Amsterdam is a photographer’s dream come true. With its picturesque canals, charming architecture, and vibrant street scenes, the Dutch capital offers endless opportunities to capture stunning images. Some of the best photography spots in Amsterdam include the iconic Damrak near Central Station, the Groenburgwal canal with its view of Zuiderkerk church, and the colorful tulip fields at Keukenhof Garden.
You’ll want to wake up early to catch the soft morning light and avoid crowds at popular spots. The canals are especially magical at sunrise when the water is still and reflections are crisp. For a uniquely Amsterdam shot, find a bridge over one of the main canals, like Prinsengracht or Keizersgracht, and frame your photo to showcase the elegant canal houses and boats.
Don’t miss the chance to capture the city’s artistic side, too. The MOCO Museum displays works by famous modern artists and provides eye-catching photo backdrops.
For a glimpse of old-world charm, visit the hidden courtyard of Begijnhof to photograph its peaceful gardens and historic buildings. With so many picture-perfect scenes, your camera will barely leave your hands in Amsterdam.
Photogenic Spots in Amsterdam
1. Jordaan Neighborhood
Picture yourself wandering through Amsterdam’s charming Jordaan district. This cozy neighborhood is a photographer’s dream, with its narrow streets, hidden courtyards, and picturesque canals.
Start your photo walk early in the morning when the light is soft and golden. The quiet streets come alive as locals begin their day, offering authentic scenes for your camera.
Look for the iconic “dancing houses” along the canals. These crooked buildings lean slightly, creating unique compositions against the water. Try framing them with arched bridges in the foreground for added depth.
Don’t miss the beautiful hofjes (hidden courtyards) scattered throughout Jordaan. These secret gardens offer tranquil spots to practice your photography skills. The Karthuizerhof’s lush greenery and historic architecture are particularly photogenic.
For street photography, head to Noordermarkt on Saturdays. The bustling market teems with colorful produce, flowers, and local characters – perfect for candid shots that capture Amsterdam’s spirit.
As the day winds down, position yourself along the Brouwersgracht canal for stunning sunset reflections. The warm light illuminates the historic facades, creating a magical atmosphere you’ll want to preserve in your photos.
Remember to respect locals’ privacy as you shoot. Jordaan’s charm lies in its lived-in feel, which captures the neighborhood’s essence without intruding. With patience and a keen eye, you’ll come away with unforgettable images of Amsterdam’s most beloved district.
2. Magere Brug (Skinny Bridge)
Get ready to snap stunning shots at the iconic Magere Brug, the Skinny Bridge. This charming white drawbridge spans the Amstel River and is a must-visit spot for photographers in Amsterdam.
The Skinny Bridge is near the Hermitage Museum. It’s a prime location for capturing the essence of Amsterdam’s picturesque canals and architecture.
For the best lighting, aim to visit during golden hour. The soft, warm glow just before sunset creates a magical atmosphere that’ll make your photos pop.
Try these photo ideas:
- Frame the bridge with canal houses on either side
- Capture a boat passing under the bridge
- Zoom in on the bridge’s intricate details
Don’t forget to explore the area around Magere Brug. You’ll find plenty of cute cafes and shops nearby to round out your Amsterdam experience.
Pro tip: Come back at night to see the bridge lit up. The twinkling lights reflected in the water create a romantic scene perfect for long-exposure shots.
Remember to pack a wide-angle lens to capture the full span of the bridge and its surroundings. A tripod will also be handy for those low-light evening shots.
See Related: Amsterdam’s Underground Theater Scene: Performances You Can’t Miss
3. The IAmsterdam Sign
You might be disappointed to learn the iconic IAmsterdam sign is no longer at its famous spot in front of the Rijksmuseum. The city removed it in 2018 because it was drawing too many tourists to one area.
But don’t worry! You can still snap a pic with these giant letters. A traveling set pops up at different spots around Amsterdam. Keep your eyes peeled as you explore the city – you never know where it might appear next!
For a guaranteed photo op, head to Schiphol Airport. A permanent set of IAmsterdam letters welcomes visitors as they arrive. It’s a great way to kick off your Amsterdam adventure with a classic shot.
When you do find the sign, try these tips for unique photos:
- Get low and shoot upwards for a dramatic angle
- Pose creatively with the letters
- Capture reflections in puddles on rainy days
- Visit at night when the letters are lit up
Remember to be respectful of others trying to get their photos too. With some patience and creativity, you’ll walk away with an Instagram-worthy shot of this Amsterdam icon.
4. Vondelpark
Vondelpark is a photographer’s dream come true in Amsterdam. This lush green oasis in the city’s heart offers endless opportunities for stunning shots.
Charming bridges, winding paths, and serene ponds are perfect for reflection shots, and the park’s diverse plantings provide colorful backdrops year-round. Early morning is ideal for capturing misty scenes and soft light, while the golden hour in the evening bathes everything in a warm glow.
Don’t miss the rose garden in summer – it’s bursting with vibrant blooms. The historic bandstand makes a great focal point, too.
For unique angles, try shooting through tree branches or using puddles for reflections after rain. Wide-angle lenses work well to capture the park’s expansive lawns.
People-watching is fantastic here. Snap candid shots of cyclists, joggers, and picnickers to capture Amsterdam’s laid-back vibe.
Nearby attractions include the Rijksmuseum and Van Gogh Museum. You can easily combine a park shoot with visits to these world-class art institutions.
Remember to pack a tripod for low-light shots and longer exposures. A polarizing filter can help enhance the rich greens and blues in your images.
5. Canal Belt At Night
Amsterdam’s Canal Belt truly comes alive after dark. The illuminated bridges and buildings create a magical atmosphere that’s perfect for night photography.
Grab your camera and tripod and head out around dusk. The “blue hour” just after sunset offers dreamy lighting conditions. Position yourself on one of the many bridges for a classic shot down a canal.
Look for reflections in the still water. The glowing windows and streetlights create stunning mirror images. Try using a slow shutter speed to capture light trails from passing boats.
Some top spots to shoot at night include:
- Reguliersgracht (Seven Bridges view)
- Brouwersgracht
- Looiersgracht
Don’t forget to capture the charming houseboats all lit up. Their cozy interiors give a glimpse into local life.
For a unique perspective, book an evening canal cruise. You’ll get amazing views from water level as you glide past historic buildings.
Remember to dress warmly and bring extra batteries. Night shooting drains power quickly. A remote shutter release helps minimize camera shake for those long exposures.
The Canal Belt at night offers endless creative possibilities. Let your imagination run wild, and have fun experimenting with different techniques.
See Related: Munttoren
6. NDSM Wharf Street Art
Get ready to capture some of Amsterdam’s coolest urban art at NDSM Wharf. This former shipyard has been transformed into a giant canvas for street artists from around the world.
Grab your camera and head to the STRAAT Museum. It’s the biggest street art museum on the planet, with 150 massive murals and installations to photograph. You’ll want a wide-angle lens to fit these huge works in frame.
For the best light, arrive early in the morning when the sun casts long shadows across the industrial landscape. The golden hour just after sunrise creates a magical glow on the colorful murals.
Don’t miss the outdoor art scattered around the wharf. Wander the gritty streets and you’ll stumble upon eye-catching graffiti pieces at every turn. Look for interesting angles and compositions using the old warehouses and shipping containers as backdrops.
To reach NDSM, hop on the free ferry from Amsterdam Central Station. The boat ride offers great views of the city’s skyline. Once you arrive, rent a bike to explore all the hidden street art gems.
Bring extra camera batteries and memory cards – you’ll be snapping non-stop in this photographer’s playground. Let your creativity run wild as you capture Amsterdam’s vibrant street art scene.
7. Rijksmuseum
You’ll be awestruck by the Rijksmuseum, Amsterdam’s crown jewel of art and history. This iconic building is a photographer’s dream, inside and out. The museum’s grand exterior offers stunning photo ops, especially at night when it’s beautifully lit up.
For the best shots of the facade, position yourself across the pond in Museumplein. The reflections in the water create a magical mirror effect. Early morning or late afternoon light bathes the building in a warm glow, perfect for capturing its architectural details.
Don’t miss the museum’s famous tunnel passage. It’s a hotspot for Instagram-worthy pics with its arched ceiling and intricate details. To avoid crowds, try shooting here early in the day.
Inside, you’ll find world-famous masterpieces like Rembrandt’s “The Night Watch.” Photography is allowed in most areas, but leave your flash at home. Use a higher ISO setting to cope with the low light conditions.
Pro tip: Visit on a weekday to dodge the weekend crowds. The museum opens at 9 AM, so arrive early to beat the rush and get those empty gallery shots.
After your photo session, explore the surrounding area. The charming streets of De Pijp neighborhood are just a short walk away, offering more great photo opportunities.
8. The View From A’DAM Lookout
Get ready for a breathtaking experience at A’DAM Lookout! This sky-high observation deck offers stunning panoramic views of Amsterdam’s cityscape. You’ll feel on top of the world as you gaze out over the iconic canals, historic buildings, and bustling streets below.
For the best photos, visit early in the morning when the light is soft and golden. The expansive windows provide a perfect frame for your shots of Amsterdam’s skyline. Don’t forget to capture the charming houseboats dotting the canals – they look like tiny toys from up here!
Feeling daring? Try Europe’s highest swing, which dangles you over the edge of the building.
It’s an exhilarating way to get unique action shots with the city as your backdrop. Just make sure your camera is securely fastened!
Some photography tips:
- Use a wide-angle lens to capture the full scope of the view
- Experiment with different exposures to balance the bright sky and darker buildings
- Look for interesting patterns in the city layout below
After snapping your pics, grab a drink at the rooftop bar and soak in the atmosphere. The A’DAM Lookout is more than just a photo spot – an unforgettable Amsterdam experience you won’t want to miss!
See Related: Bike Through Time: Amsterdam’s Historical Cycling Routes
9. Bloemenmarkt
Picture this: You’re strolling along a charming canal, camera in hand, when you stumble upon a riot of color. Welcome to Bloemenmarkt, Amsterdam’s famous floating flower market!
This unique spot is a photographer’s dream. Dozens of stalls brimming with vibrant tulips, fragrant roses, and exotic blooms create a kaleidoscope of hues. Your lens will love capturing the intricate details of petals and the rainbow-like rows of flowers.
For the best shots, arrive early in the morning. The soft light and fewer crowds will give you space to frame your perfect image. Try using a shallow depth of field to make individual blooms pop against a blurred background.
Don’t forget to zoom out too! The flower-laden houseboats make for a quintessential Amsterdam scene. Position yourself on a nearby bridge for a wider view that captures both the market and the picturesque canal.
Pro tip: Visit in spring to catch the famous Dutch tulips in all their glory. The market is open year-round though, so there’s always something beautiful to photograph.
After snapping your floral masterpieces, take a short walk to the nearby Mint Tower or Rembrandtplein for more iconic Amsterdam photo ops. Your Instagram followers will thank you!
10. De Gooyer Windmill
You’ll be awestruck by De Gooyer Windmill, a towering icon of Amsterdam’s skyline. This magnificent structure dates back to 1725 and stands as the tallest wooden windmill in the Netherlands.
For the perfect shot, visit during golden hour. The warm light bathes the windmill in a magical glow, creating stunning photo opportunities. Try positioning yourself across the water for a reflection shot that captures both the windmill and the surrounding area.
Here are some quick tips for photographing De Gooyer:
- Use a wide-angle lens to capture the full height
- Include cyclists or boats in the foreground for scale
- Experiment with long exposures on cloudy days
Don’t miss the chance to grab a beer at Brouwerij ‘t IJ, located right next to the windmill. It’s a great spot to relax after your photo session and soak in the atmosphere.
For a unique perspective, rent a bike and cycle around the area. You’ll discover charming streets and canals that offer fresh angles on this iconic landmark.
Remember to pack a tripod for those low-light evening shots. The windmill lit up at night is a sight you won’t want to miss!
Photography Tips For Amsterdam
Amsterdam’s charming canals and architecture make for stunning photos. Get up early to catch the soft morning light on the water. The golden hour just before sunset is also magical.
Bring a wide-angle lens to capture those iconic canal scenes. A zoom lens helps for detailed shots of gables and bridges. Don’t forget a tripod for low-light and night photography.
Look for unique angles. Try shooting from bridges or boats for fresh perspectives.
Get low to the ground near canals for reflections. Frame scenes through archways and windows.
Watch the weather. Moody cloudy days can be great for atmospheric shots.
Sunny days make colors pop. Rain creates reflections and interesting light.
Be respectful when photographing people. Ask permission before taking close-up shots. Capture candid street scenes from a distance.
Visit popular spots like the Rijksmuseum early to beat crowds. The “I amsterdam” sign is gone, but you can still get iconic shots at Museumplein.
Wander side streets in Jordaan for picturesque canal houses. The area around Brouwersgracht is postcard-perfect.
Don’t miss the colorful houses of Damrak. For a classic Amsterdam shot, capture bicycles parked along canal railings.