How to Choose the Best Location for a Photoshoot in Porto
Planning a photoshoot in Porto might seem simple at first. The city is full of beautiful places, but choosing the right location can completely change the atmosphere of your photographs.
When people visit Porto, they often ask me the same question: "Where should we take our photos?"
It's a simple question, but the answer is never the same. Some people imagine colourful streets and old buildings. Others dream about the Atlantic Ocean, quiet beaches and sunset light. A family with two small children needs a very different location from a couple celebrating their anniversary.
After photographing people in Porto for more than 15 years, I've learned one thing: The best location isn't the most famous one. It's the one that fits your story and you mood.
Having said that, let me share some Porto “hacks”.
The Dom Luís I Bridge
YES, It's one of Porto's most famous landmarks, and for good reason - the views are spectacular. BUT if you're hoping for photographs with the bridge, don't assume you have to stand on it. During summer evenings, it can become extremely crowded.
Instead, explore the streets climbing uphill on both sides of the river. Many of them offer beautiful views of the bridge, often with far fewer people around. Sometimes the best photograph isn't taken from the most obvious spot. All of the photos below are taken from non-conventional points of view.
PORTO’s CITY CENTER
YES, all those tiles are beautiful! BUT, Porto's historic centre changes dramatically depending on the time of day and the season. If you want to escape crowds, try exploring before 10 am or wander one or two streets away from the main tourist routes. Believe me, you don’t really need to do “10 places to visit” from instagram. Porto is full of unexpected corners that rarely appear on postcards but often make the most memorable photographs. A narrow street, a local cafe, an unpopular miradouro or a tiled wall can be a perfect background for your photos. As an example - Bonfim area is wonderful and you don’t need to climb up and down.
BEST OCEAN OPTIONS
YES, Porto's city beaches are easy to reach and offer a wonderful mix of the Atlantic Ocean and views of the city skyline. BUT If you're visiting during July - August, try to avoid the beaches of Matosinhos and Foz on weekends and in the late afternoon, when they can become very crowded. Even moving a little farther along the coastline can make a surprising difference. Just 30 mins by suburban train to the Gaia ocean side and you’ll get amazing and not crowded shores. Or go by car to Lavra zone. Also, make sure to take some light jackets/hoodies with you. Atlantic is not your warm sea. It’s often wild and windy. So, better safe then sorry.
