Orsolya D.
Yelp
I'm not a politician, I don't help run the city government of Pasadena and neither have I partaken in a rally/protest in the area. Does Pasadena even protest anything? It's so 'perfect' but I digress... I am, however, a working model and have been for quite some time. I've driven past the Pasadena City Hall on Garfield countless times and was blown away by the architectural prowess of the structure. It is inarguably one of the most gorgeous buildings in the Los Angeles Metropolitan area. When I discovered that Pasadena City Hall would be the location of one of my modeling shoots; I was elated. Allow me to give you the insider's scoop on using this gorgeous spot for your own photo background.
Like me, you've probably driven by the Pasadena City Hall on numerous occasions and had your eye grow wide at its beauty. Whether in the day sun or lit up by landscape lights in the evening; it is nothing short of glorious with a Grecian meets Colonial air. It is a monument, to be sure. Completed in 1927; Pasadena City Hall has been the home to numerous photo shoots, weddings, and city happenings and even if you aren't partaking in one of those activities: you must see it on foot. Parking is metered on the street so be prepared to pay and possibly walk but it is certainly worth it.
The first noticeable trait of Pasadena City Hall is the HUGE, circular cement courtyard in the front. This serve a purpose as an event space for press conferences, parades, rallies and city events but it is certainly tempting to zoom around it in a go-kart. Take the front steps up to the building and feast your eyes on gorgeous architectural details: atriums, high ornate ceilings, staircases, columns, a beautiful water fountain, landscaping galore with lovely flora and fauna, hallways and the list goes on until the next set of steps leading to the bordering street which also has its own supplemental beauty of a modern fountain, old gothic style church and walkways. There are so many nooks and crannies to take photos; it is almost overwhelming.
In fact, EVERYONE and their mother takes advantage of Pasadena City Hall and takes photos there from engagement, bridal, baby, quinceanera, graduation, holiday cards to formal modeling and tv/film shoots. If you haven't taken photos here... what are you waiting for?! Luckily, permits are not required unless it is a formal paid shoot or with a crew so photograph your heart out. Plus, the employees at Pasadena City Hall are used to this sort of thing. We encountered a few employees and security guards during my modeling shoot and not only do they not bother you; but are also very kind, complimentary and smile. They aren't possessive oftheir space at all and even if they are annoyed then they hide it well.
It seems that all models making use of Pasadena City Hall for their own photos are also quite respectful of each other: most people acknowledge each other and try to stay out of others' pictures and share the prime spots. Of course, there ARE some rude folks; but in general everyone works together.
A little tip: A key rule of thumb of outdoor photography is that it is best in golden hour (immediately before sunset). However, photos at Pasadena City Hall are even ideal in the late afternoon prior to Golden Hour due to the immense size of the structure. The sun sets at such an angle with the building; that it can create too many shadows that will result in overly dark photos unless you have proper light filters, screens, and post-production.
I do believe that Pasadena City Hall offers ticketed tours of the interior which is definitely worth looking into.
I may not be running for the next mayorship of Pasadena (perhaps I should!); however I HAVE modeled in countless locales and Pasadena City Hall is certainly in my top favorites from the relaxed atmosphere to the heavenly beauty of the grounds. Pasadena City Hall should certainly be a location option for your next photoshoot.