I’m sure a neighborhood scene like this isn’t extraordinary in Paris, though Montmartre is more hilly than some. Look at the detailing of the buildings plus the texture of the cobblestone road. The scale of the street to the building is executed so well. Add a generous tree, and you have a balance that harmonizes and looks great in pictures.

We figured out the design essence of great neighborhoods long ago. Unfortunately, we have forgotten them in the United States. How many places in America look great like this? That’s why Disneyland is so beloved: It is built on traditional design elements. Of course, Disney is a pale and incomplete replica of the real thing, though it does offer amusement rides.

I shot this at a 100mm equivalent to create some compression. Thus, in reality, the buildings are a little further away, and there is more space around the tree. Both in the photograph and real life, the neighborhood is a gem.

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