9 of the best cities for street photography
I have had the pleasure of traveling to many cities to practice street photography. In 50-plus countries across several continents, I’ve seen the good and the bad. To help the aspiring travel street photographer, I’m sharing my experience and giving you the best cities for street photography.
Key takeaways
The likes of London and New York are awesome, but they’re often over-hyped as the best cities for street photography.
Several of the best places a street photographer can visit are inexpensive and accessible.
Doing street photography in your home city can offer a special charm thanks to a deeper connection with your community.
Here are the best cities for street photography
I will go into more detail about what each city has to offer a street photographer and why you should consider visiting them. First, here is an overview of the current best cities for street photography.
Istanbul
Bogota
Mexico City
Vienna
Your home city
Chaing Mai
Panama City
London
New York
Istanbul
I first visited Istanbul in 2023 and instantly fell in love with the city. From Karakoy to Kidikoy the city has it all. Chic, artistic folks, to the rebellious youth, there’s no shortage of cool subjects to photograph. Not to mention, the cats. The streets are littered with wild cats, most of which are happy to stand in front of your lens.
The city is divided into two sides: European and Asian. The European side will suit modernists, whereas the Asian side is for anyone who prefers to immerse themselves in rich traditional culture. And, when you’re needing a break from making photographs, you can stop off for some delicious Baklava and some Turkish coffee.
2.Bogota, Colombia
“Is Colombia dangerous for street photography?”. It’s a question people often ask me due to horror stories they read and watch about this beautiful country. The answer is, Colombia is safe for street photography, if you go to the right places — this is true anywhere.
Bogota is my favorite spot because it’s got those huge city vibes. People express themselves and are not afraid to be different - perfect for cool street photographs. La Calandria is my favorite spot because of the colorful streets and huge footfall. But, Bogota has many cool areas for you to check out.
3.CDMX, Mexico
In 2021 I found myself in a deep creative rut. For reasons unknown, I thought street photography was done and my flame had faded. Then I went to Mexico City, and in almost an instant the fire was reignited and my love for the craft was stronger than ever.
There’s an atmosphere in the city that encourages creativity. The streets are full of colorful trees and flowers, the people dress extravagantly and there’s plenty of diversity. People welcome street photography and there’s seldom any confrontation or negative vibes toward the art form. I love it, and of course, I love the food as well.
4. Vienna, Austria
I apologize in advance for the humble brag. But, I was recently part of a street photography exhibition in the Leica Gallery, Vienna. It was my first time in the Austrian capital and, wow, is it magical. The city itself is like an art museum; picturesque and built to perfection.
The architecture is stunning, the paths take you on a magical journey and the fashion is out for all to see. I did not spend much time there, but it made such a lasting impression that it quickly became one of the best cities for street photography. Top tip: carry cash. Many places, even in the center, have a cash only policy.
5. Your home city
I understand not everyone lives in what society would consider a glamorous city. However, that doesn’t mean it can’t be one of the best places for street photography. I’m originally from Leeds, England and I recently went back for an extended period, after almost a decade away.
This city is full of my people. I understand the culture, I’m deeply connected to all its quirks. I never thought doing street photography in Leeds would give me as much joy as it did. However, using my skills to document the streets that built me filled me with happiness. They’re my people, and I love them. Think about that for your own city.
6.Chiang Mai, Thailand
The best time to visit Chiang Mai for street photography is in April. That’s when Songkran is, which is Thai New Year. The streets are packed with thousands of people, and guess what they’re doing; having a massive water fight. Water Guns and buckets are in the hands of everyone as they have fun on the streets of Chaing Mai.
It’s one of the most unique scenes I have witnessed and it lasts for three to four days. Everyone is in good spirits and it’s all good fun. It’s also an awesome chance to get some fresh images for your social media. Just make sure you have a water resistant camera or pray that people go easy on you when you’re in their line of…water.
7. Panama City, Panama
In general, Panama City isn’t one of my favorite places. It’s good but for the most part it lacks the character I look for when choosing a city for street photography. However, there’s a small spot which has everything one would need to create street photographs: Casco Viejo, otherwise known as the old quarter.
The vibrant streets are alive in this area and it’s full of people from all over the world. It’s trendy, traditional, and perfect for making street images. From public weddings to local children being care free, there’s never a dull moment in Casco Viejo. You only need a day or two, and that’s enough to get plenty of frames.
8. London, England
People often hail London as one of the best cities for street photography. It’s true, it’s awesome. It’s difficult for me not to mention it as it always be the place I cut my teeth in street photography. I spent years learning about the craft while exploring one of the most diverse cities in the world.
London always felt like a magical land to me. It’s full of cool people, from all backgrounds and cultures and it feels like you have the whole world condensed into one relatively small space. Do I think it’s overhyped? Yes, because as I have shown there are other cities. But I would be lying if I did not say it’s one of the best.
9. New York City, United States
Like London, people often tend to hyper focus on New York City, hailing it as the Mecca of street photography. I think a lot of it is hyperbole, but that said, it’s a fantastic place to shoot street photography.
The main selling point for me is the community. There are so many street photographers and even if you’re there for a short break, you can also find someone to connect with. Manhattan was the spot for me, mainly for the sheer amount of people. But The Bronx and Brooklyn are also cool spots to do some street photography.
Signing off
Now you know the best cities for street photography, the best thing to do is book your next trip. Of course, I know there are other cities that can offer everything a street photographer would want, but I don’t want to recommend somewhere I have not been to myself to take street photographs.
I am curious though, what are your favorite places for street photography? Let me know in the comments. Thanks for reading.
FAQs
What is the best city for street photography in the US?
Traditionally, New York is known as the best city for street photography in the US. It’s also the home to many masters of street photography including Joel Meyerowitz and Bruce Gilden.
What is the best city in Europe for street photography?
London is quickly becoming the best city in Europe for street photography. This is due to a thriving street photography community and looser regulations when compared to Paris, for example.
What city is known for photography?
New York, London, Paris and Tokyo are well-known for street photography. However, people should also consider cities like Istanbul, Vienna and Mexico City as top spots for street photography.
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