Shanghai is a city that practically screams for photographers. Its blazing skyline, with towering skyscrapers like the Oriental Pearl Tower and the Shanghai Tower, provides a stunning backdrop day and night. Add to that the charming historic neighborhoods and tranquil water towns nearby, and you’ve got a recipe for memorable photos at every turn. Among these options, our favorite is the Photo Session on the Famous Shanghai Skyline because it offers an affordable, authentic, and friendly way to freeze that legendary city view, all with just a mobile phone and a local guide.
If you’re looking for a more tailored experience, Shanghai offers private tours that can focus on your specific interests — whether it’s architecture, street scenes, or scenic water towns. For a blend of city highlights and personalized photography, check out the 4-Hour Private Flexible Photography Tour — it’s designed for those who want to explore at their own pace with a local guide. And if you’re after a once-in-a-lifetime shoot in a historic water town, the Private Zhujiajiao Watertown Photoshoot Tour offers a scenic, immersive experience that captures traditional Chinese charm.
1. Photo Session on the Famous Shanghai Skyline
This budget-friendly photo session is perfect if you want to capture Shanghai’s skyline without fuss. The photographer, Fan Ming, is an amateur but extremely enthusiastic, using only a Huawei Mate 70 Pro mobile phone to create stunning night shots. In just about an hour, you’ll meet at the North Bund — a prime spot for skyline photos — and enjoy several carefully chosen locations to snap the city’s shimmering skyscrapers.
What makes this experience stand out is its personal touch. Fan Ming is not just a photographer but a native Shanghainese who loves his city. He’ll help you find the best angles, making sure your photos reflect the magic of Shanghai at night. All your pictures are handed over after the shoot, and tipping is optional based on your satisfaction. The reviews highlight how much visitors loved the relaxed, friendly atmosphere and the quality of the photos, with many describing it as “a memorable experience” and “a once-in-a-lifetime shot.” The tour is incredibly affordable, making it ideal for travelers on a budget who want authentic, beautiful images.
Bottom Line: If you want a quick, friendly, and budget-friendly way to capture Shanghai’s iconic skyline, this session is hard to beat.
2. 4-Hour Private Flexible Photography Tour of Best Shanghai Scenes
For around $75 per person, this private half-day tour is the best choice if you want a customized experience. Your guide will pick you up from your hotel and tailor the itinerary to your specific interests—whether that’s the Old Town’s Ming and Qing architecture, the French Concession’s leafy streets, or other hidden corners of Shanghai. The flexibility makes it perfect for photographers who want to explore at a relaxed pace, with options for public transit or a private car.
The highlights include visiting the Old Town, where narrow streets and traditional architecture offer fantastic photo opportunities, and the French Concession, lined with green leafy trees and charming cafes. Guests have raved about how guides like Sunny, Sammi, and Mason You bring local insights and adapt quickly when weather changes or schedules shift. One reviewer loved how their guide took them to “a great cross-section of Shanghai highlights” and appreciated the personalized itinerary. The tour is ideal for serious photographers or social media enthusiasts who want to capture the essence of Shanghai with professional guidance.
Bottom Line: A flexible, private tour perfect for those who want to customize their photography route and enjoy intimate access to the city’s best scenes.
3. Private Zhujiajiao Watertown Photoshoot Tour
For a full immersion into traditional Chinese water town scenery, the Zhujiajiao Photoshoot Tour offers a memorable experience. Over about 5.5 hours, you’ll explore this 1,700-year-old town, famous for its Fangsheng Bridge, Kezhi Garden, and lively merchant streets. The highlight? A professional waterside photoshoot in traditional Chinese attire, with a photographer capturing you against the historic backdrop.
What makes this tour special is its combination of cultural exploration and professional photography. The guide takes care of logistics, while the photographer makes sure you get picture-perfect moments in costume and natural settings. Reviewers mention how the makeup artist and dress options make the experience feel authentic, and many appreciate how patient the photographer is with posing. This tour suits travelers who want beautifully styled images set among ancient bridges and gardens. Keep in mind, the longer duration and higher price reflect the premium experience.
Bottom Line: If you want a culturally rich photoshoot with a professional touch in a picturesque water town, this tour delivers in spades.
How to Choose Your Best Photography Experience
When deciding between these options, consider your budget, time available, and photography goals. The skyline session is perfect for quick, stunning night shots without breaking the bank. The private flexible tour suits travelers wanting a personalized day exploring iconic and lesser-known spots. Meanwhile, the Zhujiajiao photoshoot offers a full-day cultural experience with professional styling and scenic settings.
Booking early is recommended, especially for the private and water town tours, which fill up quickly during peak seasons. Think about your photography style: do you want easy access to Shanghai’s skyline, a tailored city tour, or a historic water town with traditional costumes? Each tour offers unique value depending on your priorities.
Final Thoughts
Shanghai offers a wide range of photo experiences that cater to different interests and budgets. For a quick, fun night shoot, the skyline photo session is hard to beat. For those seeking a personalized, comprehensive tour with a local guide, the 4-hour private tour provides a flexible and engaging way to capture the city’s essence. And if you’re after a cultural photoshoot combined with scenic water town views, the Zhujiajiao photoshoot offers a memorable experience.
No matter which you choose, Shanghai’s vibrant cityscape and historic sites promise plenty of fantastic photo opportunities. Book early, plan according to your interests, and get ready to bring home some stunning memories of this dynamic city.