Robert D. Ray Asian Garden
Senior picture location ideas
Senior Pictures at the Des Moines Pagoda
The Robert D. Ray Asian Gardens is one of the most unique senior picture locations in downtown Des Moines. The bright red architecture, layered rooftops, stone railings, and surrounding greenery create a completely different look from other senior photo locations around the city.
This location works especially well for seniors wanting something more architectural and colorful than a typical park setting. The bold colors and clean lines pair especially well with dressier outfits, fashion-inspired looks, and creative senior sessions.
The pagoda is also a great location for seniors incorporating sports, instruments, hobbies, or cultural elements into their session. The open walkways and detailed architecture help add variety while still keeping the focus on you.
The curved rooftops, red columns, greenery, and textured details photograph well from every angle, giving a lot of variety in a smaller area. It’s easy to create several different looks here without needing to travel between locations.
Another advantage of this downtown Des Moines location is how close it is to other senior picture spots. Iowa Women of Achievement Bridge, the bridge district, below, the Greater Des Moines Botanical Gardens, and other nearby downtown locations are all just minutes away, making it easy to combine multiple looks into one session.












