Charm in London, U.K.
Alexandra Lhermite-Schwass takes us on a tour of her favorite neighborhood in London – Notting Hill. Through her camera lens, she shares the beauty, diversity, and charm of the city she calls home.
Place you live: London, UK
Occupation: Photographer and “influencer”
Preoccupation: Traveling and spending time with my family
Place your Instagrams were taken? A bit everywhere in London, but mainly in my neighbourhood of Notting Hill.
Can you sum up the place you live? London is such an inspiring and diverse city. There is always so much going on here – the opportunities for photography, or quite anything, are endless.
What is a perfect day in your spot? My perfect day in London is a nice sunny day and going for a picnic in the park with my husband and friends. We start around noon and it often goes on until the sun has set.
If your city was a person or character who would it be and why? David Bowie – fascinating, full of oddness and creativity, charming… Unique!
Do you shoot with your phone or other cameras or both? Until Spring 2015, my Instagram account was ‘iPhone only’. I then felt like it was time to challenge myself and start using a DSLR. I do not think my style of pictures has much changed since that, but it has definitely given me more options. I still post a lot of iPhone shots as I always have the phone with me. It really is the most convenient camera!
What is your editing process? My editing process is never exactly the same, it depends on the image. But my favourite apps for editing are Snapseed and Instagram. The Retouch app comes in very handy when you want to get rid of a small detail in the picture.
Can you give a couple tips to aspiring Instagram photographers? Stay genuine, photograph what truly inspires you and post whatever makes you happy. Do not worry about the numbers.
Who are your three favorite photographers? It is difficult to choose only three, as there are so many talented photographers whose work I admire. But I am always inspired by @helloemilie, @juicylucyham and @josephowen’s beautiful images.
What is the most amazing travel experience you’ve ever had? My biggest passion is traveling and I am fortunate to have visited many wonderful places, such as Tanzania, Scotland, the Faroe Islands, etc. Most recently, I went on a two-week road trip in Morocco, and I absolutely fell in love with this amazing country!
Want more Instagram tips and inspiration? Check out all of our Best of Instagram features and learn from the masters.
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Name:Alexandra Lhermite-Schwass
City:Notting Hill in London
Best place to eat:
The Oak in Notting Hill – I love their pizza and the atmosphere there is super nice.
Best place to drink:
The Westbourne in Notting Hill – Always fun, especially when the weather is good and people are having a Pimm’s or beer outside.
Best outdoor activity:
A nice stroll – or picnic if weather permits – in one of London’s many parks. My favourites are Hyde Park and Hampstead Heath.
Must do (for the traveler):
Visit pretty Notting Hill with all its colourful houses and charming coffee places.
Local tip:
Although it does not rain as much as people like to say, it is always better to have a look at the weather forecast for the whole day before going out. An umbrella might be a good idea!