Insta Inspiration at an All-Time Low? Here are 7 of the Best Photoshoot Spots in Philly
By Ashley DellaRatta
Who else is obsessed with their Instagram and will go to extreme lengths for the perfect photo to match the feed you have worked so hard to maintain? It’s definitely harder in these barren winter months, but with warm weather (hopefully) on the horizon, our photoshoot opportunities are slowly increasing. Philly is home to limitless hidden nooks that are definitely worth noting as you venture out to find the best backdrop to supplement your killer looks. That being said, it’s only right that we provide you with some of the most Insta-worthy spots in the city, so grab a photographer (or just drag your roommate) and a camera and get snappin’.
Rail Park
Photo by Nick Rochino (@chinotography on Instagram)
Location: Noble Street, N Broad St, Philadelphia, PA 19123
The Rail Park is a relatively new project that is up and coming in our little City of Brotherly Love. It’s comprised of three miles of unused rail tracks that are being transformed into a luscious green space with walking paths and bench swings. If you’re into that industrial, edgy vibe then this place is definitely going to fit your feed.
South Street Bridge
Location: 2800 South St, Philadelphia, PA 19146
Located right outside of University City, the South Street Bridge has one of the best views of Philly. Standing on the lookout of the bridge itself provides this beautiful background for photos, or you can take a stroll down on the pathway and get a nice view of our very own Philadelphia “beach,” aka, the Schuylkill River.
Shofuso Japanese House and Garden
Location: Lansdowne Dr & Horticultural Dr, Philadelphia, PA 19131
The Shofuso Japanese House and Garden is a must-see in the city during the spring. Not only is this garden filled with amazing Japanese culture, it is a beautiful change of scenery from our every-day views of the lovely North Philadelphia. Prime time for photo ops here is, without a doubt, the Cherry Blossom Festival they host in mid March. Plus, even Temple supports our photoshoot needs--you can get into the garden for free with the PEX passport.
Elfreth’s Alley
Location: 124-126 Elfreth's Alley, Philadelphia, PA 19106
Elfreth’s Alley is the most quaint little street, nestled in the historic nooks of Old City. Built in the mid 1700’s, the houses on this street are beautifully aged and make for a great photo background. But as nice as they are, people do reside in these cozy dwellings, so don’t forget to respect their privacy!
Race Street Pier
Location: N Christopher Columbus Blvd, Philadelphia, PA 19106
Right down the road from Elfreth’s Alley is this gem of a photo spot. With a beautiful view of the Ben Franklin Bridge, this location is serene (as serene as it gets in Philly) and overlooks the Delaware River. In the spring, they even host yoga sessions and other outdoor events so if you plan right, you could come across some pretty sweet post-photoshoot relaxation.
Your Fave Coffee Shop
Location: Parliament Coffee - 30 S 15th St, Philadelphia, PA 19102
Just when you thought your photo shoot was over and you end up in a random coffee house on who-knows-what street, another photo op lays right before you! Although it may not be the most conventional location for a full on, “work your angles” type of photoshoot, you can get some pretty cute candid, or OOTD pics to boost your feed. Or, you can just be like me and just take endless photos of that perfect latte art and post that instead.
Now that you have mega inspo, find your pals and make a day of it!