As a professional photographer, I’ve had the privilege of capturing countless moments in stunning locations, but my recent experience at the Queen’s Staircase in Nassau, Bahamas, was truly unforgettable. Not only did I leave with breathtaking images, but I also gained a newfound appreciation for the incredible work done by the Antiquities Monument and Museum Corporation (AMMC). Their dedication to preserving and maintaining our historical sites is nothing short of remarkable, and their level of professionalism is top-notch.

The Queen’s Staircase: A Historical Gem

The Queen’s Staircase, also known as the “66 Steps,” is one of the most iconic historical sites in the Bahamas. Carved out of solid limestone by enslaved Africans in the late 18th century, it stands as a testament to the island’s rich history and resilience. Surrounded by lush greenery and a newly refurbished waterfall, the location exudes a sense of tranquility and nostalgia. It’s no wonder that Coskin, a groom from Greece, insisted on having his wedding photos taken here after exploring other historical sites. For him, the Queen’s Staircase was the perfect backdrop to celebrate his love story.

The Professionalism of AMMC

From the moment I reached out to the AMMC team to secure the location, I was impressed by their efficiency and hospitality. Gia Davis, in particular, was incredibly helpful, providing me with all the details I needed to book the site. I’ll admit, I was initially apprehensive about paying to use a public location, but my experience completely changed my perspective.

The AMMC staff takes their roles very seriously. From the security personnel to the certified tour guides, everyone contributes to maintaining the site’s integrity and ensuring a seamless experience for visitors. The area was spotless, and the newly refurbished waterfall added to the ambiance, making it feel like a hidden oasis. The staff even managed crowd control effortlessly, ensuring that Coskin and his bride had their moment without disrupting the flow of tourists visiting from nearby cruise ships.

The Photoshoot: Challenges and Triumphs

The shoot itself was a bit challenging, but it was also incredibly rewarding. Coskin’s limited English and my Bahamian grammar and accent created some humorous communication barriers, but we powered through it. The couple was radiant, and the atmosphere was electric as tourists cheered them on, offering congratulations and adding to the joyous vibe.

Despite the heavy foot traffic, the AMMC staff ensured that the area remained clean and organized, allowing me to focus on capturing the perfect shots. The result? A series of stunning images that perfectly encapsulated the love and beauty of the moment. Coskin and his bride were thrilled, and I left feeling proud of the work we had accomplished together.

A Call to Fellow Photographers

As a professional photographer, I cannot stress enough the importance of supporting organizations like the Antiquities Monument and Museum Corporation. By paying to use these historic locations, we not only gain access to breathtaking backdrops but also contribute to the preservation and maintenance of these cultural treasures.

Here’s my advice to fellow photographers:

1. Include Location Fees in Your Pricing: Factor the cost of using these sites into your session fees. It’s a small price to pay for access to such unique and meaningful locations.
2. Respect the Space: Work collaboratively with the staff and follow their guidelines to ensure the site remains pristine for future visitors.
3. Promote Historical Sites: Use your platform to highlight the beauty and significance of these locations. Share your experiences and encourage others to visit and support them.

Final Thoughts

My experience at the Queen’s Staircase was a reminder of why I fell in love with photography in the first place. It’s not just about capturing images; it’s about telling stories, preserving memories, and celebrating the beauty of our world. The Antiquities Monument and Museum Corporation plays a vital role in safeguarding our history, and their dedication deserves recognition and support.

If you’re a photographer looking for a unique and meaningful location for your next shoot, I highly recommend exploring the historic sites managed by AMMC. Not only will you leave with incredible images, but you’ll also be contributing to the preservation of our cultural heritage.

Here’s to capturing more moments, telling more stories, and celebrating the beauty of the Bahamas—one photograph at a time.