Photo spots and viewpoints

Question 1

Where is the best view over Marina Bay?

Accepted Answer

We'd pick the SkyPark Observation Deck at Marina Bay Sands for the widest view, since it looks back over the Supertrees, the Flyer and the city. It is time-based, so book ahead. For a free view that has the Sands in it, walk the Helix Bridge instead. The Marina Bay Sands SkyPark lists the ticket types.

Question 2

How much is the Marina Bay Sands SkyPark and when should I go?

Accepted Answer

An adult ticket is S$35 off-peak, from 9.30am to 4.30pm with last entry at 4pm. Peak is S$39, from 5pm to 10pm with last entry at 9.30pm. Entry is time-based, so MBS recommends buying ahead. We'd take the off-peak slot for the lower fare and book the slot before you go. See SkyPark.

Question 3

Which viewpoints in Singapore are free?

Accepted Answer

CapitaSpring's Green Oasis and Level 51 sky garden open on weekdays from 8.30am to 10.30am and 2.30pm to 6pm, except public holidays. ION Sky is the 1-Atico lounge on levels 55 and 56, where a same-day ION Orchard receipt of S$50 earns a welcome drink. The skybridges and roof gardens guide sorts the free rooftops from the paid ones, and CapitaSpring is the one to book.

Question 4

When is the best time to ride the Singapore Flyer for photos?

Accepted Answer

The Flyer runs daily, public holidays included, from 10am to 10pm, with last admission at 9.30pm, and it doesn't need a time-slot reservation. We'd ride at dusk, when the bay lights come on. A walk across the Helix Bridge afterwards gives the same view from the water. See the Singapore Flyer.

Question 5

Where do I photograph the Supertrees lit up?

Accepted Answer

Stand in the Supertree Grove, which is free to enter, and time it for Garden Rhapsody at 7.45pm or 8.45pm. The Supertree lights switch off at 11.30pm, although the outdoor gardens stay open to 2am. Around Christmas Wonderland, only ticket holders watch from the Grove, while others use vantage points at World of Plants. See Supertree Grove.

Question 6

Is the OCBC Skyway or the Supertree Observatory better for photos?

Accepted Answer

We'd pay for the OCBC Skyway first: it is a 128m walkway 22m above the ground, with the gardens spread below. The Supertree Observatory is a separate ticket, and each costs S$14 for a visiting adult and S$10 for a child. Take the Observatory only if height is what you want. See the OCBC Skyway and the Supertree Observatory.

Question 7

Can I use a tripod at Gardens by the Bay?

Accepted Answer

Not in Floral Fantasy: Gardens by the Bay does not permit tripods and camera stands there, to keep crowds moving. Its visiting guidelines name no tripod rule for the outdoor gardens, so ask a staff member at the Grove before you set up. For a steady night shot, rest the camera on a railing at the Helix Bridge. See Gardens by the Bay.

Question 8

Can I fly a drone to photograph Marina Bay?

Accepted Answer

Any drone over 250 grams must be registered, and flying in a no-fly zone needs a permit. No-fly zones include areas within 5km of an aerodrome and danger, prohibited or restricted areas, so check OneMap for your spot before you fly. The drone rules cover nature reserves and parks.

Question 9

Which views of Marina Bay cost nothing?

Accepted Answer

Spectra, the light and water show, has free entry at the Event Plaza, and the Helix Bridge and Merlion Park sit on the same waterfront. We'd walk the Helix Bridge at dusk, then settle at the plaza for the show. Spectra has the showtimes, and Merlion Park is the classic postcard stop.

Question 10

Where should I go for sunset photos in Singapore?

Accepted Answer

For sunset we'd choose Mount Faber Peak for a high view, Punggol Point Park for a quiet waterfront and the Helix Bridge for the skyline. Sembawang Park is a good fourth pick if you are in the north. The sunset facet lists more. See Mount Faber Peak for the first.

Question 11

Can I take wedding photos or fly a drone at Jewel?

Accepted Answer

Wedding photography at Jewel needs prior approval through a request form sent to Jewel. A drone needs a CAAS permit, because Jewel is within 5km of Changi Airport, and a filming permit from Jewel as well. Ask well before the day, since approvals take time. For ordinary snaps, the free Rain Vortex show is the one to plan around. See the Jewel Rain Vortex.