In this post, I will list my favourite locations for creating Manchester cityscapes and night photographs. You can click at each location to see it on google maps.
Please check my other location guides:
Another 8 Manchester view points
- First street car park. It offers one of the best viewpoints of the city from each side. I recommend coming here in your own vehicle since you can only enter this car park by having a ticket.
2. MEN arena car park. Located near Victoria station. Very easy access. No one ever asked me to leave while I was shooting even though I’m usually setting tripod up. If you are into long exposure photography this location is quite nice as you can capture light from passing trains and car trails from Cheetham Hill road. I recommend bringing wide lens such as 18mm. However there are some compositions with telephoto lenses too.
3. Salford quays exchange car park. Recently discovered location perfect for capturing Manchester skyline. Works really well after sunset as you will be able to get some nice long exposure shots capturing light streaks from passing trams in and out of the city. There is only one composition that worked for me at around 50mm however you can always zoom in more for more compressed shot.
4. River Irwell reflections. Perfect place for a walk or cycle from city center to Salford Quays area and Media City. You can capture some amazing reflections of Manchester along the river.
5. New Bailey car park. This location will be very appealing to the eye once road works are done and construction sides are completed. It is very messy around there at the moment. What I like about this spot is curvy road ahead that creates nice composition especially if you are into long exposure photography as much as I am.
6. Shudehill car park. Maybe not the best views but I decide to include into my list anyway. Just across, there is another spot with few interesting photo opportunities displayed as example on second image.
7. Green Quarter top floor apartment building. Photos are taken through the glass window of 15th floor staircase. Good advise when it comes to taking photos through the glass is to cover camera with cloth in order to remove potential reflections caused by light from corridors. Especially when photographing after or during sunset.
Bonus location – Acort Court. This one offers best Manchester skyline I manage to find. Unfortunately it’s not possible to get there as building is well protected. I had privilege to take those photos from balcony of my friend apartment.
If anyone know some good locations around Manchester don’t hesitate to leave comment below or contact me through contact form on the website. I’m always eager for cooperations.
Also most recent photo updates as always you can find on Instagram.