A Photo Tour

[dmancini]

A friend of mine is an architectural photographer from out of town and is coming in for a visit. One of the things she said she would like to do is to take a little photo tour of some of the more interesting buildings in the Phoenix area. So my question is this. What are some of the better buildings to photograph. I know a few places that I love but am not sure how well they would photograph. I also don't know which buildings would give her a bit of leeway as far as walking around and getting shots. I figured if there was anywhere I could get the answers it would be here. She obviously prefers modern architecture but if you know of a building that absolutely must be shot that is another style feel free to throw that in as well. So what are you suggestions Modern Phoenix?

[Na]

I think the "gynological medical offices" on the north side of the street between Central Ave. and 3rd Street on Thomas Road are so, interesting but, I know nothing about this project. It's new in last couple of years, very hip and very attractive. Owners might not be thrilled by a photographer creeping around but, I doubt anyone would notice on the week-end.

* always thought 2525 East Arizona Biltmore Circle by Sawyer was a very photogenic office property
* almost all the libraries around town in Phoenix and Scottsdale are newish, interesting and I bet she would get some amazing shots!
* for endless composition possibilities visit DC Ranch Market Place

[meagen]

The ASU Art Museum is great fun to shoot! (in Tempe, Mill Ave)

[PixelPixie]

Many of the places mentioned are findable on our http://www.modernphoenix.net/map.htm

I second DC Ranch marketplace. Careful about looking too professional, I got kicked off the Phoenix Art Museum grounds for using a tripod on a weekend.

Phoenix Financial Center
Desert Botanical Gardens (landscape architecture by Christy Ten Eyck)
ASU campus in general

[Na]

yeah probably if you look "touristy" they will be nice to you even if they ask you to NOT shoot photos! How to look touristy? Hmmm interesting question! Maybe wear a Wisconsin or Minnesota sports team hat or shirt...? Where are tourist visting here from these days anyway?

[dmancini]

Touristy it is. I will be breaking out the sandals with black socks, fanny packs, zinc, and German accent for sure now.

These are some great suggestions. I'm not sure that shooting a gynecological office is in the cards as I'm not sure that a couple of people creeping around with cameras would make them feel very comfortable. As much as I try to stay away from DC Ranch in general I think it will be a definite hit, as will the ASU art museum and possibly the Gammage Auditorium. Some one once told me that Gammage was a design created for the Iraqi government by Frank Lloyd Wright but was never used there. Is there any validity to that statement or was I just being gullible?

[Na]

You are too funny! That get-up sounds perfect. Don't worry about that gynocology office....you don't even know that is what it is until you read the sign and the building is very private....you'll see. As for Gammage I heard the same thing and I think I was actually watching a program on PBS on history of Phoenix but, maybe someone will confirm that story about Gammage. Good luck and don't forget an unbrella to screen the sun on your outings. Sounds like a fun time.

[dmancini]

I've seen the gyno office fairly regularly as I live around the corner. I've always been surprised that it was a gynocolgy office. I don't know why but when I see the building I think Architects office or something more creative.

I love the library idea as well. I'm thinking that while up at DC Ranch we may hit the Arabian Library (possibly the name?) up far north there. I remember really liking the entry with it's really tall, fairly narrow, winding entry.

Thanks again. If more ideas pop into mind please feel free to let me know.

[PixelPixie]

The story about Gammage is true.

[dmancini]

The story about Gammage is true.

Any idea where to find the story behind that? For some reason that is incredibly interesting to me and would love to find out more.

[Na]

An old and good friend in Scottsdale has been urging me to see the Scottsdale library at Pinnacle Peak Road and Scottsdale Road location. Not sure which branch that is but, she (interior designer like me) absolutely loves it and goes there often. She has mentioned the setting for the building quite a bit so, landscaping must be really nice and set off property well. Maybe its the Appaloosa Branch? I think if you go to website for Scottsdale Library system and Phoenix Library system too, there are photos for the different branches.

[PixelPixie]

There is a brief synopsis in the AIA Guide to Architecture, I believe. Also, ASU's website has a blurb on it I think.

[modernbuilding]

The "Desert Broom" library branch is wonderful. I have to second the Phoenix Financial Center. It would be cool if your friend would post some of his/her pics back to this post when complete.

Enjoy~

[Velocity Group]

If you're on Central Ave. visiting the Phoenix Financial Center, you might as well make a quick jaunt south to photograph the Burton Barr Library.

[dmancini]

We'll see if we still go. She's gonna be here this weekend and I'm not looking forward to shooting in 115 degree weather but like I said, we'll see. If we wind up going I will definitely talk her into posting.