September 5-7, 2012 - Mandalay Bay Resort & Casino - Las Vegas
Not shooting craps, mind you. You can do that most anywhere in Las Vegas. But if you have a few hours free, you might just want to shoot some photographs.
It’s Janine, and I have a few suggestions. But help me out here, guys. If you have a favorite shooting spot, please tell us in the comments.
Let’s start right at the Conference & Expo. Feel free to take a photo of your favorite instructor or fellow students in the classroom (no video of the entire class, though). Even better, head over to the Tech Expo. All of the instructors hang out here during the day, and they’re glad to stop for a handshake, book signing, or photo. But be understanding if they’re on their way to a class and can’t linger. Also, some of the vendors have lighting and models set up that you can shoot. I hope the trampoline comes back! You may be able to print out a photo at the printer vendors’ booths, it doesn’t hurt to ask.
Just south of the Resort is the famous “Welcome to Las Vegas” sign. It might be fun to get there around sunrise or sunset. A bit north of the Resort, at Tropicana Avenue and Las Vegas Boulevard (a.k.a. The Strip) are a collection of hotels and airborne walkways–you should get some interesting shots here, especially at sunrise or sunset. Of course the Strip itself is great for people-watching.
For an old-style Las Vegas experience, check out downtown, especially Fremont Street. Historic hotels, casinos, and lots of vintage neon. Speaking of neon, there are tours of the Neon Boneyard and all its historic signs, at 10AM and 2PM, Tuesday through Saturday. There are restrictions on what gear you can bring, so read carefully. Reservations are required.
(By the way, I’ve heard Photoshop Extended has the ability to compare a number of photos and eliminate anything that isn’t in all of them. Theoretically, you could take a bunch of shots of the Strip and erase all the people and cars! If anyone does this, let me know and I’ll post it here.)
Further out of town (about 17 miles west) is Red Rock Canyon. This is a beautiful area in the Mojave Desert, with a scenic drive and hiking trails. Inside is Spring Mountain Ranch, a historical site that was a working ranch. At 3,800 feet, it should be 10-15 degrees cooler than Las Vegas.
35 miles away is Hoover Dam. It’s pretty amazing, and there’s some interesting construction going on there right now. There’s an observation deck that will give you panoramic views of the Colorado River and Lake Mead.
Drive 30 minutes to Bonnie Springs Ranch and Old Nevada park. Here’s a taste of the Old West. It’s meant for tourists, but that doesn’t mean you can’t find enough authenticity for some great shots.
At the Nevada/Arizona border is Chloride Mining Camp. Since 1870, there has been a working mine here. Another classic Old West town.
Some general tips–you’re in the desert here, and it is HOT during the day. So if you get a chance to shoot early or late, take it. Some areas may not permit photography, or certain gear, so if you’re asked to stop, do so and be polite (especially if you’re wearing your Photoshop World badge!). You don’t want to get on the wrong side of casino security.
And these aren’t really great photography spots, but they’re worth a visit in town:
The Liberace Museum isn’t as funky as when it was in a strip mall, but it’s still a hoot. I particularly enjoy the items convicts made and sent to him. If you’re too young to remember Liberace, picture an older classical pianist in sequined hot pants, with a candelabra on the piano. Really. He was kind of Elton John’s uncle with a full head of hair. There’s a gift shop AND a cafe.
And you’ll find me at the Pinball Hall of Fame. Yes, 4,000 pinball machines in one place, and you can play them! Last time I was there, photography was permitted (though the light is lousy). I was too busy playing to shoot.
OK, your turn. Please comment below with your suggestions for great place to shoot in and around Las Vegas. And don’t forget our own Photowalks!
Janine Smith is a writer and photographer in Los Angeles. She is @JanineSmith on Twitter and http://janinesmith.com on the web.
Posted in After hours, Fun, Guest Post
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Lots of useful information here and thanks for the fee pass information! These blogs are both useful and entertaining!
Great information, thanks!
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