The famous International Orange color of the Golden Gate Bridge contrasts well against a bright blue sky. Credit: Blane Bachelor.
By Blane Bachelor
The Golden Gate Bridge is one of the globe’s most iconic landmarks. With its majestic architecture, bold orange-red color and breathtaking backdrop of mountains and sea, the Golden Gate, as the bridge commonly referred to, is also – not surprisingly — the world’s most-photographed bridge. But with just a little insight and planning, it’s possible for even the most novice shutterbugs to take spectacular, and unique, shots of the bridge for some brag-worthy souvenirs. I’m no Ansel Adams, but here are a few tips I’ve uncovered since moving to San Francisco this July on getting some great Golden Gate bridge pics.
Get away from the crowds. This May, the Golden Gate Bridge will mark its 75th anniversary, which means there will be even more visitors than usual throughout 2012 (“usual” is approximately 10 million tourists per year, according to bridge authorities). But taking the time to walk about 15 minutes away from the masses — down the footpath that leads to nearby Crissy Field, or to Baker Beach on the west side of the bridge (more on that below) — makes for markedly better shots, with less chance of unknowing passersby marring an otherwise winning photo. Another point to keep in mind: the higher the path climbs toward the bridge, the closer the viewing areas, which usually translates to better images, so keep that in mind before staging any big group photos.
Be ready for good weather. The record-breaking dry (and sunny) days of San Francisco’s (non)winter months so far are all but over. So if the bonus of some additional winter sun happens to unfold during your San Francisco vacation, take advantage of it: The light saturates the bridge’s world-famous International Orange color with a darker shade of red, which pops oh-so-nicely in photos, especially against a blue sky.
Check out Fort Point. This circa-1850 military fort at the western foot of the bridge is largely unknown on the tourist circuit, is free and offers excellent, often unimpeded views of the bridge stretching overhead. Fort Point is a respectable walk from often-visited tourist areas along Crissy Field (at least a 20-30 minute walk, depending on location) but it’s well worth it.
Go west. As in, take a hike down the footpaths west of the tollbooths (renovations and upgrades are taking place, but most paths are currently open) down to Baker Beach. Along the winding path down to the beach, there are many fewer tourists as well as striking images of the waves striking against the sand in the foreground, and the bridge looming in the background as the focal point. Shots from the western side of the bridge are much less common than on the eastern side, too.
Get on a boat. Taking a trip on San Francisco’s extensive ferry system (among the main ferry companies: the Golden Gate Ferry and the Blue & Gold Fleet) is not only a great way to get a waterfront perspective of the San Francisco Bay, it also offers a chance to get some spectacular bridge shots. Book a trip during the day, when light is better, be sure to use a fast enough shutter speed to account for the movement of the boat, and snap away for some dramatic overhead shots.
Ask for help. Amateur and professional photographers can be found snapping shots of the bridge almost around the clock: at dusk with tripods, on the beach in the fog, on endlessly sunny days. Don’t be afraid to strike up a conversation – they’re usually friendly and willing to share their own personal tips on how to get a great shot of this magnificent subject.
Don’t forget about a view from the hotel. With the right lens and light, plus a good eye, why not make a souvenir-worthy snap of the bridge from the balcony or even through the guest room window at any number of San Francisco hotels? The nautical-themed Argonaut Hotel makes up for its touristy location in Pier 39 by boasting great views of San Francisco Bay, including the Golden Gate Bridge. Other San Francisco hotels that have better-than-average bridge views: the Mandarin Oriental and the luxurious Fairmont San Francisco — the Nob Hill grand dame that was the San Francisco home base for the most recent season of The Bachelor. Just be sure to specify a bridge view when booking; rooms may cost extra.
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Though she sees it on a much more regular basis than she used to, San Francisco-based writer and author Blane Bachelor never gets tired of looking at the Golden Gate Bridge.