Author Topic: Tips to find locations for skyline (Read 2670 times)

charged · « **on:** July 06, 2016, 17:45 »

Are there any generic tips on finding locations to shoot city skylines? I've got 3 weeks to drive around Europe later this month. From past trips around the USA, I sort of worked out that if the city is costal, then getting on the river boats is a great way to shoot the city skyline. Sometimes I just look at google maps and have a guess where to go. Sometimes the city will have a tall building with an observatory. Sometimes I'll just Google it.

dbvirago · « **Reply #1 on:** July 06, 2016, 18:04 »

I always use Street View on Google Maps where it is available.

increasingdifficulty · « **Reply #2 on:** July 06, 2016, 18:24 »

Every city is unique so I don't think there are too many generic tips. One thing to keep in mind though is that many of the best rooftops or skyscrapers don't allow tripods...

charged · « **Reply #3 on:** July 06, 2016, 18:24 »

Oh yea, street view is a great idea!!!

StanRohrer · « **Reply #4 on:** July 06, 2016, 18:46 »

Google Earth is my first source. Some places in the USA even have trees modeled in 3D so you can get a guess if they will block your shot. I don't know about locations outside of Ohio, USA.

Jo Ann Snover · « **Reply #5 on:** July 06, 2016, 19:17 »

Other than Street View and Earth, a couple of sites with suggestions:

http://expertphotography.com/how-to-scout-photography-locations/

http://www.shothotspot.com/
I should note that I didn't find much useful in the above when checking places I know well - might be better in some places than others

You could also look at the locations in Shutterstock to see what might be worth your while (versus so covered already that it might not make sense)

charged · « **Reply #6 on:** July 07, 2016, 00:46 »

Thanks everyone

PhotoLA · « **Reply #7 on:** July 07, 2016, 12:49 »

This is not really a tip on how to fine the locations, but when I travel I always book hotels based on how tall they are and their views. I'll even ask to switch rooms if they view is not good.