Hi one and all.

I am new to the area and I am looking for interesting, urban, industrial, natural locations to shoot...... basically areas that are fun and interesting to shoot.

Please reply with locations that you would suggest for portraits, kids, families etc.

Also, does anyone know of a great second hand furniture store to pick up some wicked props.

Thanks in advance for reading and posting.

Cheers

Kellie

Hi kellie

Where are you in Lakewood? I live between palo Verde & Woodfuff off Centralia on Canehill. There are many 2nd hand clothing stores close Good Will, Salvation Army as well as many thrift stores, chek the on line yellow pages. As fore family places, hartwell park on Lakewood, Eldorado Park in Long Beach and Shoreline vilagfe are just a few. You are very close to many family oriented parks. i suggest hat you check out he parks and recreation departments for long Beach and Lakewood on line for starters.

Look forward to seeing you at he next meting.

Art

Are you looking for antiques or furniture in general? I would suggest Cort furniture outlet center, they have lots of different furniture and accessories that are inexpensive (office furniture too) Not sure what props you are looking for, but if you were more specific I or one of the other members might be able to help. As for suggestions for places to photograph, Try a dog park, those are usually fun and family friendly.
Jennifer

With regards to locations I was looking for something a bit more interesting than the local parks and as far props go I was thinking used wooden and leather chairs, ottomans, interesting cushions, throws etc.

thanks so much for replying.

Long Beach has quite a few second hand, and consignment shops near the college. Google the old Helms building, they turned it into an interesting antique store. Have you explored Union Station near Downtown Los Angeles? or taken the metro to Universal Studios City walk?, gone to Redondo Beach Pier or any of the beaches?
Jennifer

There is a unique second hand store, Warehouse 1333, on Redondo Ave. south of PCH ( http://mysite.verizon... ) that might have some props for you. There is another antique mall in Signal Hill, Grandma Darlings ( http://www.merchantci... ) that might help.
As for locations, Earl Burns Miller Japanese Garden on CSULB campus has a lot of potential, and its free other than the metered parking (limited, get there early or late, no tripods). The shops at Knott's Berry Farm have free access and could offer some location possibility. Pt Fermin Lighthouse is always a great spot, especially at sunset. Seal Beach Pier is close and has tons of character, above and below, and a great beach as well, many photographers go there.
Lakewood is pretty young compared to Long Beach, so it is a little harder to find the patina of age. Look around Cerritos, Cypress and Artesia for some of the old dairy and farming structures. Pioneer Blvd. in Artesia has a great ambiance of India (colors, textures and odors of great food).
When I think of more I will get back to you.
Have Fun,
Dave