New Orleans offers a photographer’s playground — a city filled with vibrant streets, iconic landmarks, and lively neighborhoods that seem made for snapping unforgettable images. With its colorful facades, historic architecture, and lively street scenes, it’s a destination that rewards those who want to preserve their memories with high-quality photos. But capturing the essence of the Big Easy isn’t just about clicking a button — it’s about finding the right setting, the best light, and sometimes, a little expert guidance.
Whether you’re interested in a private photo shoot with a professional photographer, an Instagram-focused walking tour, or a more comprehensive session in key spots like Jackson Square, there’s a photography experience tailored to your style and schedule. For those who want beautifully edited shots without hauling a camera around, guided photo tours can turn your trip into a photo album worth sharing — and remembering.
Quick Overview
Our list of the best photography experiences in New Orleans covers a broad range of options. From private, fully personalized New Orleans Private Photo Shoot with Professional Photographer to lively Walking Instagram Photo Tours, there’s something for every type of shutterbug. We’ll explore options that focus on iconic landmarks, hidden neighborhoods, and social media-ready spots, helping you decide which best matches your style and budget.
1. New Orleans Private Photo Shoot with Professional Photographer
This private photo shoot is perfect for those who want a personalized, professional touch to capture their time in the city. For about $162 per group, up to 10 people, you’ll spend roughly an hour wandering through the picturesque French Quarter with a photographer who will make sure you get the perfect shot. You don’t need to bring your own camera — just show up, and they’ll handle the rest.
The session includes visits to well-known spots such as St. Louis Cathedral, Bourbon Street, and Café du Monde, where you’ll strike poses against some of the city’s most recognizable backdrops. What sets this apart is the total privacy and attention you’ll get, making it ideal for couples, families, or friends celebrating a special occasion. Plus, you’ll leave with 25–30 high-resolution, beautifully edited images to relive your trip. The reviews consistently praise the professional, friendly guides like Elizabeth, who made the experience feel like walking around with a friend.
Bottom Line: This tour is ideal for those who want high-quality photos without the hassle of photography themselves. It offers great value for a personalized experience.
2. Private Vacation Photography Session with Photographer in New Orleans
If you’re looking for a more extensive photo session that’s still personalized, this private vacation photography is a good pick. Priced at $325 for up to six people and lasting about an hour, it’s perfect for couples or small groups wanting a collection of high-quality images.
The photographer guides you through areas like City Park, Jackson Square, and The French Quarter, sharing insider tips along the way. The best part? You’ll receive 15 to 60 high-resolution photos within five days — a quick turnaround for such polished keepsakes. During the shoot, the guide’s local knowledge shines through, helping you find those perfect angles and hidden corners often missed by travelers.
This experience is especially suited for vacationers who want a comprehensive, professional documentation of their trip, with the benefit of a private session and quick delivery. Reviewers note their guide Karla was “awesome” and helped capture moments they’ll cherish forever.
Bottom Line: Excellent for travelers seeking a short but high-quality photoshoot with fast results and personal guidance.
3. Hire Photographer, Professional Photo Shoot – New Orleans
For those who want a versatile, customizable experience, this professional photo shoot offers packages from 1 to 4 hours. Starting at $182.14 per person, the shoots can be tailored to solo travelers, couples, or families.
During the session, you can choose your favorite locations, whether it’s the lively streets of the French Quarter or more secluded spots. The photographer will deliver 20 to 50 professionally edited images via a private online platform within two weeks. This flexibility makes it suitable for travelers with specific ideas or those planning a special event like engagement photos or family portraits.
While detailed reviews are limited, the focus on customization and quality makes this a solid choice for those wanting a more in-depth session. It’s also a good option if you’re staying in New Orleans longer and want a variety of shots.
Bottom Line: Great for travelers who prefer a tailored, longer experience with professional editing and delivery.
4. Walking Instagram Photo Tour in the French Quarter New Orleans
If your main goal is to boost your social media game, this Instagram-focused tour is a fun, budget-friendly option. At just $29 for about two hours, it’s designed for those who want quick, high-impact shots in some of the most photogenic parts of the city.
The tour covers 8 to 10 highlights including Jackson Square, Café du Monde, and Canal Street. Your guide, who is well-versed in photography tips, will help you find the best angles and poses. Plus, you’ll get a professional group shot that’s distributed afterward for your personal use. The guide’s local knowledge is evident in how they point out the most Instagrammable spots and hidden corners.
Reviewers love the “fun” atmosphere and how the guide Jason is “like an Instagram husband,” helping everyone get great photos. This tour is perfect for travelers wanting quick, social media-ready shots and some local tips without breaking the bank.
Bottom Line: Ideal for those wanting a light, social media-focused experience in a short time.
5. New Orleans Instagram Photo Tour
For those who want to capture the colorful, artsy side of New Orleans, this Instagram tour of Faubourg Marigny is a lively option. At $95 for about an hour, it’s tailored for travelers seeking quick but memorable shots of the city’s most photogenic neighborhoods.
Your host will guide you through streets filled with multi-colored homes, street art, and lively neighborhood scenes, making it perfect for capturing the city’s quirky charm. Included are high-resolution images and videos sent almost instantly, along with music, photo props, and NOLA-style snacks to make the experience fun and relaxed. This setup is perfect for lighter, casual photography sessions.
Reviewers mention they had a “great time” and appreciated how the guide helped them “find perfect spots.” It’s best suited for travelers who want to combine sightseeing with social media content creation.
Bottom Line: Suited for those looking for a short, fun, and colorful photo experience with instant results.
6. Private Professional Holiday Photoshoot in New Orleans
This holiday-themed photoshoot offers a special way to capture your visit, especially around iconic spots. Although it currently has no reviews, the experience promises to take you through famous and lesser-known locations, providing tips along the way to make your photos pop.
At $172.37 per person, the hour-long session is designed for those wanting professional holiday photos with a festive twist. The guide will take you on a walk to some of the city’s most photo-worthy locations, offering insights into how to best frame your pictures.
This tour stands out for its seasonal appeal but is equally suitable whether you’re visiting during winter or other times of the year. It’s perfect for travelers who want professional holiday portraits with a local touch, especially if you’re celebrating something special.
Bottom Line: Good for travelers who want seasonal, professional holiday memories in iconic New Orleans settings.
How to Choose Your Photography Experience
When picking a photography tour in New Orleans, consider your budget, schedule, and what kind of photos you want. For personalized, high-end images, the private photo shoot or the vacation photography session offer more control and quality. If you’re short on time but want social media-ready shots, the Instagram tour or Faubourg Marigny tour work well.
For special occasions like holidays, the holiday photoshoot provides a festive setting. Remember, booking early is advisable, especially in peak seasons like spring and fall.
Final Thoughts
New Orleans’ lively streets and historic sites make it a fantastic city for photography, whether you prefer a private session, social media snaps, or a quick tour. If you want a personalized experience with high-quality images, the private photo shoot and vacation photography are top choices. Those on a budget or short on time can enjoy the Instagram-focused tours and colorful neighborhood tours for quick, social-ready results.
No matter your style or budget, booking your preferred experience early ensures you’ll have memorable images to cherish long after your trip ends. New Orleans’s charm isn’t just in its sights — it’s also in your photos.