Best Places to Take Pictures in Portland

Known for its quirky and artistic flair, Portland offers photogenic spots that reflect its diverse character. Whether you’re an Instagram enthusiast searching for the perfect shot, a pro photographer looking for frame-worthy landscapes, or simply someone who loves capturing beautiful moments, Portland’s scenery won’t disappoint. Let’s explore the best places to take pictures in Portland to help you plan your next photo adventure!

Portland Oregon White Stag Sign

There’s no better way to start this list than mentioning the famous White Stag Sign. The White Stag shines as a bright symbol of the city, visible day and night. This iconic neon-and-incandescent-bulb sign represents the city’s vibe and rich history, making it an important part of your Portland photo carousel on IG or vacation gallery wall. 

• Ideal Shooting Spot: Go to the sidewalk on the north side of the Burnside Bridge. 

Champagne Poetry Patisserie

A haven for dessert lovers, Champagne Poetry Patisserie presents a delightful array of visually stunning and equally delicious pastries. This is an excellent spot to take pictures highlighting the elegance of Portland’s delectable treats and the chic surroundings.

• Ideal Shooting Spot: Just head over to Southeast Hawthorne Boulevard for stunning close-ups of pastries or stylish interior shots.

International Rose Test Garden

This sprawling garden features over 600 rose varieties that paint a vivid tableau against the Portland skyline. The inclusion of the Shakespeare Garden adds a layer of literary charm, presenting flowers that Shakespeare himself might have found inspiring.

• Ideal Shooting Spot: Check out the eastern edge of the garden or the amphitheatre to get better angles of the gorgeous rose garden. 

Cathedral Park and St. Johns Bridge

You’ll discover captivating views as the lush greenery of Cathedral Park meets the stunning architecture of St. Johns Bridge. The natural setting juxtaposed with the striking bridge creates a visual feast, perfect for your Instagram feed or home’s gallery wall.

• Ideal Shooting Spot: Explore the grounds of Cathedral Park, or capture the iconic St. Johns Bridge itself.

Voodoo Doughnut

Don’t miss one of the best Portland Instagram spots! Voodoo Doughnut represents Portland’s culinary eccentricity, bursting with colors and unique flavors. This shop’s imaginative world, featuring pink boxes, vibrant brick walls, and bright neon signs, creates a lively backdrop for your Instagram photos or DSLR-shot images!

• Ideal Shooting Spot: Take photos of the doughnut shop’s bright brick walls and neon signs outside. For the full experience, make sure to get some shots inside the shop and around Southwest Third Avenue.

Keep Portland Weird Sign

Speaking of instagrammable places in Portland, just a short walk from Voodoo Doughnut takes you to the iconic “Keep Portland Weird” sign. This is one of the best Portland photoshoot locations, perfect for showcasing the city’s quirky character. Painted on the back of Dante’s, this sign is a beloved symbol of the city’s cultural identity.

• Ideal Shooting Spot: Position yourself in Dante’s parking lot across the street for the perfect angle. Catching the Unipiper in your frame could add an extra touch of local eccentricity.

Mt. Tabor Park

Ascend the gentle slopes of Mt. Tabor, one of the most peaceful spots in Portland. With 190 acres of diverse trails, lush trees, and historic reservoirs, this area offers a serene escape from the urban buzz. At times, it also transforms into a vibrant venue for community gatherings, including lively summer concerts.

• Ideal Shooting Spot: The reservoirs offer a stunning foreground for skyline shots, and the summit provides breath-taking panoramic views of the city and nature, especially at dawn or dusk.

The Pearl District

Looking for more places to take pictures in Portland? Explore the Pearl District, one of Portland’s most dynamic neighborhoods. This area has transformed from a warehouse district into a bustling hub of art galleries, upscale boutiques, and trendy eateries. The streets are lined with renovated lofts and contemporary buildings, providing a visually appealing mix of old and new.

• Ideal Shooting Spot: Focus on areas like Jamison Square for its popular water features and the beautifully lit streets at dusk for picture-perfect urban scenes.

Pittock Mansion

Where can you get the best view in Portland? Pittock Mansion, once the residence of influential publisher Henry Pittock, is a symbol of Portland’s historical grandeur. The mansion, built in the French Renaissance style, features a wealth of architectural details and offers sweeping views over the city skyline and Mount Hood.

• Ideal Shooting Spot: Capture the expansive views from the mansion’s east side. A quick turn lets you photograph the architectural elegance against a lush backdrop, showcasing Portland’s man-made and natural beauty.

Portland Japanese Garden

Experience tranquility at the Portland Japanese Garden. Renowned for its authenticity, the garden features ponds, stone layouts, and meticulously maintained plants that offer a peaceful retreat and exceptional photo opportunities.

• Ideal Shooting Spot: Every corner of the garden is perfect for capturing stunning visuals of its carefully curated landscape.

Latourell Falls

No trip to Oregon is complete without witnessing this majestic waterfall! Located just 30 minutes east of Portland, it’s the most accessible waterfall from downtown. Whether you’re planning a day trip or passing through on your way to Columbia River Gorge, this destination promises picturesque views.

• Ideal Shooting Spot: The 2.1-mile loop trail leads directly to the towering 224-foot waterfall, offering perfect photo opportunities. For a different perspective, consider a quick walk to the lower falls.

Preserve Portland’s Magic: Print and Frame Your Shots

After capturing Portland’s stunning scenery, why not bring those vacation memories into your home or office? With Livestock Framing, you can turn your digital captures into beautiful, gallery-quality prints and frames. Whether it’s Pittock Mansion’s sweeping views or the Japanese Garden’s peaceful ambiance, Livestock Framing helps preserve and display your favorite moments with the utmost care. 

Upload your photos online, and we’ll handle the rest—enhancing, printing, and framing them in gallery-quality designs. Enjoy free shipping right to your doorstep and make your Portland memories last a lifetime!