MonteMartre Photography Guide
My top spot in the city of love, cinema, and arts. Full of inspiration with each corner you turn and each cobblestone you step on. Paris feels endless, even though land-wise, it's not so big; it can feel huge. Montmartre is found in the 18th arrondissement and sits high on top of a hill that overlooks the city. So here are the top spots I recommend to photographers in MonteMartre. My gear used was both digital and film cameras. I will compare and contrast and share my favorite film role for this city.
Gear used :
Canon R6 Mark II (Digital)
Canon Rebel 2000 (Film)
Kodak Portra 400 (Film Used)
I didn't use a tripod or any extra lighting. I wanted this to be candid, and it's a lot to lug around.
MonteMartre
Montmartre inspired so many artists historically and presently. Musicians, Painters, and photographers all flock here to capture the imperfectly perfect streets. The past couple of years, many tourist have gathered here to visit the pink resturuant “ La Maison Rose”. The windmill “Moulin de la Galette” and the artist square. I still found times that felt quite in between the tourist chatter. I was blessed enough to visit during a rare snow in December. If you are someone who wants to capture snowfall, you will have a better chance in January.
The viewpoints are probably my favorite part of Montmartre. You can overlook the entire city of Paris lingering the steps and hills. This Birds Eye view is unbeatable, and free! The Eiffel Tower stretches high beyond the horizon, giving you an amazing photo opportunity. You can find this at the top of the Sacré Coeur Basilica slightly to the right. You will pass a dog park and you will most likely find it by the people taking in the views.
This is a side by side of Digital Vs Film in the same location.
They were taken on different days hence the lighting but I still wanted to include these differences.
This image was taken through a puddle capturing both the bird and the reflection of the park. If you find yourself at the bottom of the park near the Carosuels you might be able to capture this on a rainy day.
The “Sinking” house
The sinking house is also located in Monte Martre. If you get towards the fence line on the stairs and slightly tilt your camera, you can get this creative shot of the illusion of a sinking house.
Sunsets on the stairs
The sunsets are impeccable from the top. Many people flock here to listen to the live music and lock their love on the fenceline. But I enjoy people watching with my camera and overlooking the beautiful glow from the city. Even in the winter you can enjoy these sunsets. Unlike a little farther north where most days in winter are very cloudy.
Place du Tertre (Artist Square and surroundings)
You will approach the artist square where you can completely take a full circle and enjoy the art and shops that surround. This square dates back to the 12th century becoming the epicenter of modern art by the 19th century. Photographers will enjoy the hazy lighting that nightfall brings making for a nostalgic like photo almost like a painting.
Staircases
Take advantage of the many staircases leading up. they make beautiful photos that many movies have showed off.
These were some of my favorite locations in MonteMartre. I would love to talk or see some of your photographs you took in the area ! Please connect through my socials at Sightchaser.
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