50 Las Vegas Photography Locations
Are you looking for the perfect photo spots in Las Vegas? Or perhaps you are looking for the ideal location for your engagement session, or even your Las Vegas wedding. Or just for your Las Vegas photoshoot?
Finding locations can be difficult, especially when you are trying to find great photography locations. There are many popular spots listed below, but there are also some other spots that are less known. If you are booking with me, you’ll have the option of some hidden spots as well.
Some spots are great for landscape photography, while others are perfect for wedding photographers, it really just depends on your session. I recommend using google maps for directions and google earth to scope out spots that are more remote. Know that these spots will give you amazing high-resolution images that you can share or hang on your wall.
- Shooting inside the majority of casinos is not allowed. They may ask you to leave and trespass you. Please understand that a casino is a private property, and you should be respectful of their rules.
- Pick up after yourself when going into nature or anywhere. Many locations around Las Vegas require a permit. Too many photographers and clients are leaving messes and items that are not natural to the area.
- I’m listing as much information about these Las Vegas locations as I have; knowledge, fees, and rules often change. I do not guarantee that this is the most current and up to date information. So, I do recommend that you reach out to every location before you arrive unless you are going somewhere public, ie. Las Vegas sign
- Areas that require a permit require them for professional photography. As a photographer, you need to have insurance to obtain a permit. A permit for most places in Las Vegas locations requires multiple days to receive.
- Each location has a link to the official website where you can find additional information.
Las Vegas Photography Spot: Nature
Valley of Fire
Valley of Fire is a Nevada state park located about 1-1.5 hours outside of Las Vegas.
The park was acquired on November 30, 1931. Part of the “new deal” under President Roosevelt to help bring the country out of the Great Depression. The Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) built the first roads and campgrounds, making Valley of Fire the first official park in Nevada. Valley of Fire History.
The photography permit is $50 for day use and $500 for the year. Liability insurance is required to obtain a permit and call ahead to plan accordingly. Talk with the rangers to see where you can and cannot shoot. A Las Vegas photographer's favorite spot for sure.
To enter the park you’ll pay $10 per car. The only flushing bathrooms are at the visitor’s center. There is a porta-potty at the entrance when you enter off the I-15.
When you arrive, grab a map to check out the many different trails and sights to see. This is best shot during sunrise sunset as the light washes out the rock colors during midday.
Photography recommendation: Family Photography, Engagement Sessions, Wedding Photography, Elopements, Landscape, Maternity Portraits, or Portrait Photography.
Red Rock Canyon
The park includes 26 trails for you to hike and explore and a 13-mile loop that you can drive around. Upon your entrance into the park, you’ll find the visitor’s center. There are restrooms at most of the trailheads that you can use. Park hours change with the season.
Take a look at their website for additional information and hours. Dogs are allowed in the park on the trails on a leash.
The park entrance fee is $15 for cars. If you have the America Beautiful Pass, then the park entrance is included. To get married at Red Rock Canyon, you must get a permit with a minimum of 30 days’ notice.
Permits are required by the photographer for any photography with a paid element. It is a base of $220 and 3% gross or $110 whichever is higher. If there is no paid element or donations then the person can get their own permit.
Photography recommendation: Family Photography, Engagement Sessions, Wedding Photography, Landscape, Maternity Portraits, or Portrait Photography.
Calico Basin
Calico Basin Trail is to the west of Red Rock Canyon. They have a walkway; please stay on the walkway as you walk through the park.
There is a wood fence and a mountain drop in the background. Calico Basin is a part of Red Rock Canyon, and the same rules apply. However, there is no entrance fee, and parking is free. Limited facilities are available there.
Permits, like Red Rock Canyon, are required by the photographer for any photography with a paid element. It is a base of $220 and 3% gross or $110, whichever is higher. If there is no paid element or donations then the person (client) can get their permit.
Photography recommendation: Family Photography, Engagement Sessions, Wedding Photography, Landscape, Maternity Portraits, or Portrait Photography.
Spring Mountain Ranch
Spring Mountain Ranch is located 20 minutes west of Las Vegas off of the Charleston/Blue Diamond loop. History shows us that people have visited the Spring Mountain ranch for over 10,000 years. Initially, the park’s name was “Old Williams Ranch,” someone built a farmhouse in the 1800s that remains today.
In 1955 the property and buildings were sold to a German actress Vera Krupp. Vera who added on to the house. Krupp sold the estate to Howard Hughes in 1967. Hughes never visited the property and later sold it in 1972 to Fletcher Jones.
The plan was to turn the part into a master-planned community. The Las Vegas community did not approve. With the work of a few thousand people, a state park was created in 1973.
I highly recommend that you plan a little extra time in your day to take a tour of the farmhouse. All the information was from the Spring Mountain Ranch website. They also have an outdoor theater during the summer months. Dogs are also allowed for their pet portraits.
The photography permit is $50 for day use and $500 for the year. Liability insurance is required to obtain a permit. Call ahead to plan accordingly. Talk with the rangers to see where you can and cannot shoot.
The park entrance is as follows: Day use entrance fee: $10.00 per vehicle, Bike in $2.00 per bike.
Photography recommendation: Family Photography, Engagement Sessions, Wedding Photography, Landscape, Maternity Portraits, or Portrait Photography.
Dry Lake Beds
There are multiple dry lake beds in the Las Vegas area. The most popular ones are south of Las Vegas, or west of Boulder City (South East of Las Vegas). The lands are monitored by the Bureau of Land Management (BLM). These areas flood with rain and will keep standing water for a couple of days after the storm.
If you are meeting people out there, I would recommend meeting at a gas station and driving out together. Many photographers visit this commonplace with their clients. This spot is excellent for out of town guests and elopement sessions.
There are no bathrooms or any establishments out here. The area closes on occasion due to desert races or other events. I find that most cars can make the drive — no cost for parking.
Photography recommendation: Family Photography, Engagement Sessions, Wedding Photography, Landscape, Maternity Portraits, or Portrait Photography.
Corn Creek
Cork Creek is about an hour outside of Las Vegas. Take US-95 north, and you’ll see the signs on where to turn off. Corn Creek was initially a refuge for the bighorn sheep. Now it is a wildlife refuge for birds, mammals, reptiles, amphibians, and plants.
The park is most active during the night as the days are often too hot. Most people go hiking or take in the wildlife. Camping is also available and is currently fee-free. Check out Corn Creeks website for more information.
Photography Permits are yearly for $150. Contact Amy for more information amy_sprunger@fws.gov
As far as I know, it is free to park and enter the refuge and walk around for bird watching.
Photography recommendation: Family Photography, Maternity Portraits, and Landscape.
Clark County Wetlands Nature Preserve
The wetlands park developed in 1991. Located on the east side of Las Vegas a few miles off of Tropicana and Boulder Highway. The park encompasses 210 acres and is home to many animals (and bugs in the summer).
There are seven different trails for you to access and explore while you are at the Wetlands nature preserve. There is also a visitor center there as well, with facilities. Dogs are not allowed in the nature center (see below for a different option). Find out more on their website,
There is no fee for parking, but they do require a permit for photography. The film permit is $45.
Photography recommendation: Family Photography, Engagement Sessions, Wedding Photography, Landscape, Maternity Portraits, or Portrait Photography.
Clark County Wetlands Trail (dogs welcomed)
According to the website, Leashed pets are allowed at the following Park Trailheads: Duck Creek Trails, and the Wetlands Loop Trail. There is no fee for parking, but they do require a permit for photography. The film permit is $45.
Photography recommendation: Family Photography, Engagement Sessions, Wedding Photography, Landscape, Maternity Portraits, or Portrait Photography & Pet photography.
Desert
Las Vegas has a lot of desert and plenty of options for the perfect desert background. You cannot feed any wildlife that you see and be respectful of the environment that you are entering. Parking will be on the side of the road, and there are no facilities. The land is run and controlled by BLM.
Photography recommendation: Family Photography, Engagement Sessions, Wedding Photography, Landscape, Maternity Portraits, or Portrait Photography & Pet photography.
Lake Mead
The largest man-made lake caused by the creation of the Hoover Dam. The recreational area, created in 1964 and named after Elwood Mead. Mead was the commissioner of the U.S. Bureau of Reclamation from 1924 to 1936.
When you look at the lake, you can see multiple rings from different levels of water. The highest ring (bathtub rings) is from 1983. There are rumors of a sunken city. Check out the official site for more information and to read about the sunken city.
There is an entrance fee to enter Lake Mead of $25 per car. If you have the America Beautiful Pass, then the park entrance is included. Please park in the designated parking lots.
To find permit information and to acquire a permit for Lake Mead, visit the official site.
Photography recommendation: Family Photography, Engagement Sessions, Wedding Photography, Landscape, Maternity Portraits, or Portrait Photography & Pet photography.
Mount Charleston
Mount Charleston is part of the Spring Mountain range. Located 30-40 minutes to the north of Las Vegas.
There are multiple trails and meadows available. During the winter, snow is always an option, as there is a ski resort. Also, there is a hotel and a restaurant that you can visit while you are on the mountain. There are many private properties around the area; please be respectful of private property.
Facilities are available on some trails and parking is free. Look for the signs and obey the rules of the city.
Photography recommendation: Family Photography, Engagement Sessions, Wedding Photography, Landscape, Maternity Portraits, or Portrait Photography & Pet photography.
Popular Las Vegas Photography Spots: Outside
Eldorado Canyon - Nelson Ghost Town
Located to the southeast of Las Vegas, headed toward Laughlin, Nevada. A favorite for all photographers.
The mine was established in 1861; the mine was active at one point and considered very prosperous. It is currently family owned and operated. They have a few old buildings, many antique cars, beautiful cactus, and more. Be cautious of the cactus and the rattlesnakes.
Parking is free in front of the store, and restrooms are available. A permit is required regardless of professional, amateur, or tourist.
Upon your arrival, you’ll need to check-in with the owners in the main building. They are family run and do not allow any nudity of any kind. Take a look at their website for more images and to contact them about any future photography sessions.
Photography recommendation: Family Photography, Engagement Sessions, Wedding Photography, Landscape, Maternity Portraits, or Portrait Photography & Pet photography.
Seven Magic Mountains
Located to the south of Las Vegas. The seven magic mountains started to get stacked in 2015 and completed in 2016.
The Seven Magic Mountains are an exhibit by Rondinone. The mountains are to the south of the Las Vegas valley. There are no facilities at the seven magic mountains, but do not worry; they are not too far from Las Vegas. They have even more information on their website about the process.
As far as I know, there is no cost for parking. However, I am unsure if there are any professional photography permit requirements.
Photography recommendation: Family Photography, Engagement Sessions, Wedding Photography, Landscape, Maternity Portraits, or Portrait Photography & Pet photography.
Clark County Heritage Museum
Located on 1830 S. Boulder Highway, Henderson, NV, a place that many of us have overlooked if you live here. There is a train engine here, along with a neighborhood street with houses from 1910-1970. Some do not look like they are from Las Vegas, but all make an excellent background for your picture. In each of the houses, you can find different displays; all of them are picture-perfect for social media.
They also have a museum when you enter where you pay for your entrance. Take a look at their website to see the different houses and additional information about this site.
Parking is free, and the entrance to the park is $2. There is no permit required, but the $2 admission is required.
Photography recommendation: Family Photography, Engagement Sessions, Maternity Portraits, or Portrait Photography & Pet photography.
Springs Preserve
Parking is available at the lot, free of charge. The entrance to the park is between $4.95 and $18.95 to enter. Previously, photography permits were not required when shooting inside the gardens. However, if you are shooting a wedding or some other significant events, you need to contact Springs Preserve.
Photography recommendation: Family Photography, Engagement Sessions, Wedding Photography, Landscape, Maternity Portraits, or Portrait Photography & Pet photography.
Gilcrease Orchard
Located in the north of Las Vegas on 7800 N. Tenaya Way. This orchard started in 1920 with Elda and Leonard Gilcrease and their two children. Elda was the one who continued to grow the farm with the help of her sons after her husband left her. For over 25 years, people have paid to pick at the orchard.
The orchard closes for part of the year, so check on their website to see if they are open. The orchard also requires notice of photography on site. You can park across the way in the dirt lot for free.
Photography recommendation: Family Photography, Maternity Portraits, or Portrait Photography.
Ethel M Cactus Garden
Do you love chocolates? Well, Ethel M chocolates is a Las Vegas company. They have the most extensive botanical cactus garden in Nevada just outside of their factory. They have over 300 different species of plants there.
You can take a walk through the cactus, or you can go inside the store for a free sample of chocolates. Set some time aside to enjoy the chocolate tasting class. Located on 2 Cactus Garden Dr. Henderson, NV 89014.
The garden is free, and parking is available free of cost in the parking lot. For more information, visit their website.
Photography recommendation: Family Photography, Engagement Sessions, Wedding Photography, Maternity Portraits, or Portrait Photography & Pet photography.
Lake Las Vegas
Lake Las Vegas is to the east of Las Vegas off of Lake Mead Parkway.
Consisting of a golf course, beautiful houses, hotels, casinos, and a village. The village is between the casinos and sits off of the lake. There are many beautiful spots to shoot around here, including greenery, water, buildings, and more. Check out their website for events and additional information.
There is a $50 permit fee required for photography — contact security to obtain a permit. Parking is free in the garage, and there are lots of facilities available.
Photography recommendation: Family Photography, Engagement Sessions, Wedding Photography, Landscape, Maternity Portraits, or Portrait Photography & Pet photography.
Tivoli Village
Tivoli Village is an outdoor mall area with many different shops and restaurants. They have a smaller center park there and cute storefronts that are popular for photography. Make dinner reservations to eat at one of the local establishments and stay and listen to live music.
A photography permit is required for anything professional, anything besides your phone. The website states:
“ Staged photography must be approved by Tivoli Village Management prior to any scheduled shoot. Staged photography includes family portraits, wedding photos, senior and engagement portraits, or any other posed portraiture of individuals or groups by professional photographers or amateur photographers acting as professional photographers. These photos are subject to a location fee starting at $150 and signing a waiver of liability.”
Parking is free in the garage, and valet is available.
Photography recommendation: Family Photography, Engagement Sessions, Wedding Photography, Maternity Portraits, or Portrait Photography & Pet photography.
Floyd Lamb Park at Tule Springs
Floyd Lamb Park has over 650 acres of land and lots of bunnies and peacocks. There are a few buildings, a fence, and other options that make for an excellent backdrop for family or engagement sessions. Hours of operation change between summer and fall. Their website provides more information.
This park is popular with many of the local photographers for sessions throughout the year.
There is an entrance cost of $6 per car. You are required to pay even if the attendant is not at the booth. Be kind to the animals and do not feed them. There are restrooms available as well.
Photography recommendation: Family Photography, Engagement Sessions, Wedding Photography, Landscape, Maternity Portraits, or Portrait Photography & Pet photography.
Local Parks
There are many different local parks around Las Vegas. Each park has a different feature for you to enjoy. Sunset Park has a pond with geese while Exploration Peak Park has an old fashioned wagon. Take a look around the parks closest to you to see if there is anything that piques your interest.
Parking is usually free at the parks. Bathrooms are typically available as well.
Photography recommendation: Family Photography, Engagement Sessions, Wedding Photography, Maternity Portraits, or Portrait Photography & Pet photography.
Las Vegas Strip / Downtown Las Vegas
Las Vegas Strip
The reason that everyone visits Las Vegas or it is because of the family? Either way, the Las Vegas strip is iconic. The Las Vegas strip started in the 1940s on Route 91.
The strip originally ran by east coast families and embraced the wild wild west of gambling and prostitution. The rise of the mega-casinos started when Howard Huges refused to leave the Desert Inn casino. In 1989 Steve Wynn opened the first mega-casino, the Mirage. (Source)
You can take pictures on the sidewalks on the strip. Stay off the roads and on the walkways. There are a lot of people walking around, so keep your eyes open and watch your personal belongings. Park at one of the casino properties and walk through to the street.
Parking fees may apply depending on where you park. Casinos are private property, they can ask you to leave and to not shoot on the property. Also, beware that some areas outside belong to the casino.
Photography recommendation: Family Photography, Engagement Sessions, Wedding Photography, Maternity Portraits, or Portrait Photography & Street photography.
Bellagio Fountains
One of the most popular spots on the Las Vegas Strip is the fountains at Bellagio. The Bellagio opened in 1998. The fountains at Bellagio were the largest in the world.
They have since moved to the 3rd largest fountains in the world. The fountains go off every 15-30 minutes, spanning across more than 1000 feet and reaching heights of 460 feet. There is a multitude of songs that play, and each varies in length.
So if you are there for an engagement session or to propose, then make sure you use your time wisely. Take a look at the website for times, listing of songs, and to read more about the fabulous Bellagio Fountains.
The area is often crowded with people watching, so give yourself time to find the perfect spot. The fountains are best at night with a photographer who understands lighting. You can park on the property at a cost. Photographing inside the casino is NOT allowed.
Photography recommendation: Family Photography, Engagement Sessions, Wedding Photography, Maternity Portraits, or Portrait Photography & Street photography.
Welcome to Las Vegas sign
Installed in 1959 by Western Neon. The sign was designed by one of their employees, Betty Willis. The sign is 25 feet tall and has a design and lights on both sides.
The sign is on lease to the city of Las Vegas from YESCO. YESCO purchased West Neon in the 1960s. (Source Wikipedia)
There is a mini version of the sign on Boulder Highway and a secondary sign by downtown. Recently, the city of Las Vegas installed a parking lot and playing cards around the sign. The parking lot has helped significantly with the flow of traffic and the flow of pedestrians walking across the street. A line of people is standard at the sign, be patient, and wait your turn.
Just down Las Vegas Blvd from Mandalay Bay. Parking is free and there are no facilities I am unsure about permit requirements. Not ideal for a full session, as there are too many people, and there is always a line of people. If you want multiple groupings, poses, etc. you’ll need to get back in line.
Photography recommendation: Elopement Photography, or anything fast.
The Smith Center
Opening in 2012, as a world-class performing art center in Las Vegas. You can watch broadway shows, musicals, theater, jazz shows and more.
The center took 32 months to build at the cost of $150 million requiring over 2,500 construction works to create. Constructed from limestone with masculine lines and is 17 stories high. There are a few different buildings here that make for a beautiful background. (source)
Before you head down for a session, look to see if any shows are playing. If there is a show you cannot have your session. Parking is available in the lot, metered parking, or the garage by the Children’s Discovery Museum for free. I do not believe you need a permit at this time.
Photography recommendation: Family Photography, Engagement Sessions, Wedding Photography, Maternity Portraits, or Portrait Photography & Street photography.
Pip Dream Sculpture at The Smith Center
Located to the east of Symphony Park, a 2-acre park in front of the Smith Center. The sculpture was created by Tim Banington and has 19 different colors throughout the pipes. You can find more information on their website.
Before a session, look to see if any shows are playing. If there is a show you cannot shoot and will need to reschedule. Parking is available in the lot, metered parking, or the garage by the Children’s Discovery Museum for free. I do not believe you need a permit at this time.
Photography recommendation: Family Photography, Engagement Sessions, Wedding Photography, Maternity Portraits, or Portrait Photography & Street photography.
Historical 5th Street School
Initially, the Las Vegas grammar school, but renamed in 1959 to the Historic 5th Street School, is located on 5th street. This mission/Spanish style building was built in 1936. This building now hosts a few different non-profits and is available to rent for events or weddings. The courtyard is a beautiful space for a multitude of different sessions.
Check to ensure that they are no event happening, or have a backup spot just in case. Parking is available on the street for a few quarters (meter parking).
Photography recommendation: Family Photography, Engagement Sessions, Wedding Photography, Maternity Portraits, or Portrait Photography & Couple Photography.
Art District -18B
There is art all around the downtown area of Las Vegas. Life is Beautiful comes through every year, they add art to the city.
The main area is around 18B. However, there is artwork all over the city. Take a few minutes to go around and explore. There are lots of great exhibits around from artists, including paintings and sculptures.
Keep in mind that some artwork is on private property. Parking is available all around downtown; there is some free parking and a lot of metered parking. Unsure about permits for the area.
Photography recommendation: Family Photography, Engagement Sessions, Wedding Photography, Maternity Portraits, or Portrait Photography & Couple Photography.
Fremont Street Experience
Fremont Street dates back to 1905; it was the first paved road in Las Vegas. In 1931 the first stoplight in Las Vegas was placed on Fremont. In 1994, the street closed, and construction on the experience started.
Throughout the year they host free concerts on the stage. You can also see a collection of different artists and performers all along Fremont Experience.
Fremont Street has made an appearance in Viva Las Vegas and James Bond Diamonds Are Forever to name a few. To see more films and history, check out the website. If you go with children, watch what is at their eye level, you never know what they can see.
Parking is available in the surrounding casinos and on the street with meters. You do need a permit to shoot on Fremont Experience.
Photography recommendation: Family Photography, Engagement Sessions, Wedding Photography, Maternity Portraits, or Portrait Photography & Couple Photography.
Fremont East Entertainment District
Ever heard of Life is Beautiful is hosted every year here and helps contribute to the art collection. You can also find Container Park here along with lots of other hidden gems and new alleys to shoot down. You can find four different vintage signs in this area, which consists of 6 city blocks. (source)
The art that in courtyards is on private property ask permission.
Parking is available on the street by meters. Make sure you keep the meter active; they do ticket cars actively with expired time.
Photography recommendation: Family Photography, Engagement Sessions, Wedding Photography, Maternity Portraits, or Portrait Photography & Couple Photography.
Downtown Transportation Building
Located in downtown Las Vegas this spot offers a more traditional look than the typical glitz and glamor.
Photography recommendation: Family Photography, Engagement Sessions, Wedding Photography, Maternity Portraits, or Portrait Photography & Couple Photography.
Container Park
Located in downtown Las Vegas, Container park was an idea by Tony Hsieh and opened in January 2012. Situated on 707 Fremont street, you’ll find the collection of over 40 containers. Container Park cost $350 million and was funded primarily by Zappos CEO Tony Hsieh. (source) The Container Park was considered one of the many pushes to start the downtown revitalization.
As its name says, the majority of the structure are made from shipping containers painted to have bright sides. On some, there is a little artwork on the sides as well. There are multiple shops and restaurants inside. On the outside, before you enter is the dome (which shows movies), a giant praying mantis, and the heart lockbox.
On the weekends and some weeknights, they have live music that you can enjoy from one of the many patios outside. There is also a playground available for littles to enjoy while the adults finish their meals. I have “heard” that adults can fit down the slides, you’ll have to try it out.
After 9 pm, you need to be over 21. Before 9 pm, minors can visit while being accompanied by an adult.
Parking is available on the streets at meters or across 6th street in the lot, also monitored by meters. Make sure you feed the machine. Restrooms are available at Container Park. For professional photography, contact their media department.
Photography recommendation: Family Photography, Engagement Sessions, Wedding Photography, Maternity Portraits, or Portrait Photography & Couple Photography.
Neon Museum
The Neon Museum is where you can go to see old Las Vegas sings. Opening the doors in 1996 to a piece of Las Vegas history. You can find many different signs there between the two boneyards that date back to the 1930s. You can find out more information about some of their signs in this booklet (by the Neon Museum).
The museum books by the hour and provides guided tours. The parking situation is ever-changing there, but there is parking available. The visitors center has restrooms and refreshments along with some merchandise if you are so inclined.
To book a photo shoot at the Neon Museum, you’ll need to contact them here. You can book either the boneyard or the north gallery. Reservations must be made in advance, recommended two weeks, they book out quickly. The cost is dependent on the size of your group; pricing starts at a minimum of $250.
Photography recommendation: Family Photography, Engagement Sessions, Wedding Photography, Maternity Portraits, or Portrait Photography & Couple Photography.
The Mob Museum
The museum is about crime in America, focusing mostly on the mob era. There is a courtroom inside, along with a bar that represents the prohibition area. $42 million spent on building the museum. The museum is a nonprofit, so if you’d like to donate some funds, you can get a tax write off.
If you want you can host an event at the Mob Museum, or even plan a heist.
Parking is available in the lot behind the museum. Tickets to see the exhibit are between $18.95 and $29.95. If you are interested in shooting inside the building call and speaking with the museum. The outside is an excellent spot for a few candids or posed photos.
For more information, visit the website.
Photography recommendation: Family Photography, Engagement Sessions, Wedding Photography, Maternity Portraits, or Portrait Photography & Couple Photography.
Cleveland Clinic Lou Ruvo Center for Brain Health
This marvelous building is something that you’ll need to see. The center opened in 2009 and treats patients with many different neurological disorders. Architect Frank Gehry designed the Cleveland. The Cleveland Clinic centers all include art.
There is a parking lot available. Cleveland Clinic is a business and private property. If you’d like to shoot with models or people, call the center to see their current rules for photography. (website)
Photography recommendation: Landscape, Events
Las Vegas World Market Center
Located at 495 Grand Central Parkway near the downtown area, this is a five million-square-foot showcase for furnishing. The center comprised of multiple buildings and an expo center. The first building was completed in May of 2005 with the start of the second building in 2005 due to demand. (source)
The outside has beautiful lines that make for an excellent background for photos. They do offer a spot to park. Facilities are only open with the center open. However, this is a great venue to rent for an event.
Photography recommendation: Landscape, Events
Las Vegas Ice Center
The Las Vegas Ice Center is one of the few ice skating rinks in Las Vegas. Located at 9295 W. Flamingo Road. The center offers lessons and has hockey games as well.
Parking is available in their lot. They do have a concession stand there as well. Availability is limited regarding time, so you’ll need to be flexible. The cost is $350/hr.
Photography recommendation: 1st people who can skate, Family Photography, Engagement Sessions, Wedding Photography, Portrait Photography & Couple Photography.
Other locations in Las Vegas
Pinball Hall of Fame
Do you know that there is a location with over 40 pinball machines? At 1610 E. Tropicana, you can find the Pinball Hall of Fame.
They have many games dating back to the 1940s. Most games cost one or two quarters. The Pinball Hall of Fame is a fun and unique location for your next photoshoot. (source)
Parking is available in the parking lot in front; they do have sodas available from a vending machine. You’ll need a permit to shoot into the Pinball Hall of Fame. Permits are about $125 for an hour, call to set up a time. They do have a change machine and an ATM, so do not worry about having enough quarters.
Photography recommendation: Family Photography, Engagement Sessions, Wedding Photography, Maternity Portraits, or Portrait Photography & Couple Photography.
McKee Ranch
Located on two acres of land off of Dean Martin Drive. The farm is here to educate people about how life used to be in Las Vegas. The original 3200 sqft house is still on the property. The McKee couple has rescued animals in need.
McKee ranch is open, during daylight hours to the public free of charge. You can bring crackers and carrots to feed the animals on site. (source) To have your family session or another session you pay a $50 donation and sign a liability form. Contact the Ranch for more information.
Photography recommendation: Family Photography, Engagement Sessions, Wedding Photography, Maternity Portraits, or Portrait Photography & Couple Photography.
Legends Ranch
Legends Ranch is a hidden gem in Las Vegas. Over six spots to shoot on-site, none of them scream Las Vegas either. So if you are looking for something rustic, with a barn, then this is the perfect spot for you. You can see the locations here.
Parking is located on-premise, along with an indoor changing area. To have a session on the property, you will pay $150/hr with a 2-hour minimum for up to 12 people. You’ll need to make reservations before you head over there. The owners are quick at responding to email.
Photography recommendation: Family Photography, Engagement Sessions, Wedding Photography, Maternity Portraits, or Portrait Photography & Couple Photography.
Cactus Joe’s Nursery
Cactus Joe’s is a cactus nursery and desert garden located outside of Blue Diamond. To the west of Las Vegas off of 160.
The cactus garden has been running and growing for more than 30 years. Business keeps growing with more than 10,000 cactus finding new homes in 2018. This is the place to go when you need a cactus plant. (source)
Parking is located on-premise with a gift shop. If you’d like to have your photography session there, they charge $150/hr and require a reservation beforehand.
Photography recommendation: Family Photography, Engagement Sessions, Wedding Photography, Maternity Portraits, or Portrait Photography & Couple Photography.
Rhyolite Ghost Town
Located by Death Valley, about 25 miles from Beatty, Nevada. This ghost town used to be a booming town during the early 1900s. There used to be a stock exchange, a school, and even a hospital. If you were there from the beginning, you would have seen the power turned on and off in your city.
There are a few structures that are still there for you to visit. The bottle house was rebuilt by Paramount pictures in 1925. If partial buildings are what you are looking for, this is the spot for you. (source)
Photography recommendation: Family Photography, Engagement Sessions, Wedding Photography, Maternity Portraits, or Portrait Photography & Couple Photography.
Boulder City
Boulder City was built by the Bureau of Reclamation to help support the construction of the Hoover Dam.
In 1958 the ownership of the town was transferred over to the state. Members of the city have voted to keep and implement growth restrictions. In 1983 Boulder City entered the National Register of Historic Places. (source)
Multiple homes and buildings are still from the 1950s, if not before. The city has adorable walkways, old storefronts, delicious dining, and antique shopping for all. Plan some extra time during your visit to check out the town after your photoshoot.
Photography recommendation: Family Photography, Engagement Sessions, Wedding Photography, Maternity Portraits, or Portrait Photography & Couple Photography.
Pop Up Museum
Pop Up Museums are the new trend currently. Change things up and have your next picture moment at a location that is only here for a little while?
Most pop-ups are typically located in a casino. Parking is available, possibly at a cost. However, restrooms and food are there for sure. You’ll need to reserve your spot online for everyone in the family plus your photographer.
Photography recommendation: Family Photography, Engagement Sessions, Wedding Photography, Maternity Portraits, or Portrait Photography & Couple Photography.
Sand Dunes
“A dune is a mound of sand formed by the wind, usually along the beach or in a desert,” according to National Geographic. Multiple different locations around the Las Vegas valley have dune formations. 4x4 vehicles are required to access the dunes. You can find dunes in Death Valley, Mesquite, and Pahrump.
Photography recommendation: Family Photography, Engagement Sessions, Wedding Photography, Maternity Portraits, or Portrait Photography & Couple Photography.
Goldwell Open Air Museum
The open-air museum opened in 1984 out in Beatty, Nevada. The first installation was by a Belgium artist, Albert Szukalski, as time passed, three other Belgium artists contributed another six statues. In 1996, the first website was created, gaining the museum more visitors than ever before. (source)
You’ll need to get permission to shoot at this location, and there are some other requirements. There is also a fee pre-image that you publish. Check out their PDF for more information. Unsure about facilities and parking.
Photography recommendation: Family Photography, Engagement Sessions, Wedding Photography, Maternity Portraits, or Portrait Photography & Couple Photography.
Local Business
What better way to support local businesses than to have a photo session there. Look for a company owned locally, and speak with the owner or manager before you arrive for your session.
We have gone through a couple of different trends with the Michaels challenge, Home Depot, and more.
Photography recommendation: Family Photography, Engagement Sessions, Wedding Photography, Maternity Portraits, or Portrait Photography & Couple Photography.
Secret Locations
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Laura Barnett Photography - Las Vegas Based Photographer - Henderson Photographer - Copyright 2019