Photoshoot in Warsaw

Sigismund's Column, the brick façade of the Royal Castle and, a few steps away, the Old Town Market Square with its pastel houses, the Barbican and the restored city walls. Narrow lanes such as Kanonia and Piwna give soft, even light on sunny days. From the terrace beside the castle you look across the Vistula to Praga.

Best time

Sunrise and the first two hours after it, before tour groups arrive; in winter, blue hour with the castle lit.

Access

Metro M2 to Ratusz Arsenał or a tram to Plac Zamkowy, then on foot. Cobblestones, so flat shoes help.

The largest park in central Warsaw: the Palace on the Isle reflected in the water, the Chopin Monument, the Old Orangery, stone bridges and avenues of old trees. Peacocks wander the paths and red squirrels come very close, which children love. The park has its own rules for photo sessions, so check the current conditions with the museum before you book.

Best time

Early morning and late afternoon; blossom in spring, gold leaves in autumn. On summer Sundays the Chopin Monument hosts open-air concerts and is busy.

Access

Buses along Aleje Ujazdowskie (the Royal Route), with several entrances. Flat paths, pram-friendly.

The baroque residence of King Jan III Sobieski, with a formal French garden, a rose garden and a landscape park by the lake. The symmetry of the parterre and the gilded façade suit elegant outfits; the shaded English park suits families. Entry to the gardens and the rules for photography, including paid sessions, are set by the palace museum, so check them before booking.

Best time

Weekday mornings; May and June for roses and fresh green, October for colour.

Access

Buses from the centre along the Royal Route, including lines 116 and 180, about 30–40 minutes. Gravel paths around the palace.

Wide modern boulevards on the left bank between the Śląsko-Dąbrowski Bridge and the Copernicus Science Centre, looking at the cable-stayed Świętokrzyski Bridge and the wild, sandy right bank. It is the place for relaxed walking shots, steps down to the water and city lights after dark.

Best time

Golden hour and blue hour; very busy on summer weekend evenings, calmer midweek.

Access

Metro M2 to Centrum Nauki Kopernik, then a few minutes on foot. Cross to Praga on the footbridge or a road bridge.

A historic park in Praga-Południe with Kamionkowskie Lake, little bridges, canals and old willows. Tourists rarely come here, so even on a warm afternoon you can find an empty frame. It works especially well for maternity sessions and families with small children.

Best time

Late afternoon until sunset; autumn colour over the water.

Access

Trams along Aleja Waszyngtona stop right by the park. Flat paths and plenty of benches.

Pre-war tenements, courtyard shrines and the red-brick buildings of a former vodka factory, now the Koneser centre. It is a backdrop with character for couples, portraits and personal branding, the opposite of the polished Old Town. Only enter private courtyards with the residents' permission.

Best time

Weekday afternoons; after rain the wet cobbles reflect the light beautifully.

Access

Metro M2 to Dworzec Wileński, then 5 minutes on foot. Uneven pavements.

The garden on the roof of the Warsaw University Library in Powiśle, one of the largest roof gardens in Europe. Pergolas, walkways, green walls and a view of the Vistula and Świętokrzyski Bridge give you greenery and skyline in one place. It opens seasonally, usually from spring to autumn; check the opening hours and session rules with the university.

Best time

Late afternoon from May to September, when the planting is at its fullest.

Access

Metro M2 to Centrum Nauki Kopernik, about 5 minutes' walk. Stairs or a ramp from Dobra Street.