Education
Shooting from Above: A Guide to Getting High
By EyeEm Team - 4 min read
9 ideas for finding spectacular views and a whole new perspective
What drives photographers to climb the iffiest of ledges and procure sweaty palms on high-rise rooftops? Blame the Icarus instinct in us all of us, driving our curiosity to survey the world from above, just to snapa photo for those on street-level to see.
Getting to high places is as easy as picking up a tour book, but it can also be as fun as simply pointing your finger on a map and going there. So how do you find these places? Here are 9 tips for finding the most spectacular and creatively inspiring high-up views wherever you are.
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1. STAIRS
Finding the perfect staircase can make for the most gratifying of urban geometry shots. Find winding, photo-worthy staircases in museums, libraries, universities, and hotels. Anywhere that looks interesting on the outside most likely looks interesting on the inside, too.
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2. EXPLORE
This one’s as easy as going outside and looking around. See a hill? Go there. Just make sure to bring good shoes, and a flashlight if it’s getting dark.
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3. BRIDGES
When you find the perfect spot, aim straight down for a clean angle. You might even think about using an extender or tripod to hold your camera directly from above.
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4. ROOFTOPS
Urban exploration means meandering hallways, opening doors you might not always dare to open, and climbing stairs until you get all the way to the top. This might take craftiness, but when you get there, the view will be worth it.
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5. CLIMB
For the athletically inclined or those up for the challenge, climb. Climb what? Rock-sides, brick walls, mountains, or go spelunking! Make sure to do this the safe way. Read up or learn from an instructor if you need to.
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6. TAKE A RIDE
Think about all the vehicles out there designed to take you high–there are so many! Hot air balloons, double-decker busses, ski lifts, and roller coasters. You could probably think of a few more.
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7. HIGH-RISES
Somewhere new? Pick up a local guide, and find the highest building in town. Make sure to catch the view from more than one side of the building. Each side will have its own spectacular perspective.
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8. VISTA POINTS
Every city has them. Think of the places that have binoculars you can toss a coin into. That’s the one! Get there at sunrise to avoid the crowds and catch rich golden hour light.
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9. INDOOR BALCONIES
These can be unexpectedly majorly fun to shoot from. Malls, hotels, museums are good places to scope out stunning indoor geometry. Play around with how people move within the space for an extra creative push.
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MORE INSPIRATION
Scroll on for even more spectacular shots from above, all photographed by the EyeEm community.
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Header Image by @somedopeassurl