location-photo
camera
len
Nikon D750
Nikon AF-S Nikkor 50mm f/1.8G Lens
Shutter Speed
1/250 sec
Aperture
f/4
Focal Length
50mm
ISO
100

Esplanade Drive view of Underpass, Biker & Singapore Skyline

avatar
@insynced
The modern architecture of this bridge leads the eye to an iconic view of Singapore's skyline. Minutes away from beautiful cathedrals, museums, shopping centers and food streets selling popular local delights, it's a must-see spot!

Plan

Overview

Skill level

Moderate
Accessbility
Public Location

Hours

Anytime

Fee

Free

Pack

  • Wide-angle lens (50mm)
  • Tripod
  • Neutral Density filter
  • Model
  • Prop (i.e. bike)

How to get there

N1° 17' 21.3576"E103° 51' 15.6636"
This image was taken from Esplanade Drive Road, looking onto Esplanade Bridge and the Esplanade Drive Underpass. From the Esplanade Station metro (via Circle Line), you’ll find the sign "Esplanade — Theaters on the Bay" above the gantry near Exit A/B/D. After exiting the station, you’ll see two flights of escalators in front of you. Take the escalators up four flights until you get to CityLink underground mall. Then, turn right, and walk straight until you reach the end of the mall. From there, take the escalator down on your right and make a left onto a long underpass to Esplanade Theatre. If you find yourself greeted by the water fountain and Esplanade Forecourt Garden, you’re on the right track. Turn left and walk in the direction of Jubilee Bridge and Merlion Pass for about 50m. You’ll find Esplanade Drive road on your right. Cross the road midway and stop at the small road median where you'll find the exact spot I stood for this composition.

Tips

When to go

Best season

All months

Best time

Morning, Mid-day, Late afternoon
All months of the year are suitable to photograph the Esplanade Drive and Singapore's skyscrapers.
I took the photo during the day, but I also recommend visiting after 7pm when the bridge and city are illuminated. This time of the night contrasts very well with the blue sky — creating more vibrancy for your photo.

Field tips

You're standing on a median — be mindful of traffic!
Your phone is more than enough for this shot, but if you're using a DSLR, I suggest the one with a focal length of less than 50mm.
If you want to emphasize the magnitude of the bridge and the skyline, try shooting in portrait mode and wait for a subject (cyclists or joggers) to walk into the frame. A minimal human subject against with the enormity of the concrete jungle in the background can help to show some scale.
The leading lines of the highway can be used to frame the shot, so make sure to utilize them to capture true symmetry in your photo. You can also try positioning the converging point of the two leading lines in the center of the frame.

Current weather

Central
Partially cloudy
77o
F
Sat
90o
77o
Sun
85o
81o
Mon
85o
81o
Tue
85o
81o
Wed
83o
80o

Blue Hour

22:25
77o
Partially cloudy

Sunrise

22:47
77o
Partially cloudy

Golden Hour

10:23
77o
Partially cloudy

Sunset

10:51
77o
Partially cloudy

Do nearby

You can check out Merlion Park and then go to one of the many bars or cafes around that region.

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