Planning a trip to Birmingham and wondering where to snap the perfect shot? Whether you’re a passionate photographer or just love filling your phone with beautiful memories, Birmingham is bursting with incredible photo spots that capture the spirit, creativity, and charm of this dynamic city.
At PicTours.ie, we know a thing or two about finding the best Instagram-worthy locations — and Birmingham does not disappoint. Here’s your ultimate guide to the best places to take photos in Birmingham City!
1. Library of Birmingham – Modern Architecture Goals
Start your photography journey at the Library of Birmingham, one of the city’s most iconic modern buildings. The bold golden latticed facade makes for a stunning backdrop, and the rooftop gardens offer panoramic views across the city — perfect for wide landscape shots or dreamy portraits.
👉 Pro Tip: Visit at sunset for soft lighting and magical cityscapes!
2. The Custard Factory – Colourful, Urban Cool
If you’re a fan of street art, quirky cafes, and vibrant walls, The Custard Factory in Digbeth is your dream location. It’s one of Birmingham’s creative hubs and every corner seems made for the ‘gram. You’ll find huge murals, colourful doors, and indie vibes galore.
👉 Pro Tip: Look for the giant murals by local artists — perfect for bold, eye-catching shots.
3. Gas Street Basin – Birmingham’s Hidden Gem
A peaceful canal basin surrounded by beautiful old buildings, pretty bridges, and cosy waterside cafes, Gas Street Basin feels like a step back in time. It’s a fantastic spot for reflective shots on the water, golden hour photography, and charming urban scenes.
👉 Pro Tip: Bring a tripod if you’re shooting in the evening — the lights reflecting on the water are magic!
4. Birmingham Cathedral – Historic Beauty
Known locally as St Philip’s Cathedral, this 18th-century gem is a must-visit for classic architecture lovers. The surrounding grounds, known as Pigeon Park, are also perfect for relaxed portraits under ancient trees.
👉 Pro Tip: Capture the intricate stonework against a bright blue sky for postcard-perfect results.
5. Brindleyplace – Urban Chic
With its mix of modern buildings, waterfront dining, and stylish public squares, Brindleyplace offers tons of sleek urban photography opportunities. It’s a lovely area to capture lifestyle shots, reflections in the canals, and vibrant city life.
👉 Pro Tip: Visit mid-morning when the area is lively but not overly crowded for the best atmosphere.
6. The Jewellery Quarter – Historic Charm
For old-world charm mixed with creativity, head to The Jewellery Quarter. This historic area is packed with cobbled streets, Victorian shopfronts, and artisan studios. Every alleyway seems to tell a story.
👉 Pro Tip: Use a lower aperture (like f/2.8) to get those beautiful blurred backgrounds in your street portraits.
7. Cannon Hill Park – Nature in the City
Need a little green in your photo reel? Cannon Hill Park is Birmingham’s most beautiful park, with wide open spaces, woodlands, lakes, and colourful flower beds. A dream location for family portraits, nature photography, and peaceful reflection shots.
👉 Pro Tip: Visit in autumn for a stunning palette of orange, red, and gold leaves!
Bonus: Best Times to Photograph Birmingham 🌅
- Golden Hour: About an hour after sunrise and an hour before sunset for the softest, most flattering light.
- Blue Hour: Just after sunset for dreamy cityscapes with deep blue skies.
- Festivals: Birmingham hosts lots of colourful festivals — perfect for lively, candid shots!
Ready to Explore Birmingham Through Your Lens? 📷
If you’re visiting Birmingham and want the inside track on even more amazing photography locations, join one of our PicTours walking tours! Our local guides will take you straight to the best hidden gems, teach you top phone photography tips, and help you capture your trip like a pro.
👉 Stay tuned – Birmingham PicTours launching soon!
Want to book a private photography tour in Birmingham?
📧 Email us at [email protected] or DM us on Instagram @pictours.ie!
