Kazimierz combines historic townhouses, cobblestone lanes, synagogues and atmospheric cafés — a perfect mix for photos and short videos. Streets like Szeroka, Józefa and Miodowa provide contrasting backdrops: from moody, darker interiors to colorful signs and mural-filled corners.
For large groups (30–60 people) Kazimierz also has practical advantages: central location, coach parking options near Plac Nowy and easy access to eateries that often can handle bigger reservations. It’s important to plan the route well — otherwise crowds and narrow streets will turn a shoot into chaos.
Keep in mind that Kazimierz is also a place of memory: synagogues and the Remuh Cemetery are sites of worship and reflection. Observing proper behaviour (quiet, appropriate dress, respecting signage) is essential when shooting in those places.
Plac Nowy with the characteristic Okrąglak – a great place for energetic, urban shots: the round market building, zapiekanka stalls and lively scene make a vivid backdrop. On weekends it gets very busy, so plan short takes here or come early in the morning.
Szeroka Street and the area around the Remuh Synagogue – historic façades, stone pavements and gates leading to small courtyards. This is one of Kazimierz’s most recognizable spots; be careful composing shots near graves and cemetery gates — keep a respectful distance.
Józefa Street and Miodowa – colorful signs, café terraces and atmospheric townhouses give endless options for styled, fashion-like frames and quick TikTok clips with movement and music.
The Ghetto Wall, the Ghetto Heroes Square and memorial fragments – a powerful, emotional backdrop for educational projects and themed films. Always be sensitive to historical context when filming here.
Vistula boulevards and the bridges – river panoramas, views of Wawel and evening lights add variety to your route. The Bernatka Footbridge and riverside steps give good perspectives for group shots with a city panorama.
Oskar Schindler’s Factory (on the Podgórze side, near Kazimierz) – a recognizable site with strong historical meaning. Outdoor shots by the building are common on educational routes; inside the museum there are rules about photography and visiting.
Split the group into smaller subgroups (e.g., 8–12 people) and rotate between spots — this way everyone gets their own “session” without crushes or long waits. It speeds up the photographer’s work and makes props and wardrobe changes easier to manage.
Set clear meeting points and use simple signals (colored scarves, flags, numbers) — Kazimierz’s narrow streets easily scatter people. For comfort, consider audio systems (headset kits) so you can give short instructions without shouting.
Plan time for transfers between points and short breaks for coffee or restrooms — large groups move more slowly than you expect. Confirm reservations with venues and get permission for indoor shoots in advance if you need interiors.
The best light is the golden hour (just after sunrise and just before sunset) — it gives soft shadows and warm tones. For large groups a very early start can be logistically challenging, so consider late afternoon on weekdays.
Avoid weekend evenings at busy junctions like Plac Nowy and streets with terraces — crowds and noise then make photography and sound recording difficult. If you must shoot at weekend, schedule very early morning sessions or coordinate with the venue.
When shooting at memorial sites (Remuh Cemetery, synagogues), choose times with lower foot traffic and remember to keep silence and respect. Interiors of religious sites often have photography limits — always check rules ahead of time.
Non-commercial photos in public spaces usually don’t require formal permits, but professional commercial shoots (large groups, lots of equipment, tripods) may be restricted and can require landowner or city permission. Always ask in advance.
Synagogues and cemeteries have special etiquette: avoid noisy setups, never step on graves, photograph discreetly and ask staff for permission to shoot inside. Some cultural institutions (museums, memorial centres) have their own rules for filming and commercial photography.
The safest option is to reserve a venue in advance and agree on a fixed group menu — this speeds up service and reduces stress. Kazimierz has many restaurants able to accept larger bookings, but in summer and on weekends book even weeks ahead.
If you want an instagrammable interior, choose well-reviewed places; some restaurants offer private room rental or the possibility to reserve the terrace. For big groups consider catering or a buffet in a hired space (outdoor events on the Vistula boulevards require prior arrangements with city authorities).
Assuming a large group can improvise — without a plan this usually ends in chaos and wasted shots. Have a plan B and assign people responsible for order.
Disrespecting places of memory — this isn’t just a faux pas, it can prompt intervention from staff or security. Brief the group on cultural etiquette before the session.
Not reserving meal places and ignoring coach logistics — this leads to long waits and group fragmentation. Plan coach parking and a clear meeting point.
Can I take photos inside synagogues and at the Remuh Cemetery? - Outdoor photography is usually allowed, but inside and right next to tombstones requires decorum and is often restricted. Always consult staff or the museum information point before setting up equipment.
Do I need permission to record a TikTok with a professional crew? - If you use tripods, large lights, a drone or produce commercial content, it’s wise to contact the city authorities or the landowner. Small phone clips in public spaces typically don’t require permits.
How to safely guide 30–60 people through Kazimierz’s narrow streets? - Divide the group, use visible markers (colors, flags), set meeting points and check attendance regularly. Audio kits greatly improve communication.
Many of Kazimierz’s best frames come not from the main streets but from small side alleys and passages between townhouses — spend 10–15 minutes ‘getting lost’ with your photo group to find unexpected walls or doors.
Local markets and antique stalls provide surprising backdrops — dynamic shots with local flavour add authenticity. Be brief to avoid blocking trade.
Sound is half of a good TikTok — prepare a short consistent soundtrack and have one person in charge of audio or voiceover so group clips feel dynamic and well-synced.
If you’re planning a visit with a larger group, local help pays off: coordination, reservations and knowledge of Kraków’s little rules make a big difference in the final result. As a guide I can help organise the route, liaise with venues and prepare logistics.
Share this article with friends or on social media if you think it will help others planning a session in Kraków. If you’d like to tour with a private guide (Małgorzata Kasprowicz — Margaret Kasprowicz), contact zwiedzaniekrakowa.com for details and booking options. Thank you for reading and good luck creating beautiful frames in Kazimierz!
