NY Botanical Garden Orchid Show Review

I've been living in New York state for over 10 years and in that time I've been to a lot of the touristy places and also some of the favorites of those that have lived here all of their lives. While I don't live right in NYC, I am close enough to pop in for a day to check out special events. On one such trip I visited the NY Botanical Gardens during the time when they were having their annual orchid show (2012 marks the 10th year).

If you have even a passing interest in orchids you'll probably love this show. And if you are a bit of a shutterbug, you'll have plenty to take shots of. However, getting a good shot won't be easy -- there'll be people jostling and maneuvering not to mention that trying to get a pleasing background in your shot will be frustrating. Still, the experience is worth the effort and a little patience should yield some rewards. If you can, go early.

There's more to the Botanical Garden than the orchids and you might as well go for a stroll while you're there. Be sure to also check if there are any special guests connected to the show. When I went there was a professional photographer giving a presentation. What he was saying wasn't particularly informative to me, but perhaps he was catering to an audience newer to the hobby than me (not that I'm a pro).

A few tips...

• If it's cold outside, be prepared for some condensation on your camera lens. The place his warm and humid.
• You won't be able to bring in a tripod. You might get away with a monopod.
• Bring a zoom lens so you can get close-up shots without having to be up close. Some orchids are behind barriers to keep people from getting too close.
• Bring a flash especially if it isn't sunny on the day you go.