Des Moines is a very photogenic city. (We may be biased, but it’s true;) Whether you’re hiring a professional, taking photos of the kids, while you’re out and about, or just looking to entertain an Instagram-loving tween or teen, take advantage of our city’s beauty by using some of its iconic landmarks as backdrops for your family photos.
What could be better than capturing the smiles you love at the city scenes you love? Say cheese!
John and Mary Pappajohn Sculpture Park
There’s one photo opportunity after another in the Pappajohn Sculpture Park. Be sure to take advantage of all of them! And no, we don’t think it’s cheesy to do photos in front of Nomade, even if you live here. Can you really say you’re from Des Moines, if you don’t have at least one photo in front of it? The Central Library and Runnel Water Feature in Western Gateway Park also make for a good photo background, while you’re in the area.
Iowa State Capitol
If you’re trying to capture a shot that screams, I’m from Des Moines, IA, a family photo with the gold dome topped Iowa State Capitol Building in the background will do the trick. (Unfortunately, with the dome renovations, you may need to get creative with your photo.) You can also get some great skyline shots while you’re here, or use some of the monuments, grass and trees on the grounds for a lovely background. It’s also gorgeous here in the fall when the leaves change color.
Brenton Plaza
We love the great views of the downtown skyline at Brenton Plaza. Especially, if you’re wanting to get the iconic neon Travelers Umbrella in your shot. And a family trip to the ice rink (which will be open again, before you know it) is a great way to end a photo session. (The promise of an afternoon of ice skating may generate some smiles, too!)
Cowles Commons
Nothing proclaims your fondness of our city like a photo in front of Cowles Commons’ signature sculpture, the 56’ long Crusoe Umbrella. Take a quick walk around the umbrella to find the best shot and have the kids move closer to you, so you can get a good shot of them and the Umbrella. The Lauridsen Fountain and Swirl, the lighted art sculpture, which are also located in Cowles Commons make fun evening backdrops.
World Food Prize
It feels like the World Food Prize doesn’t get much photo cred, but a photo in front of the iconic building is never a bad choice, and the gardens around the building are lovely. The kids will love to stand on the stone map of the world or take a seat by the trickling fountain. If weather is an issue, you can duck inside to get some photos with the magnificent interior architecture.
What Des Moines landmarks are your favorite family photo backgrounds?
