While the Eiffel Tower undoubtedly stands as one of – if not the most – iconic symbol of Paris, the City of Light offers many less-explored locations perfect for unique and alternative photoshoots.
Creativity plays a big role in my own well-being and positive mental health, and my friend Katarina (@katarina_snezhko )and I will often spend a morning together exploring new corners of Paris – she loves posing and I love photographing! It’s not only fun and a good excuse to take some photos, but it also gets those all-important dopamine pathways flowing in the brain, so important especially in the Winter months!
We’ve discovered many new architectural marvels, picturesque streets, medieval gardens, and hidden gems which I can now also suggest as options for my clients on their photoshoots.
Following are some of my favourite spots:
Hôtel de Sully
Nestled in the heart of the Marais district, the Hôtel de Sully is an architectural gem dating back to the 17th century. Once a private mansion, this historic hotel exudes elegance and charm with its picturesque courtyard, stonework, and gardens. I love shooting here and would love to photograph any of my clients on this stunning backdrop.
Hôtel de Sens
Also Located in the Marais district but closer to the River Seine, the Hôtel de Sens is a medieval palace dating back to the 15th century. Its Gothic architecture, including tall towers and a charming courtyard, offers a captivating glimpse into Paris’s history. Now home to the Forney Art Library, it’s a cultural destination providing visitors with exhibitions and a tranquil retreat from the city’s buzz.
Covered Passages of Paris
Passage Jouffroy
📍10 boulevard de Montmartre, 75009 Paris
Located in the 9th arrondissement, was the first Parisian passage built entirely of metal and glass and remains famous for its 19th-century appeal and diverse shops. Its nostalgic atmosphere and eclectic offerings won me over and I think it’s probably my favourite passage to visit. You will also find Musèe Grevin the wax museum and Libraries du Passage an antique bookshop.
Galerie Vivienne
📍4 Rue des Petits Champs, 75002 Paris
Galerie Vivienne, a 19th-century arcade nestled in Paris’s 2nd arrondissement. Its mosaic floors, glass ceiling, and charming shops create an enchanting ambience, inviting visitors to explore its corridors and experience a unique blend of history and contemporary Parisian life.
I don’t have the best photos to show off just how lovely Galerie Vivienne is as we were focussing on the shoes that we’d been commissioned to photograph, however, I will 100% be updating this post in the future with new photos (and new locations)!
Hotel de la Marine
📍2 Pl. de la Concorde, 75008 Paris
The Hotel de la Marine has a rich history dating back to the 18th century. Originally constructed as the Garde-Meuble royal (Royal Furniture Repository) in 1774, this architectural gem served as a storied royal residence before transforming into a symbol of French heritage and housing remarkable collections, eventually opening its doors to the public in recent years.
I was happily surprised when they granted us access to do some photos!! We had to pay our entrance fee and only had limited access as the tickets to visit the apartments had sold out. I mean, there is no guarantee that next time I go back – to any of these places – I will have the same luck however Hotel de la Marine could make a great backup wet weather location.
This is by far and exhaustive list – check back soon for more of my fave alt locations in Paris for photoshoots
