Thames Path view of River Thames & O2 Arena

This image of the River Thames and O2 Arena was taken from the Thames Path, which is on the Isle of Dogs. To get this perspective, I stood on the waterfront platform and looked east. While you're on the path, reference the GPS coordinates and you'll see exactly where I stood. By public transportation: - Closest station: South Quay Station (via DLR) - Head east on Marsh Wall toward Limeharbour - Slight right to stay on Marsh Wall - At the roundabout, take the 2nd exit onto Manchester Rd/A1206 - Sharp left to stay on Manchester Rd/A1206 - At the roundabout, take the 1st exit onto Stewart St - Turn left onto Thames Path (NE Extension)

The summer months are the most suitable times to photograph the Thames Path view of the River Thames and O2 Arena to find the sun rise directly behind the building, which will create a nice backlit composition.

When visiting during blue hour before sunrise, there won't be much boat traffic on the river and this will allow the water's surface to settle. Once a boat passes by, the waves will take hours to disappear, so the earlier the better at this location. Additionally, the sun rising will clearly define the O2 Arena against the brightening sky. The reflections will be stronger as the light bounces directly into the camera from the blue hour conditions, too.

To take your photo to the next level, I recommend using a tripod and ND filters to take some long exposures. Utilizing these tools will completely flatten any minor ripples.

There are three very important factors in getting these smooth reflections: tide, wind and traffic. The first two you can plan in advance by checking the weather beforehand, while the traffic will be harder to predict.

Since London is so close to the Thames estuary, the river is tidal, meaning the water will rise and fall several meters each day and in order to get a still water surface, you must visit during a "slack tide" when the water level is at its peak of lowest points. When the "slack tide" happens, the water is not moving up or down the river. The tide cycle follows the moon, so the water will shift over time throughout the day. I suggest searching for "Tide Tables London" to give you a sense of the most ideal tide level times.

Secondly, even the gentlest of breezes can create ripples. Make sure to check the weather forecast before visiting. Only wind speeds of less than 3mph will not affect the surface.

Lastly, zero boat traffic is key. A single boat will create waves that will ripple for hours. Realistically, the middle of the night or before sunrise (blue hour) are the only times when all three factors can line up.

Throughout this area, you'll be able to find plenty of restaurants and shops. It can be pretty busy on weekdays, but it quiets down a lot on the weekend.

Canary Wharf, which is just a 10-minute walk northwest is a fantastic place for urban photography. It's perfect for look-ups and lifestyle shots.

The Canary Wharf underground station on the Jubilee Line is famous for it's entrance escalators. In my opinion, the south side entrance is more aesthetically pleasing.

There's also a very nice view of the city from the nearby Bokan 37 restaurant.