Riga offers a fantastic setting for photography lovers. Its well-preserved medieval architecture, colorful streets, and iconic landmarks create picture-perfect moments at every turn. Whether you’re after professional-quality portraits, candid explorations, or vintage film shots, Riga has a variety of options to suit your style. We especially like the Riga Private Photoshoot Tour (see more), which offers a personalized, expert-led session that captures the city’s essence with up to 50 edited photos—a great souvenir of your trip.
What makes Riga stand out for photography? Its harmonious blend of Gothic spires, Art Nouveau facades, and lively squares makes it an ideal backdrop. Plus, many tours include interesting stories and local insights, enriching your photo collection. The city’s photogenic spots are close together, making it easy to explore in a relaxed, fun way with a professional guide. For those interested in a mix of exploration and top-quality shots, several tours on this list will fit the bill.
Below, we’ve compiled the six best photography experiences in Riga—each offering different angles on capturing the city’s charm. From private, personalized sessions to vintage film photography, there’s something here for every photography enthusiast.
1. Riga Private Photoshoot Tour
This personalized Riga Private Photoshoot Tour is perfect for travelers wanting professional-quality photos with a local touch. For about $160, your personal photographer guides you through Riga’s Old Town, focusing on iconic sights like the Laima Clock, Freedom Monument, and the Powder Tower. The tour lasts about 1 hour 30 minutes and includes a gallery of up to 50 edited pictures sent within three days.
What makes this tour stand out is the combination of a sightseeing walk with a professional photographer who knows exactly where to find the best backdrops. You’ll stop at seven key locations, each with free admission, ensuring your experience is both culturally rich and visually stunning. The guide also shares stories and facts about Riga’s history, adding context to your photos.
Guests consistently praise Uri’s friendly demeanor and skill behind the camera. One reviewer calls it “a wonderful experience” and appreciates how the photos helped them remember their trip vividly. This tour is ideal for couples, families, or solo travelers eager for a personalized, high-quality photo collection. It’s a bit pricier, but considering the number and quality of images, it offers excellent value.
Bottom Line: If you want a customized photoshoot with a local expert and a large gallery of professional shots, this tour is a top pick.
2. Private 1H Riga Old Town Photoshoot & Exploration
For those seeking a quick, scenic photo session that captures Riga’s charm, the Private 1H Riga Old Town Photoshoot & Exploration hits the mark. Starting at the historic House of the Black Heads, this one-hour tour guides you through key spots like Dome Square and other picturesque corners. It’s designed for couples or small groups wanting quality photos without a lengthy commitment.
This tour emphasizes professional-quality photos in classic settings. The guide will help you pose and find the best angles, ensuring your pictures look polished. It’s also a chance to discover some of Riga’s most photogenic views in a short time. This tour is particularly suitable for travelers with limited time or those who want a snapshot of Riga’s Old Town, perfect for social media or holiday cards.
The tour is flexible—rain or shine doesn’t matter—and you’ll leave with images you can cherish. Since it’s a private experience, you get personalized attention, making it a good option for couples, small families, or anyone wanting a quick but memorable photoshoot.
Bottom Line: If your time is tight but you want professional photos in Riga’s charming Old Town, this one-hour tour offers quick, high-quality results.
3. 1H Private Photoshoot in Old Town of Riga
This 1H Private Photoshoot in Old Town of Riga is a straightforward, personalized session tailored for small groups or couples. At just over $150, it includes a one-hour walk through Riga’s historic streets, with a professional photographer capturing your moments. You will get 30-40 beautifully edited photos afterward, making it a great keepsake.
What makes this tour stand out is its focus on capturing authentic moments in the city’s most charming alleys and squares. The guide shares some local insights along the way, enriching your experience. If winter is in the air, the tour can include the Christmas Market, adding a romantic winter glow to your photos. This makes it ideal for holiday trips or romantic getaways.
Guests rave about the customization of the shoot and the quality of the photos, describing it as “worth every penny.” It’s well suited for couples, friends, or small groups wanting a personal, intimate session. Since it’s private, you have flexibility in timing and locations.
Bottom Line: For a personalized, flexible photoshoot with a professional, this tour delivers memorable images of Riga’s Old Town.
4. Private Photoshoot in Riga 45min with Exploration
If you’re interested in combining exploration and photography, this 45-minute photoshoot with exploration offers a delightful option. Starting at the House of the Black Heads, you’ll visit landmarks like St. Peter’s Church, Dome Square, the Swedish Gate, and the Freedom Monument, stopping briefly at each for photos.
This tour is a good choice for travelers who want to see Riga’s highlights while also getting quality shots. The guide helps you find the best angles around these famous sites, making the most of your limited time. It’s perfect for visitors who enjoy walking and want a mix of sightseeing and photography. The tour is suitable for winter, but remember to dress warmly, as it’s outdoors.
Guests have noted how the stops at the main landmarks make this an efficient way to get a broad overview and pictures of Riga’s historic core. The price point reflects the quick, focused experience, ideal for those with a tight schedule.
Bottom Line: Great for travelers who want to see Riga’s main sights and leave with professional photos, all in about an hour.
5. Bachelor Photoshoot & Exploration in Riga Old Town
Planning a bachelor party? This Bachelor Photoshoot & Exploration in Riga Old Town is tailored for groups celebrating together. The tour lasts about an hour and covers multiple iconic spots like Krāmu iela, Dome Square, and Bastejkalna Park, finishing at the Latvian National Opera.
The focus here is on fun, lively shots perfect for bachelor parties. The guide will help you find secret spots in Old Town that are less crowded but equally picturesque. It’s an excellent way to combine sightseeing, candid shots, and group photos—creating a memorable album of your celebration. The itinerary is flexible, and the tour ends at the Freedom Monument, giving a sense of accomplishment.
Reviews highlight that the shoot is fully customizable, and the photographer is skilled at capturing lively moments. It’s best suited for groups wanting a mix of exploration and impressive photos that showcase the spirit of Riga.
Bottom Line: If you’re celebrating a bachelor party and want lively, fun photos with a local guide, this tour hits the right note.
6. Riga: Photoshoot on Old Large Format Camera
For photography enthusiasts interested in vintage techniques, this Photoshoot on Old Large Format Camera offers a rare experience. It’s the only tour that involves real analog photography using silver gelatin media, with visits to a self-built garden studio and a collection of old film cameras.
During this session, you’ll see the process of creating highly detailed, timeless images. The large-format camera provides a different perspective than digital, emphasizing patience and craftsmanship. This session is perfect for those curious about traditional film photography or wanting a unique souvenir that stands out from typical digital shots.
The tour’s uniqueness lies in its focus on the tactile aspects of traditional camera work, and it’s a rare opportunity to witness and participate in the process. It’s best suited for serious photography buffs or anyone wanting an authentic, artistic experience.
Bottom Line: If you’re passionate about film photography or want a truly unique souvenir, this session is a compelling choice.
How to Choose the Right Photography Experience in Riga
When selecting the best tour for you, consider your budget, time, and what kind of images you want. If you prefer personalized, professional portraits, the Riga Private Photoshoot Tour offers the most comprehensive package. For a quick snapshot in historic streets, the 1H Old Town Photoshoot or the 45-minute exploration version are excellent options. Planning a bachelor party? The Bachelor Photoshoot creates lively group shots.
For a more technical or vintage experience, the Large Format Camera Photoshoot offers a rare, hands-on look at traditional film photography. Keep in mind weather, group size, and your particular interests when booking.
Booking early is recommended, especially in peak seasons like summer or winter holidays, to secure availability and avoid missing out on the perfect shot.
Riga provides a diverse array of photography experiences—from intimate, customized sessions to vintage film shoots. Whether you want a professional portrait, lively group photos, or a rare film camera adventure, Riga’s photography tours deliver memorable images and stories. For most travelers, investing in a quality private photoshoot offers a lasting souvenir. But even quick explorations can yield stunning results—so pick what suits your style and schedule, and book early to make sure your camera captures Riga’s charm at its best.