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Did you know that the Hollywood Sign was nothing more than a hillside advertisement for a real estate company when it was first built in 1923? Back then it read “HOLLYWOODLAND,” and it was only meant to stay up in the hills of Los Angeles for 18 months.
More than 100 years later, not only has it lost the “LAND,” but it remains an enduring symbol of Tinseltown. Not to mention one of the most photographed destinations in the world.
While you can spot the sign from various locations throughout LA, finding the perfect angle for that memorable photo takes a bit of insider knowledge. Whether you’re a serious photographer planning the perfect shot or a visitor hoping to capture a piece of Hollywood magic, this guide will help you discover the best viewpoints, timing, and techniques for photographing this legendary landmark.
Where is the Hollywood Sign located?
Perched on Mount Lee in the Hollywood Hills, the Hollywood Sign commands attention from its elevation of 1,578 feet above sea level.
Each letter stands 45 feet tall, with the entire sign spanning 350 feet across the mountainside. This impressive scale makes the sign visible from many parts of Los Angeles, though some viewing locations offer distinctly better photographs than others.
The sign’s strategic placement on the south-facing slope ensures its visibility throughout the Los Angeles basin, while its position within Griffith Park protects it from urban development. The surrounding terrain creates unique challenges and opportunities for photographers seeking the perfect angle.
Local tip: Want help finding the best Hollywood Sign viewpoints? We share more info below, but we recommend visiting with a guide on one of our LA tours. A local not only can show you where to go but also share the history, lore, and insider travel tips. And — bonus! — they can take cool photos of you with the Hollywood Sign.
Best viewpoints for Hollywood Sign photos
Lake Hollywood Park: The family-friendly option
Lake Hollywood Park offers one of the most accessible and comfortable viewing experiences of the Hollywood Sign. Located at 3160 Canyon Lake Drive, this grassy park provides:
- Front-facing, unobstructed views of the sign
- Free street parking along Canyon Lake Drive
- Picnic areas and open spaces perfect for families
- Great lighting for photography in the late morning to early afternoon
- Easy access for strollers and wheelchairs
You can get fabulous shots like this one with the lake in the foreground and the sign in the distance.
Photography tip: The morning light illuminates the sign’s face, while the late afternoon sun creates dramatic shadows. The park’s elevated position provides an excellent vantage point for capturing the sign’s full width without distortion, making it particularly popular with professional photographers.
Hollywood and Highland Center: The tourist hub spot
This popular shopping complex also offers a convenient viewpoint for the Hollywood Sign that includes:
- Access to the viewing deck on the fourth floor
- Clear views of the sign between buildings
- Free admission
- Lots of shopping and dining options
- Connection to Hollywood/Highland Metro station
- Paid parking in the complex
The best times to capture photos from the shopping complex are mid-morning or late afternoon when the sun isn’t directly overhead, reducing harsh shadows and glare.
Photography tip: The viewing deck’s design incorporates elements of old Hollywood glamour, creating interesting framing opportunities for photographers.
Griffith Observatory: The scenic overlook choice
The Griffith Observatory provides a spectacular setting for Hollywood Sign photos. Here’s what we love about it.
- Panoramic views of both the sign and the Los Angeles basin
- Multiple hiking trails with varying difficulty levels
- Professional-quality photo opportunities at sunrise and sunset
- Options to drive or hike to the viewing areas
- Free access to the observatory grounds
The observatory’s location allows photographers to capture the sign alongside the downtown skyline, which is especially stunning just after sunrise or before sunset.
Pro tip: The Griffith Observatory itself is photo-worthy, so don’t forget to catch some pics of it as well.
For more photography tips and other interesting facts, take a tour of Griffith Observatory, where local guides can help you find lesser-known spots around the observatory grounds for capturing both landmarks in their best light.
Hidden gems for unique Hollywood Sign perspectives
The Hollywood Bowl Overlook
This lesser-known viewpoint offers:
- An elevated perspective of the sign
- Free parking in the dedicated overlook lot
- Spectacular night photography opportunities
- Fewer crowds than popular tourist spots
- 24/7 access — weather permitting
For the best photos, visit during the golden hour just before sunset when the sign is bathed in warm light and the city begins to twinkle below. Many locals consider this spot the best-kept secret for night photography, as the city lights create a stunning backdrop without overwhelming the illuminated sign.
Jerome C. Daniel Overlook above Mulholland Drive
This scenic spot provides:
- Sweeping views of the Hollywood Sign and San Fernando Valley
- Free parking
- Multiple viewing platforms
- Clear visibility on smog-free days
- Excellent sunrise photography opportunities
During the winter months, morning fog often creates dramatic photos as the sign emerges from the mist. The overlook’s position along the famous Mulholland Drive makes it a favorite among film location scouts and professional photographers.
Photography tips for capturing the perfect shot
Think you need top-of-the-line equipment to get the best shots of the Hollywood Sign? The truth is that you probably have everything you need and just need a few pointers on camera settings, timing, and more. We’ve got you covered!
Camera settings
Even if you have the best-quality camera, snapping a photo of the Hollywood sign can still be tricky. Don’t worry — photos that look like a pro shot them require choosing the right camera settings. Here’s what to check for:
- Aperture: f/8 to f/11 for maximum depth of field
- ISO: 100-400 for daylight shots
- Shutter speed: At least 1/125 for hand-held shots
- Polarizing filter: Helpful for reducing haze and enhancing sky color
Professional photographers often recommend bracketing your exposures here due to the challenging lighting conditions created by Los Angeles’ unique atmospheric conditions.
The sign’s white letters against varying sky conditions can trick camera meters, so consider using spot metering for more accurate exposures. Many of the most stunning shots of the sign involve capturing it during unusual weather conditions, such as after rain or during rare cloudy days.
Smartphone photography
Let’s be honest, though. Most of us will be shooting these pics with our smartphones. And phones today can capture pretty impressive shots — if you know how to use them. Here are some quick tips:
- Use HDR mode for high-contrast scenes
- Enable grid lines for better composition
- Avoid digital zoom; move closer if possible
- Use burst mode for multiple shots
- Try panorama mode for wider perspectives
Modern smartphones have sophisticated HDR capabilities that can handle the extreme contrast between the bright sky and darker foreground particularly well. Portrait mode can create compelling shots by blurring the city backdrop while keeping the sign sharp.
Timing and weather
The camera you use isn’t the only thing you need to consider. Any photographer will tell you need to have the light and weather on your side. Here are the best times of day and weather conditions to shoot in.
- Early morning: Crisp, clear air and soft light
- Golden hour: Warm, dramatic lighting
- Overcast days: Even lighting, reduced shadows
- After rain: Exceptional clarity and vivid colors
Los Angeles’ famous marine layer can create otherworldly conditions in the early morning, often clearing by mid-morning to reveal pristine views. The Santa Ana winds, while challenging to shoot in, can create exceptionally clear conditions with visibility extending to Catalina Island.
Seasonal changes affect the quality of light dramatically, with winter offering the clearest views and summer bringing atmospheric haze that can add a dreamy quality to photos.
Planning your visit: Essential tips and considerations
Best times to visit each location
Lake Hollywood Park
A perfect spot for picnics and hikes and, of course, getting your picture of the iconic Hollywood Sign. Since everyone knows it’s one of the best places to get this shot, you’ll want to find a time when the crowds are gone and the light is still good. Keep these times in mind:
- Weekdays: 9 a.m.-2 p.m. (fewer crowds)
- Weekends: Early morning or late afternoon
- Avoid midday for better lighting
Park usage patterns vary seasonally, with summer weekends drawing local families for picnics and winter mornings often providing solitary viewing experiences.
Special events at nearby venues can affect crowd levels, so check local calendars before planning your visit.
Hollywood and Highland
This spot is the center of all things entertainment in LA, including getting a great snapshot of the Hollywood Sign. Here are the best times to head to Hollywood and Highland to get it.
- Early morning: Fewer tourists
- Weekdays: Less crowded
- Holiday seasons: Typically large crowds
This location’s proximity to major attractions means crowd patterns are fairly predictable, with tour buses arriving regularly between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. The complex hosts various events throughout the year that can impact viewing access, so check their calendar in advance.
Griffith Observatory
Known as the best place to see real stars in LA and take a great picture of the Hollywood Sign, these are the times we love to go to get a clear view:
- Sunrise: Best lighting and minimal crowds
- Weekdays: Easier parking
- Clear winter days: Best visibility
The facility’s closing times vary seasonally, so verify hours before planning sunset shots. The adjacent hiking trails offer additional vantage points that many visitors overlook.
Transportation and parking details
Don’t let Los Angeles’s traffic get you down and keep you from visiting the city’s landmarks. Here the best public transportation lines and parking options for getting to the best Hollywood Sign viewpoints.
Public transportation
- Metro Red Line to Hollywood/Highland
- DASH Observatory Shuttle to Griffith
- Rideshare services are readily available
Parking
- Lake Hollywood: Free street parking
- Hollywood and Highland: Paid structure ($15-20/day)
- Griffith Observatory: Free lot, fills quickly on weekends
Safety and etiquette guidelines
- Stay on marked trails and viewing areas
- Respect residential neighborhoods
- Avoid climbing restrictions or fences
- Bring water and sun protection
- Keep noise levels reasonable in residential areas
- Don’t fly drones (illegal in most viewing areas)
Tip: Recent changes to local ordinances have increased fines for trespassing near the sign, making it crucial to stick to designated viewing areas. The local residents’ associations have worked to create clear guidelines for photographers while maintaining neighborhood privacy.
Make the most of your Hollywood Sign adventure
The Hollywood Sign represents more than just a photo opportunity — it’s a chance to connect with Los Angeles’s rich entertainment heritage.
The sign’s appearance in countless films and TV shows has created a cultural touchstone that resonates with visitors worldwide. While independent exploration offers flexibility, guided experiences provide deeper insights into the sign’s history and significance.
Consider joining a guided Hollywood Sign hike to discover:
- Hidden photo spots unknown to most visitors
- Historical details about the sign’s evolution
- Stories about Hollywood’s golden age
- Technical photography tips from experienced guides
- Safe trail navigation and local wildlife information
Whether you’re a professional photographer or a casual tourist, the Hollywood Sign offers countless opportunities for memorable photos. By following this guide, you’ll be well-equipped to capture your perfect shot of this enduring symbol of Hollywood dreams.
But you don’t just have to snap a picture to remember the Hollywood Sign by — you can book a Hollywood Sign tour to learn fascinating stories about this iconic landmark that’ll impress your friends and family when you get back. Plus, your local guide is sure to know even more unique places to get the very best Hollywood Sign picture.
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