Preparing a little for your Paris photoshoot before you arrive in France is an outstanding idea. It will ensure you feel confident, have fun, and get the best pictures possible.

Use this step-by-step guide to discover fantastic locations, what to wear, posing tips, and proven Paris photo shoot ideas regardless of the occasion, style, and overall vibe.

Our guide, informed by unequaled local experience, aims to inspire you to focus on what truly matters. Above all, it should help you create and capture unforgettable vacation memories.

How much does photoshoot cost in Paris
What you wear to a photoshoot in Paris and which locations you choose will have a real impact on your experience and pictures.

Use the drop-down menu below to skip to the most relevant sections.

We need to talk about 11 ways to prepare for your Paris photo shoot (this section is a total Game-changer!).

Paris Photo Shoot Ideas & Tips

What suits one couple, solo traveler, or family may not be ideal for another.

Our 11 proven Paris photo shoot ideas and tips below are a fantastic starting point; we encourage you to adapt them to your personality, interests, and photography package.

OMG, Cengiz—you are exceptional!!! Now I’m so mad I didn’t find you before our wedding—I had the best makeup artist and hairdresser for my Balbiano wedding (Pnina Tornai’s beautiful dress). Still, your photos are better than our wedding photos, lol. I’ll forever wonder how amazing our wedding photos could have been if you had been our professional photographer. Thank you SO much. We will have so much fun selecting your photos for edit.

Ami Cook

1. Decide on the perfect Paris photography package.

Photography packages are designed to appeal to different budgets and types of shoots (couple, boudoir, family photoshoot, maternity, …). They typically specify at least four elements:

  • Date and duration of your shoot, including a predetermined number of hours for the photo/video session;
  • Your Paris photographer’s name and contact particulars, including her WhatsApp (ideal for responsive communication);
  • Starting time(s);
  • A specific quantity of edited images.
Indoor Paris photoshoot: stylish outfits, creative props, and irresistible chemistry
Kiss Me in Paris’s photography packages differ by the duration of the photoshoot and other deliverables, such as the number of edited digital files (images).

2. Reach out to your Paris photographer as soon as possible.

Note
Don’t assume your artist will be available and super-responsive 1-2 days before your travelshoot—notably during peak season.

Tell your professional photographer:

  • About yourself;
  • The special occasion, type of shoot, and quantity of people (for family portraits);
  • Any initial private photo shoot ideas, outfits, and props;
  • Preferred Paris photo session locations;
  • Request a Mercedes van with an English-speaking driver, props, a beauty artist, and a photographer’s associate as soon as possible and
  • Include a recent photo of you (or your family/partner). This ensures that you instantly recognize each other and are not total strangers when you meet.

3. Ask your artist to help finetune your photo shoot’s exact starting time and optimal itinerary.

Your Paris photographer should specify the precise starting time, which can differ by several minutes from what our studio managers recommend. Elements such as your preferred location(s), lighting conditions and weather, and events (Fashion Week, movie sets, protests, etc.) make a difference.

Remember that your photographer is a local expert and knows the City of Love best, so please always rely on her judgment for the final starting time and meeting spot.

Paris trip photo locations
When you want amazing vacation memories from your Paris trip, consider mixing things up with little-known photo spots, such as Musée d’Orsay.

She will also be able to give you a reality check on what can reasonably be accomplished in a given amount of time.

Tip
Less is indeed sometimes more. While increasing the number of locations, multiple outfit changes, and props can add variety to your shoot, doing so can also negatively affect continuity, flow, and the overall results.

4. Map out your perfect photo shoot in Paris with a Pinterest board.

Storytelling your perfect Paris photo session with a Pinterest board is fun and encourages you to think about your shoot, come up with ideas you’ll love, and manage expectations with your professional photographer.

Photoshoot ideas in Paris balloons
Photoshoot ideas in Paris: Consider some eye-catching props, such as oversized balloons, as long as it is not windy.

Here are some helpful tips:

  • Pin from various sources, including our website galleries (this should be your primary source since you’re using images our studio has captured and presumably can capture again). Pinterest and Google Image Search are also fantastic resources.
  • Initially, be spontaneous and pin abundantly whatever appeals to you;
  • Include a generous mix of your favorite Parisian locations, stylish photoshoot outfits, creative props and photo ideas, and flattering poses;
  • This point may sound counterintuitive, but now eliminate aggressively and prioritize your must-have photo ideas until at most 10-20 pins are left on your Pinterest board. It forces you to decide what truly matters. It also makes it easier for your artist to provide feedback;
  • Finally, ask your vacation photographer for feedback. In an ideal world, your artist will provide actionable advice on what’s possible for your particular shoot (keeping in mind the season, starting times, local events, and your photography package).
Note
It’s not entirely unusual for the above process to make you want to modify or upgrade your Paris photography package. In that case, please reach out to our studio immediately to check for availability and feasibility.

5. Logistics—how to get around Paris during your photo shoot—can result in a better experience and professional photos.

  • Walking works well for primary locations, such as Trocadéro, the Louvre, Montmartre, and Notre Dame, to name a few. Ladies, bring flats or otherwise comfy footwear. Louboutins are not walking shoes and may cause unnecessary foot fatigue;
  • UBER: Uber used to be our preferred method of getting around town—notably because it was cheaper, more convenient, and supportive of a better experience than taxis. Well, alas, that’s no longer the case in Paris, where UBER drivers often won’t pick you up for short rides, cancel without notice, and make you wait forever (time is money when it comes to your Paris photoshoot). We still, at times, use UBER, but now consider yourself cautioned.
  • Taxis are likely a better alternative to UBER since they can be cheaper, and you get to use the bus & taxi lanes during rush hour;
  • Rent an air-conditioned Mercedes van with an English-speaking driver. It’s the best investment you’ll make when you want multiple locations, a discrete environment for wardrobe changes, and a safe space for precious belongings and oversized props. The van can easily seat larger families, plus your photographer, videographer, and makeup artist. You’ll essentially save money since you get more from your commissioned photography package.
What is the easiest way to get around Paris for a photoshoot?
What is the easiest way to get around Paris for a photoshoot? If you can afford to rent a van with an English-speaking driver, do not hesitate. It’s stress-eliminating, saves you time, enhances comfort, keeps your belongings safe, and doubles as a changing room when you have multiple outfits.
Note
We can help you rent a Mercedes van for around €130 per hour. Or upgrade to the ultimate in luxury with an exclusive Mercedes-Maybach Van or a Phantom Rolls-Royce.

6. Hire a photographer’s assistant or a so-called lighting associate.

An associate is compulsory for all our evening Paris photoshoots (that conclude after the official sunset) since we need help with lighting and crowd and theft management.

lighting associate for evening photo shoots
Hire a lighting associate for evening photo shoots in Paris. It will make your pictures look prettier. Plus, the associate can help carry your belongings and manage crowds.

Adding an associate makes sense for almost any substantial shoot since she’ll 

  • Help you carry props;
  • Manage crowds;
  • Call a UBER, flag down a taxi, or liaise with your van driver while you wrap up a particular photo location.
Tip
Our associates translate into added convenience and more net photography coverage—the metric you should obsess about.

7. Dress to impress!

We could complete a guide on what to wear and which colors and patterns work best for a Paris photo session. The ideal wardrobe largely depends on the purpose and location of the shoot. Your outfits should make you feel confident, beautiful, and comfortable whenever possible. They should also be flattering to your body type.

Remember that Paris is the world’s fashion capital and style matters. So, dress a tad more elegantly than you’d normally do.

Professional Paris family portraits: how to dress for a photoshoot
Professional Paris family portraits: While coordinating colors is not that important, it’s a good idea to harmonize your wardrobe and dress how you want to be seen in your photographs.

Consider how your outfit harmonizes with your partner’s or family’s outfit(s). For substantial photoshoots with multiple locations, it’s encouraged to include several formal and/or casual options. This allows you to adapt your look and add variety to your portraits.

Tip
Prepare the wardrobe the night before your shoot. Ensure your outfits are wrinkle-free, clean, and complete (remember your accessories and jewelry).

8. Winter photoshoot in Paris: Dress in layers when it’s cold outside.

In the winter or when it’s cold outside, show up to your shoot in layers and consider bringing hand/feet warmers and comfy boots.

Paris winter photoshoot: couple came prepared in layers to stay warm
Paris winter photoshoot ideas: Stay warm and happy with comfortable layers; even consider hand and foot warmers when it’s freezing outside.

Booking a cozy Mercedes van can be a lifesaver on cold days since you can warm up between locations.


9. Chemistry, the Delicate Art of the Kiss, and posing practice (this tip applies mainly to couples).

Our couples somehow consistently connect like Rockstars. What’s the secret, you may ask? Well, it’s about chemistry with each other and comfort with their Paris photographer.

Dreamy Couple photoshoot in Paris cafe shot near Notre Dame
Dreamy Couple photoshoot in the oldest Parisian cafe, Au Vieux Paris d’Arcole.

Chemistry is about attraction, scent, passion, comfort with closeness, pheromones … the mysterious spark between two soulmates. Above all, you must feel comfortable breathing with (and on) each other during your Paris photoshoot. When you hold your breath, it’s not sustainable and can result in stiff poses.

Otherwise, you end up thinking of the act of being photographed instead of your sweetheart before you.

Tired of formulaic, uninspiring kisses? You’re not alone. Let’s be clear: kissing is no requirement for awesome Paris engagement photos. And the moment before the kiss can be even more powerful in photographs.

We are Kiss Me in Paris, and bad kissing is entirely unacceptable. So, pack mints, shed undesirable camera awareness, and enjoy a passion-filled photo shoot.

Beautiful black and white Paris photography on Alexander III Bridge in the rain
Grandmasters of kissing: beautiful black & white Paris photography on Alexander III Bridge in the rain.

In addition to practicing kissing (here are the best places to kiss in Paris), consider working on your poses in front of a mirror and even take selfies to figure out your best angles. Here’s a fantastic resource for couples who like flattering poses and want to look good in pictures.


10. Get a good night’s rest.

Chances are your natural biorhythm (i.e., jet lag) may be a little out of sync after a long flight. You may even be dehydrated or feel stiff after sitting on a plane for an extended period.

We recommend drinking plenty of water. Rest is crucial for you to look and feel your best! Invest in a rejuvenating massage to lower stress levels and boost your overall well-being. If your skin feels a tad dry, moisturize abundantly. Aim to get as much sleep as possible the night before your Paris photoshoot.


11. Invest in professional beauty services.

Looking vibrant and your very best in pictures boils down to a combination of factors, notably that you arrive at your Paris photoshoot well-rested and stress-free.

Hire a professional beauty artist for your Paris photoshoot.
A skilled Parisian beauty artist will ensure you look your best and achieve the desired aesthetic.

That said, you’re already investing time and resources into your Paris photoshoot and may want to further enhance your natural beauty by enlisting the professional expertise of a beauty artist.

An experienced beauty professional will seek to understand the theme and overall aesthetic you’re after and use high-quality hair and makeup products designed to photograph well. The beauty artist will collaborate closely with your photographer and make adjustments on the fly based on ambient conditions or specific shoot requirements.

Note
We can help identify and book Paris’s best hair and makeup artists. Just ask.

The perfect Paris photoshoot: Frequently Asked Questions

People also ask

There’s more to acing a Paris photoshoot than hiring a talented photographer specializing in your type of photo shoot. When you want to feel comfortable and confident in getting the best possible experience and professional photos, the most important success factor is preparation.

Great preparation results in a more fun photo session with heartfelt laughs, striking poses, confidence, and flattering Paris photography.

The best photo shoots flow naturally, displaying a combination of awesome photo spots, eye-catching props, stylish outfits, and the ability to tune out undesirable camera awareness.

What a pleasant experience we had with Scander, our Paris photographer. He has a good eye, always looks for spots with little crowds, and invariably gets the perfect shot. Our photos came out so beautifully! I recommend Scander to anyone who wants a fun photoshoot and beautiful pictures!

Jeanette Brubaker

How much does a photoshoot cost in Paris?

Where is the best place in Paris to take beautiful pictures?

Where is the best street to take pictures in Paris?

What is the easiest way to get around Paris for a photoshoot?

What is the best time of day for my Paris photoshoot?

Essential day-of Paris photoshoot checklist.

Are commute or outfit changes considered part of my commissioned time?

Is Paris a good place to have a photoshoot?

Incredible Paris photoshoot ideas you should make your own.

Versatile and Creative ideas to consider

The best photoshoot ideas are within character for you (as a couple) and result in an amazing experience with unique Paris photography. They can be creative, fun, unique, romantic, and themed, …

The pictures with Laurent turned out so good. We even got to see a few same-day edits, which was awesome as we could share them with our families and friends. Laurent is patient and incredibly helpful. He went above and beyond in helping us get the poses right and ensuring everything looked perfect. He knew all the best photo locations. Highly recommended!

Tenny Thomas

Unique Paris photoshoot ideas

Unique Paris photo shoot ideas: dreamy picnic with Eiffel Tower views

Plan a dreamy picnic with Eiffel Tower views.

Break out the trusty blanket and treat your sweetheart to a wistful picnic along the Seine River with picture-perfect Eiffel Tower views. Lean in for a romantic kiss and toast to the special love you share.

Fun ideas for Paris photoshoot

Incorporate a street performer.

Hiring a skillful Parisian street artist is a terrific way to have fun, add spice to your Paris photo shoot, and come away with a meaningful keepsake. Caricatures at Montmartre are popular with couples and families alike.

Indoor Paris photoshoot ideas

Little-known indoor Paris photoshoot ideas

Indoor Paris photography offers privacy when you don’t want to worry about public perception or when it rains. Indoor portraits are a splendid way to mix things up when you already have pictures around the City of Lights or want to amortize your hotel suite investment.

Unique Paris photoshoot ideas: try a French boudoir with your significant other

Try the sexiest French Boudoir in Paris (solo or couple)

A couple’s boudoir in Paris is a sensual way for lovers to celebrate their relationship and love. We’ve been told that our French boudoirs are super fun and have helped couples reconnect profoundly.


Fun ideas for your photo session in Paris

Legendary Moulin Rouge engagement photo of couple popping Champagne

Master the Champagne pop at Moulin Rouge

Toasting with chilled, bubbly Champagne is always a good idea when you visit the City of Love. Chances are, your Paris photoshoot marks a special occasion … and fizzy, light-colored wine has historically been associated with celebration. A Champagne pop at Moulin Rouge makes for unforgettable memories.

Fun couple photoshoot ideas Indian pre-wedding

Spice things up with unique props

Fun props are a distinctive way to add spice to your photoshoot. The best props distract from unwelcome camera awareness and elevate the fun element. Our photographers are always up for any photoshoot ideas that enhance the experience and result in better images.

Kids and family photos in Paris Bir Hakeim Bridge with pink and white balloons

Elevate your photos with giant balloons props

We maintain a love-hate relationship with balloons as props. Let’s be clear: we love how giant balloons look in pictures. Still, considering the investment, it’s essential to appreciate a few potential challenges. Balloons and wind do not play nice. Balloons can distract subjects from naturally connecting. And balloons do not travel well by UBER or taxi. Consider hiring a Mercedes van with an English-speaking driver when using giant balloons in multiple locations.

Paris cafe photoshoot ideas

The (almost) obligatory Paris cafe photoshoot

Paris and cafés go together like a wink and a smile. If it were up to us, we’d not even consider any photoshoot of two hours or more without a pitstop at a stylish Parisian cafe. Cafe photoshoots look spectacular. And there’s more: you get to rest your feet and reenergize with a tasty cappuccino. Restaurants with a restroom allow for multiple outfit changes while waiting to be served. The focus of your cafe photoshoot poses shifts to a more intimate perspective.


Themed Paris photo shoot ideas

Midnight in Paris themed shoot

Midnight in Paris

Our insanely fun Midnight in Paris-themed photoshoot takes you on a spectacular adventure to the most stunning filming locations Gil Pender frequented. Our event planners will adapt the themed photo session to your interests, style, time, and budget.

Emily in Paris themed photoshoot

Emily in Paris

Like the Midnight in Paris-themed photoshoot, our Emily in Paris-inspired adventure takes you directly to the most spectacular locations Emily Cooper frequented. This unforgettable photo shoot is for you when you want something different from the traditional spots (Trocadero, Louvre, etc.), value a fun-filled experience, and are willing to invest in a more substantial photography package.

What are the most beautiful Paris Photoshoot locations?

When to have your pictures taken

Paris offers ridiculously romantic, iconic, and dreamy photo spots.

It helps to differentiate between:

  • Public locations (free of charge and widely accessible to anyone) and private settings (you pay a premium in return for privacy);
  • Eiffel Tower views vs. non-Eiffel Tower views
  • and locations that work well for solo portraits, couples, families, and large parties.

My wife and I cannot say enough great things about Vincent. We wanted an editorial-style photoshoot in Paris to celebrate our 10th wedding anniversary. Vincent and the “Kiss Me in Paris” team did not disappoint. Vincent was wonderful to work with (and a lot of fun!); he patiently provided instructions, resulting in spectacular pictures. He went above and beyond to ensure our experience was everything we imagined. We highly recommend Vincent to anyone and everyone who loves photos + fun + Paris. Merci beaucoup Vincent!

Steve Grandjean

Famous Eiffel Tower Photoshoot Locations

Adorable Paris family photos mom and son at Trocadero Eiffel Tower

Trocadero Eiffel Tower

The most instantly recognizable place in the City of Love. We recommend Trocadero only at sunrise unless you enjoy waiting in line and dealing with vendors and other curious onlookers. Note: The central plaza (Parvis des Droits de l’Homme) and the right flank of the platform are no longer under construction.

Creative Couple Photography Ideas in Paris at night with twinkling Eiffel Tower

Pont de Bir Hakeim

A famous bridge with iconic architecture, Bir-Hakeim works for solo and couple pictures but is not necessarily ideal for families or marriage proposals (considering the traffic). The bridge is not necessarily romantic or private. Still, it offers brilliant photo variety and is a solid rain alternative when your heart is set on the Iron Lady.

Couple photoshoot in Paris at Alexander III Bridge with Eiffel Tower view

Pont Alexandre III

One of the prettiest and most elegant bridges in Paris, Pont Alexandre III works for photoshoots any time of the day and night. Expect slightly nuanced views of the Eiffel Tower.

Paris elopement Camoens Avenue Eiffel Tower view

Camoens Avenue

Try Avenue de Camoens when Trocadero feels a little overused or you want another nearby view of the Eiffel Tower. We love the quintessential Parisian cobblestone and residential feel. Remember that this spot is quite popular due to occasional events at Trocadero. Camoens works best early morning and late evening!


Quiet places for your photo session in Paris

Stylish Paris engagement photos taken in the Tuileries Gardens during the fall season

Tuileries Garden

This private walkway is a wonderful photo spot in the heart of Paris and is flanked on both sides by lush trees. Its esplanade is easily accessible by foot from Léopold Sédar Senghor Bridge, Palais-Royal, and the Louvre Museum.

Couple photoshoot at Montmartre Paris

Montmartre

When you desire picturesque Parisian cafés and cobblestone streets, Montmartre should be near the top of your list. Montmartre is an excellent photo spot—notably around sunrise but also at night. It is a popular place to get caricature pictures, enjoy delicious cafes, and come away with maximum photo variety.

Most romantic places to kiss in Paris Luxembourg Gardens

Jardin du Luxembourg

The verdant Luxembourg Gardens tempt with beautiful tree-lined alleys and the stunning Medici Fountain. It’s a splendid spot for dreamy picnics, intimate elopements, engagement photos, and surprise proposals. However, verify the park’s opening hours and arrive early to beat the crowds.


Iconic places to do an amazing photoshoot in Paris

Paris photo session at the Louvre Museum

The Louvre

The Louvre Museum is among the most historical monuments in the world. It’s a stunning backdrop for any travelshoot and works pretty much all day and night. The romantic Blue Hour at the Louvre is beyond.


Best French castle photo spots near Paris (ideal for stylized shoots and intimate events)

Chateau de villette luxury marriage proposal in Paris

Chateau de Villette

Glamorous, elegant, and simply ideal for stylized shoots and luxury weddings.

Chateau de Vaux le Vicomte French castle pProposal

Chateau Vaux-le-Vicomte

Vaux le Vicomte is ridiculously amazing for luxury weddings, stylized shoots, pre-wedding, and other photo sessions.

We booked a family photoshoot with Laurent and had the most wonderful experience! Laurent knows the best places to take photos around Paris and how to use our time best. The pictures turned out amazing.

The Kiss Me in Paris team was friendly and accommodating: even before booking, they were forthcoming with terrific ideas and answered all my questions.

I highly recommend Kiss Me in Paris when you’re serious about professionalism, a memorable travelshoot, and stunning family photos worthy of framing.

Valeria Balderramos

What to wear to your Paris photoshoot

There are no rules regarding attire choices for your photo session in Paris. Your style, the type of shoot, and preferred photo spots collectively determine whether to go for casual, elegant, and, time permitting, a combination of both.

Remember that Paris is the world’s fashion capital … so dress to impress.

What to wear for a Paris photoshoot
Elegant Paris pre-wedding photoshoot at Cafe Le Nemours.

Here are a few suggestions:

  • Dress how you want to be seen in your pictures;
  • Choose attire that makes you feel confident and energizes you;
What to wear to a couple photo shoot
What you wear to a couple photoshoot affects your comfort and pictures.
  • Consider textures and colors that harmonize; 
  • Avoid stripes, which can result in moiré patterns in your photos. Instead, use bold prints and colors (red, orange, and yellow are eye-catching).

Tip
According to the London Image Institute, the hue of clothes can also affect your emotions and energy

How does the color of my outfit affect my photos
Understand how the color of outfits affects photos.
  • When you can’t quite make up your mind, err on the side of elegance. A classy black suit is timeless. Ladies, it’s impossible to go wrong with clean, soft pastels;
  • For awe-inspiring silhouettes, try dark, fitted outfits and avoid whites.
Eiffel Tower couple silhouette photo at sunrise at Trocadero
Eiffel Tower couple silhouette photos at sunrise at Trocadero require an early arrival and ideally tightly fitted, dark attire.
  • Bring a pair of flats or other comfy shoes to protect your feet when moving from one location to the next;
  • Arrive in layers on cold days and even consider bringing hand warmers;
Tip
Consider airy, flowy dresses for spring/summer shoots. Optionally, add a delicate bouquet or a fabulous hat.
Stylish engagement photos in Paris at Alexander III with Eiffel Tower view
Stylish engagement photos in Paris at Alexander III with Eiffel Tower view.