Porte Cailhau and the Old Port Quays

The Porte Cailhau is a 15th-century gate on the Place du Palais in the Saint-Pierre district of Bordeaux, in the Nouvelle-Aquitaine region of France. Built in the 1490s, it was raised as a triumphal entrance facing the Garonne, and its pointed turrets and Gothic details give it a fairytale outline against the sky. The classic frame is taken from the Place du Palais or from the quay, with the gate in the centre and the old port quays leading the eye along the river. The gate faces the river side, so morning light falls softly on the pale stone and brings out the carved detail, while late afternoon light comes from behind and flattens the facade. A 24-70mm lens handles the gate from the square, and stepping back to the quay allows the turrets to be framed with the river and sky. Overcast mornings give even tones with little glare, and the stone takes on a warm colour at golden hour. The square is a busy crossing point with diners, tourists and passing traffic, and mornings before 10 are the quietest, when a tripod position at the centre of the square is easy to take. Tripods are tolerated in the public square for personal photography but should not block the routes. There is no charge to photograph the exterior, while entry to the tower interior is by ticket when it is open. Drone use in the historic centre is restricted and should be checked against French rules. Cafes with terraces and public toilets are within a short walk, in the streets of Saint-Pierre.