Best places to photograph in Singapore

“Photography is a way of feeling, of touching, of loving. What you have caught on film is captured forever… It remembers little things, long after you have forgotten everything.”

– Aaron Siskind

Singapore is a city that captivates with its rich culture, impressive architecture, and breathtaking landscapes. As a photographer, I am always on the lookout for the best places to capture unforgettable moments. After exploring every nook and cranny, I have curated a list of the top spots for photography in Singapore, where you can unleash your creativity and capture stunning images that will last a lifetime.

From the vibrant streets of Haji Lane to the futuristic Supertree Grove at Gardens by the Bay, each location offers a unique blend of beauty and charm. Get ready to discover the best photography spots that Singapore has to offer. Let’s embark on this visual journey together!

Key Takeaways:

• Explore the colorful shophouses and street art at Haji Lane for an Instagram-worthy experience.
• Visit Gardens by the Bay for breathtaking shots of the Supertree Grove and the lush Cloud Forest.
• Head to Marina Bay Sands for panoramic skyline views and stunning photographs.
• Immerse yourself in the beauty of nature at the Singapore Botanic Gardens and its enchanting National Orchid Garden.
• Capture the timeless elegance of Raffles Hotel and its surrounding colonial architecture.

Haji Lane

As a photography enthusiast, I always seek out unique and picturesque locations. One place that never fails to captivate me is Haji Lane in Singapore. Located in the vibrant Kampong Glam neighborhood, Haji Lane is a treasure trove for photographers, offering a delightful blend of colorful shophouses and captivating street art.

Walking down Haji Lane feels like stepping into a time capsule. The charming 19th-century shophouses, adorned with vibrant murals, create a visually stunning backdrop for your photographs. Each shophouse boasts its own personality, with unique color palettes and intricate details. Whether you’re a fan of bold and vibrant tones or prefer subtle pastel hues, you’ll find a photo-worthy spot in every corner.

One of the highlights of Haji Lane is the impressive street art. The walls along the lane are adorned with imaginative and thought-provoking murals, showcasing the incredible talent of local artists. From abstract designs to whimsical characters, the street art adds an extra layer of creativity to the already vibrant atmosphere of Haji Lane.

Exploring Haji Lane is like embarking on a visual adventure. The juxtaposition of the historical shophouses and contemporary street art creates a captivating contrast that is sure to make your photographs stand out. It’s no wonder that Haji Lane has become one of the most Instagrammable places in Singapore, attracting photographers from around the world.

Capturing the Essence of Haji Lane

When photographing Haji Lane, there are a few tips that can help you capture the essence of this unique location:

• Experiment with angles: Haji Lane offers endless opportunities for creative compositions. Try capturing the colorful shophouses from different perspectives, whether it’s from below, above, or through intriguing frames.
• Focus on the details: The intricate architectural details on the shophouses and the vibrant strokes of the murals deserve to be highlighted. Get up close and personal to capture the textures and patterns that make Haji Lane so special.
• Play with colors: Haji Lane is a color lover’s paradise. Use the vibrant palette of the shophouses and street art to your advantage. Complement or contrast the colors in your compositions to create visually striking photographs.
• Capture the atmosphere: Haji Lane is not just about aesthetics; it’s also about the lively atmosphere. Candid shots of people exploring the lane, enjoying a cup of coffee in one of the charming cafes, or admiring the artwork can add a sense of life and energy to your photographs.

Haji Lane is a hidden gem in Singapore, offering a mix of history, art, and vibrant colors. Whether you’re an avid photographer or simply enjoy capturing beautiful moments, a visit to Haji Lane is a must. Immerse yourself in the charm of the colorful shophouses, marvel at the stunning street art, and unleash your creativity through the lens of your camera.

Gardens by the Bay

Gardens by the Bay is an iconic attraction in Singapore that provides endless photography opportunities. The Supertree Grove, with its towering vertical gardens, offers a futuristic and otherworldly backdrop for photos. The Cloud Forest, an indoor rainforest, provides a lush and picturesque setting. Don’t miss the nightly light show at the Supertree Grove for a magical photo opportunity.

When exploring Gardens by the Bay, be prepared to be awe-struck by the magnificent Supertree Grove. These towering structures, reaching heights of up to 50 meters, are adorned with over 162,900 plants, creating a mesmerizing vertical garden. From the suspended walkway among the supertrees, you’ll have panoramic views of the entire garden, as well as the surrounding cityscape.

Another must-visit spot within Gardens by the Bay is the Cloud Forest. Step into a world of mist and lush greenery as you wander through this indoor mountain covered in vegetation. Admire the stunning waterfall that cascades down the mountain and explore the diverse flora that thrives in this unique environment.

As the sun sets, the Supertree Grove comes alive with a captivating light and sound show. Witness the awe-inspiring display of color and music as the supertrees transform into a mesmerizing spectacle. Be sure to capture this enchanting moment with your camera.

Photography Tips for Gardens by the Bay

• Visit during golden hour or blue hour for the best lighting conditions and atmospheric effects.
• Experiment with different angles and perspectives to capture unique shots of the supertrees and the Cloud Forest.
• Utilize the leading lines created by the supertrees to draw viewers’ eyes towards the focal point of your photo.
• Take advantage of the reflections in the surrounding water features to add depth and interest to your compositions.
• Consider using a wide-angle lens to capture the grand scale of the gardens or a macro lens to showcase the intricate details of the plant life.

Marina Bay Sands

Marina Bay Sands is a must-visit location for photographers looking for breathtaking skyline views. The three towers connected by the Sands Skypark offer panoramic vistas of the city and the iconic Gardens by the Bay. While access to the famous infinity pool is reserved for hotel guests, the public areas around Marina Bay Sands also provide stunning photo spots.

Standing tall as a prominent architectural icon in Singapore, Marina Bay Sands boasts a world-class rooftop pool that offers unparalleled views of the city’s skyline. From this vantage point, you can capture the magnitude and beauty of Singapore’s urban landscape in a single frame. The juxtaposition of the modern skyscrapers against the lush greenery of Gardens by the Bay creates a picture-perfect backdrop for any photographer.

The Sands Skypark

One of the highlights of Marina Bay Sands is the Sands Skypark, a sprawling rooftop deck that connects the three towers. Here, you can capture stunning panoramic views of Singapore’s skyline, showcasing the city’s impressive architecture and vibrant energy. The elevated perspective from the Skypark allows you to capture unique compositions and admire the urban landscape from above.

Public Areas

While the infinity pool may be off-limits to non-guests, there are plenty of public areas around Marina Bay Sands that provide equally stunning photo opportunities. Explore the waterfront promenade or take a walk along the nearby Helix Bridge to capture different angles of the iconic hotel towers. Don’t forget to visit the nearby Merlion Park, where you can photograph the famous half-lion, half-fish statue with Marina Bay Sands as the backdrop.

Photography Tips

• Visit Marina Bay Sands during sunrise or sunset for the best lighting conditions and a golden glow over the city skyline.
• Experiment with different compositions by incorporating the reflection of the buildings in the nearby Marina Bay or the famous ArtScience Museum.
• Try long exposure photography at night to capture the city lights and create stunning light trails.
• Explore the surrounding areas and find unique vantage points to capture Marina Bay Sands from different perspectives.
• Consider using a wide-angle lens or a telephoto lens to capture the grandeur of the skyline or focus on specific architectural details, respectively.

Singapore Botanic Gardens

The Singapore Botanic Gardens is a botanical paradise and a UNESCO Heritage Site. This sprawling garden is home to thousands of plant species and offers a tranquil setting for photography. The National Orchid Garden within the Botanic Gardens is a must-visit for its stunning orchid displays. The lush greenery and scenic spots make it a popular location for family photoshoots and nature photography.

Key Highlights:

• Explore the lush greenery and vibrant flora that the Singapore Botanic Gardens has to offer.
• Visit the National Orchid Garden to capture the beauty of the exquisite orchid displays.
• Find serene and scenic spots perfect for family photoshoots or capturing the essence of nature.
• Immerse yourself in the tranquil atmosphere of this UNESCO Heritage Site while exploring its various themed gardens.

Raffles Hotel

The iconic Raffles Hotel is a Singaporean institution and a favorite spot for photographers. Its elegant colonial-style architecture and lush tropical gardens provide a picturesque backdrop for capturing stunning images. The hotel’s rich history and cultural significance make it an ideal subject for photography enthusiasts.

The Raffles Hotel is a historic landmark that showcases the charm and grandeur of the colonial era. Its intricate detailing and classic design make it a popular destination for those seeking to capture the essence of Singapore’s past. The hotel’s facade, adorned with beautiful arches and ornate balconies, serves as a reminder of the city-state’s architectural heritage.

Explore the hotel’s arcade, filled with boutique shops and charming cafes, to soak in the ambiance and uncover hidden photographic opportunities. As you wander through the corridors, you may come across plaques that share intriguing stories and anecdotes about the hotel’s history, adding an extra layer of depth and interest to your photography experience.

Adjacent to the Raffles Hotel is the National Gallery, another landmark worth visiting for photography enthusiasts. The gallery houses an impressive collection of modern and contemporary art, providing a dynamic contrast to the hotel’s colonial architecture. The juxtaposition of old and new is a unique sight that presents endless creative possibilities for photographers.

The Helix Bridge

One of Singapore’s most iconic landmarks, the Helix Bridge is renowned not only for its functional purpose as a pedestrian crossing but also for its breathtaking design. This architectural masterpiece is a true marvel, featuring a unique double-helix structure that symbolizes the growth and progress of Singapore.

Constructed with advanced materials and techniques, the Helix Bridge showcases a futuristic design that seamlessly blends innovation with elegance. As you walk across the bridge, you’ll be captivated by the intricate steel meshwork that forms the helixes, creating a visually stunning experience.

For photography enthusiasts, the Helix Bridge presents an incredible opportunity to capture Singapore’s city views in a truly remarkable way. Whether it’s during the day when the bridge offers panoramic vistas of the skyline or at night when the LED lighting illuminates the structure, every angle offers a unique and mesmerizing shot.

Don’t miss the chance to include the Helix Bridge in your photography itinerary. Its combination of futuristic design and breathtaking city views will surely leave a lasting impression and make for unforgettable photographs.

Other Noteworthy Locations

In addition to the main photography spots mentioned above, Singapore offers several other noteworthy locations for photography. Explore these unique and captivating places to add diversity to your photography portfolio:

1. Buddha Tooth Relic Temple

   The Buddha Tooth Relic Temple is a peaceful Buddhist temple located in the heart of Chinatown. This architectural gem is not only a spiritual sanctuary but also offers a stunning rooftop garden that provides a serene atmosphere for photography. Capture the intricate details of the temple’s ornate decorations and immerse yourself in its tranquil ambiance.

2. ArtScience Museum

   The ArtScience Museum, shaped like a blooming lotus flower, is a must-visit for photography enthusiasts. This iconic landmark showcases mind-blowing art and technology exhibitions, making it a visual delight. With its unique architecture and mesmerizing displays, the museum offers endless opportunities to capture striking and thought-provoking images.

3. Clarke Quay

   Clarke Quay is a vibrant riverside destination that should not be missed for photography. This lively area is adorned with colorful shophouses, bustling restaurants, and a picturesque waterfront. Capture the lively atmosphere, vibrant reflections on the water, and take a boat ride to appreciate Clarke Quay from a different perspective.

4. House of Tan Teng Niah

   The House of Tan Teng Niah, located in vibrant Little India, is a stunning example of colorful architecture and cultural heritage. This beautifully restored Chinese villa stands out with its vibrant hues, intricate carvings, and rich history. Explore this hidden gem to capture its unique charm and the fusion of cultures in Singapore.

Add these noteworthy locations to your photography itinerary in Singapore for a diverse and enriching experience. Immerse yourself in the spiritual ambiance of the Buddha Tooth Relic Temple, embrace the art and technology at the ArtScience Museum, capture the vibrant scenery of Clarke Quay, and uncover the cultural heritage at the House of Tan Teng Niah. Each of these places offers its own distinct flavor and will undoubtedly enhance your photography journey in Singapore.