1. The Corrales Location
Located just 10-15 minutes into Rio Rancho, NM, the Corrales spot offers diverse elements for photographers. Meet at the gas station on the Northeast corner of Highway 528 and Corrales Road, then follow a short dirt road to the location.
Corrales features beautiful bosque trees, dirt trails, and a backdrop of the Sandia mountains. The Rio Grande River adds another layer of scenic beauty. Whether capturing sprawling landscapes or intimate nature shots, this spot serves well. The trails and river shorelines offer varied perspectives and textures that bring photo sessions to life.
From lush green surroundings to striking water views, Corrales is a location that continues to surprise with every visit.

2. The Alameda Open Space
Bachechi Open Space, often called the Alameda Open Space, is a photographer's haven at the intersection of Alameda and Rio Grande Blvd. This location captures the essence of Albuquerque's diverse landscape.
Tall trees create a vibrant canopy, casting playful shadows and light patterns. Nature trails meander through lush greenery. Fall is particularly magical, as the leaves transform into a symphony of colors, making every photograph a celebration of autumn's glory.
A charming duck pond serves as the centerpiece, reflecting the sky and surrounding foliage. It's ideal for capturing serene landscapes or playful waterfowl. A small bridge adds an architectural element, perfect for framing shots or creating a focal point.
With a large grassy area for picnics or family portraits, and convenient amenities like restrooms for outfit changes, Bachechi Open Space combines convenience with natural allure. Whether you're an amateur photographer or a professional, this location promises an abundance of creative inspiration.

3. Elena Gallegos Open Space
Elena Gallegos Open Space, located in the Sandia Foothills, offers a slice of classic desert landscape. This area provides breathtaking scenery that is quintessentially New Mexican.
The trails wind through desert grasses, cacti, and native flora, creating textural contrasts that look phenomenal on camera. Elevated points offer sweeping views of the city below, framed by endless sky. During the golden hours of sunrise and sunset, the light paints the land in warm hues, offering photographers the perfect natural canvas.
No matter the season, Elena Gallegos remains a vibrant spot for capturing the essence of Albuquerque's unique terrain. Hike a bit higher for panoramic shots or find a secluded spot for intimate landscape photography—the opportunities are as vast as the skies above.

4. Sandia Peak Aerial Tramway
The Sandia Peak Aerial Tramway offers a unique photographic experience that elevates your work to new heights. This journey, ascending from near Albuquerque to 10,300 feet, provides awe-inspiring panoramic views that unfold beneath you.
Once at Sandia Peak, you'll encounter 360-degree views that are truly spectacular. Whether capturing the sweeping vistas of the city below, nearby ridges, or the expansive sky, you have an unparalleled canvas for your photography. The clear, crisp air at high elevation ensures incredible visibility, allowing you to capture fine details of the landscape.
As day transitions to evening, the location transforms into a dreamlike setting for sunset photography. Watch as the sun dips below the horizon, casting a spectrum of colors across the sky and painting the city in soft, golden hues.
Winter months add another layer of excitement, with snow-capped Sandias enhancing contrast and texture in your shots. The tramway and peak are perfect for long-exposure shots, especially during the blue hour.
For those interested in combining views with amenities, Ten3, a restaurant at the top, offers excellent opportunities to capture elegant design against nature's backdrop.
Whether you're a landscape photographer or seeking a unique skyline shot, the Sandia Peak Aerial Tramway delivers an unparalleled experience for capturing Albuquerque's beauty from above.

5. Albuquerque Old Town
Albuquerque's historic Old Town captures the essence of the city's rich cultural heritage and serves as an irresistible playground for photographers.
Old Town's Pueblo-Spanish style architecture, with adobe buildings, soft rounded contours, and distinct details like carved wooden doors, colorful tile work, and wrought iron accents, provides endless opportunities for visually rich shots.
The area's beauty changes with the seasons:
- Spring and Summer: Lush courtyards and shaded plazas bloom
- Fall: Golden hues enhance the quaint ambiance
- Winter: Luminarias cast a warm glow over the area during the holiday season
Bustling marketplaces and eclectic shops add to Old Town's allure. Streets lined with vendors selling handcrafted jewelry, pottery, and textiles offer opportunities for candid shots of artisans at work or close-ups of intricate crafts.
Historic churches, such as San Felipe de Neri Church, offer another layer of depth. Their bell towers and adobe walls create stunning juxtapositions against the lively surroundings, whether captured in soft morning light or silhouetted against a fiery sunset.
Old Town's friendly atmosphere makes every photography session feel like a cultural exchange. Engage with locals, learn about the history, and let that sense of community and tradition seep into your images.
Here, every corner reveals a new scene, a fresh story waiting to be told through your lens.

6. Catwalk National Recreation Trail
The Catwalk National Recreation Trail in Gila National Forest offers a unique blend of natural beauty and man-made structures. This 1.1-mile stroller-friendly trail features:
- Towering rock formations and deep canyons
- A bubbling creek running alongside the trail
- Scenic bridges that complement the natural surroundings
- Diverse native plants, wildflowers, and fauna
- Opportunities for golden hour and twilight photography
The trail provides a variety of photographic subjects, from wide-angle landscape shots to close-ups of flora and fauna. The interplay of light and shadow throughout the day transforms the landscape, creating dynamic scenes for photographers to capture.
Whether you're interested in capturing the grandeur of the Gila Wilderness or focusing on the intricate details of nature, the Catwalk National Recreation Trail offers a versatile and inspiring location for photographers of all levels.

7. Los Poblanos Historic Inn & Organic Farm
Los Poblanos Historic Inn & Organic Farm in Albuquerque's North Valley combines rich architectural heritage with contemporary organic farming. Key features include:
- Lush lavender fields
- Towering cottonwood trees
- 1930s Southwest-style architecture
- Working organic farm with diverse produce
- Exquisite gardens and reflecting ponds
- Farm animals including sheep and peacocks
The property offers diverse photographic opportunities:
- Dreamy floral landscapes in the lavender fields
- Rustic farm elements contrasting with historic buildings
- Intimate garden settings for portrait photography
- Farm-to-table cuisine at Campo restaurant
Los Poblanos provides a unique blend of natural beauty and historical intrigue, making it an ideal location for photographers seeking to capture the essence of Albuquerque's North Valley.

8. Level 5 at Hotel Chaco
Level 5, the rooftop bar at Hotel Chaco, offers a stunning blend of urban sophistication and natural beauty. Key features include:
- Panoramic views of the Sandia Mountains and Albuquerque cityscape
- Modern, minimalist decor with stylish fire pits and glass panels
- Expertly crafted cocktails and artfully plated dishes
- Ambient lighting for night-time photography
Photographic opportunities:
- Dramatic landscape shots of mountains and city
- Golden hour portraits with stunning backdrops
- Close-ups of colorful cocktails and cuisine
- Night-time long exposures capturing city lights
Level 5 provides a unique setting that showcases Albuquerque's blend of natural beauty and urban charm, making it an excellent location for photographers looking to capture the city's essence.

9. Marble Brewing
Marble Brewing, located in downtown Albuquerque, offers a vibrant atmosphere that captures the city's local charm. Key features include:
- Outdoor stage for live performances
- Colorful murals
- Craft beers with aesthetic appeal
- String lights creating a warm ambiance in the evening
Photographic opportunities:
- Candid shots of friends enjoying craft beers
- Close-ups of photogenic beer pours
- Musicians performing on the outdoor stage
- Evening shots capturing the warm glow of string lights
- Long-exposure photography to showcase the lively atmosphere
Marble Brewing provides a perfect backdrop for photographers looking to capture Albuquerque's community spirit and craft beer culture. The lively atmosphere and visual elements make it an ideal spot for both daytime and evening photography sessions.
"Marble Brewing is not just a brewery, it's a cultural hub that embodies the spirit of Albuquerque."1

10. The New Mexico State Fair
The New Mexico State Fair, held every September at Expo New Mexico, offers photographers a vibrant showcase of Southwestern culture. From carnival rides to local cuisine, unique exhibits, and more, the fair provides diverse opportunities for capturing memorable images.
The carnival rides create a visual spectacle, especially at night. The Ferris wheel, illuminated against the sky, is perfect for long-exposure shots that transform motion into mesmerizing light trails. Each ride, from the classic carousel to thrilling roller coasters, presents unique angles and compositions. Game booths with colorful prizes offer whimsical subjects for close-ups and candid shots.
Food photography enthusiasts will enjoy documenting New Mexican cuisine. Capture sizzling churros, colorful cotton candy, or chile-smothered burritos. Including fairgoers enjoying these treats adds a relatable touch to your images.
Agricultural and animal exhibits provide another layer of photographic possibilities. From prize-winning livestock to children interacting with farm animals, these scenes offer heartwarming subjects. The arts and crafts exhibits showcase Southwestern artistry, from handmade jewelry to traditional pottery and textiles, perfect for detailed macro shots.
As evening approaches, the fair transforms. The setting sun casts a warm glow, creating a magical atmosphere. New Mexico's dramatic sunsets paint the sky in vibrant hues, offering spectacular backdrops for your photos.
Don't forget to capture the fairgoers themselves. Their genuine reactions and interactions embody the event's festive spirit. From families sharing laughs to friends enjoying games, these candid moments convey the sense of community and celebration.
At night, the fair's lights create a captivating nocturnal landscape. Experiment with light and shadow to capture the festive atmosphere in all its glory.
The New Mexico State Fair is more than an event; it's a celebration of culture and community that offers something for every photographer. It's an opportunity to immerse yourself in the quintessential Albuquerque experience and come away with a diverse collection of memorable images.
11. Botanic Gardens
The Botanic Gardens in Albuquerque offer a rich tapestry of photographic subjects, from vibrant flowers to tranquil water features and charming architectural elements.
As you explore, you'll encounter a diverse array of flora. Each flower bed presents carefully arranged compositions, changing with the seasons to provide fresh subjects year-round. Water features add another dimension, with tranquil ponds mirroring the sky and playful fountains creating dynamic elements.
Architectural features like pergolas, stone pathways, and wooden bridges provide structure and context to your botanical portraits. They also serve as scenic backdrops for other subjects, blending natural and man-made beauty.
Themed Sections:
- Bonsai Pavilion: Miniature landscapes
- Mediterranean Conservatory: Mediterranean flora
- Desert Conservatory: Arid climate plants
- Japanese Garden: Serene landscapes with stone lanterns and graceful maples
For macro photographers, the gardens are a treasure trove of intricate details. Petal textures, leaf patterns, and delicate insect wings reward patient observation with captivating close-up subjects.
The Botanic Gardens provide an immersive experience that enhances your photographic journey. Whether you're capturing broad vistas of colorful flowerbeds or exploring tiny worlds within a single bloom, you'll find endless inspiration in this ever-changing natural canvas.

12. Hartnett Park
Hartnett Park, located in Los Ranchos off Rio Grande and Chavez Rd, is a versatile location for photographers. Its year-round greenery makes it a reliable spot for shoots, even during Albuquerque's dry periods.
The park features expansive green fields dotted with mature evergreens, providing vibrant backdrops for various types of photography. Walking paths lined with rustic fences offer multiple vantage points and add character to compositions.
A standout feature is the park's quaint stucco barns. These structures exude rustic charm, their warm hues contrasting beautifully with the surrounding greenery. They're suitable for both wide-angle shots and close-ups highlighting their unique details.
Photographic Opportunities:
- Open fields: Ideal for action shots
- Shaded areas: Provide soft, diffused light for portraits
- Mix of elements: Allows for diverse compositions from rustic to serene
The park's peaceful atmosphere enhances the photographic experience. Whether you're a professional conducting a scheduled shoot or an amateur practicing your craft, Hartnett Park offers an engaging setting that inspires creativity.

Each of these Albuquerque locations offers its own special charm, providing a rich variety of opportunities for photographers. From lush green parks to historic districts and breathtaking natural landscapes, there's always something new to capture. Happy shooting!








