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The Annenberg Space for Photography
Photograph: Courtesy the Annenberg Space for PhotographyThe Annenberg Space for Photography

The best photography galleries in Los Angeles

Forego the big-name museums and check out an underappreciated art form at the top photography galleries across the city

Written by
Stephanie Morino
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Nowadays, everyone is a photographer; all it takes is a smartphone and a social media account. But if you're interested in photography experts as opposed to mere hobbyists, the best work can be seen in photography galleries. So next time you're planning a day out in LA, skip the traditional art galleries and museums (even the off-the-beaten path ones) and head to the city's best photography galleries instead.

Photography galleries in LA

  • Museums
  • Art and design
  • Century City
Specializing in photography, this privately funded space takes an innovative approach to displaying its digital and print works. More than just images on a wall, exhibits at the Annenberg often incorporate videos and/or music, creating a more dynamic experience for the visitor. The free admission and $1 parking help attract a younger crowd to the otherwise more corporate neighborhood. Bring a date on a Saturday evening and spend 30 minutes wandering through the gallery before catching a movie across the street at the Century City AMC. During the summer, Saturday evening concerts in partnership with KCRW turn the space into a vibrant hot spot.
Fahey/Klein Gallery
  • Art
  • Photography
  • La Brea
Director David Fahey has worked closely with photographers for more than 37 years as a dealer, lecturer, author and publisher. A visit to Fahey/Klein Gallery always enchants and delights. Arguably the most important photography gallery in Los Angeles, Fahey/Klein was established in 1987 by Fahey and Randee Klein Devlin; in 1998 Devlin's husband Ken Devlin joined as a partner and co-owner. Specializing in 20th century and contemporary photography, this spacious gallery—practically hidden in a low-key building on North La Brea—manages to stay on top of emerging talent as well as curate impressive collections by such iconic photographers as Berenice Abbott, Henri Cartier-Bresson and Irving Penn.
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  • Art
  • Photography
  • Venice
Nature and wildlife enthusiasts will be drawn to the G2 Gallery, which holds photography exhibitions aimed at bringing attention to environmental issues. In addition to featuring renowned nature and wildlife photographers, the gallery, which opened in 2008, also holds lectures, film screenings and various events with local conservation and education groups. And to top it off, part of the gallery's proceeds go to environmental charities.
  • Art
  • Photography
  • Culver City
This photography gallery features installations that pay homage to a modernist aesthetic. The work of Simone Lueck, Edgar Martins and many others has adorned Kopeikin's walls. Stop by to peruse the gallery's current exhibition as well as what's new in the back room. You might find yourself walking back to your car with a purchase under your arm (but at least parking behind the building is free).
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  • Art
  • Galleries
  • West Hollywood
Owned by Benjamin Trigano, M+B is a gallery space in Beverly Hills showcasing the works of contemporary artists in all mediums, though photography is at the forefront. From vintage beach shots to NSFW photos, you'll see a wide range of work here. Past exhibits have included work from Mike Brodie, Andrew Bush, Leroy Grannis, Lisa Jack and more.
  • Art
  • Manhattan Beach
Bo Bridges' Gallery is a haven for outdoor and sports enthusiasts. The local photographer shoots everything from our local beaches to surfing to various landscapes across the world. His images are sharp and uniquely shot. You'll be overwhelmed by his stunning work as soon as you walk into his chic Manhattan Beach gallery. Most of his photos are limited editions and will only be printed a certain amount of times, so if you like one, better get it while you can. The gallery is also available for events, if you're looking for a venue for your next corporate or social event. 
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  • Art
  • Santa Monica
ROSEGALLERY is located in Santa Monica's renowned Bergamont Station Arts Center and features a variety of work. Though it focuses primarily on 20th and 21st century works on paper, it recently has expanded into other mediums as well. You can expect bi-monthly exhibitions from artists like Dirk Braeckma, Elger Esser, Ken Kitano and Joann Callis. You can also see the gallery at various art fairs in the states and abroad.
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