About Liverpool
Liverpool is one of the UK’s most underrated destinations for photography, with its sea views, modern architecture and unique clubs, bars and event spaces. The seafront in Liverpool has been developed into an open space with lots of funky sculptures and views, and the sea stretches for miles making it a great photography spot at sunset. Plus, the Royal Albert Dock is a quieter, secluded area where the water is ideal for reflection shots.
The city’s rich pop culture history means there are many streets, bars and street art dedicated to The Beatles, who began their careers in the famous Cavern Club, another location that's perfect for unique photoshoots. Within the city, you’ll also find beautiful parks, an abandoned church, a stately hall and a variety of quirky graffiti, giving you a huge range of backdrops for any kind of photoshoot in the city.
Photoshoot Options in Liverpool
Liverpool is a city filled with character and historical buildings, but even with the most beautiful city in the UK, there are plenty other things you’ll need before you can bring your ideas to life.
- Camera Rental
As a professional photographer, you’re likely to be bringing your own kit, but if you suddenly run out of storage, or don’t have the space to carry an entire lighting set-up, renting your equipment for the day can be a huge weight off your mind (and your luggage!). Thankfully, Liverpool has a range of centrally located companies who can offer you whatever you need for your shoot.
- Make-up Artists
A make-up artist is essential for any portrait or fashion photography. Having someone on hand to touch up models and subjects will go a long way in achieving the exact looks desired by your clients and saving you extensive post-editing time. Make-up artists are a dime a dozen in Liverpool so even on popular days there will be someone to help you out.
- Catering
Photoshoots can last for hours or sometimes multiple days. Providing your crew with nourishment will keep everyone in a good mood and full of energy, including yourself. Liverpool offers a variety of catering options with every cuisine imaginable.
Photography Companies in Liverpool
- ACME Studio
ACME Studio is an experienced and knowledgeable photographic team offering a range of services, including equipment rental. They offer high-end rentals such as Apple computers, professional DSLRs and lighting set-ups. They also have a consultancy team who can help you find shoot locations, set designers and other crew for your photoshoot, so you can take off more tasks from your plate!
- Delifonseca
Delifonseca is based just outside of the city and is an independently run catering business, which is also home to award-winning butchers. They can cater for almost any event with a focus on business lunches, perfect for a long day of shooting. They offer options for all dietary requirements, with tasty platters, light lunches and desserts.
- The Collective Management
The Collective Management works with clients including Cosmopolitan & 20th Century Fox. The company represents select leading stylists, make-up artists and set designers across London, Manchester and the Midlands, including Liverpool. They’ll find you the best talent for anything your shoot may require.
Pros and Cons of Photoshoots in Liverpool
Liverpool is a great place for a photoshoot most of the year. However, during certain seasons and times of the week, there are some disadvantages if you’re trying to find a perfect location for a shoot.
Advantages
- Plenty of shoot locations
Liverpool has so many places to shoot beautiful photos no matter what your or your client’s requirements are, from peaceful parklands to bustling city streets.
- Sea and harbour views
You can always find a slice of the seafront to yourself in Liverpool. The sunset across the water is spectacular. At night or on special occasions, you can also see glittering boats and fireworks which make an excellent backdrop.
- Lots of bars and restaurants
Aside from fuelling yourself, Liverpool is well-known for having extremely photogenic bars and restaurants which can be hired for photoshoots, whether you need a flower wall or views over the city.
- A wealth of history
Liverpool’s streets don’t stretch back only to the Beatles era. The city has some incredible architecture and historical buildings which are not only picture-perfect but also available for hosting weddings or events.
Disadvantages
- Temperamental weather
Being in the UK, you can expect the weather in Liverpool to be hit-and-miss. However, when the sun is shining, you won’t find anywhere better, especially for sunsets. If you're planning to shoot outdoors, make sure you check the weather first so that you won't catch the rain!
- Busy streets
On any given weekend and even some weekday evenings, Liverpool is crammed with revellers celebrating everything from birthdays to hen dos. Matthew Street and the surroundings in particular are normally overrun with people so photoshoot can get difficult in the evenings.
- Bad parking
If you head into the city during the day, you won’t have too much parking trouble, but when early evening hits or if it’s a sunny summer's day, parking becomes limited. On the plus side, if you do find a space, the cost is relatively cheap.
Famous Photoshoot Locations in Liverpool
- Liverpool Waterfront
The waterfront stretches for miles, making it ideal for photography as you can always find a quiet spot. Whether you want a backdrop of modern buildings, open sea or colourful boats, the city’s famous pedestrianised waterside is a place not to be missed.
- St George’s Hall
St George’s Hall is frequently used as a location for weddings, commercial and event photoshoots. The historic town hall features a wide-open central space with marble columns, chandeliers and stained-glass windows and is a great place to shoot large groups or unique special occasions.
- Sefton Park Palm House
If you’re searching for a botanical-inspired location, Sefton Park should be your first choice. A stunning white greenhouse, the building is both an elegant shoot background and a venue for parties, events and weddings. At night, there are sparkling chandeliers and hundreds of bright tropical plants inside.
