We’re always on the hunt for the next best destination that can fill up our camera roll or SD card with hundreds of photos (and memories). For an inspiring mix of texture, colour and atmosphere, New Orleans delivers. It’s a city that tells its story visually with iron-laced balconies and live music on practically every corner. Here are six of the best photo spots in New Orleans, aka The Big Easy.
1. Jackson Square
As the heart of the French Quarter, Jackson Square is one of the most recognisable places in New Orleans. It offers photographers the chance to capture perfect symmetrical shots with its historic buildings and being anchored by St Louis Cathedral. The cathedral itself exudes an aura of timelessness, especially being the oldest continuously active cathedral in the USA.
2. Royal Street
For the next best thing to Bourbon Street, head one block over to Royal Street. Its atmosphere is a little quieter and more refined, yet it still lets the French Quarter’s elegance shine through. It features antique shops, pastel-coloured buildings and art galleries, complete with street musicians (because, New Orleans, of course!).
3. Garden District
For a taste of some Southern grandeur, the Garden District presents different angles to the usual New Orleans scenes. Here, you’ll find tree-lined streets, grand antebellum mansions and ornate iron fences, as well as Lafayette Cemetery No. 1 with its above-ground tombs.
4. Preservation Hall
Preservation Hall is known as the home of jazz in New Orleans. Its exterior may seem simple, but legends are made, seen and heard inside. If you’re not inside seeing a show, there’s plenty going on outside with concertgoers and musicians coming and going – all adding to the stories of the city’s jazz heritage.
5. Crescent Park
To ground yourself in nature, visit Crescent Park. Sunrise and sunset are the best times to capture the calm of New Orleans with the park stretching along the Mississippi River and its views of the city skyline.
6. Bourbon Street
Finally, it would be remiss of us to not mention Bourbon Street! Its nightlife is always buzzing, so aim for an early morning shoot to photograph it in a different mood. With empty streets, shuttered bars and a rare stillness, this is an excellent time of day to capture the city’s most famous street.
From Southern hospitality to a vibrant atmosphere, New Orleans is a must-visit when in the Southern States. Visit it on a Globus or Cosmos tour.
