Planning a photoshoot on the French Riviera?
As a professional photographer working in Nice, Cannes, and Monaco, I’ve explored the most picturesque locations this beautiful coastline has to offer. Whether you’re dreaming of a romantic couple shoot, stylish solo portraits, or family vacation memories — this guide will help you find the perfect backdrop. Here are 25 of the best photoshoot spots across the Côte d’Azur.
I’m Alisa Postnykova — an international portrait and fashion photographer working across Europe.
an international portrait and fashion photographer working across Europe. I’ve spent the past seasons capturing personal, branding, and editorial shoots across the Riviera. This guide includes my favorite 25 locations that combine natural beauty, architecture, and that effortless joie de vivre you can only find here.
Whether you’re planning a content session, romantic shoot, maternity photos, or simply want to celebrate your beauty — you’ll find inspiring options in this article.
Let’s dive into the best photo spots from Nice to Monaco and beyond 💙
🇲🇨 Monaco — Top Photoshoot Locations
Monaco is the epitome of elegance and cinematic beauty. With its luxurious architecture, dramatic sea views, and iconic landmarks, it offers a unique backdrop for high-end, personal, or fashion photoshoots. Below are some of my favorite locations in Monaco that are perfect for editorial-style sessions, romantic portraits, and chic personal branding.
Monte Carlo Casino & Place du Casino
The symbol of luxury and old-world glamour. The architecture, classic cars, and opulent surroundings make this spot ideal for a fashion-forward shoot or a powerful personal portrait.
Best time: Early morning (to avoid crowds) or golden hour
Perfect for: Fashion, editorial, branding, luxury lifestyle
Japanese Garden (Jardin Japonais)
A peaceful and exotic location right in the heart of Monaco. Bamboo, koi ponds, red bridges, and zen vibes — perfect for dreamy, soulful portraits.
Best time: Morning or early evening for soft light
Perfect for: Personal sessions, feminine branding, romantic stories
Port Hercules & Yacht Viewpoints
The harbor filled with yachts and the cliffs behind create a stunning layered background. From above (Boulevard Albert 1er), you can catch cinematic shots of the port and cityscape.
Best time: Sunset or night (for city lights)
Perfect for: Business portraits, elegant personal shoots, storytelling
Monaco-Ville (Old Town)
Narrow streets, pastel facades, cozy corners — the perfect contrast to Monaco’s luxury side. This area is rich with Mediterranean charm and beautiful soft colors.
Best time: Midday when streets are sunlit
Perfect for: Lifestyle portraits, romantic sessions, personal branding
Exotic Garden (Jardin Exotique)
Perched high above the principality, this garden offers panoramic views over the sea and cliffs. Cactus plants, desert vibes, and dramatic scenery make it a standout spot.
Best time: Late afternoon or golden hour
Perfect for: Editorial, creative portraits, vacation memories
Cannes — Top Photoshoot Locations
Known for the iconic Film Festival and luxurious seaside lifestyle, Cannes blends Old World charm with Riviera glam. From the elegant Croisette to colorful old streets, this city offers a variety of cinematic spots for personal, editorial, and branding shoots.
La Croisette Boulevard
A palm-lined promenade stretching along the sea, framed by luxury hotels and white sand beaches. It’s perfect for stylish, sunlit sessions with movement and effortless elegance.
Best time: Morning (for softer light and fewer people)
Perfect for: Street style, fashion shoots, lifestyle branding
Cannes Old Port
Charming boats, reflections on the water, and pastel facades — this spot feels intimate and nostalgic, ideal for storytelling and travel-inspired portraits.
Best time: Late afternoon or golden hour
Perfect for: Romantic sessions, fashion editorials, content shoots
See a real photoshoot I did in Cap Ferrat here
Le Suquet (Old Town)
Cobblestone alleys, stone staircases, and views over the bay. This is the soul of Cannes — authentic, cozy, and full of texture. Bring a dress and heels or go barefoot for a natural feel.
Best time: Midday or golden hour for contrast and color
Perfect for: Personal stories, soulful portraits, maternity sessions
Rooftops with Sea View (e.g. Five Seas Hotel)
Some hotels and rentals in Cannes offer rooftop access with panoramic views over the old town and Mediterranean. These locations are ideal for high-end, editorial-style sessions.
Best time: Sunset or blue hour
Perfect for: Branding, luxury content, couple sessions
Carlton & Martinez Hotel Exteriors
The architecture of these iconic hotels brings instant elegance and prestige. Even shooting just outside the entrance, you get the aura of timeless French Riviera glamour.
Best time: Morning or evening (avoid direct harsh sunlight)
Perfect for: Fashion portraits, beauty, confident branding images
Planning a trip to the French Riviera and want to capture unforgettable moments?
Book a photo session with me — I know all the best hidden gems and golden hour spots!
Nice — Top Photoshoot Locations
Nice perfectly combines Mediterranean charm with vibrant city life. Its colorful streets, stunning seafront, and hilltop views make it a favorite spot for personal, fashion, and branding photoshoots. Below are some of the best locations to capture the essence of the French Riviera.
Promenade des Anglais
The iconic seaside promenade lined with palm trees and blue chairs against the sparkling sea. Perfect for airy, elegant portraits and lifestyle shoots.
Best time: Early morning for soft light and calm atmosphere
Perfect for: Casual portraits, lifestyle, branding
Castle Hill (Colline du Château)
Offers panoramic views over Nice and the Mediterranean Sea. The ruins, greenery, and waterfall create a dramatic yet peaceful setting.
Best time: Late afternoon or golden hour
Perfect for: Scenic portraits, romantic shoots, editorial
Old Town (Vieux Nice)
Narrow streets, colorful buildings, lively markets, and quaint cafés. Great for vibrant, playful portraits full of character.
Best time: Morning or late afternoon
Perfect for: Lifestyle, storytelling, travel shoots
See a real photoshoot I did in Cap Ferrathttps://alisapostnykova.com/divich-vechir here.
Place Masséna
The main square with striking black-and-white paving and modern sculptures. Offers a chic urban backdrop with plenty of light and space.
Best time: Morning or sunset
Perfect for: Fashion, branding, editorial
Blue Chairs & Seafront Beaches
Classic Riviera scene with turquoise water and colorful sun loungers. Creates a fresh, summer vibe perfect for relaxed portraits.
Best time: Morning or golden hour
Perfect for: Casual portraits, maternity, lifestyle
Hidden Gems & Coastal Villages on the French Riviera
Beyond the famous beaches and bustling cities, the French Riviera is dotted with charming villages and lesser-known spots that offer unique, authentic backdrops for your photoshoots. These hidden gems combine stunning nature, historic architecture, and peaceful atmospheres — perfect for capturing intimate, soulful moments away from the crowds.
Èze
Medieval village perched high on a cliff, offering winding cobblestone streets, a beautiful botanical garden, and breathtaking views over the Mediterranean Sea. Perfect for romantic and stylish photoshoots blending nature and architecture.
Best time: Morning or late afternoon for soft light
Ideal for: Personal portraits, fashion, and branding sessions
Cap Ferrat
A luxurious peninsula known for its elegant villas, secluded coves, and pristine beaches. The combination of lush greenery and turquoise water creates an exclusive and timeless backdrop.
Best time: Golden hour or early morning
Ideal for: Lifestyle, editorial, and luxury branding shoots
See a real photoshoot I did in Cap Ferrat https://alisapostnykova.com/zanita-saint-jean-cap-ferrathere.
Mougins
A charming village famous for its art galleries, narrow alleys, and Provençal atmosphere. Its colorful walls and quiet streets are perfect for cozy and creative portraits.
Best time: Morning or late afternoon
Ideal for: Artistic portraits, lifestyle, and intimate sessions
Villefranche-sur-Mer
A picturesque seaside town with vibrant houses, a beautiful harbor, and a laid-back vibe. The colorful waterfront and narrow streets offer a fresh and lively setting.
Best time: Afternoon or sunset
Ideal for: Travel photography, lifestyle, and romantic shoots
Roquebrune-Cap-Martin
This seaside village combines rugged cliffs, historic castle ruins, and sandy beaches. It offers a dramatic and authentic Riviera backdrop that’s perfect for storytelling.
Best time: Late afternoon or golden hour
Ideal for: Editorial, creative, and personal branding shoots
Beaulieu-sur-Mer
A small seaside town with beautiful beaches, cozy streets, and views of yachts. The atmosphere is relaxed and luxurious.
Best time: Daytime or sunset
Perfect for: Romantic and lifestyle photoshoots
Antibes Old Town (Vieil Antibes)
Medieval walls, narrow cobblestone streets, and a picturesque waterfront. A great spot for atmospheric urban portraits and fashion shoots.
Best time: Morning or evening
Ideal for: Fashion, branding, and travel portraits
Cap d’Antibes
Coastline with scenic coves, green cliffs, secluded beaches, and stunning sea views. Perfect for natural and elegant photoshoots.
Best time: Early morning and sunset
Ideal for: Editorial, fashion, and lifestyle sessions
Feeling inspired?
Let’s create your dream French Riviera photoshoot.
I offer full support — from location selection and styling advice to posing guidance and retouching.
📩 Contact me here to book your shoot in French Riviera, or explore my [portfolio] for inspiration.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best time of day for a photoshoot on the French Riviera?
Golden hour — just after sunrise or before sunset — gives the most flattering light and beautiful colors.
Can I book a photo session during my trip to Nice or Monaco?
Absolutely! I offer photo sessions in Nice, Monaco, Eze, and surrounding towns. Just get in touch here to check availability.
I’ve never done a professional photoshoot before. Will you help with posing?
Of course! I’ll guide you every step of the way so you feel relaxed and confident on camera.
What should I wear for my Riviera photoshoot?
Light, flowy fabrics look amazing against the coastal backdrops. I’ll send you a styling guide after booking to help you prepare.
Blog
How to Pose for Photos
What It’s Like to Be a Photographer at the Cannes Film Festival
Capturing Style: Meeting Stylish Strangers for Impromptu Photoshoots in Cannes and Monaco
