As a destination wedding photographer I receive many enquiries about places and cities where to take photos in Spain. Couples from all over the world come to visit Spain every year, why not having some beautiful photos taken by a professional photographer? Spain is a big country and each of it’s regions has different colours, light and landscapes that can provide wonderful background for a photo session.
There are many beautiful cities to visit each with something special. It is not easy to decide which one is the best if you are looking to take some special photos. No matter if you are looking for an engagement photo session or an anniversary photo shooting, the choice of the location is important. Maybe you are thinking to make surprise for your parter, or maybe you decided to bring your wedding dress wit you to have some more photos with them.
In the last years I have been taking photos all around Spain and hear are my recommendations for some of my favourite cities and places that offer great inspiration for a romantic photo shooting:
1 Valencia
Valencia is a great city near the sea and has many interesting locations. Tradition and modernity offer many different possibilities to achieve special photos.
“One of the largest and most important cities in Spain, is located in the eastern part of the country in the region of Valencia. After redirecting the Turia River, the city constructed its most impressive landmark, a massive cultural and entertainment complex known as the City of Arts and Science. Contained within this complex are several buildings such as a science museum, planetarium and aquarium that are each artistic marvels in and of themselves. Every March, Valencia hosts the Fallas Festival where each neighborhood displays papier-mâché figures of all sizes and colors. At the end of the week, the figures are ceremoniously burned, and the communities party into the night.” (from touropia)
One of my favourites locations in Valencia are the beaches next to El Saler Natural Parc, just 15 minutes from the centre of the city they offer a great natural surrounding and plenty of different spots.
The centre of the city has many inspiring buildings and parks. Rio turia is one of the most famous with the City of Art and Science, a majestic work by Spanish architect Santiago Calatrava.
Many of the photos on my website are taken in Valencia, you may take a look here: Photo sessions in Valencia
2 Madrid
Madrid is absolutely wonderful. A city that represents Spain in all it’s beauty.
“Spain’s capital and largest city, Madrid, is widely known for its sizzling nightlife scene. The city constitutes a diversity of ethnic groups, making it one of Europe’s most colorful cosmopolitan cities. Located within the city center are most of Madrid’s most popular tourist attractions such as the Royal Palace, the residence of Spain’s monarch. The heart of Madrid (and Spain) is Puerta del Sol, a large plaza serving as the scene of festivals, important gatherings and street performers as well as a hub for the public transportation network. Another important square is Plaza Mayor, known for the lively San Miguel Market.” (from touropia)
I like the sensation of freedom you feel in Madrid. El parque del Retiro, in the center area is one of my favourite places to start a photo session in Madrid. Elegance and style can be found in the architecture of the buildings in the central Plaza Mayor. Another interesting spot is the museum of Caixaforum, a modern building surrounded by traditional area. Last but not least, of course the Royal Palace is a great background for your photo session.
Here you may see an engagement photo session in Madrid
3 Cordoba
Cordoba is an amazing city you should think about visiting, it is another great choice as a location for a photo shooting. It feels as if you are living surrounded by history. The centre of the city is filled with inspiring buildings, streets and parks. Small and elegant, Cordoba offers some of the most beautiful sunsets you can imagine.
“Cordoba is in the middle of the Andalusian region of southern Spain. The historic quarter is a maze of tiny medieval streets, plazas and courtyards all situated around the star attraction, the Mezquita. Initially built as a mosque, the Mezquita is now a glorious cathedral retaining most of its original architecture. Its forest of columns topped with Islamic-style red and white striped arches serves as a reminder of the glory and importance Córdoba held in medieval times. Other places of interest include the Fortress of the Christian Monarchs, the Street of Flowers, and the Old Jewish Quarter with its charming patios and souvenir shops.” (from touropia)
4 Barcelona
And of course Barcelona:
“Located in northeastern Spain, Barcelona is one of the country’s top travel destinations because it offers everything tourists look for in a European city from historic architecture to lively shopping, vibrant culture and buzzing nightlife. Unique to Barcelona are the architectural marvels of Spain’s famous architect, Antoni Gaudi, which include the Casa Batllo and the famous Sagrada Familia church. Both of these extraordinary structures feature combinations of fascinating designs, shapes and colors. Popular activities in Barcelona include strolling along La Rambla, a tree-lined pedestrian avenue, and sunbath on Barceloneta, one of the city’s most popular beaches.” (from touropia)
6 Granada
“Granada is located at the foot of the Sierra Nevada mountains, at the confluence of four rivers, the Beiro, the Darro, the Genil and the Monachil. It sits at an average elevation of 738 metres above sea level, yet is only one hour by car from the Mediterranean coast” (Wikipedia)
Granada is pure beauty, surrounded by mountains is a place with an incredible light and colours. Perfect locations to have some romantic photos with wonderful backgrounds. Many parks in Arabian style, small and lovely streets and the most famous monument of the city, Alhambra. All of this locations are good choices if you are looking for unique and romantic photos with a Spanish flavour.
If you are looking for a photographer to capture some special images in Spain, drop me a line.
I will be happy to guide you visiting any of those cities and to take the photos you are dreaming of.
