London architecture photography: A complete guide

At the FUJIFILM House of Photography, we’re fortunate to be located in the very heart of London, where street and architecture photography are two of the most popular styles for professionals and hobbyists alike — and it’s not hard to see why. 

There’s something to see and marvel at around every corner — from the vibrant crowds full of people-watching opportunities to the city’s impressive historical buildings. 

Whether you’re new to taking photos of architecture or you’re looking to explore London through your camera lens for the first time, our guide is here to offer advice and inspiration.

What equipment do you need for London architecture photography?

No matter which buildings you’re photographing, there are a few essential pieces of equipment to help you get the most out of your subject:

• Camera: You may hear that some photographers favour full-frame sensor cameras. However, in our experience, APS-C mirrorless models (like the Fujifilm X Series) and medium format options (like our GFX Series) offer high resolution for exceptional image quality..
  
  Our top camera picks include the FUJIFILM GFX100S II and X-T5, which both deliver outstanding image quality and dynamic range.
  
  
• Tripod: This will provide ultimate stability, whether you’re capturing long-exposure shots at night, composing precise architectural frames, or shooting in low-light conditions where a steady hand isn’t enough. Go for something sturdy yet lightweight so you can easily move to different locations. 
  
  
• Standard zoom lens: A standard zoom lens offers the ability to cover different focal lengths so you can vary your compositions without having to switch lenses. This means you can take broader landscapes of the surrounding architecture and focus in on details. The FUJINON XF16-50mmF2.8-4.8 R LM WR lens is a versatile, weather-proof option that is ideal for wide-angle photos and close-ups.
  
  
• Prime lens: You might also want to bring a prime lens, which ensures sharp results even in lower lighting — perfect for cloudy days and photographing at night. With a wide aperture of f/1.4, the FUJINON XF23mmF1.4 R is a great lens for capturing both architectural details and cityscapes with great depth and clarity, even in the dark.
  
  
• Tilt-shift lens: When photographing buildings, it’s important to control perspective. A tilt-shift lens can help correct distortion, keeping vertical lines straight and avoiding the "leaning" effect that can happen when taking photos of tall structures from the ground.
  

If you’d like to see if a particular camera model or lens is for you, why not look at our two-day Try Before You Buy loan system? You can collect the equipment from the House of Photography store in Covent Garden and explore London’s incredible architecture.

Note: It’s important to mention that we’re focusing on exterior architecture in this article. For interior photography, you may also wish to use a flash to help with low-lighting settings.

Is there a difference between photographing old and modern buildings?

From elaborate Gothic churches to the symmetrical elegance of Georgian townhouses and richly detailed Victorian buildings, London is filled with a variety of architectural styles. These historical structures contrast greatly with the glossy facades and clean sweeping lines of the city’s modern buildings. 

How does this affect your photography? When looking at period buildings, you’ll want to focus on intricate details, textures, and weathered materials — all the elements that give the structure character. You may want to explore the interplay between light and shadow to enhance ornate carvings, stonework, and decorative features. (Why not read our guide to photography lighting for more inspiration?)

In contrast, London’s modern architecture is more geometric. You might want to emphasise the bold, minimalist designs and see how they interact dynamically with surrounding structures, sky reflections, and changing light conditions.

London architecture: Which buildings are best for photography?

With so many varied buildings and landmarks to choose from, you may be wondering where to start with your London architecture photography. While we’re sure you can find photo-worthy subjects across the city, here are a few buildings to consider to get the ball rolling.

Buckingham Palace

Quintessentially London, Buckingham Palace offers intricate detailing on a neo-classical facade — ideal for capturing symmetrical compositions. You can also explore how the forecourt and gates can frame your photos.

The Shard

If you’re looking to capture striking reflections, the Shard’s sleek angles and glass panels provide the perfect opportunity. As the tallest building in the UK, it towers above the London skyline, creating dramatic perspectives that work well in both day and night photography.

St Paul’s Cathedral

St Paul’s Cathedral provides both close-up and wide-angle photography opportunities. Explore the ornate stonework or see how the building’s dome dominates the skyline — particularly at sunrise and sunset.

Why not try photographing St Paul’s Cathedral from the Millennium Bridge? From here, the cathedral makes a striking focal point, framed by the northern end of the bridge. When positioned just right, you can capture the bridge’s steel suspension cables leading up towards the cathedral’s iconic dome. 

By capturing the cathedral’s period structure and the bridge’s contemporary construction all in one frame, you can showcase London’s incredible blend of history and modernity.

The Gherkin

A truly unique construction, the Gherkin’s distinctive curved glass structure and geometric patterns provide endless creative possibilities for architectural photography. It’s the perfect piece of London architecture for playing with dynamic compositions and light in your photography.

Canary Wharf

Canary Wharf is another great area to explore, leading to photos that offer plenty of levels. Filled with skyscrapers and interesting commercial structures, you can capture fantastic skyline images, especially at night or as the sun is setting.

Contrast the densely packed buildings with Canary Wharf’s open space beside the River Thames and don’t forget to make use of the water’s reflective surface.

Tate Modern

Whether you capture this gallery from the other side of the river or closer up, it provides endless photography opportunities. A converted power station, it showcases bold, industrial architecture with a tall chimney stack that towers far above the nearby rooftops. 

The red brick facade contrasts with other local structures and offers the chance to explore the interplay between industry and the natural environment. Try photographing the Tate Modern at Golden Hour (around sunrise or sunset) to see how it stands out.

Develop your architecture photography skills with FUJIFILM House of Photography

We’ve covered just a handful of London’s distinctive buildings, and there are plenty more to see and photograph. Whether you’re dipping your toe in capturing London and want some photography tips, or you’re an experienced street or architecture photographer hoping to see this incredible city in a new light, we encourage you to take your camera out and about. 

We offer a range of guided photography walks around London. Led by seasoned experts, they not only give you the chance to learn new techniques but also provide the opportunity to meet other like-minded local enthusiasts. 

Take a look at the FUJIFILM School listings to book your spot on our next photowalk. Alternatively, check out our genre-based workshops if there’s a specific photography area you’d like to focus on.