Doesn’t being ‘locked in’ make you think of all the wonderful places on the outside? Like
many of my regular readers, I am forever on the lookout for insta-worthy backdrops, and it just so happens we're absolutely coming down with them in this part of the world! As I sit here in the midst of the #StayHome #StayAtHome CoVid19 pandemic, I am ever more appreciative of all our brill pic spots. From architecture and natural beauty to street art and glamorous hotels, we really are spoilt for choice. I could write a VERY long list, but I’ll try to limit it to just 10. Or maybe 15. Here goes! (In no particular order)…
Cathedral Quarter – there’s so much to choose from here, with pretty cobbled streets, beautiful architecture, character filled pubs (Duke of York & the Spaniard), the gorgeous Merchant Hotel with its regal entrance, and urban cafe culture (Established).
Street Art - Belfast is renowned for its murals and there are some spectacular options to pose by, whether you opt for the political or modern street art variety.
The Tropical Ravine, Botanic Gardens - with tropical plants, an alpine garden, waterfalls and sculptures, this is a lush spot for photographs. Literally. (Also check out the Palm House just nearby, it makes for a stunning backdrop itself with its beautiful Victorian glass architecture)
St Anne's Square - a crisp modern backdrop of ivory architecture with dramatic pillars and iron railings to peek out behind, with St Anne's Cathedral in the background of course. Popular with fashionistas for good reason.
Stormont Park – the tree lined grounds at Stormont make a grand entrance to Stormont’s parliament buildings and close ups beside the statues or the masonry of the building make for great pics.
House Bar, Botanic – the indoor cherry blossom behind the bar here is a popular pic backdrop for ‘grammers, myself included. And there’s a myriad choice in beautiful panelled walls and rich fabric seating too, for other shots (bring extra light for the back corners though!). The cocktails are pretty and picture worthy too, by the way! I also like Perch Bar for a super pretty outdoorsy shot, and the Georgian doorways beside Margot in Donegall Square East work for me too.
PS – for the best real cherry blossom tree pics (mid-end April) I would suggest the ones in Fisherwick Church on Malone Road.
Queens University – the beautiful red colour and gothic architecture of Queens make for a super distinctive Belfast backdrop, and the quad plus its stairways leading back to Botanic are also pretty awesome. .. as are the multiple ornate doorways in College Square and the surrounding streets beside Queens. Oh, and last thing.. let’s not forget those columns at Elmwood Hall – a personal fave.
Titanic Belfast - the city's most popular tourist destination holds multiple photo opportunities, with striking architecture inside and out. Don't miss the neighbouring Titanic Hotel with its chequered floors and arched glass ceilings for some glamorous contrast!
The Crown Bar - a backdrop with true character, Belfast's landmark pub is beautiful inside and out, with elaborated antique decor, painted ceilings and mirrored booths.
Harland & Wolff - those big yellow cranes you can spot from just about anywhere in Belfast look even better a bit closer up. Find the best spots to shoot them from around Titanic Quarter.
Cave Hill - even if you don't want to explore the actual caves, the views from here are stunning – you can see as far away as Scotland on a clear day, as well as right across Belfast Lough to Scrabo Tower and the Mournes beyond, as well as down into the Lagan Valley.
Plus, it's a mighty fine walk that's easy to forget exists a stone's throw from the city.
Belfast Castle, at the bottom of the hill, is also nice, BUT there are lots of plastic Council signs and handrails/door markers etc which makes it kinda corporate. Easy to patch remove though, if you’re a whizz at photoshopping, which I am not!
Cafe Parisien - enjoy brunch while you capture views of the beautiful Belfast City Hall and bustling tree lined
streets from the restaurant balcony. I don’t love the new-ish balcony I have to say, I much preferred the open feel to the original balcony layout, but that’s just me. The interior is super stylish also, and the rounded banquette seat at Table 1 makes a great natural frame (but as the light is coming in the window, you’ll need extra light on your face, so get your friends’ phone torches on!)
And remember, if you're not so comfy on camera, step back from the close ups and ask a friend to photograph you in front of a fabulous background... this will detract some of the attention from you and make you feel less in the spotlight. Promise.
Of course there are gorgeous spots all over the country, which I'll focus on another day - please
do share your faves on insta & tag me @cathymartin or @thefwordsonline in your scenic selfies!
