Every photographer’s guide to the best symmetrical photo spots in Changi Airport

Changi Airport, known affectionately as the Best Airport in the World, is arguably the best airport for many things – including symmetrical architecture.

Every airport needs functional practicality. Every airport needs operational stability. But what makes Changi Airport unique is its attention to travellers’ needs. To create the tranquil atmosphere distinctive to Changi’s terminals, architecture, art and symmetry come together to create a space that not only calms the weary soul, but is also easy on the eyes.

If you’re keen to capture these spaces, here is a cheat sheet of all the photo spots in Changi Airport to get the raddest #ChangiSymmetry shots. The best part? They are all in the public areas – so you don’t need your passport! 

Terminal 3

1. Start the photo walk from the Mezzanine Level, near the MRT

Peer down at the escalators leading to the MRT. Who knew even escalators could look so #step?

 

Now, look up and turn around.

 

2. Turn back around and walk into the Departure Hall

There is nothing like natural light to make you feel all warm and calm inside, even if you’re one of those people frantically rummaging through your bag looking for that ever-elusive passport. Changi Airport never fails to provide the best backdrops in the most unexpected of places. Stay close and hop on the skytrain to…

Terminal 1

3. Stop and stare at planes from the public viewing gallery (Level 3)

The viewing gallery here tends to instil a sense of peaceful contemplation within anyone who visits. The next time you’re in Changi Airport, whether it is to travel, take photos or have a meal, make sure to drop by!

4. In the Departure Hall, look up at:

… the bedazzling ceiling, right next to immigration. This could possibly be one of the most magnificent, yet humble, pieces of art within the airport.

Now, head over to…

 

Terminal 2

5. A plethora of delightful photo opportunities await in the Departure Hall

Natural lighting is every photographer’s best friend, but Terminal 2’s unique lights certainly come a close second. They look a little like wings, ready to help you fly. Follow the light to A Million Times at Changi, an art installation inspired by the concept of time and so mesmerising you might even lose track of said time.

6. Take a slight detour towards the MRT for this gem:

It is nearly impossible to feel anything but light and carefree within this space, where glass and sunlight combine to create a bright, cheerful ambience.

Instead of taking the MRT, head down to the Arrival Hall level of T2 (Level 1) and board the bus to…

Terminal 4

7. The Departure Hall is unparalleled in architectural elegance

One of Terminal 4 (T4)’s most striking features (of which there are many) is its lined ceiling, which boasts petal-shaped skylights and a unique charm that no other airport has.

Whether you’re looking at patterned walls or other walls disguised as floor-to-ceiling windows… symmetry and harmony can be found in almost every nook and cranny of Terminal 4. Check out this video for more #ChangiSymmetry inspiration!

Bonus tips

As you may well know, symmetry rarely exists in nature. Sometimes, you have to create it for yourself. Here are some tips on how to do just that.

Tip 1: Reflect and take the shot

Reflection is a necessary component of self-improvement, an aspect that Changi Airport continually strives to achieve. Get as close as possible to any reflective surface, like the glass walls and barriers all around the airport, and you just might be amazed by the upgrade it can make to your photography!

Tip 2: Get floored by floors

In life, it is important to consider perspectives other than your own – like the floor’s. If you’re prepared to lower yourself to that level, get down on the ground and make full use of Changi’s reflective floors.

Tip 3: Go off the beaten track on Changi’s travelators

With shaking hands, hang over the side of the travelator. Wedge your camera between the two travelators, even though they are moving in opposite directions and the people moving towards you / behind you probably think you’re crazy.

Take the shot.

 

Photography, like symmetry, rarely comes easy. It requires hard work, determination and a healthy dose of shamelessness – but Changi Airport is completely worth the stares.

The next time you’re in the airport, open your eyes, ready your camera (in any form, shape and size) and be prepared to give your all!