Albany was founded a century and a half ago, and today still has that visual draw. From its old and beautifully crafted homes, to historic downtown and the mighty Willamette river, Albany could keep any photographer busy for another 150 years.
Albany is a classic American small town, with two high schools and steel mills flanked by fertile farmlands. In between all of this, two rivers travel within Albany's boundaries, along with wildlife and people. Photographs are easy to come by. Nature shooters, street photogs, and hobby photographers will find ample opportunity for timeless photos in Albany.
These tips will help show you how:
TIP 1: DOWNTOWN.
Albany is home to historic storefronts and these can provide awesome architecture photos as well as street photography shots. Asking permission is encouraged.
TIP 2: TALKING WATER GARDENS
Located in East Albany, off of Front Street, Talking Water Gardens in a park that offers spectacular nature viewing. Varieties of birds are uncountable, and turtles, foxes, and other wildlife abound. This park is simply a must-go for any photographer. Bring a larger telephoto.
TIP 3: ALBANY PARKS
Albany is home to multiple parks with photo opportunities. Grand Prairie, Monteith, Bryant, Bowman, and Hazelwood, all offer varying photos. Be prepared to shoot landscapes, wildlife, and people. Bring multiple lenses.
TIP 4: DAVE CLARK RIVERFRONT BIKEPATH
Running from Monteith to Bowman, this walking/biking path offers nature and candids. Macro photography is also a good bet here, as flowers and gardens are frequent along the concrete path.
TIP 5: ALBANY SKATEPARK
This park could use some manners, but it also provides faces and action. Simply introduce yourself and be honest about what you are doing. Most skaters oblige. Located at Eleanor Park.
TIP 6: GOVERNMENT FUNCTIONS
Yes, this is a bit out of the ordinary. But candid photos are available, and for a amateur shooter, these events are good practice. Check the City of Albany website for council meetings and other official business.
TIP 7: STREET SHOOTING
Any town can offer street photos, and Albany is no different. Be polite, offer emailed photos, and sometimes ask permission. Downtown, Heritage Mall, and the Monteith Historical District, all offer street candids. Walk a beat.
TIP 8: HIGH SCHOOL ATHLETICS
Albany is home to West and South high schools. Attending sporting events is fairly cheap, but usually junior varsity sports are free admission.
TIP 9: CALAPOOIA RIVER
Wildlife and nature photos here are neverending, as the river is home to multiple wildlife species. The river meets the Willamette at Albany, and is constantly changing, because of rain and erosion. Ask permission for private access.
TIP 10: THE BEST CAMERA IS THE ONE YOU HAVE
Photography is everywhere, so be prepared. Even if it is with your phone, know the camera settings and fire away. But if you do own a decent point 'n' shoot, or even a DSLR, pack it with you. It might surprise you.
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