SHOOT YOUR WAY THROUGH TOMBSTONE - THE TOWN TOO TOUGH TO DIE.

SHOOT YOUR WAY THROUGH TOMBSTONE ARIZONA, THE TOWN TOO TOUGH TO DIE (with a camera of course). Tombstone is certainly a great place to visit and an even greater place to photograph. However, bear in mind that Tombstone is not a theme park although it may sometimes seem like one. It's an actual town. Before you rush to Tombstone from your home in Connecticut, take some time to research Tombstone and the rest of Cochise County on the internet. A good start is the official chamber of commerce site tombstone chamber.com.This site will prove priceless in planning your itinerary. If you need directions from Tucson or Phoenix, it's there; lodging accommodations, it's there; listing of special events, it's there; a list of tourist attractions, it's there. A visit to the special events page is a must as is a visit to the sunrise sunset climate chart listed under film and media. When you get to Tombstone, you'll be overwhelmed by the countless photo opportunities the town affords. When and where should you shoot? As to where, historic Allen Street is a good start. As to time of year, the off season means less tourists, a good thing for a photographer. What's the off season? Consult the chamber of commerce or visitor's center. What's the best time and day? Well, early morning or late afternoon on a Wednesday means less tourists. Noon Saturday means you'll be contending with the hordes of tourists that will frustrate the H--l out of you. There are so many interesting places to photograph, I'm not going to attempt to list them. However, be aware of a major caveat. If, for instance, you're inside the courthouse museum (just one example), don't expect to photograph the infamous gallows (as another example) and then sell 16 by 20 inch posters of same when you get back home. You'll get in trouble. Same goes for Boothill graveyard, Birdcage Theater etc. Check out their policies concerning photography and acceptable use of such. Another tip I will give you is this. Do not shoot postcard shots. Look for unique perspectives. That sign that reads OK CORRAL has been photographed thousands of times. I managed to photograph a mounted cavalryman riding past the sign. There haven't been too many shots taken of a mounted cavalryman riding by the OK Corral. The shot I took is about it. Also, look clsely at what you're actually shooting, then hone in on what's important. A close up image of a roadrunner with part of a wagonwheel in the background will probably elicit oohs and ahs. A shot of the entire wagon with the Shop n' Sip One convenience mart in the background probably won't. Also, when shooting a re-enactor (one of those people in 1880's attire), keep the following in mind. A shot of a prospector in front of a mule is interesting. A shot of the prospector isn front of a Ford Taurus ain't. The main thing though is to enjoy what you're doing. So, happy trails to you till we meet again.