English gardens in Paris appear during the XIX century when simetry and geometry left their place to the love for romantic and picturesque. The new gardens of the third Empire were created then with care of sinuous paths, diverse vegetation and evocative monuments.

If you like nature, these parks and gardens are a must in your agenda for photographing Paris. Also, if you like photo portraits of kids, families and couples, here you will find a great amount of possibilities for stunning backgrounds. Finally, if you like street photography, in these gardens you can find some great images of a relaxed Paris. In our photo guide of Paris, we recommend you to visit:

Monceau Park

This park is the oldest English park in Paris. It was created by command of Napoleon III. Here blend together a series of curious elements; a simile of a Mayan pyramid, a Venetian bridge, a Greek temple where portraits are fabulous thanks to the reflections in the water mirror. The lateral paths are usually full of runners, so for a portrait session, we recommend you to use the lateral grass esplanades where beautiful trees or the Rotunda will serve as background.

Buttes Chaumont Park

In this ancient quarry you will find hills, grass esplanades, different kinds of trees, flowerbeds, a waterfall, a cave, an island, two bridges and a fantastic belvedere from which the view of Paris will leave you breathless. This is with no doubt a great park for photography and definitely has no equal for portraits. Also, thanks to its many variants of light possibilities and different backgrounds to explore depth of field, this is a must if you want to explore with your camera if you are a reflex beginner.

Montsouris Park

In the heart of the 13th district of Paris you find this green jewel. Thousands of Parisians gather together in its grass esplanades for traditional picnics when the weather is warm and sunlight is at its best. It has a big lake with animals among which you might see, in spring, the spectacular black swans. This is a beautiful park for life style family portraits.

Bois de Vincennes

This great wood is one of the biggest air lungs of the city. It is a mix of nature with and without human print. Its two lakes, cave and island are the centre point for getting romantic photos and the boats for rent might give you very picturesque shots. Also, in this park you can find the zoo, running, biking and roller paths and natural woods.

Bois de Boulogne

This in the most important park in the west of Paris. It is so big that many thematic gardens are included in the area. Among them, it is quite unique the Jardin d’acclimatation full of games for kids of all ages, and next to the brand new Fondation Louis Vuitton, designed by Frank O. Guery. The Bagatelle garden, with is amazing roses is great for romantic photos of couples. An if you like photographing in a more natural ambiance, try exploring the woods and the great lake where you can find what you are looking for.