The corners are quieter than the railings.

Yes. Walk away from the main observation deck railings. Most people cluster at the most obvious spots with the best postcard views. If you head to the corners of the platform — especially near the stairwell entrances or the less-photographed sides — you’ll find gaps and shorter waits. The view is still great.

Also consider going to the second level instead of the top. The crowds are thinner and you get the tower’s own structure in your frame. Or go early morning before the mobs arrive. You don’t need a secret angle — just a little patience and a willingness to move twenty feet.

The best photos from the tower are the ones that don’t have other tourists in them.