Liam Gallagher once said, “Manchester’s got everything except a beach.” He wasn’t wrong but if you’re hunting for photo shoot locations in Manchester, you’ll find more backdrops than you can shoot in a day. Moody mills in Castlefield, glassy high-rises in Spinningfields, plant-filled studios in Ancoats, and those famous tiled pubs all work as perfect set designs. Need something clean and crisp? The city’s got white-wall studios with pro lighting. Want edge? The graffiti trails of the Northern Quarter never miss. Whatever your aesthetic, Manchester’s ready for its close-up — and so are these handpicked spots. Keep scrolling to find the one.
When hiring a photoshoot location, you will need to factor in your permit application cost. This process will cost anywhere from £30 to £300 and include insurance fees and other extra costs. For hire fees for event location, expect costs to differ depending on the location. You may find that you will be charged a straight hire fee for areas that are not traditionally hired for photoshoots. Generally, you can expect costs for private photoshoot locations to start around £100 per hour. (All data from Tagvenue.)
When searching for photogenic locations in the city, start your hunt in the Northern Quarter. This quirky area has a lively vibe and many picturesque street locations - pay close attention to the eclectic architecture and get your camera ready. The oldest district in the city, Castlefield, is another exciting location for a location shoot and offers a range of looks for you to choose from. Remember to also check out the Bridgewater Canal, as well as the impressive Roman fort. Salford Quays, with its panoramic views of the city, is another local favourite. Heaton Park and the Royal Botanical Gardens are just two of the city’s lovely parks and a particular favourite for photos. For local buildings that are popular for photographers, check out the University of Manchester, the Town Hall, and the library for some striking historical photography.
This really depends on the kind of location you’re looking for. Most creative studios and meeting spaces will be open between 8am-6pm. Restaurants and clubs for hire are usually available in the evening hours (6pm to midnight). Classic photo studios for hire tend to be open at least for as long as the meeting rooms.
Love clean lines and cycloramas? The Photocove in Bradford has you covered. Want something bold and eclectic? SARÉ Studio in the Northern Quarter is a content creator’s dream. Or maybe you’re after an industrial touch? Studio Twenty Two brings that raw energy, perfect for editorial shoots.
Ready to shoot in one of Manchester’s most photogenic spots?
Browse and book unique photo shoot locations across Manchester. Tagvenue gives you access to the best venues, trusted reviews, and insider info to make your next session a success.