Lyon France Photo Spots

Discovering the Best Photography Spots in Lyon, France

Lyon, a city nestled between the Rhône and Saône rivers, is a treasure trove of unique photography opportunities. From its medieval quarter to its modern architecture, and from its vibrant street art to its stunning natural surroundings, there’s no shortage of inspiring subjects to capture with your camera.

1. The Basilica of Notre-Dame de Fourvière

Perched atop a hill overlooking the city, this beautiful white basilica is a photographer’s dream. Its stunning architecture and panoramic views of Lyon make it an ideal spot for capturing majestic images.

  • Best time to visit: Early morning or late evening for soft, golden light.
  • Tips:
    • Bring a wide-angle lens to capture the basilica’s grandeur and the cityscape.
    • Experiment with long exposures to smooth out any movement caused by people or vehicles.

2. The Rhône River

The Rhône River runs through the heart of Lyon, offering a variety of photography opportunities. From its tranquil stretches to its more energetic sections near the city center, there’s always something interesting to capture.

  • Best time to visit: Early morning or late evening for stunning reflections and golden light.
  • Tips:
    • Use a polarizing filter to reduce glare from the water and enhance colors.
    • Capture the river’s movement and texture by using a fast shutter speed.

3. The Confluence of the Rhône and Saône Rivers

This spot where the two rivers meet is a photographer’s paradise. The contrast between the calm waters and the bustling city surroundings creates a unique visual experience.

  • Best time to visit: Anytime, but early morning or late evening for optimal light.
  • Tips:
    • Experiment with different angles and perspectives to capture the confluence from various viewpoints.
    • Use a tripod to stabilize your camera and avoid camera shake.

4. The Medieval Quarter (Vieux Lyon)

This historic district is filled with charming streets, quaint shops, and beautiful architecture. It’s an ideal place to capture intimate moments and details of everyday life.

  • Best time to visit: Anytime, but early morning or late evening for a more peaceful atmosphere.
  • Tips:
    • Use a prime lens to emphasize the textures and details of the buildings and streets.
    • Look for interesting perspectives and angles, such as from above or below, to add depth to your images.

5. The Parc de la Tête d’Or

This large urban park is a haven of greenery in an otherwise bustling city. It’s home to several lakes, walking trails, and plenty of wildlife, making it an excellent spot for nature photography.

  • Best time to visit: Anytime, but early morning or late evening for stunning light and fewer visitors.
  • Tips:
    • Bring a telephoto lens to capture the park’s inhabitants, such as birds and other wildlife.
    • Experiment with long exposures to smooth out any movement caused by water or people.

6. The Contemporary Art Museum (Musée d’Art Contemporain)

This modern art museum is a striking building that’s sure to inspire your photography. Its unique design and stunning surroundings make it an ideal spot for capturing abstract images.

  • Best time to visit: Anytime, but early morning or late evening for optimal light.
  • Tips:
    • Use a wide-angle lens to capture the museum’s architecture and the surrounding cityscape.
    • Experiment with different perspectives and angles to add depth and interest to your images.

7. The Cité Internationale

This modern district is home to several glass buildings that seem to float above the ground. It’s an ideal spot for capturing abstract images and experimenting with different perspectives.

  • Best time to visit: Anytime, but early morning or late evening for optimal light.
  • Tips:
    • Use a prime lens to emphasize the textures and details of the buildings.
    • Experiment with long exposures to smooth out any movement caused by people or vehicles.

Conclusion

Lyon is a photographer’s paradise, offering a wide range of unique subjects and stunning locations. From its medieval quarter to its modern architecture, and from its vibrant street art to its stunning natural surroundings, there’s no shortage of inspiring subjects to capture with your camera. Whether you’re interested in capturing intimate moments and details of everyday life or experimenting with abstract images, Lyon has something for everyone.

  • Camera: A digital single-lens reflex (DSLR) or mirrorless camera with interchangeable lenses.
  • Lenses:
    • Wide-angle lens (10-22mm): ideal for capturing the cityscape and architecture.
    • Prime lens (50-60mm): suitable for emphasizing textures and details.
    • Telephoto lens (70-200mm): useful for capturing wildlife and distant subjects.
  • Tripod: essential for stabilizing your camera and avoiding camera shake.
  • Polarizing filter: helpful for reducing glare from the water and enhancing colors.

Tips and Tricks

  • Experiment with different perspectives and angles to add depth and interest to your images.
  • Use a wide-angle lens to capture the cityscape and architecture.
  • Emphasize textures and details with a prime lens.
  • Capture wildlife and distant subjects with a telephoto lens.
  • Reduce glare from the water with a polarizing filter.