Along one of the world's most iconic bridges, this nighttime shot is enhanced by vibrant red light trails against a deep blue sky.
Plan
Overview
Skill level
Easy
Accessbility
Public Location
Hours
Sunrise-Sunset
Fee
Free
Pack
Wide-angle lens (16mm)
Tripod
Model
How to get there
N37° 48' 46.5084"W122° 28' 39.6876"
The image was taken along Golden Gate Bridge, looking north toward the first large pillar.
By car, park at the Golden Gate Bridge Welcome Center (37.807303, -122.474450) and then walk toward the bridge. Once you're on the bridge, head north for about five minutes until you're near the middle of the bridge, just before the first large pillar.
Tips
When to go
Best season
All months
Best time
Blue Hour
This perspective of the Golden Gate Bridge can be taken during any month.
Visit at blue hour, right after sunset, to find similar lighting conditions. Also, make sure to visit the bridge before sunset since they'll close the bridge to pedestrians once it's dark.
Field tips
The joy of photographing such beautiful architecture like this is that you can shoot from the minute you step on the bridge and get a fantastic shot — no matter your position. Get creative and experiment with different angles to find your own unique perspective!
If you're doing a long exposure, keep an eye out for the buses that are passing by on the street. The red light trails created always add an element of vibrancy to a nighttime image.
A pro tip at this location is to look down and capture the "USA" emblem on the manholes along the bridge. They can make for a great photo if you focus in on the detailing.
Current weather
San Francisco, California
Partially cloudy
58o
F
Mon
62o
53o
Tue
64o
53o
Wed
65o
53o
Thu
59o
53o
Fri
59o
52o
Blue Hour
12:17
58o
Partially cloudy
Sunrise
12:48
58o
Partially cloudy
Golden Hour
02:56
58o
Partially cloudy
Sunset
03:35
58o
Partially cloudy
Do nearby
Before capturing the bridge at night, head to Marshall's Beach. This remote waterfront spot is the perfect place to spend a peaceful afternoon as you watch the birds pass by the Golden Gate Bridge.