Red Square is one of Moscow’s most iconic landmarks, and it’s no surprise that it’s a popular spot for Instagram photos. However, with its popularity comes the challenge of finding a unique angle that stands out from the crowd. Whether you’re aiming to capture the colorful domes of St. Basil’s Cathedral, the grandeur of the Kremlin, or the Lenin Mausoleum, there are a few creative ways to get stunning, Instagram-worthy photos that give a fresh perspective of Red Square.
Here’s your guide to finding unique angles and capturing the beauty of Red Square through the lens of your camera or smartphone.
1. Shoot from Above: The Best Aerial Views
One of the most unique perspectives of Red Square can be found from above. While it’s not possible to fly a drone over the square without permission (due to the security restrictions), there are still several ways to capture Red Square from a higher vantage point.
A. The Bell Tower of the Kremlin
- The Ivan the Great Bell Tower offers an aerial view of the Kremlin and Red Square. You can climb to the top for a panoramic view of the square and the Moscow skyline.
- Photo Tips: Capture the square in all its glory, including St. Basil’s Cathedral, the Kremlin walls, and the Lenin Mausoleum in one wide-angle shot.
B. Zaryadye Park Floating Bridge
- The Floating Bridge in Zaryadye Park, located right next to Red Square, offers stunning panoramic views of the square from an elevated position. It’s a great spot to capture the cathedral, the Moscow River, and the Kremlin.
- Photo Tips: Try shooting at sunrise or sunset for the best light, with the square illuminated against the morning or evening sky.
C. Hotels with Rooftop Views
- Some rooftop bars and restaurants near Red Square offer stunning views of the square. For example, the St. Regis Hotel and the Bar on the Roof of the Ritz-Carlton provide great opportunities to capture Red Square from a height.
- Photo Tips: Shoot during golden hour to capture the changing light over the square.
2. Capture the Reflection: Use Puddles for a Mirror Effect
For a creative twist, try using puddles or reflective surfaces around Red Square to capture a mirror-like effect of the architecture.
A. After Rain
- After a rainstorm, the puddles that form on the cobblestones of Red Square can create a beautiful reflection of the buildings, such as St. Basil’s Cathedral and the Kremlin Wall.
- Photo Tips: Wait until the rain has stopped but the puddles are still intact. Position your camera or phone close to the ground for a stunning reflection shot. Try shooting from a low angle to get the best mirror effect.
B. The GUM Store Windows
- The GUM shopping center on the south side of Red Square has large glass windows that can also serve as reflective surfaces. Capture the reflection of the cathedrals or Kremlin mirrored in the glass for a sleek and modern shot.
- Photo Tips: Look for early morning shots when the stores are not open and the glass is free of reflections from people or store displays.
3. Play with Symmetry: St. Basil’s Cathedral and the Kremlin
If you’re a fan of symmetry and balanced compositions, Red Square provides multiple opportunities for you to create photos with perfect symmetry.
A. Align the Domes of St. Basil’s Cathedral
- St. Basil’s Cathedral offers an ideal opportunity to capture its symmetrical domes. Try aligning the cathedral in the center of the frame, with the Kremlin Wall or Lenin Mausoleum in the background for a stunning balance.
- Photo Tips: Stand at the central part of Red Square to frame the cathedral and avoid having distractions around the edges of your shot.
B. The Kremlin Wall and Spasskaya Tower
- The Kremlin Wall and Spasskaya Tower have symmetrical structures that can create powerful and bold compositions. Shooting straight down the middle of the square, with these elements lined up in the background, will provide you with striking symmetry.
- Photo Tips: Use a wide-angle lens to capture the grand scale of the Kremlin’s architecture, and experiment with different perspectives to find the most symmetrical shot.
4. Night Shots: Capture Red Square After Dark
Red Square is beautiful at night, with its illuminated buildings and quiet, peaceful atmosphere. Capturing Red Square after dark can give your Instagram photos a completely different vibe.
A. Long Exposure Shots
- Red Square is particularly stunning at night when the lights illuminate the buildings. You can use a long exposure technique to capture the movement of people or cars while keeping the buildings in crisp focus.
- Photo Tips: Place your camera on a tripod and use a slow shutter speed to achieve a smooth, glowing effect of the lights around Red Square.
B. Capture the Lit-Up Kremlin and St. Basil’s
- Both the Kremlin Wall and St. Basil’s Cathedral are beautifully lit at night, making them perfect for photography.
- Photo Tips: Focus on the lighting that creates a contrast between the warm golden tones of the buildings and the dark sky. Try shooting from the center of the square to get both the Kremlin and St. Basil’s Cathedral in one shot.
5. Incorporate Local Life: Capture the Everyday Moments
Sometimes, the most unique photos are those that capture real life in Red Square, rather than just the landmarks.
A. Street Performers and Tourists
- Red Square is often filled with street performers, artists, and tourists. Incorporating these elements into your photos can add a dynamic, lively energy.
- Photo Tips: Focus on capturing the interaction between the performers and the architecture, or try candid shots of tourists walking through the square to give a sense of the local atmosphere.
B. People Walking with the Kremlin in the Background
- A great way to get a unique angle is to capture people walking through Red Square with the Kremlin or St. Basil’s Cathedral as the backdrop.
- Photo Tips: Experiment with depth of field to create a sense of perspective, blurring the background while keeping the subject in focus.
6. Use Framing: Shoot Through Arches or Windows
For a more creative shot, consider using natural frames within the square, such as archways, windows, or even elements from nearby buildings. This will give your photos a distinctive perspective and make them feel more dynamic.
A. The Arches of GUM
- The arches in GUM, the grand department store located at Red Square, provide a great framing element. You can shoot through the arches, with St. Basil’s Cathedral or the Kremlin in the background.
- Photo Tips: Experiment with different angles to position the cathedral or the Kremlin in the background, giving your photo depth and a sense of enclosure.
B. Windows of St. Basil’s Cathedral
- The windows of St. Basil’s Cathedral offer an interesting perspective. You can try to capture the cathedral through the window or shoot reflections in the windows for a more artistic shot.
- Photo Tips: Look for symmetry through the windows and use the surrounding architecture as a frame.
Conclusion
Red Square is a place full of history, beauty, and incredible photo opportunities. By exploring unique angles, playing with symmetry, reflections, and framing, and taking advantage of different times of day, you can create truly standout Instagram photos that highlight both the iconic landmarks and the vibrant atmosphere of Moscow. Whether you’re capturing the square’s classic views or embracing its more dynamic moments, you’ll have plenty of opportunities to create stunning, unique shots that showcase Red Square in all its glory.
