The best photoshoot locations in Marrakech

Marrakech is a true open-air studio. Between the colourful alleys of the medina, the lush gardens of the Palmeraie and the mineral expanses of the Agafay desert, the city offers a rare variety of backdrops for a photoshoot. Here are my favourite spots — and the best moments to photograph them.

The medina and its alleys

The souks, the ancient doors and the ochre walls of the medina make for images full of character. We work there early in the morning, when the light is soft and the crowds are still absent. Ideal for a couple shoot, a portrait or a lifestyle session with a Moroccan flavour.

The riads

Patios, zellige tiles, fountains and diffused light: a riad is an intimate, refined setting, sheltered from the bustle. Perfect for a couple shoot, a hen party with friends or a family session.

The Palmeraie

Palm trees, villas and golden light at sunrise: the Palmeraie offers a green and peaceful setting, very popular with families and couples.

The Agafay desert

Thirty minutes from the city, Agafay unfolds its stony hills and spectacular sunsets. It is the dream backdrop for a couple shoot, a marriage proposal or an intimate wedding at the edge of the world.

The rooftops of Guéliz

For a more urban mood, the rooftops of Guéliz offer a view of the Atlas mountains and crisp light in the late afternoon — a modern setting that contrasts with the medina.

Bahia Palace

Its succession of courtyards, hand-painted ceilings and cedar-wood marquetry make it one of the richest backdrops in the medina — a heavily decorated setting that flatters a portrait or a couple in elegant outfits. It's a paid monument and busy with guided tours during the day; for professional use, access conditions are worth checking directly on site before building a session around it.

Ben Youssef Medersa

A central courtyard, zellige tilework and carved stucco and cedar create a very graphic setting, all geometric pattern and filtered light — well suited to a portrait or a couple shoot in simple outfits that will stand out against the busy backdrop. It's a paid, touristy site, so aim for a quiet hour, and check on site what applies for professional use of the location.

The Koutoubia and its gardens

The Koutoubia forms Marrakech's most recognisable silhouette, but its interior is not open to non-Muslims. The surrounding gardens remain open to the public, where the minaret in the background gives a strong visual anchor for a portrait or couple session — especially late in the day, when the light rakes across the stone.

Jardin Majorelle

Known for its intense cobalt blue and exotic planting (bamboo, cacti, palms), this is a strongly coloured setting, the opposite of the medina's ochre tones — worth considering if you want something more graphic. The site is run by a foundation, with paid, often busy access: for professional use, permission needs to be requested directly from the site before planning a session here.

These four sites are excellent sources of inspiration, but access is more controlled. For a simpler option with a comparable mood, the medina, a riad, the Palmeraie or the Agafay desert offer similar atmospheres (city colours, greenery, open space) with far fewer constraints.

Frequently asked questions

What is the best time of day for a photoshoot in Marrakech?

The golden hour, just after sunrise or before sunset, gives the most beautiful light and a more bearable heat. That is when I schedule most sessions.

Can we shoot in the medina despite the crowds?

Yes, by going very early in the morning we enjoy quiet alleys and soft light. I know the photogenic, calm corners to avoid the crowded areas.

How many locations can we do in a single session?

Usually one or two nearby locations per session, to keep enough shooting time at each spot. We plan the route together in advance.

Once you've picked a setting, see also my tips on how to prepare your photoshoot in Marrakech (outfits, timing, weather). Want to plan your session? Discover the Marrakech photoshoot or contact me to talk about it.