What Are the Best Spots for Photography in Seattle?
Seattle is a photographer’s paradise, offering a myriad of stunning locations to capture. As a Seattle based photographer for the past 10 years of experience, I've explored the city extensively and have compiled my top 10 favorite spots to shoot, perfect for both seasoned pros and budding enthusiasts. After a productive day of photography, consider letting Seattle Green Cleaning Fairy handle the cleanup, so you can focus on editing your beautiful shots and preparing for your next adventure.
1. Kerry Park
Kerry Park is a must shoot for any Seattle photographer. Located on the south slope of Queen Anne Hill this small park has stunning views of the city skyline, Space Needle and even Mount Rainier on a clear day. It’s a popular spot to shoot the sunset over the city. Get there early to stake out your spot as it can get crowded.
2. Pike Place Market
One of Seattle’s most iconic landmarks, Pike Place Market has endless photo opportunities. Colorful produce stands, fresh flower bouquets and the flying fish make for lively shots that capture the market. Get there early in the morning for the best light and to avoid the crowds.
3. Volunteer Park Conservatory
Located in Capitol Hill the Volunteer Park Conservatory is a beautiful Victorian style greenhouse filled with plants from around the world. The lush greenery creates a surreal atmosphere perfect for portraits to abstract detail shots. Note you will need to get a permit and pay a fee to shoot inside.
4. Washington Park Arboretum
The Washington Park Arboretum is a 230 acre oasis of gardens, woodlands and wetlands. With miles of trails winding through different landscapes it has endless beautiful backdrops in every season from cherry blossoms in the spring to the Japanese maples in the fall. The Wilcox footbridge is a must shoot.
5. Gasworks Park
Once a coal gasification plant Gasworks Park is now a unique urban park on the north shore of Lake Union. The rusted remnants of the old gasworks make for great industrial shots, the hill has great skyline views especially at night. It’s also one of the best places in the city to shoot the 4th of July fireworks.
6. Alki Beach
West Seattle’s Alki Beach is a great place to shoot the city from a different angle. The beach has views back towards downtown across Elliott Bay with the Olympic Mountains in the background. Get there during golden hour for great light and stay after dark for the city lights reflected on the water.
7. Discovery Park
As Seattle’s largest park at over 500 acres Discovery Park has a little of everything, from dramatic sea cliffs and driftwood strewn beaches to meadows and forests. The West Point Lighthouse is a favorite subject. It’s a great place to get a more natural setting within the city limits.
8. Chinatown-International District
Seattle’s Chinatown-International District is a visual feast (and for the lens). Colorful storefronts, street art and the historic Chinatown Gate provide endless street photography opportunities. Get there during the summer night market for extra energy and unique shots.
9. Seattle Central Library
A surprise on the list the Seattle Central Library is a modern architectural gem that makes for great abstract and geometric shots. The glass and steel interior has endless angles and reflections to play with. It’s a great rainy day option.
10. Ballard Locks
The Hiram M. Chittenden Locks (aka the Ballard Locks) is a great place to capture the intersection of industry and nature as boats pass between Puget Sound and the Ship Canal. In the summer and fall you can also shoot salmon making their way up the fish ladder.
No matter your photography style or experience level Seattle has a spot for you. So get out there and start shooting all the amazing imagery this city has to offer! Let me know your favorite spots in the comments below.
