Are you planning your trip to the ochre city and want to leave with some memorable souvenirs? The Medina is a labyrinth of colors, textures and lights. As a professional photographer in Marrakech, I’ve searched every alleyway to find the places where the magic is guaranteed to happen.
Here is my personal selection for a successful photo shoot in the Medina.
It’s the ideal place for elegant, architectural photos. The play of light on the mosaics (zelliges) and the carved cedar wood ceilings create a majestic setting.
– Pro tip: arrive as soon as it opens (9:00 am) to avoid the crowds and enjoy the soft light in the courtyards.
Nothing beats the authenticity of pink and orange adobe walls. Some of the Medina’s cul-de-sacs offer incredible views, with traditional studded wooden doors.
– The little extra: This is where we capture the most spontaneous lifestyle moments.
– Shooting Marrakech plus: I know small squares and quiet streets.
In the heart of the hustle and bustle of the souks lies this restored Islamic garden. The contrast between the lush green of the plants and the blue of the fountains is pure delight for a photo shoot in Marrakech.
Capture the essence of Arab-Andalusian art during a photo shoot at the Medersa Ben Youssef, where the symmetry of the mosaics provides a masterful backdrop for your portraits in Marrakech.
– Photo tip: Arrive at the opening (9:00 am) to capture the perfect symmetry of the central courtyard without too many people.
– Clothing tip: Wear flowing garments (long dress, linen shirt) to contrast the movement of the fabric with the rigor of the geometric patterns.
Experience a timeless photo session at the Palais El Badiî, a setting of grandiose ruins and ochre walls ideal for editorial and minimalist photos at the heart of Moroccan history.
Enjoy a romantic stopover for your couple’s photos at the Koutoubia; its lush gardens and iconic minaret are the essential backdrop to any trip to Marrakech.
– A moment of complicity: Sit down, have a chat and forget I’m there.” The minaret in the background will do all the work.
– The “Look” tip: Don’t always look at the camera. Look at the top of the minaret or the horizon for a more poetic rendering.
To finish the session, nothing beats a view over the city’s rooftops, with the Atlas Mountains on the horizon. The terraces of Place Jemaa el-Fna or private riads offer that “Golden Hour” so dear to photographers.
Enhance your stay with a private photo session in a Riad, an intimate setting where traditional architecture and the subdued light of the patios create a chic, authentic atmosphere.
– Atmosphere tip: This is your moment of intimacy. Play with the patio’s curtains or tropical plants to create a visual game of hide-and-seek.
It’s the city’s most famous spot, and for good reason: the contrast between the vibrant ultramarine blue, the lemon yellow of the pottery and the lush green of the cacti is unique in the world. It’s the perfect location for a high-impact fashion or lifestyle photo shoot.
– Pro tip: Given its popularity, this venue requires precise organization. I recommend going early in the morning. The play of shadows created by the Art Deco structures and bamboo adds an incredible graphic dimension to your portraits.
– Please note: Remember to book your tickets online in advance, as access is highly restricted!
Dare a photographic adventure in the Agafay desert, a lunar landscape on the outskirts of the city, perfect for spectacular shots in the golden light of sunset.
– The idea is to capture the feeling of solitude and freedom.
– Accessory tip: “If you have a chèche or scarf, let it fly in the wind. It gives an incredible dynamic to the image.
Want to avoid hours of searching for these places and simply enjoy the moment? I’ll accompany you for a one- or two-hour immersion to capture your story in these dreamy settings.