Capture Stunning Louvre Night Photos: Expert Guide for Your Paris Trip Photography
When visiting Paris, the Louvre stands as an unmissable landmark that deserves both your presence and your camera’s attention. This collection showcases the stunning exterior views of the Louvre captured during my recent trip to the City of Light.
During summer months, Paris enjoys extended daylight, with the sun setting after 9 PM. To photograph the magical blue-hour glow of the Louvre, plan your visit around this time. While the museum typically closes at 6 PM, it offers extended hours until 9 PM on Wednesdays and Fridays. After 9 PM, the square gradually empties, creating perfect conditions for photography.
Be mindful not to arrive too late though – the pyramid illumination switches off at 11 PM, and staff begin setting up barriers around the square, leaving you approximately one hour of optimal shooting time. In autumn and winter, daylight fades earlier, so adjust your schedule accordingly to avoid the evening crowds.
For capturing the best angles, I recommend studying a Louvre guide map beforehand to familiarize yourself with the layout of its three main wings. When facing the iconic glass pyramid, you’ll find the Richelieu Wing to your left, the Denon Wing to your right, and the Sully Wing directly ahead.
The classic frontal shot of the pyramid is essential (P2). P3 reveals an atmospheric archway within the Denon Wing gallery, with the illuminated Richelieu Wing visible opposite – though note this area houses an evening restaurant and may have restricted access. The subsequent photos demonstrate various creative perspectives, including striking side angles of the pyramid.
Don’t forget your tripod! If you’re traveling light, you can improvise by placing your camera on gallery railings or the ground lights surrounding the pyramid. Parisian architecture offers numerous stable surfaces perfect for long exposures. For convenience, a compact travel tripod works wonderfully if a full-sized model seems cumbersome.
Photo Guide:
P2: Majestic frontal view of the Louvre Pyramid
P3: Architectural archway in the Denon Wing gallery
P4: Dynamic 45-degree diagonal perspective of the pyramid
P5: Intimate close-up frontal composition
P6: Elegant exterior of the Richelieu Wing
P7: Grand facade of the Denon Wing
P8: Detailed view of Denon Wing gallery architecture
P9-P12: Creative alternative viewpoints
📸 Camera: 907X CFV100C & XCD 35-75 lens
🎛️ Settings: ISO 64, f/3.5, shutter speeds 1-5 seconds
The article’s tip about the blue hour makes sense—shooting after 9 PM when the square is quiet could really capture the Louvre’s magic. It’s smart to highlight those late hours for better lighting. The advice feels practical, not just generic. A good reminder to plan around the museum’s schedule.
The way the Louvre glows under the blue hour feels like a secret only night owls know. I loved how the article pointed out the extended hours on specific nights. It’s smart to plan around that quiet time. Photography there must feel like capturing a dream.
The article’s tip about the blue hour makes sense—capturing the Louvre after 9 PM when it’s quieter could really pay off. I like how it ties the timing to the museum’s extended hours. It’s practical advice for anyone wanting great shots without crowds.