How to Take a Good Picture of the Hollywood Sign

One of the most photographed show business symbols ever, the Hollywood sign remains an iconic image of the film industry and Southern California in general. While images of the sign abound, plastered on items from photo mugs to postcards, taking your own keepsake photo is a great way to remember your trip to Tinseltown.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderate

1. Take a tour. There are several that have prime spots chosen for specific tours. Check with tour operators in the Hollywood area.
2. Get closer. If you want a photo of yourself in front of the sign, you need to take Canyon Drive or Bronson Avenue all the way up to the sign.
3. Go shopping. The mall at Hollywood and Highland affords a good view of the Hollywood sign. Bring a camera with a good zoom lens and try different angles.
4. Take a photo from Bronson Avenue or Gower Avenue just off Hollywood Boulevard. Watch out for traffic if you step off the sidewalk to get a good shot.
5. Hike up to the Hollywood sign. If you have the stamina, a good map and a good sense of direction, it is definitely worth the effort.

Tips & Warnings

• Plan carefully before taking a hike up to the sign. Ask tour operators or locals for the best route. The labyrinth-like streets can be confusing to out-of-towners.
• The Tommy's Burgers parking lot (by the freeway exit) is a safe place to take a picture. Many tour buses stop there.