Privacy plants!

I’m a middle house and my fences are not tall enough! I can see my neighbours eye to eye and ,as nice as they are, I hate it! It makes me not want to go outside at all because of how awkward it is. This is my first garden and I’m looking forward to learning and getting stuck in but this is holding me back.

Any recommendations for privacy trees/potted plants for a middle garden that is pretty small but sunny. It’s Part soil and part patio. I know I don’t want bamboo but I’m getting nowhere just googling. Any advice/recommendations or tips?