Photo Workshop in Paris sightseeing Notre Dame and Louvre

If you’re someone who loves to capture the vibrant cityscapes, historic landmarks, or just want to improve your photography skills while in Paris, this Photo Workshop in Paris might be just the experience you’re after. Although I haven’t personally taken this tour, I’ve looked into what it offers and believe it could be a solid choice for travelers eager to combine sightseeing with learning.

What makes this workshop appealing? First, it’s a guided outdoor experience that focuses on photographing some of Paris’s most recognizable sights, like Notre Dame, the Louvre, and the Tuileries Gardens. Second, it’s led by two experienced fashion photographers, Ali and Fernando, who can offer real insight into framing, natural lighting, and other essential photography techniques.

On the flip side, one consideration is that this tour does not include interior visits—you’ll be shooting from outside, so if you’re hoping for interior shots of places like Notre Dame or the Louvre, you’ll need to look elsewhere. Also, it’s quite a short experience—just two hours—so it’s more about quick, impactful learning and capturing than deep dives into photography.

This experience is best suited for photography enthusiasts, casual shooters wanting to boost their skills, or travelers who prefer a guided, intimate tour rather than a large group. If you’re comfortable walking and want to see the city through your camera lens, this might be worth considering.

Key Points

• Learning and sightseeing combined: Perfect for those who want to improve their photography skills while exploring central Paris.
• Small group setting: Limited to 5 participants for a more personalized experience.
• Focus on exterior landmarks: No interior visits, so ideal for outdoor photography.
• Expert guidance: Two professional fashion photographers share tips and insights.
• Flexible gear: Works with smartphones, digital, and analog cameras.
• Short but impactful: 2-hour tour that covers a lot of iconic sights in a brief time.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Why This Tour Might Work for You

If you’re after a way to make your Paris trip more than just sightseeing, this workshop offers a hands-on approach to photography without the hassle of dealing with large crowds or complicated logistics. You’ll walk through some of the city’s most photogenic spots, stopping at curated locations to practice framing and lighting. It’s a nice way to combine learning with sightseeing, especially if you enjoy outdoor photography and want some guidance.

What really sets this apart is the personalized touch—the group size is capped at five, which means the instructors can give tailored tips. The guides, Ali and Fernando, are not only talented photographers but also active educators, sharing insights from their experience working with media and brands, and teaching at colleges in Paris.

The Itinerary: A Walk Through Paris’s Photogenic Landmarks

The tour kicks off at Saint Michel Place, a lively hub in the Latin Quarter. From there, you’ll stroll to several key spots, each offering unique photography opportunities:

Latin Quarter

This area is a favorite for its narrow streets and historic vibe. Here, you’ll likely find charming alleyways and classic Parisian architecture to frame. The guide will help you spot interesting compositions and natural lighting options.

Notre Dame Cathedral

You’ll stop outside this iconic Gothic marvel for about 15 minutes. While you won’t go inside, the exterior provides plenty of dramatic angles, especially with the detailed facade and flying buttresses. The reviews mention that participants appreciated the chance to learn how to capture the grandeur without needing interior access.

More Great Tours Nearby

Pont Neuf

The oldest standing bridge in Paris offers great views of the Seine and the Île de la Cité. Expect to learn about framing landscape shots and capturing reflections on the water.

Palais-Royal Gardens

This peaceful oasis is perfect for practicing portraiture and landscape shots. The guide will likely point out how to work with natural light and depth of field here.

The Louvre & Tuileries Gardens

Both are stunning outdoor locations. The Louvre’s exterior provides an impressive backdrop, and the Tuileries Gardens are full of sculptures, fountains, and manicured lawns—all ideal for creative compositions.

Final Stop: Arc de Triomphe du Carrousel

Ending here, you’ll have the chance to capture a majestic monument against the Paris sky.

What to Expect During the Workshop

The tour starts with a brief introduction in front of the Saint Michel Fountain, a perfect spot to set the tone with some initial shots. Over the next two hours, you’ll walk at a comfortable pace, stopping frequently to shoot and receive personalized tips. The guides focus on key photography concepts like framing, lighting, depth of field, and composition.

Since the group is small, you’ll get plenty of individual attention, which is crucial if you’re trying to improve your skills or just want some feedback on your shots. The guides are fluent in both English and Spanish, making it accessible for international travelers.

Keep in mind that you will need to bring your own camera gear—smartphones work just as well as professional cameras. The workshop encourages everyone to enjoy Paris through their lens, regardless of experience level.

The Real Experience: What People Are Saying

Though the reviews are limited, they give some insight into what you can expect. One participant from South Africa mentioned that the tour helped them find “some truly hidden gems” they might have missed on their own, highlighting the value of expert guidance in unfamiliar surroundings.

Another reviewer from Norway called the guide “hyggelig og kunnskapsrik” (friendly and knowledgeable), praising the tips on photography and the interesting locations visited. However, not all reviews are glowing—one participant from the US felt that they would have appreciated more hands-on guidance to better capture the sites, as their final photos didn’t quite reflect the potential of the scenery.

This feedback suggests that, while the tour is informative and enjoyable, it might require some prior familiarity with photography or a willingness to practice independently afterward.

Pricing and Value

At $111 per person, this workshop isn’t the cheapest activity in Paris, but it offers value for those keen on photography and wanting a guided outdoor experience. Given the expert guidance, scenic stops, and small group size, you’re paying for quality interactions and tailored tips rather than just sightseeing.

Since it’s a two-hour outdoor walk, you’re getting a quick but focused immersion into outdoor photography, making it a good addition for those who already have plans to explore the city but want to elevate their photos.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This experience suits travelers who enjoy outdoor activities and want to learn how to take better photos without the fuss of inside visits or complex setups. It’s great for amateur photographers, smartphone users, or casual enthusiasts looking to up their game with guidance from professionals.

If you’re someone who loves to capture stunning views and learn practical tips in a relaxed setting, this tour will be a good fit. However, if you’re seeking inside access or a more intensive photography course, you should consider other options.

Final Thoughts

This Photo Workshop in Paris offers an engaging, scenic way to combine sightseeing with skill-building. The small size and expert guides make it a more personalized experience, which many travelers find appealing. The focus on exterior landmarks means you’ll leave with a collection of beautiful, well-composed photos and some useful techniques to keep practicing long after the tour ends.

While it’s not a comprehensive photography course or a deep dive into Paris’s interiors, it’s a practical, enjoyable way to see the city through your camera lens. It’s especially well-suited for those who love outdoor photography and want a guided, friendly environment to improve their shots.

If you’re ready to turn your Paris trip into a visual adventure, this workshop could be just the right spark to get you shooting more thoughtfully and creatively.

FAQs

Can I participate if I only have a smartphone?
Absolutely. The workshop welcomes all types of cameras, including smartphones, and the guides are happy to offer tips suitable for any gear.

Does the tour go inside any buildings?
No, this is an outdoor sightseeing tour. You’ll photograph landmarks from outside, which means no interior access.

What should I bring?
Just your camera or smartphone. It’s best to come prepared with your usual photography gear, as there’s no equipment provided.

How physically demanding is the tour?
The tour involves walking and standing at various outdoor spots for short periods, so it requires a reasonable level of mobility. It’s not suitable for those with mobility impairments or who cannot walk long distances comfortably.

Are the guides available in languages other than English?
Yes, the guides speak both English and Spanish, making the experience accessible to a wider range of travelers.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering some flexibility if your schedule shifts.

If you’re looking for a relaxed, scenic way to sharpen your photography skills while experiencing Paris’s best outdoor views, this workshop might just hit the spot. Just remember to bring your camera, dress comfortably, and get ready to capture the city’s captivating essence.

You can check availability for your dates here: