I receive frequent requests from people asking the question, what are the best places in the twin cities to photograph?

Como Conservatory Photography

One place that I frequently recommend is the Marjorie McNeely Conservatory at Como Zoo. Why you ask? Well the “Como Conservatory” is such an amazing place to photograph for so many reasons.

Como Conservatory Photography

The History

This place has been around forever.

Como Conservatory Photography

I think wiki summarizes it best.
The Marjorie McNeely Conservatory (0.5 acres) was first opened to the public in November of 1915. This facility is open to the public every day of the year. It includes the following gardens and galleries:

  • The Ordway Garden
  • Enchanted and Excedra Garden
  • Fern Room
  • Japanese Garden
  • North Garden
  • Orchid House
  • Palm Dome
  • Sunken Garden
  • Tropical Encounters

Como Conservatory Photography Orchid Garden

The Architecture

Como Conservatory Prints
The dome structure is both functional and beautiful. Being the Conservatory is basically a green house you would want it to be clear to allow light in for all the plants and flora that the structure houses. The giant window structure creates all kinds of interesting artistic effects with its beautiful light. It is a photographers and artists dream.

The Reflective Pools

Not only do you have amazing light with all the great glass around the structure but you also have amazing reflective pools both inside and out. Reflection of light in an image is also a photographer’s best friend. It helps to accentuate the main features of your subject and it builds even more interest.
The main pool inside is in the sunken garden. The place really is amazing and if you have not seen it, you need to go.

Como Conservatory Photography Reflective Pools
There are all kinds of pools outside the structure and you could play there all day long getting that perfect shot. But the one I like the best is across the street in the more park like area. This pool produces results like this.

It’s Photographer Friendly

The place is photographer friendly as long as you check in and abide by the rules. I know I struggle with that sometimes also.
You can find the rules here.
http://www.comozooconservatory.org/privacy/mmc-photography-policy/

It’s Easily Accessible

The Como Conservatory is easy to get to from anywhere around the Twin cities and there is plenty of parking there except for the most busy occasion like the Japanese Lantern Festival.

It’s free!

The conservatory is free with a recommended donation for both children and adults. Yes I also give because this is a great asset that I want to keep up but if you are in a situation where you cannot play you can still get out and enjoy this amazing place. So there can be no excuses, get out and capture some great images.

Until next time get out and capture your adventure!

These and many more images are available here.

Como Conservatory Photography
Como Conservatory Prints

Written by Wayne Moran - Visit Website
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