· 3 min read
The best photoshoot spots in Alanya
Alanya is one of the most photogenic towns on the coast: turquoise water, a castle on the rock and an old harbour, all a few minutes apart. Here's where I shoot most often and when the light is at its best.
Cleopatra Beach
Alanya's signature spot and the place for the 30-minute mini session. Light sand, clear turquoise water and a view of the castle rock make for bright summer photos with almost no preparation.
The beach is busy during the day, so I shoot at sunrise or an hour before sunset. In the evening the sun goes down over the sea, the light turns soft and warm, and skin looks even and sun-kissed.
- Great for: couples, families with kids, solo portraits, flying dresses.
- Best time: sunrise or 60–90 minutes before sunset.
- Tip: bring a towel and a change of clothes if you want shots in the water.
Alanya Castle
The castle walls run across the whole rock above the town. From the upper viewpoints you can see the bay, Cleopatra Beach and the harbour, perfect for panoramic shots with the whole town and the sea behind you.
You can get up by car, taxi or the cable car from Cleopatra Beach. The inner citadel (İç Kale) has an entrance fee, but there are plenty of great views by the walls outside it.
- Great for: couples, love stories, portraits with a view.
- Best time: sunset, when the town below glows in warm light.
- Tip: wear comfortable shoes to get there and bring nicer sandals for the photos.
The Red Tower and the harbour
This 13th-century octagonal tower of red stone stands right by the harbour, surrounded by boats, a stone promenade and old streets. It's a ready-made set for a city-style shoot that looks nothing like typical beach photos.
- Great for: couples, stylish portraits, a family walk.
- Best time: morning or evening; the promenade is hot and crowded at midday.
- Tip: rich colours look great here: terracotta, olive, deep blue.
The Tersane shipyard
An old Seljuk shipyard with stone arches right on the water. You can walk there along the path from the Red Tower or arrive by boat. Arches, shade and turquoise water give unusual, almost cinematic photos.
- Great for: couples and portraits, if you don't mind a short walk.
- Best time: morning or late afternoon.
- Tip: we add Tersane to a 2-hour shoot together with the Red Tower.
Damlataş beach and cave
A small beach at the foot of the rock next to Cleopatra Beach. Rocks, waves and the castle above make for photos that look different from the long sandy beach. Easy to combine with Cleopatra in one shoot.
The Dim River
A break from the sea: a mountain river 10–15 minutes from the centre, with greenery, cool water and mountain views. A good choice for a family shoot in summer, when the beach is hot even in the evening.
- Great for: families with kids, couples who want nature shots.
- Tip: from some hotels it's more than 15 km away, so transfer is extra.
Your hotel
Many hotels in Mahmutlar, Oba, Tosmur and Konaklı have beautiful pools, gardens and their own beach. If you'd rather not travel, we shoot right there: easy with small kids and it saves holiday time.
How to choose
- 30-minute mini session (€49): Cleopatra Beach.
- 1 hour (€79): one location of your choice, for example Cleopatra Beach with Damlataş next door.
- 2 hours (€129): two locations or an outfit change, for example the Red Tower, Tersane and sunset at the castle.
Before the shoot I send outfit ideas and the exact meeting time for your date. Not sure what to pick? Send me your dates and hotel and I'll suggest the best option. Prices and details are on the photographer in Alanya page.
