Wanted to put an article together specifically for readers who are cosplay or are photographers where they highlight a few of their favorite places around Arizona to shoot. I kept the list of contributors small but if there is enough interest for a part 2, I can consider reaching out to more. A big thank you to everyone who did contribute and make sure you give them a follow on Instagram!
FF’s select is actually one of my favorite places and kind of feel like it’s a hidden gem: Veterans Oasis Park in Chandler.
“With 113 acres, a beautiful community fishing lake, scenic hiking and horseback riding trails, tranquil pavilions, and an outdoor amphitheater, Veterans Oasis Park hosts plentiful outdoor recreational opportunities.“
You can find a little bit more information on Veterans Oasis Park right here.
Photograph by Sean Blake
“NagelHaus is a bookable peerspace with great cyberpunk and vapor wave aesthetics. The host is super accommodating and has a huge supply of props, vintage collectibles, and more that he doesn’t mind people shooting with! I would advise that this is better for morning shoots or shoots where you bring your own lights!” – errorpaige
NagelHaus is located in Tempe and you can check out their Instagram for more examples.
Paige’s second selection is Heritage Square and Science Park in Downtown Phoenix.
“This location is large and features a ton of different architecture, my favorite being the large concrete steps right near the science center. A plethora of natural lighting from sun up to sun down, all the shots I’ve seen from this park are stellar!” – errorpaige
Photograph by Astraea Arts
Daniel aka Astraea Arts, comes in with a unique spot for his first selection: Ace Parking Garage in Downtown Phoenix
This specific Ace location is right next to the Hyatt Regency Phoenix (201 N 1st St, Phoenix, AZ)
“Ace parking garage next to the Hyatt in Downtown Phoenix is amazing at golden hour for that superhero/cityscape vibe you’re going for for sure!” – Astraea Arts
Next up for Astraea Arts is Downtown Glendale and according to Daniel “Downtown Glendale has a ton of photo opportunities with the vintage homes and tons of whimsical places that it has to offer“
First up is the ASU campus – Pyschology Building and Farmer Education Building (and maybe you can find these if you are attending Ani-Con) “they have a nice mix of modern and semi-classical/brick architecture that could make for some cool photos” – cheercos
The second selection from cheercos are the banks of the Salt River (off of Bush Highway).
Photograph by Jaymee Jaye
“In a desert metropolis, if you want a water feature in your photos that’s not a pool, the Salt River is your best pick! The riparian area means there is lush vegetation along the banks and just look at those mountain views reflected off the still water! It’s also fairly easy to get to and multiple different locations and angles in the area if you don’t want to be too crowded by strangers” – cheercos
I’m neither a cosplayer or photographer but I always tell people to check out the Boyce Thompson Arboretum in Superior.
Legion of Sand 