviously the city of love. From grand historical landmarks like Place du Louvre and Pont Alexandre III to the hidden charm of a Parisian café terrace, each location offers a unique canvas for your wedding photos. You don’t want to just settle for the obvious spots but let an experienced photographer guide you through these magical settings to create timeless memories.
Ready to plan your perfect Paris wedding photo session? Let’s create those unforgettable moments !
FAQ – Everything you need to know about a Paris wedding photo session
What’s the best time of day for a Paris wedding photo session?
I always recommend sunrise for that soft, golden light and to avoid crowds. Golden hour before sunset is another magical time when the city glows romantically.
Do I need a permit to shoot in certain Paris locations?
Most public spots like the bridges or the Colonnes de Buren don’t require permits if you keep it low-key. However, for locations like the Petit Palais, you might need special permission, especially for elaborate or commercial shoots.
How should we prepare for a Paris couple photo session?
Wear outfits that feel both elegant and comfortable. Bring a few accessories like a hat, bouquet, or even sunglasses. And don’t forget – a pair of flat shoes makes moving around the cobbled streets much easier!
What are the best spots to capture that romantic Paris vibe without the crowds?
I love taking my clients to hidden gems like quaint streets with Eiffel Tower views or typical Parisian cafés. These locations offer an intimate, authentic Parisian feel away from the tourists.
How do I choose the right photographer for a Paris wedding session?
Look for someone who knows the best spots and understands natural lighting. Make sure they get your style and can capture genuine, unscripted moments. Have a look at my work to get inspired !
For photographers: how can I use the Colonnes de Buren or Pont Alexandre III creatively?
At the Colonnes de Buren, I play with graphic lines and contrast to create artistic shots. On Pont Alexandre III, I love using the depth and iconic lamps to frame my couples. Morning light here can really elevate the drama.
Can we include props in the photo session to add authenticity?
Absolutely! Think coffee cups, a bouquet of flowers, a vintage bicycle – all these little touches bring a Parisian charm and help tell a story.
How can we manage stress or nerves during a Paris photo session?
Breathe and enjoy the moment! I guide my clients step by step, creating a relaxed, fun atmosphere. The best shots often come from genuine laughter and those sweet, candid gestures.
For photographers: what mistakes should I avoid when shooting in Paris?
Don’t underestimate the changing light in the city or forget to check the opening times of certain spots. Stay flexible – some of the best photos come from spontaneous, unscripted moments.
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