There are many cities that you might be interested in checking out when looking for a skyline shot.  However, I suspect that Oakland is not the first that would spring to mind.  However, some work commitments meant that I found myself in Oakland recently and I was staying in a hotel that had a reasonable view across the city.  My floor was pretty low but the elevator lobby had a good angle so I figured a trip to the upper floors might be worthwhile.  Facing towards the bay means that the morning light is behind you.

The result was actually not too bad.  True, a view across a container port is not quite as impressive as some city skylines, but I thought it was actually quite impressive.  You can judge for yourself.