Reflections from Flytographer’s Founder

Do you have a side hustle idea or startup idea rolling around in your brain? Taunting and teasing you, daring you to crack it open and explore it further? 

I was sitting on a bridge in Paris in 2011 in the warm autumn sunshine when the idea for Flytographer first rolled around in my head. 

As we now celebrate our 12th year in business, I took some time to reflect on a few things I’ve learned as I first went from the idea in 2011, to the decision to launch in 2013, to finally building and growing Flytographer. I hope that by sharing my story, it will help those of you about to embark on a similar path of launching something amazing.

With gratitude,

Nicole Smith, Founder & CEO

1. There will probably never be a perfect time to start, so just go for it — but take small steps!

What are the stories you tell yourself on why now is NOT the best time to start that side gig or business you’ve been daydreaming about? Not enough money? Time? Experience? Too old/young? Just the wrong time in your life?

I got the idea from Flytographer while on a business trip to Paris, but I felt like I checked all the wrong boxes (and it kept me from taking my idea seriously for a full 9 months). 

• No experience: I had never built my own startup before. I was not a professional photographer. 
• No time: I was a single mom with two young kids and a full-time corporate job.
• No money: Looks for coins in couch.
• Too old: Stares down 40 in the mirror. 
• Wrong timing: My life was finally calm after a hard divorce a few years earlier. Why rock the boat again?

But I remember sitting in my car one day in the summer of 2012, thinking, “What is the worst that could happen if I just tested a few things?”

So I found a trustworthy photographer on Craigslist in Paris and asked a friend travelling there to try out a test shoot. I’d only be out 200 Euros if he flaked or if my friend hated the experience. It was a calculated risk, a small first step.

Then I took another small step.

And another.

And another.

Pretty soon, I was a bonafide sidepreneur, testing and learning how to develop Flytographer in my non-work, non-parenting spare hours, which were few. It grew slowly — but it was a start!  

Do you have an idea you can’t shake? Take small, low-risk, micro-steps towards your goal; the hardest part is sometimes just getting started.

2. Knowing when it’s okay to transition from “side hustle” to “going all-in.”

Keeping your 9-5 and being a sidepreneur as you start out reduces your risk and allows you to test, learn, and iterate on your product. It can also eliminate the debilitating financial stress of not having a steady income. Couch surfing and living on ramen is just not an option for many of us, especially as a parent.

But when do you make the big move from sidepreneur to going full force? It may be never — maybe the side gig is the best path for you. However, if your dream is to work full-time on your business, a good barometer is when you nail “product market fit.” It’s when your customers truly love what you have built , come back for more, and tell all their friends. The positive feedback of our early Flytographer customers and photographers is what gave me the confidence to “go all-in” and quit my corporate job one year into starting Flytographer.

The other test I gave myself was to imagine how 80-year-old me would feel if I never took this risk.

Would wondering “what if” be worse than any potential failure or loss? What’s the worst-case scenario? Embarrassment? Financial loss? I could always go back to work and get another job. But abandoning it and then wondering “what if I had given that crazy idea I had at 39 a shot” might have haunted me more.

Lastly, trust your gut. It always knows.

3. Most of us are just figuring it out as we go.

There is a lot of “winging it” when you are an entrepreneur. They often say you are building the plane in the air as you fly. It really does feel like that a lot, even years later. You can plan and prepare like a Navy Seal, but you will still make mistakes, mess up, and bad things will happen that are out of your control. 

I vividly remember when PayPal arbitrarily shut us down in 2017 with no notice and just froze our funds. We suddenly had no way to pay our global roster of Flytographers and had to scramble to figure out a better system. I remember writing to our community of photographers to tell them the bad news, terrified they would all abandon us (side note: they didn’t, they are all rockstars ). 

After a couple of weeks with zero progress with PayPal, our whole team worked overtime to roll out a new payments platform globally. It ended up being over a month of stress, fear and “omg, my business is over” panic attacks. 

But … the scar tissue that builds up makes you stronger and more confident that you can surf the wild waves still to come. Because guess what — they will keep coming! Perfect case in point: 2020.  (Read more on how we surfed the pandemic tsunami here.)   

Expect the hiccups — it’s just the cost of doing business. And as you navigate through, remember the saying “this too shall pass.”  Simply focus on what you can vs. can’t control, and keep on building based on the lessons you’ve learned. And just figure it out as you go.

4. It’s easy to put yourself last. Spoiler: this is a terrible idea.

The firehose of work never stops. It never stops. If you love your business, it can be hard not to think about it 24/7 — for me, it’s like my third child. If you are a parent (or a single parent like me) or caregiver to a family member, there are many of things competing for your time and it’s very easy to dismiss your own needs while juggling the balls of taking care of others, your business and household chores.

Remember that without a strong mental and physical foundation, the world of YOU can break down, and that has a lot of cascading effects. Repeat after me: it’s not selfish to invest in things that make you feel your best. It’s imperative.

Things that have been working for me lately (but it’s still a constant struggle to manage, tbh):

• Time blocking my days in my calendar (work, workouts, family/friends things, and most importantly, ME TIME all go in there).
• Preserving Mondays and Fridays for thinking and deep work — no meetings! 
• My hype crew.  It’s key to connect with friends who are building similar stage businesses and can relate to your journey, share insights, cheer you on in the highs and sit with you in the lows. 
• Morning walks by the ocean with my favourite music or podcast. (I’m very lucky to live on an island!)
• Strength training 3x a week with a friend, not only to build muscle, but because the mental benefits make me feel unstoppable.

5. ABL: Always Be Learning!

I cannot emphasize it enough: always be learning. When you start a business, you have to quickly figure out accounting, legal, software systems, marketing, customer service, human resources and so on. It’s exhausting but so important. I basically have a PhD in Googling and (and a Masters in YouTubing) now. Twitter is also a great place to learn from experts in your space.

You can learn soooo much online, there’s never an excuse for not knowing.

As a CEO, your job description changes every year as your business scales, so it’s important you invest in learning new skills for every stage. I’ve invested in formal programs, courses, books and startup accelerators over the years.  One of my favourite resources for mindset growth is The Conscious Leadership Group, and I re-watch their snackable videos a few times a year.

6. Surround yourself with good people. 

As you begin to hire your first employees, make sure you hire based on shared values — not the resume. One TedTalk I recommend is this one by Adam Grant. I love how he frames the importance of hiring givers and matchers. 

When your startup is small and trying to get lift-off, you need people who are brilliant at wearing multiple hats and comfortable navigating a lot of ambiguity, have a bias towards action, are curious and take initiative. Things are moving so fast — remember, you are ALL building the plane together in the air at this stage.

As your business scales, inevitably some employees will move on to other jobs and opportunities. I have a favourite story with Caitlin. Caitlin joined our customer experience team in 2016, left in 2018 to try something new, travelled a bit and went back to school to become a developer — and then happily rejoined Flytographer in January 2020. It’s a real highlight to see team members develop and thrive over the years, and especially gratifying when they return to the family.

This is just one story, but we have an amazing team at Flytographer who not only kick ass at their jobs but are caring, kind, inclusive and so much fun to work with every day.

We extend this philosophy of hiring for shared values to our photographer community as well. Mentally answering the question “Would you want to spend one precious hour of your vacation with this photographer” is one of our vetting criteria when we interview — they have to really love people and their city in order to join our roster.

Our photographers are like family; many have been with us since the very early days, and over the years we’ve seen them get married, have babies and buy their first homes. Having true friends around the world is truly one of the biggest blessings of my job.

7. It’s important to define your own version of success.

You may not know exactly what success looks like to you in your first years, but don’t worry, you will in time.

I was often told that growing a huge business should be the North Star — the definition of success. You hear VCs talk about targeting $100M in sales all the time. Growth at all costs. 

A lot of us have reexamined what makes us happy in the last year and what success means. For me, it’s simple and mostly comes down to this: having control over how I spend my time.

A few other things that define success for me:

• Mainly working from home (hello fellow introverts!)
• A small team of really good humans where I can really know everyone 
• Bringing a product to life that customers really, really love
• Running a profitable business that may grow a bit more slowly, but has a happy, thriving team and community of photographers who feel valued
• Not compromising my values and having control over our vision for the future

Success is picking my kids up from school as often as I want — and being able to bake them fresh muffins between calls.

Success is starting my mornings with either a walk along the ocean or a having workout (and laugh) with my girlfriends.

Success is different for everyone, and it will look different for you at different stages in your life. But what’s important is for YOU to define your terms — no one else.

8. Life is unpredictable, so spend as much time as you can with the people you care about.

If 2020 taught us anything, it’s that life can change in a blink of an eye. Not being able to hug my parents for months on end or to visit my best friend in another city or to explore new places with my kids was hard. It was a huge wake-up call to stop taking life so seriously and to make sure you are having more fun with the people you love as often as you possibly can.

Finding snippets of micro-joy every day and spending time making memories with the people you love is more important than ever. Tell the people that matter how you feel about them and tell them frequently. When you look back on the times of your life, those are the moments you’ll cherish the most. 

I hope these 8 lessons are helpful. And if you are debating starting a business, check-in with your future 80-year-old self… I know mine is glad I took the leap 12 years ago.

With 4 million photos and counting, we are driven by our mission of helping people remember their favourite stories, forever.

“Begin Again” Photo Spots

If you’re a proud fan, getting concert tickets to Taylor’s Eras Tour is sure to be a top priority. And you’re not alone! No matter how long you’ve been a fan, you do not want to miss seeing her live. And what’s better than a Taylor Paris moment where she filmed her classic “Begin Again” music video? We’ve created the ultimate Paris Era photo tour so you can hit all the landmarks and capture memories along the way!

At Flytographer, we easily connect people with trusted photographers for fun photo shoots and have captured over six million memories worldwide. The magic of Flytographer is both the experience and the photos. Explore the city with a fun, talented photographer and get wall worthy photos to relive your trip forever. Today, we asked our local photographers to share their insider knowledge of the locations where the “Begin Again” music video was shot in Paris. Let’s jump in.

TLDR

1. Palais-Royal: You can find the Palais-Royal and its gardens, where Taylor is writing in a journal on a bench in the music video, right in the heart of Paris.
2. Le Grand Véfour Restaurant: Le Grand Véfour is a famous Parisian restaurant that was a favourite for French icons Napoleon Bonaparte and Coco Chanel.
3. Rue de Beaujolais: You’ll recognize the Rue de Beaujolais as the street Taylor walks down in her très chic red pants with her European‌ dreamboat while holding a bicycle.
4. Pont des Arts: The Pont des Arts is the bridge with the locks Taylor is standing on, right at the beginning of the video.
5. Square du Vert-Galant: Square du Vert-Galant is a small park at the tip of the Île de la Cité that provides breathtaking views of the city and its many landmarks.
6. Quai de Conti: The Quai de Conti is a walk along the westward side of the Seine River that Taylor takes in the video.
7. Bonus “Begin Again” spots: If you have time, check out these iconic stops.
8. FAQ: Like, who is the guy in the video, and when is Taylor coming to Paris? 🫨 

Photo: Olga in Paris for Flytographer. Laura and friends capture memories in Paris along the Capture Your Paris Era photo tour.

1. Palais-Royal

You can find the Palais-Royal and its gardens, where Taylor is writing in a journal on a bench in the music video, right in the heart of Paris. It’s super close to Rue de Rivoli and the Louvre, but it’s easy to miss, so keep your eyes open.

First built in the 17th century, the U-shaped palace features an elegant and classical courtyard bordered by stone columns that hold artwork by Daniel Buren. It’s a remarkable installation of black-and-white striped columns that are arranged in a grid pattern. You can hop and balance on these iconic striped columns, making this an amazing spot for instantly Instagrammable photos… and music videos!

Don’t miss the gardens, which hold around 500 trees. Here you can find symmetrical rose beds, two beautifully manicured lawns, trees trimmed to create an arch effect, and a fountain right in the centre of it all. If you need a break from the hustle and bustle of the city, the Palais-Royal’s gardens provide the perfect sanctuary—just like they did for Taylor. There are also plenty of boutiques and cafés around this spot, so be sure to shop, eat some croissants, and wash it all down with an espresso.

Photo: Olga in Paris for Flytographer. Laura and friends capture memories in Paris along the Capture Your Paris Era photo tour.

2. Le Grand Véfour Restaurant

Le Grand Véfour is the iconic Parisian restaurant that’s featured in the music video. It still preserves the original decor from when it was first constructed in 1784. Although it’s not featured prominently in the music video, the artwork in this world-renowned restaurant is not to be missed. Alongside beautiful mirrors, you’ll find glass-protected neoclassical paintings decorating the wall, which are inspired by Pompeian frescoes, and the ceiling is painted in the style of 18th-century Italian ceilings, featuring stucco garlands and roses.

Fun fact, this restaurant was also one of Coco Chanel’s favourite places, but she wasn’t the only famous person to eat here. Napoleon Bonaparte, his wife Joséphine de Beauharnais, and iconic French author Victor Hugo were also regular guests in their time. It’s an experience of a lifetime—and you’ll always have the photos to remember it by.

Photo: Olga in Paris for Flytographer. Laura and friends capture memories in Paris along the Capture Your Paris Era photo tour.

3. Rue de Beaujolais

You’ll recognize the Rue de Beaujolais as the street Taylor walks down in her très chic red pants with her European‌ dreamboat while holding a bicycle. It’s a 128-meter-long street in the 1st arrondissement of Paris, where you’ll also find iconic locations like Le Grand Véfour, which is listed just above. 

But that’s not the only reason to visit this Parisian alley. As any true fan knows, these alleys are also referenced in the song “Paris” with the line, “In an alleyway, drinking champagne, ’cause we were in Paris.” So grab a glass of bubbly when you visit this alleyway because, just like Taylor, you’re in Paris!

Photo: Olga in Paris for Flytographer. Laura and friends capture memories in Paris along the Capture Your Paris Era photo tour.

4. Pont des Arts

The Pont des Arts is the bridge with the locks Taylor is standing on right at the beginning of the video. Originally constructed between 1802 and 1804 by order of Napoleon Bonaparte, the bridge had to be rebuilt in the 1980s. The love locks on the bridge is a tradition that started in 2008. Tourists would attach a lock with their first names written on it to the bridge and throw the key into the Seine River below as a symbol of everlasting love. While undeniably romantic, the number of locks grew to over a million, which had a combined weight of 45 tonnes. Naturally, this damaged the bridge. As of 2015, the locks have been removed and no one is allowed to attach another one (the video was filmed in 2012).

However, this iconic bridge still makes for an incredibly romantic destination. You’ll find the Eiffel Tower in the distance on the left and the Louvre on the right behind the trees. Talk about a photo op!

Photo: Olga in Paris for Flytographer. Laura and friends capture memories in Paris along the Capture Your Paris Era photo tour.

5. Square du Vert-Galant

Just a little further from the Pont des Arts is a gorgeous weeping willow that Taylor sits underneath in the music video. It’s located in the Square du Vert-Galant, which is a small park at the tip of the Île de la Cité in the Seine River that provides breathtaking views of the city and its many landmarks, such as the Pont Neuf bridge and the Louvre Museum and Palace. It’s also an amazing spot for a picnic , so you definitely don’t want to miss it on your Capture Your Paris Era tour.

Plus, for all you mega fans out there, you’ll know that Taylor also has a song called “Willow” in which she says the line, “My life was a willow and it bent right to your wind.” It doesn’t get more Swift than this. 🫶🫶

Photo: Olga in Paris for Flytographer. Laura and friends capture memories in Paris along the Capture Your Paris Era photo tour.

6. Quai de Conti

The Quai de Conti is a walk along the westward side of the Seine River that Taylor takes in the video. She crosses under the Pont Neuf bridge—the oldest standing bridge that crosses the Seine—and admires the statue of Henry IV on horseback and the architecture of Île de la Cité. 

And you can do it too! Your Paris era won’t be complete without a photo of you silhouetted underneath the Pont Neuf, just like Taylor in the video.

Photo: Olga in Paris for Flytographer. Laura and friends capture memories in Paris along the Capture Your Paris Era photo tour.

7. Bonus “Begin Again” Spots

While they’re not included in the Capture Your Paris Era photo tour, here are a couple more iconic photo spots to visit if you have time!

La Palette: This café is the most featured location in the “Begin Again” music video, so it’s a must-visit for all fans in Paris. As the song goes, “On a Wednesday in a café, I watched it begin again.” Who knows? You may discover your own love story over a delicious strawberry tart and a cappuccino, just like Taylor! As you can see in the video, the café is beautifully lined with paintings and mirrored walls, so you’ll have plenty of opportunities to check your red lipstick. Plus, the café is open from 8 am to 2 am for breakfast, brunch, lunch, dinner, and late-night snacks. If you want your pics to look like the video, get there in the daytime—just expect it to be busy.

Place de Furstenberg: Don’t miss out on this charming and picturesque square that Taylor rides through on her bike , wearing a cute floral dress and chunky sunglasses . While this square is actually a road, the surrounding buildings form a kind of courtyard that’s perfect for strolling or riding a bicycle. It can be found nestled among the web of streets between the left bank of the Seine and the Boulevard Saint-Germain, in the heart of the 6th arrondissement. 

Curious about other totally Instagrammable photo spots in Paris? Check out our guide to the Top 10 Places to Take Photos in Paris. 

Photo: Olga in Paris for Flytographer. Laura and friends capture memories in Paris along the Capture Your Paris Era photo tour.

FAQ

Is Taylor coming to Paris?

Yes! Taylor will be taking her Eras Tour to the Paris La Défense Arena in the Nanterre arrondissement. Here are Taylor’s Paris tour dates:

• Thursday, May 9
• Friday, May 10
• Saturday, May 11
• Sunday, May 12

Where was the “Begin Again” music video filmed?

The “Begin Again” music video was filmed in Paris at the iconic locations we’ve mentioned in this article, such as La Palette café, the Post des Arts, and the Palais-Royal gardens.

Who wrote “Begin Again”?

What a question! As any fan knows, Taylor wrote the song herself, as she writes all of her own music and lyrics, and it’s from her already classic album “Red.”

Who is the guy in the “Begin Again” music video?

The gorgeous man who Taylor is with in the video is Vladimir Perrin, a French actor. You can see his work in Dan Levy’s recent movie Good Grief, in which he plays a small role as the second half of a sweet couple. 

Photo: Olga in Paris for Flytographer. Laura and friends capture memories in Paris along the Capture Your Paris Era photo tour.

Capturing your Paris Era

Have we inspired you to get in your Paris Era?! Grab your besties and your lipstick , and book one of our local photographers for the ultimate Paris Era photo tour! Lucky for you, we’ve got Flytographers at many of Taylor’s concert destinations around the world, so you can book a photoshoot anywhere she goes.

Note: The Capture Your Paris Era photo tour is not endorsed or affiliated with Taylor Swift or her management.

Instagrammable Walls

Who doesn’t love wall murals and street art? From graffiti walls to unconventional facades, a regular surface can transform into a city landmark and a stunning background for pics and selfies with a simple dose of creativity. Not just that, a great wall can celebrate local culture and even convey powerful messages. There are many art walls across the globe that stand as a testament that we can always add an extra layer of colour to our lives, and, of course, to our photos. In this blog, we bring you a selection of our top 10 Instagrammable walls around the world.

We easily connect people with trusted photographers for fun photo shoots and have captured over three million memories worldwide. The magic of Flytographer is both the experience and the photos. Explore the city with a fun, talented photographer and get wall-worthy photos to help you relive your trip forever. Today, we asked our local photographers to share the best Instagrammable walls from around the world.

Camera in hands, join us for a wall crawl!

TLDR:

1. Satisfy your love for walls with traditional and modern artworks in the streets of Alfama, Lisbon.
2. Explore a proper open-air museum of street art at Wynwood Walls, Miami.
3. Immerse yourself in the tropical technicolour vibes of Pietermaai, Curaçao.
4. Marvel at the striking contrast of old shophouses with vibrant murals in Haji Lane, Singapore.
5. Capture one of the city’s most iconic views and some wonderful wall art in DUMBO, New York City.
6. Discover some DIY South American murals in trendy Palermo Soho, Buenos Aires.
7. Admire the charming architecture and discover some iconic signs in Notting Hill, London.
8. Stumble upon spectacular facades painted in tropical hues in Old San Juan, San Juan.
9. Enjoy the fun and whimsical installations of Umbrella Alley in San Francisco.
10. Soak in some quintessential Portuguese wall art at Capela das Almas, Porto.

Photo: Claudia in Playa del Carmen for Flytographer. Corey and friend capture memories in Playa del Carmen with a vacation photoshoot downtown.

1. Streets of Alfama, Lisbon

Lisbon’s street art scene is renowned for being among the world’s best, and its charming streets showcase some of the most Instagrammable walls we’ve ever encountered. In the characterful Alfama, one of Lisbon’s oldest districts, you’ll discover particularly intriguing ones, such as André Saraiva’s mural, a playful artwork crafted from over 50,000 handmade tiles. The mural’s most striking section features a rainbow arching over an old caravel. Looking for something more traditional? Head to Miradouro Santa Luzia, where you can admire classic white and blue tile murals, something quintessentially Portuguese. That’s not all; you’ll also find bougainvillea flowers and panoramic views of Lisbon. It’s simply stunning!

Hot tip: in 2015, the renowned Portuguese muralist Vhils unveiled a new wall on São Tomé Street in Alfama. This mural pays tribute to the legendary Fado diva, Amália Rodrigues. Crafted from Portuguese traditional-style pavement, the artwork stands as a unique mural and a magnet for social media photos.

Photo: Ana Lucia in Lisbon for Flytographer. Joey and partner capture memories in Lisbon with a proposal photoshoot in the streets of Alfama.

2. Wynwood Walls, Miami

Wynwood Walls in Miami is what we call a proper open-air street art museum with large-scale works by some of the most famous street artists in the world, including Shepard Fairey, the artist behind the iconic Obama “Hope” poster. You’ll find nothing less than 80,000 square feet of walls decorated with street art ranging from pop to abstract and some pretty cool graffiti — each one an opportunity for a unique photo. Note that there’s an admission fee to the museum, so plan accordingly.

Still, not all beautiful murals are housed in the museum; Wynwood’s streets are also teeming with street art, and nearly every boutique, ice cream and coffee shop, and, of course, parking lots, are decorated with a uniquely stunning piece. Some of the most photographed are the exterior of Cielito Artisan Pops (which features black and white stripes with an eye-catching kinetic effect), the vibrant wall with tropical flowers on the facade of Rodilla Cafe, and the photogenic facade of Arca with its multi-colour vertical stripes. Pick one – if you can! You won’t be disappointed with these instagrammable walls.

Photo: Cheryl in Miami for Flytographer. Grace and friends capture memories in Miami with a headshot photoshoot at the Wynwood Walls.

3. Pietermaai, Curaçao

Think Curaçao is all about pristine beaches and turquoise waters? Think again. Willemstad, the capital of Curaçao, is renowned for its neighbourhoods filled with Dutch colonial buildings painted in vibrant colours and adorned with stunning street art, especially in the district of Pietermaai, dubbed the “Soho of Curaçao.”

Stroll through Nieuwestraat Street, and you’ll come across the famous Dutch Treats Restaurant, featuring a mural-clad facade where stylish characters sport sunglasses. Nearby, Wynwood Boutique Hotel adds even more vibrancy to the area with its multicoloured buildings. For more photo-worthy spots, don’t miss Scuba Lodge, a beautiful boutique hotel spread across five meticulously restored buildings, each one painted in flamboyant colours. It’s safe to say that wherever you turn, you’ll have countless opportunities for beautiful photos.

Photo: Claudia in Curaçao for Flytographer. Cayla and partner capture memories in Curaçao with an engagement photoshoot in Pietermaai.

4. Haji Lane, Singapore

Haji Lane in Singapore’s Kampong Glam neighbourhood is the place to be if you want to capture some of the best murals in town. Almost every bar, restaurant, and boutique lining this charming, narrow lane showcases its own Instagrammable wall. These establishments are housed in 19th-century shophouses, and the mix of modern and old offers a striking contrast that makes for a fabulous background for photoshoots.

Wondering what’s the most eye-catching work? It’s hard to pick just one, but we love this one found at Piedra Negra Bistro, featuring striking images of Aztecs wearing elaborate headpieces. There are also some sci-fi-inspired themes, such as Didier Jaba Mathieu’s mural just a few steps away on Beach Road. While in Kampong Glam, don’t skip a visit to Sultan Gate, home of more vibrant street art.

Photo: Gan in Singapore for Flytographer. Kelsey and family capture memories in Singapore with a family photoshoot in Haji Lane.

5. DUMBO, New York City

DUMBO is known for one of the most popular photo spots in the entire USA, the DUMBO Manhattan Bridge View. However, this stylish neighbourhood has much more to offer for your social media feed. DUMBO Walls is a collection of outdoor murals spread across a four-block stretch near the Brooklyn-Queens Expressway. This project has brought together many artists and added an extra touch of flair to its streets. One mural that stands out is the work of American muralist MOMO, a 200-foot-long mural featuring a captivating minimalist style. Its graphic elements, geometric shapes, and patterns create a visually striking and expressive composition.

Just a stone’s throw away, you’ll find the awe-inspiring views of NYC skyline as a bonus. What more could you ask for in the Big Apple?

Photo: Sehee in New York City for Flytographer. James and partner capture memories in New York City with an engagement photoshoot near DUMBO.

6. Palermo Soho, Buenos Aires

Palermo Soho in Buenos Aires offers an abundance of the most instagrammable wall art in the city. On the corner of Gurruchaga and Santa Rosa alleyway, a collage wall decorated with various posters, wallpapers, stencils, and a variety of symbols is a big hit, serving as a stylish backdrop for photos. Throughout the area, you’ll also stumble upon these spontaneous murals created with a mix of adverts and posters. They all happen to be very photogenic, of course. ‍

Just a short walk away is another popular spot at the corner of Borges and Russell Streets – the wonderful mural by Gonzalo Prieto, featuring, among other elements, a boy peeking out from behind a brick wall. On Jorge Luis Borges Street, Cabernet Restaurant boasts a delightful mural adorned with flowers, plants, and birds that capture the attention of anyone passing by.

Photo: Consuelo in Buenos Aires for Flytographer. Jennifer and family capture memories in Buenos Aires with a vacation photoshoot in Palermo Soho.

7. Notting Hill, London

Notting Hill is a paradise for any Instagrammer, blogger, or anyone seeking a captivating backdrop. This beloved British neighbourhood may not feature extensive murals on every corner, but who needs them when the entire area boasts charming and vibrantly coloured houses and lovely facades?

A stroll along Portobello Road is a visual delight. The street’s iconic spot is Alice’s antique shop, with its red facade and iconic sign. Another charming sight is the ‘Made You Look’ mural, displaying a message written in Scrabble-like letters above a red brick wall. In Notting Hill, even a simple white wall with a street plaque can become a photogenic backdrop, inviting you to capture a memorable moment.

Photo: Hector in London for Flytographer. Macy captures memories in London with a graduation photoshoot at Notting Hill.

8. Old San Juan, San Juan

As if encapsulating all the vibrancy of Puerto Rico, Old San Juan is brimming with picturesque facades painted in tropical hues and adorned with colourful doors. Streets like Calle Imperial, Calle de La Virtud, and Calle McArthur, all surrounding the Museo de San Juan, showcase the most impressive collection of vibrant facades. The museum itself features beautiful green doors that stand out against the vibrant orange and yellow exterior — perfect for stunning photos. While on Calle Imperial, don’t forget to explore the mural displaying the flag of Puerto Rico and capture some shots to celebrate your time in this fascinating Caribbean city.

Special Fly tip: in San Juan, as with most tropical destinations, the best colours for outdoor pics are, naturally, summer colours.

Photo: Raul in San Juan for Flytographer. Beth and partner capture memories in San Juan with an anniversary photoshoot in Old San Juan.

9. Umbrella Alley and Hyde Street, San Francisco

Umbrella Alley is one of San Francisco’s top street art destinations, showcasing several walls and installations created by local artists. The most photographed walls include the “Greetings from San Francisco” mural and the “California Adventure VW Bus.” The latter features a Classic Volkswagen Kombi, which you can climb inside and take pictures as if you were one of the passengers. Above, colourful balloons and umbrellas contribute to the alley’s charm and give it its name.

Another must-visit spot for incredible murals in San Francisco is Hyde Street, where you can find a captivating series of murals titled “Le Papillon.” They depict massive monarch butterflies soaring over California Poppies, the state flower. 

Want to see more art walls in California? A visit to Los Angeles is a must. The LA wall art scene ranks among the best in the country. Along Melrose Avenue, for example, you’ll discover several pieces celebrating the city and its pop icons. The true showstopper, however, is the vibrant hot pink wall covering the exterior of the Paul Smith store. 🩷 The angel wings created by celebrated artist Colette Miller are also famous sights in LA and can be found throughout the city.

Photo: Sandro in San Francisco for Flytographer. Ariel and family capture memories in San Francisco with a family photoshoot in Umbrella Alley and Hyde Street.

10. Capela das Almas, Porto

Countless walls in the Portuguese city of Porto are adorned with elegant and picture-perfect tile murals. One of the best places in the city to appreciate this quintessential Portuguese art form is Capela das Almas, or the Chapel of Souls, on Rua Santa Catarina. The entire facade and a side wall of this 18th-century church are adorned with depictions of religious scenes and stunning stained-glass windows complement the visual splendour of the walls.

For more unique wall art, visiting São Bento Railway Station is a must. The lobby of this 19th-century Beaux arts-inspired building showcases murals composed of twenty thousand tiles depicting scenes from everyday life and key moments in the country’s history. In its own way, Porto is truly a wall art wonderland!

Photo: Ivo in Porto for Flytographer. Karyn and partner capture memories in Porto with an anniversary photoshoot at Capela das Almas.

Instagrammable Walls Feast!

Just like the architectural marvels we’ve listed in this previous post, Instagrammable walls and street art can be found all around the world, and they sure make wonderful spots to take pictures.

Wherever you choose to head on your next adventure, you can always connect with our local photographers and let them guide you through some of the most colourful corners of the world.

Palermo Photo Spots

Within the enchanting Italian city of Palermo, you’ll find a story waiting to be told. This beautiful Sicilian city is a dynamic mix of cultures and traditions where you’ll find Byzantine mosaics, Gothic royal palaces, and Baroque facades. Its Italian, Spanish, Arabic, and Norman roots have created a truly unique culture you won’t find anywhere else in Europe. Whether you’re looking to discover the architectural brilliance of Palermo Cathedral, snap the sun-kissed alleyways and vibrant Italian markets, or simply capture a single moment in time with your loved ones, there are plenty of places to take photos in Palermo.

Here at ​​Flytographer, we easily connect people with trusted photographers for fun photo shoots and have captured over three million memories worldwide. Today, we asked our local photographers to show us around all the very best places to take photos in Palermo.

TLDR

(A little sneak peek just for you )

1. Porta Nuova to Quattro Canti: Soak up the ancient heart of Palermo and discover all the history that lies within.
2. Old Town: Embrace the narrow streets and epic fountains for some fun and exciting photo opportunities.
3. Palermo Cathedral: Capture yourself with noteworthy works of art and culture while inside a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
4. La Cala: Live the high life with snaps in front of luxury yachts in Palermo’s historic port.
5. Cefalù historic centre and beach: Perfect for day trips away from the hustle and bustle of Palermo and capturing those beachy shots.

Photo: Nino in Palermo for Flytographer. Marcella and family capture memories in Palermo with a family photoshoot in Old Town.

1. Porta Nuova to Quattro Canti

When visiting the Sicilian city of Palermo, a must-see is the monumental city gate of Porta Nuova. This gate represents the entrance of the Cassaro from Corso Calatafimi and is located next to Palazzo dei Normanni (the royal Norman palace of Palermo). The gate was built to celebrate Charles V’s conquest of Tunis and offers some truly spectacular photo opportunities.

Capture a candid shot as you walk through the archway toward Palermo Cathedral. But before you head there, be sure to take a wander towards Piazza Vigliena, the centre of Palermo’s historic quarters. This site is known as Four Corners, or Quattro Canti, and is at the intersection of two major streets in Palermo.

This incredible Baroque intersection is formed in an octagon to honour the Spanish viceroy who commissioned its construction in 1609. And while it can be difficult to fit the entire octagonal piazza into a single frame, there are plenty of interesting angles around Quattro Canti once you get those creative juices flowing.

Experiment with low-angle shots looking up towards the sky, or put yourself directly in the centre of one street and capture the buildings on either side of you.

Photo: Nino in Palermo for Flytographer. Maddie and partner capture memories in Palermo with a couples photoshoot.

2. Old Town

Palermo’s Old Town starts at Quattro Canti. This whole area is teeming with ornamental structures and splendid historic buildings, including Baroque palazzos. In fact, the old town of Palermo takes you on a journey back in time and creates one of the most Instagrammable places within the city centre.

One of the best locations within Piazza Pretoria is the Fontana Pretoria or Pretoria Fountain. This iconic and beautiful fountain provides the perfect backdrop for your photos. Capture the sunlight as it glistens off the flowing water or lights up the buildings behind it. Sit on the water’s edge and capture yourself and the fountain’s impressive design in all its glory. No matter what angles you choose, a good photo is almost guaranteed.

Photo: Nino in Palermo for Flytographer. Amy and partner celebrate a honeymoon in Palermo with a honeymoon photoshoot.

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3. Palermo Cathedral

If you’re looking for outstanding architecture and an awesome backdrop for photos in Palermo, we suggest taking a trip to one of Palermo’s biggest monuments—the Palermo Cathedral.

This Norman cathedral in Sicily was built in 1184 and has had numerous modifications over the centuries; in fact, only a few parts of the original building remain. Palermo Cathedral has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 2015 and forms part of the “Arab-Norman Palermo and the Cathedral Churches of Cefalù and Monreale” itinerary.

There are many interesting angles to be found both inside and outside the cathedral, so play around and snap away until you find that perfect shot. The interior is highly impressive in scale and features interesting royal Norman tombs. As you climb up to the roof, you’ll be able to capture some truly incredible panoramic views of the city centre.

Photo: Nino in Palermo for Flytographer. Desiree and family capture memories in Palermo with a family photoshoot at the Palermo Cathedral.

4. La Cala

Located near Piazza Fonderia and surrounded by local cafes and restaurants, La Cala is one of Palermo’s marinas. It was once the principal port of the city. Today, it houses all sailboats, with sidewalks right next to the boats. It offers you the perfect opportunity to capture a moment when you’ll feel like a millionaire with all your yachts in the background.

This beautiful little spot is also one of the most perfect places to take photos in Palermo to capture those all-important and impressive sunset snaps. You won’t manage to get those epic sunsets from the city centre as you’re surrounded by mountains, but at La Cala, you’ll be able to capture those nice golden-hour photos.

Once you’ve taken in the views and those glorious sunsets, head off for some delicious street food and another opportunity to take some candid shots of you enjoying the local cuisine. We always find that the best camera is the one you have in your pocket, so get your phone out and capture these truly incredible moments.

Photo: Nino in Palermo for Flytographer. Gina and partner celebrate an engagement in Palermo with an engagement trip photoshoot in La Cala.

5. Cefalù Historic Centre and Beach

Located roughly 40 miles east of Palermo, in the centre of the North Coast of Sicily, is the beautiful and quiet seaside town of Cefalù. This little town is considered one of the most beautiful towns in Italy and is an easily reachable day trip from Palermo.

The historic centre of Cefalù is a blended mix of history, tradition and tourism. As you walk along the narrow streets, you’ll be taken aback by the stunning architecture of the buildings. As one of the most Instagrammable places to take photos in Palermo – this city will create some truly lovely images as you capture yourself twirling down the high street.

Cefalù’s most popular photography spot is the waterfront, where you can capture the clear emerald water. It also makes for some fantastic reflections as the waves linger on the sand. Plus, if you time it right, you might even catch the golden-hour glow.

If you’re looking for a beach a little closer to Palermo, Mondello Beach is only a 30-minute car ride away and offers stunning panoramic views of its white sandy bay. Take some shots from the water with the grand Monte Pellegrino as the backdrop or simply relax on a sunbed and forget your photographer is even there.

Photo: Nino in Palermo for Flytographer. Holly and family capture memories in Palermo with a family photoshoot at Cefalù historic center and beach.

Capturing memories in Palermo

There are plenty of other photo opportunities throughout Palermo, making it one of the best tourist destinations. Whether you want to take a guided tour of the incredible Teatro Massimo or wander through the ghostly Gothic Santa Maria dello Spasimo, you’ll find some epic shots that you’ll never forget.

Capture those landscapes looking out over the Mediterranean coast towards Monte Pellegrino or become enchanted with the walk through Palermo’s Ballaro and Vucciria markets.

Our Ultimate Southern Italy Travel Guide will give you more information on this Sicilian island sitting between Europe and North Africa.

Destin photo spots

Filled with photo opportunities, the Emerald Coast in Florida is equally perfect for both romantic, and family beach holidays. It sprawls across the state’s northwestern coast, embracing great parks, beautiful beaches of white sand, and five different cities. One of them is Destin, also known as “the world’s luckiest fishing village.”   It’s easy to understand the “lucky factor” – head to the Destin jetties, one of the great locations in America for snorkelling, and admire the plentiful fish through the clear waters, jump on a pontoon boat to explore Crab Island, or hop on a dolphin cruise to see these friendly mammals in their natural habitat. On land, the Destin Harbor exudes the city’s bustling life and has more photo ops for you. Ready for some Destin fun? Here’s a list of the top 5 places to take photos in Destin. 

Don’t forget your swimwear, flip-flops and sunscreen!

Photo: Mary in Destin for Flytographer. Racheal and their family capture memories on a custom route in Destin on a family photoshoot.

1. Henderson Beach State Park

With powdery white sand and crystalline turquoise waters, Henderson Beach State Park lives up to its fame as a slice of heaven on the Emerald Coast. If you’re up for some light exercise, you can hike its natural trails, have a closer look at the unique dune ecosystem, and take great pics.

Just want to chill under the warm Florida sun? A picturesque boardwalk — also full of photo ops — leads to the seaside, where you can bask while strolling the sugar-like white sand, admiring the mesmerizing sea, and feeling the fresh coastal breeze. This beach is also an excellent location for swimming as the waves are gentle and the water temperature is ideal all year round.

Keep your eyes open for the impressive fauna: from pelicans and plovers to turtles making their way to the water and dolphins jumping on the horizon.

Can we ask for anything else from a Florida paradise?

Photo: Mary in Destin for Flytographer. Stephanie and family capture memories in Destin on a family photoshoot.

2. James Lee Beach

Together with Henderson Beach and Miramar Beach, James Lee Beach is one of the best Destin beaches. A favourite for family portraits, it follows the norm of the beaches on the Emerald Coast: translucent waters and soft white sand. It’s true: anywhere you look, there’s an opportunity for a spectacular beach photo which makes it one of the best places to take photos in Destin.

You can stroll along the beach, go for a swim, or relax under an umbrella, feeling the peaceful magnetism of this place. If you get hungry, the famous Crab Trap restaurant, a James Lee institution, is right opposite the ocean. 

The venue’s picturesque seaside architecture gives the beach its famous nickname, Crab Trap Beach. From its terraces, you can get even more amazing views and the best photo angles of the Gulf of Mexico — and not to mention, exquisite Florida seafood.

If you want to swap outfits before dinner, the public amenities at James Lee Beach is excellent, with facilities such as restrooms, shower areas, and changing rooms.

Photo: Mary in Destin for Flytographer. Marcia and family capture memories in Destin on a family photoshoot.

3. Destin Gulfgate

Located in the heart of Destin, near several world-class dining, shopping, and entertainment options, and facing a mostly empty and beautiful beach, you’ll find Destin Gulfgate, the city’s favourite luxury vacation rental option.

Besides being a great place to stay and enjoy the breathtaking Florida coast vistas, Destin Gulfgate is a fantastic stage for great pics, especially beach photography and family photos, since the space is secluded from any crowds. 

The friendly staff will help you book any activities you wish, like a dolphin cruise or a pontoon boat ride. Another fabulous option is to find a lounger under an umbrella and have a delicious cocktail by the seaside pool facing the stunning ocean.

Photo: Mary in Destin for Flytographer. Katie and their family capture memories in Destin on a family photoshoot.

4. Grayton Beach State Park

Between Destin and Panama City Beach, Grayton Beach State Park is another hotspot for outdoor lovers. The beach itself is considered a favourite spot by locals and one of the best beaches in the US, but there’s also Western Lake — one of the few coastal dune lakes in the world.

This geological gem is surrounded by beautiful nature, trails cutting through the dunes, and a coastal woodland composed of scrub oaks and magnolias. Unlike other parts of the Emerald Coast, any new real estate developments in this area are limited, giving you fantastic photo opportunities with a natural backdrop providing a beautiful place to take photos in Destin.

Other popular activities in the park are fishing, biking, stand-up paddling, camping, and bird-watching. You can also rent a kayak or canoe to explore the backwaters of the lake.

Photo: Mary in Destin for Flytographer. Jorja and family capture memories in Destin on a family photoshoot.

5. Fort Walton Beach

With activities for all types of outdoor enthusiasts and fabulous beaches, the small town of Fort Walton Beach sits just a short drive from Destin, between Pensacola and Panama City Beach.

Fort Walton’s Island Pier is famous for panoramic ocean views. This idyllic spot is perfect for a photo shoot during the golden hours (around sunrises and sunsets) with the silhouettes of seagulls and pelicans as props. If you’re lucky, you’ll even get dolphins in the background.

Don’t miss Okaloosa Island, a narrow and long island connected to Fort Walton by a short bridge where you’ll find more great beaches, parks, and wildlife. To walk through the Okaloosa boardwalk is a delight: fantastic restaurants, adorable shops, and many family activities, festivals, and live events.

For a chill experience, John C. Beasley Park is a beachside park offering quiet spots for sunbathing and swimming and a great place to take photos in Destin.

Photo: Mary in Destin for Flytographer. Jorja and family capture memories in Destin on a family photoshoot.

Capturing memories in Destin

Destin really checks all the boxes, doesn’t it?

For more travel insights, check these Destin travel tips from our community of travellers, and while you’re in town, book one of our local Flytographers to take some unforgettable beach portraits.

In Destin, you’ll understand why some call it Florida, and others call it heaven.