You’ll find bridges of all shapes and sizes around the world. These structures allow us to travel faster and easier from one place to another. But just because they are functional doesn’t mean they can’t have an extraordinary design. In fact, some of the world’s most famous bridges are designed by world-renown architects. They are designed with aesthetic factors in mind, luring photographers and tourists from around the world.
If you are into architecture photography, you might be interested in capturing the world’s most beautiful bridges. Below, check out the list of the best bridges in the world for photography.
Pont Alexandre III, Paris, France
Dubbed the most romantic city in the world, Paris has plenty of architectural wonders that exudes romance. While most photographers would head straight to the Eiffel Tower, other less popular attractions are worth capturing. One of these is the Pont Alexandre III, a stunning deck arc bridge along the Seine River. Constructed in 1896, this bridge is the most ornate and extravagant of all bridges in Paris. From here, you can take photos of some of the city’s most beautiful buildings, including the Eiffel Tower. The best time to capture this elegant bridge is at sunset.
Tower Bridge, London, England
The Tower Bridge is one of London’s most popular attractions, and rightfully so. This striking bridge features Neo-Gothic architecture built in 1886. When the bridge opened in 1894, it was dubbed the most sophisticated bridge in the world. Today, this iconic bridge draws tourists and photographers and allows pedestrians and automobiles to cross the River Thames. What makes the Tower Bridge even more interesting is that it can be raised to an 86-degree angle to allow river traffic to pass through. When taking photos of the bridge, you’ll also have plenty of opportunities to capture the backdrop of modern London, from the Canary Wharf to the City Hall or the Shard.
Sydney Harbor Bridge, Sydney, Australia
Whether it’s sunrise or sunset, the iconic Sydney Harbor Bridge is a dream to capture for most photographers. This iconic architecture looks magnificent regardless of which angle you capture it. However, if you want to capture the best view possible, wake up early to catch the sunrise. Observe the sky as it magically transforms into peachy hues and take as many shots as you can. If you’re not a morning person, you can capture the bridge at any time of the day. Get creative in looking for the perfect compositions while combining nature and modern architecture.
Golden Gate Bridge, California, USA
The Golden Gate Bridge is, no doubt, one of the most photographed bridges in the world. But where should you go to capture that perfect view? There are various locations in San Francisco where you can take photos of this famous bridge. But for the most spectacular shot, head to the Golden Gate Vista Point South. This area is right behind the Welcome Center and where most tourists would stop to get a quick photo op before strolling across the bridge. If you want to capture a close-up photo of the bridge, walk through the pedestrian walkway and take a close-up photo of the bridge from here. From here, you can also take amazing shots of Alcatraz Island and other parts of San Francisco.
Brooklyn Bridge, New York, USA
Your trip to The Big Apple won’t be complete without a visit to the Brooklyn Bridge. This iconic bridge is another famous bridge in the States that has been photographed over a million times! Completed in 1883, the Brooklyn Bridge is the first bridge built out of steel wire. Today, this bridge is a popular haven for photographers of all kinds, from wedding photographers to architecture photographers. When taking photos of the bridge, consider the time of the day as this will affect the sun’s positioning. Sunset will give your photos a warm glow, while sunrise will produce a cleaner and more neutral hue.
Bosphorus Bridge, Istanbul, Turkey
The Bosphorus Bridge is the most famous of all the three bridges spanning Turkey’s Bosphorus Strait. This strait divides Europe and Asia, connecting the Ortaköy neighborhood in the Europe part and the Beylerbeyi neighborhood in the Asian part. Renamed the “July Martyrs Bridge” in honor of the civilians who resisted the attempted coup, this steel suspension bridge looks beautiful any time of the day. However, it is even more spectacular at night as it’s illuminated with computerized LED lights that change colors and patterns.
Ponte Di Rialto Bridge, Venice, Italy
The Ponte Di Rialto Bridge in Venice may not be as magnificent as the other famous bridges in the world, but it has a fascinating history behind it. Built during the 16th Century, the Rialto Bridge is the oldest bridge across the Grand Canal and is one of the most renowned architectural and engineering marvels of the Renaissance period. Today, this iconic bridge is a point of interest for photographers visiting Venice. For the best shot, visit at sunrise or late in the evening when the crowds of tourists begin to disappear.
Victoria Falls Bridge, Livingston, Zambia
Zambia is famous not only for the spectacular Victoria Falls but also because of the iconic Victoria Falls Bridge. While it is the stunning natural scenery that will take your breath away, the Victoria Falls bridge is sure to impress you, especially if you are into architecture photography. Built in 1904, the bridge connects the towns of Victoria Falls in Zimbabwe and Livingstone in Zambia. It is 128 meters high and 198 meters long and built over the second gorge of Victoria Falls. Taking aerial photos of the bridge is a dream for many photographers. Unfortunately, drone filming of Victoria Falls is strictly prohibited. Nevertheless, there are various vantage points at the Victoria Falls National Park that will allow you to take good photos of the bridge. You can also walk along the bridge, and from here, capture the stunning scenery of Victoria Falls and its surrounding.