St. Louis: Gateway Arch and Old Court House Photoshoot

St. Louis: Gateway Arch and Old Court House Photoshoot – A Practical Look

If you’re planning a trip to St. Louis and want to preserve your memories with some professional photos, this Gateway Arch and Old Court House Photoshoot might just be a good fit. Although I haven’t tried this experience myself, I’ve looked into what it offers, and it seems like a neat way to get some quality photos against iconic landmarks without the hassle of amateur photography.

What I love about this experience is how it combines the chance to see two of St. Louis’s most recognizable sites with the convenience of a private photo session. Plus, you get professionally-edited photos sent to your email afterward. The only real caveat is that the entire experience lasts just an hour, so it’s quite a quick snapshot of your visit—if you’re looking for a full tour, this isn’t it.

All in all, this tour is probably best suited for travelers who want some polished photos of their trip, enjoy a relaxed, casual vibe, and don’t mind a short, focused session. If you’re after a comprehensive tour of St. Louis, you might want to supplement this with other activities, but for a quick, memorable photo shoot, it hits the mark.

Key Points

• Professional Photos: Expect 15-20 high-quality, edited images emailed to you about a week or two later.
• Iconic Landmarks: Capture your group in front of the Gateway Arch and Old Courthouse, two of Missouri’s tallest and most historic buildings.
• Guided Experience: Learn about the landmarks from your photographer, including stories about their history and significance.
• Flexible Timing: Usually available in the morning or afternoon, with a meeting point arranged a day in advance.
• Private Group: The tour is tailored just for your group, making it a personalized experience.
• Affordable: At $60 per person, it offers a lot of value for those looking for quality photos without breaking the bank.

You can check availability for your dates here:

What to Expect from the Experience

The experience centers around a one-hour private photoshoot at St. Louis’s Gateway Arch National Park, specifically outside the Arch itself and the Old Court House. These sites are not only visually striking but also steeped in history—one representing the tallest man-made monument in the U.S., and the other, a courthouse from the 19th century where famous cases took place.

Once your photographer contacts you, they will share the exact meeting point—likely close to the landmarks—and give instructions on the best ways to pose. The goal is to look natural while also getting those classic shots with the Arch’s sleek curves or the historic courthouse’s façade framing your group.

The photographer will guide you through different poses, suggesting angles that enhance your features and the landmarks’ beauty. Expect candid shots as well as more posed images, all touched up professionally before being sent to your email.

The photos are usually delivered about 5-10 days after the shoot, giving the photographer time to edit and perfect each image. You’ll end up with a set of 15-20 images, which is plenty to remember your trip or share with friends and family.

The Landmarks and Their Stories

The Gateway Arch is more than just a striking architectural piece—it’s a symbol of westward expansion, built in the mid-20th century. Your photographer might share interesting tidbits or stories about how it was constructed or its significance in American history.

Just steps away, the Old Court House, built over a century earlier, played a role in pivotal moments, including the Dred Scott case that is often cited in legal history. This contrast between the 19th and 20th centuries makes for compelling storytelling while you pose or enjoy candid moments amid these historic structures.

These stories add depth to your photos, transforming a simple snapshot into a meaningful memory. It also makes the experience more engaging if you’re interested in a bit of history, even if just through your photographer’s narratives.

Is It Worth the Price?

At $60 per person, this experience is quite reasonable, especially considering it includes professional editing and digital delivery of the images. For anyone wanting to avoid the potential hassle of taking amateur photos or trying to get good shots with a smartphone, this is a smarter alternative.

The value really comes from the quality of the photos and the insider tips you’ll get from your guide. Plus, having images professionally touched up means you can share polished shots on social media or print them for keepsakes.

That said, this isn’t a full tour of St. Louis, so if you’re looking for a comprehensive sightseeing experience, you’ll need to plan other activities. But if your goal is to have some high-quality photos with iconic landmarks, it’s an efficient, effective option.

Practical Details

The tour lasts about an hour, usually in the morning or afternoon, giving you some flexibility with your schedule. The meeting point is arranged a day in advance, ensuring you’ll be directed to a spot that works best for your group.

It’s a private experience, meaning your group will be the only participants, which adds a personal touch. The tour guide is a photographer, who will help with posing and capturing your best angles.

The photos are delivered via email roughly 5-10 days after the shoot, so plan accordingly if you want them for a specific date or event. The experience is fully refundable if canceled at least 24 hours before, making it a low-risk option.

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What We Liked and What Could Be Better

The standout feature here is the professional-grade photos. Two reviews explicitly mention how the experience was “very nice,” highlighting that the photos and guidance left a good impression. We also appreciate the casual, friendly vibe—this isn’t stiff or overly formal, which helps everyone relax and look natural.

However, because the experience is only an hour, it’s quite brief. If you’re someone who wants to explore more of St. Louis or get a more extensive guided tour, this might feel limited. Also, the meeting point is not specified upfront, so you’ll need to wait for the guide to contact you.

The experience is straightforward, well-priced, and offers great value for travelers interested in memorable, high-quality photos at a couple of the city’s most famous sites.

Who Should Consider This?

This photoshoot is ideal for travelers who want a few professional shots with the city’s iconic landmarks, whether for social media, holiday cards, or just to have a nice keepsake. It’s perfect for couples, families, or friends looking for a quick, fun activity that results in tangible memories.

If you enjoy a relaxed, private setting with a guide who knows the landmarks well, you’ll likely find this experience more than satisfying. But if your trip is packed with sightseeing and you rarely stop for photos, you might want to allocate time elsewhere.

FAQs

How long does the photoshoot last?
The experience is about 1 hour long, providing enough time for multiple shots with guidance from your photographer.

What landmarks will be photographed?
You’ll be snapped outside the Gateway Arch and the Old Court House, both significant landmarks in St. Louis.

How are the photos delivered?
You will receive 15-20 professionally-edited photos via email approximately 5-10 days after the session.

Is this a private experience?
Yes, it’s a private session for your group, allowing for a more personalized and relaxed atmosphere.

What is the cost per person?
It’s $60 per person, which includes the photos and the guided session.

Do I need to bring anything?
While not explicitly stated, it’s always good to bring your camera or phone in case you want additional personal photos. Dress comfortably and appropriately for the weather.

Can I cancel this experience?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

When should I book?
It’s advisable to reserve early, especially during peak travel seasons, to ensure availability.

Will I get the photos in time for special events?
Since photos are delivered within 5-10 days, plan accordingly if you need them for a specific occasion.

To sum it up, this Gateway Arch and Old Court House Photoshoot offers a simple, affordable way to get some polished photos at two of St. Louis’s most recognizable sights. Perfect for travelers who want a quick, fun activity with lasting keepsakes. While it’s not a sightseeing tour, it’s an efficient addition to your trip if capturing memories is a priority. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just want some nice shots of your visit, this experience can add a personal touch to your time in the city.

You can check availability for your dates here: