August lights: 5 spots to photograph at sunset
Paris in August reveals a unique golden light, soft and enveloping. Far from the hustle and bustle of back-to-school, the capital is adorned with warm reflections, ideal for photography. Whether you’re an Instagram fan or a natural light enthusiast, here are five must-see spots to capture just before dusk.
Alexandre III Bridge: golden reflections on the Seine
In the golden hour, the Pont Alexandre III becomes a movie set. With its Belle Époque lampposts, allegorical sculptures and unobstructed view of the Invalides, it’s one of the capital’s most photogenic spots. The light grazes the relief, the gilding captures every nuance of the sky, and the Seine below reflects the last light of the day.
For the perfect photo: stand on the left bank and aim for the bridge with the Eiffel Tower in the background. Also ideal for soft, luminous portraits.
📍Pont Alexandre III, 75008 Paris
The Sacré-Coeur square: a spectacular panorama of Paris
In Montmartre, the Sacré-Coeur dominates Paris. At the end of the day, the light slowly descends over the rooftops, creating a natural gradation of shadows and blushes. The forecourt lights up softly, and street musicians often accompany the moment with an improvised soundtrack.
Insider tip: climb a few more steps on the left side of the basilica to escape the crowds and benefit from a wider angle. It’s also an ideal spot for backlight shots.
Parc des Buttes-Chaumont: nature in the hills
Less touristy but just as magical, the Parc des Buttes-Chaumont offers unsuspected views at sunset. Its belvedere perched on an artificial rock dominates eastern Paris, with low-angled light flooding the lawns and suspension bridges.
The perfect spot? Sybil’s kiosk at the summit, with its golden light. Long shadows, dense greenery and a view of the sky provide a natural, poetic backdrop. Ideal for those fleeing the crowds on the banks of the Seine.
📍Parc des Buttes-Chaumont, 75019 Paris
The Galeries Lafayette rooftop: an urban postcard
Accessible free of charge, the Galeries Lafayette rooftop offers one of the city’s most balanced panoramas. Opéra Garnier, Eiffel Tower, Haussmannian rooftops… all bathed in soft, late afternoon light. It’s one of the best vantage points for capturing Parisian architecture in its golden light.
Please note: crowds remain moderate in August, especially on weekdays. An opportunity to capture an urban snapshot without visual interference.
📍Galeries Lafayette Rooftop, 40 Bd Haussmann, 75009 Paris
The Simone-de-Beauvoir footbridge: modern design and low-angled light
Less well known than its neighbors, the Simone-de-Beauvoir footbridge links Bercy to the François-Mitterrand Library. As the sun sets, its curved wood-and-steel structure takes on a sublime copper hue. The minimalist, contemporary setting contrasts with the more classical ambience of other spotlights.
What’s best? Go there a little before sunset to play with the shadows cast on the wooden slats. A rougher aesthetic, but just as photogenic.
📍Passerelle Simone de Beauvoir, 75012 Paris
Golden hour, an exceptional moment in Paris
August sunsets transform Paris into a tableau vivant. Whether you’re looking for an iconic vantage point or a more discreet setting, the capital abounds with sublime places to photograph under the golden light. So get out your camera or smartphone, and let the magic happen.
Find more Parisian walks and spots on parisselectbook.com.
