Best Views of Los Angeles

© Veronica An

From its frequent appearances in movies to its infamous problems with smog, Los Angeles has a recognizable skyline. The city is a wonder to behold from above; follow these tips to snap the best shots of the City of Angels.

Plan your shoots to coincide with sunrise or sunset —  also called “magic hour” — the light will be less harsh and make for more cinematic photos. Be sure to arrive early enough to stake out a spot and take in the view before the sun changes position too much.

Most cityscapes look best at night, so pack a picnic dinner, take the camera and head to Griffith Park and Observatory. This recreation area and observatory is free to the public and offers public telescopes for night viewing. The park offers sweeping views of downtown Los Angeles, the Hollywood Sign and the Pacific Ocean.

Using a tripod is a good idea for steadying shots, but placing the camera on solid surface or leaning your elbows on a table can also prevent blurred or crooked pictures. Take more shots than you think you need; it is difficult to properly judge image quality on a camera’s screen.

Daytime cityscapes can be equally compelling. Venture into the heart of downtown Los Angeles — take street level photos and emphasize the cluster of skyscrapers in the city’s Financial District. Take in the view from rooftop bars, such as Perch or The Standard Hotel, while relaxing with friends.

Make your photos of Los Angeles unique — allow them to reflect your favorite aspects of the city and serve as meaningful mementos from your time in LA.