Sony Alpha 7R III
Sony FE 24-70mm f/2.8 GM Lens
Shutter Speed
1/500 sec
Aperture
f/2.8
Focal Length
24mm
ISO
1600
2nd Street Tunnel & Car Sparks
@asteryx
In the beating heart of Downtown Los Angeles, there's an unexpected star—the 2nd Street Tunnel. This urban canyon, with its glossy white-tiled walls, is no stranger to the limelight an. It has played backdrop to countless films, TV shows, and music videos, becoming as iconic as the Hollywood sign itself. Walking through this tunnel is akin to stepping onto a movie set, a cinematic experience in the midst of city life.
As car headlights bounce off the tunnel's reflective tiles, they create a mesmerizing light show, a dance of illumination that breathes life into the concrete structure. It's an intoxicating blend of urban grit and Hollywood glamour that gives the 2nd Street Tunnel its unique appeal. It's the ideal place to capture that quintessential LA noir vibe, a "Blade Runner" meets "Drive" aesthetic that's effortlessly cool.
Plan
Overview
Skill level
Moderate
Accessbility
Public Location
Hours
Anytime
Fee
Free
Pack
- Wide angle lens (14-24 or 24-70mm would be the best; I took this at 24mm)
- Tripod at night
- Bright clothes
How to get there
N34° 03' 22.972"W118° 15' 10.1786"
This photo was taken in the 2nd Street Tunnel in Downtown Los Angeles.
If you're starting your journey from Union Station, Los Angeles' primary train station, take the Metro Red or Purple Line and alight at the Pershing Square Station. From there, it's a short 10-minute walk to the 2nd Street Tunnel.
Head southwest on Hill St towards 5th St, turn left onto W 3rd St, then turn right onto S Flower St, and finally turn left onto W 2nd St. As you approach the tunnel, you'll feel a distinct shift in ambiance as if you've walked onto a live film set waiting for the director to yell "action!"
Tips
When to go
Best season
All months
Best time
Night, Midnight+
The 2nd Street Tunnel is a year-round photography hotspot. However, the best months are during the fall and winter (October through February) when the sun sets earlier, allowing more time to capture its striking nighttime aesthetic.
These months also coincide with LA's 'rainy season,' and wet conditions can add an extra layer of glossy sheen to the tunnel for even more dynamic photos.
For photography, the 2nd Street Tunnel truly comes alive at night. The play of lights against the glossy white tiles creates dramatic shadows and reflections, giving your photos an atmospheric, neo-noir feel.
Also, the traffic is less busy at night, providing cleaner shots without too many cars. But always remember to prioritize safety when shooting in a busy city environment, especially at night.
Field tips
Prioritize safety when planning a photo shoot on the street—think of it as enforcing safety protocols on a film set. Don brightly colored clothing to ensure you're easily visible, much like a director's high-visibility vest on a busy set. Consider teaming up with a friend on your adventure. They can keep an eye on the surroundings while you're focused on capturing the perfect shot.
A wide-angle lens (24mm) can encapsulate the entirety of the tunnel's ambiance in your frame, unmistakably communicating the distinct, enclosed perspective of being in a tunnel.
Experiment with long exposure. With cars passing through, long exposure can create interesting light trails that add movement to your image.
Try capturing reflections on the tunnel's wet floor after a rain. It can create a mirror-like effect, adding depth and a touch of mystery to your shot.
Use leading lines. The tunnel's natural perspective creates strong leading lines that guide the viewer's eyes towards the center of the image.
Play with contrasts. The interplay between the tunnel's bright lights and dark shadows can create a dramatic, high-contrast image.
Incorporate elements of city life—like a passing car or a pedestrian—for a sense of scale and context. This gives your image a lively, urban narrative. You might have to be patient for that perfect moment.
Current weather
Los Angeles, California
Clear
46o
F
Fri
73o
44o
Sat
62o
50o
Sun
65o
52o
Mon
63o
51o
Tue
62o
54o
Blue Hour
14:07
46o
Clear
Sunrise
14:34
46o
Clear
Golden Hour
24:10
46o
Clear
Sunset
24:47
46o
Clear
Do nearby
Once you've had your fill of the 2nd Street Tunnel, downtown LA offers a plethora of attractions.
Just a short walk away, you'll find the Walt Disney Concert Hall—an architectural marvel and home to the Los Angeles Philharmonic. From art to music to food, downtown LA is an urban playground waiting to be explored.
Check out The Broad, a contemporary art museum housing over 2,000 pieces of postwar art.
Or take a leisurely stroll in the nearby Grand Park, a vibrant outdoor space with fountains and a pink picnic table.
Locations nearby
