When it comes to places to visit and shoot in San Francisco, the options are plenty. Whether it’s the major landmarks or hidden gems, there’s a spot unique to everyone’s taste when it comes to photos. Below are a few of places to consider:
THE GOLDEN GATE BRIDGE.
One of the most photographed tourist spot in San Francisco. When choosing this location, keep in mind that weekends will be very busy.
ALCATRAZ.
If abandoned old prisons is your nitch, this might be a spot for you. You’ll have to reserve your ferry trip out to Alcatraz early, meaning you will not be able to reserve a ride if you try and make your reservation when you are already here for your visit. Also we’d recommend making a reservation for a mid to late afternoon visit. This will give you an opportunity to shoot the prison during the day and after dark. The prison feels even spookier after dark and we would be able to get some great vista shots of San Francisco from the island.
TWIN PEAKS.
One of San Francisco’s greatest vistas to shoot in the world.
LEGION OF HONOR.
Think Greek pillars.
THE SAN FRANCISCO MUSEUMS.
This includes the SF MOMA, the De Young, the Asian Art Museum, the California Academy of Sciences, the Contemporary Jewish Museum, as well as a great vintage arcade game musuem called Musee Mecanique in Fisherman’s Wharf.
THE SAN FRANCISCO HOTELS.
There are are plethora of hotels in SF that are bound to fit your taste. Do a google search with keywords to see what fits your needs. Some hotels we recommend are The Fairmont, the Mandarin Oriental Hotel, Petite Auberg, The Clift Hotel, The Mosser, etc. Also, the Financial District Hilton on Kearny has the best views of Coit Tower in the city. The Hyatt Grand Regency has the most amazing modern interiors in the world of architecture.
CHINATOWN + NORTH BEACH.
Grant, Stockton, and Powell allows you to see some of the great neighborhood culture. There are lots of neon signs on Broadway as well as great views in Washington Square Park of St. Peter and Paul church as well as beautiful views up at the top of Coit Tower.
HAIGHT ASHBURY + MISSION DISTRICT.
Both neighborhoods are rich with street art. There are lots of funky stores and art galleries as well.With regards to the Mission District, we would recommend around Mission and 24th Streets. Especially pay attention to all of the little alleys shooting off of 24th Street and Mission itself. This is where you will find some of the best street art in San Francisco.
CITY HALL.
San Francisco’s architectural high points with unrestricted access to most of the floors of the building. you can get several great vantage points to shoot the interior of the building.
THE FERRY BUILDING.
A mecca for foodies if you love food.Good views from the second floor.
THE PALACE OF FINE ARTS + EXPLORATORIUM.
COIT TOWER.
THE MECHANICS INSTITUTE LIBRARY.
The Mechanics Institute Library, located at 57 Post Street in San Francisco, is the oldest library on the West Coast. It was started in 1854. Inside this spectacular library is a stunning spiral staircase definitely worth exploring.
THE SAN FRANCISCO BEACHES.
This includes Ocean Beach, China Beach, etc. Remember to bring flip flops and a jacket as the beaches in San Francisco are usually cold.
SUTRO BATH HOUSES.
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