Best Places to Take Photos in Phoenix was top of mind for Nick and Sonya, one of my couples who got married in spring 2024. To tell you I’m so excited about their wedding would be an understatement! These two live in Washington but are getting married in Phoenix. They knew they wanted to have their engagement session in Arizona, but they weren’t sure where to take photos in Downtown Phoenix. They planned a trip to Phoenix in June to tour wedding venues, and that was when we planned for their session. Talk about a week of wedding planning fun!

Sonya sent me photos of her vision, it was exciting to see a mix of romantic, timeless, and unique ideas. We knew we wanted to shoot in Downtown Phoenix, but we weren’t sure exactly where. So here’s what I’ve found while location scouting in Downtown!

Best Places to Take Photos in Phoenix: Hotel San Carlos

These two wanted to shoot inside a hotel with an elevator and cocktail bar. We found that Hotel San Carlos allows you to take photos inside, but there are a few stipulations! Of course, the hotel guests take priority when it comes to using the elevator. We were told we couldn’t use the luggage carts and had to stay in the lobby area. If you want to use their hotel bar, they charge $150 for the hour. Make sure to call and make a reservation in advance.

Anywhere On The Street

When you are wondering where to take photos in downtown phoenix, or more generally a downtown setting; there are so many spots that are perfect for photos when you’re just walking around. We took these photos right outside of Hotel San Carlos! The best part about urban settings is you can usually shoot any time of the day and find shaded spots due to tall buildings.

Best Places to Take Photos in Phoenix: Downtown Phoenix on Rooftops

Although we didn’t shoot on a rooftop, I have before—on the top level of a parking garage downtown.
This is a popular idea and always makes for a fun, unique setting with great views.
There are tons of parking garages in Phoenix to choose from. I like to shoot on top of public garages to avoid issues with security. Some photographers have been asked to leave places like the Chase Tower or Convention Center garages. It doesn’t happen every time, but it’s something to be aware of.
Check out this engagement session I shot on a Phoenix parking garage rooftop!

Arizona Science Center

This was the spot we almost shot at; however, since we were shooting mid-morning, it was too bright, and there was no shade from the summer heat! If you shoot here in the evening before sunset, it would be perfect! There’s some neat architecture and stairs that would make great backdrops for an engagement session!

What To Wear For Your Urban Engagement Session

As usual, I recommend neutral colors. They’re flattering on everyone and always look good regardless of the season! But that doesn’t mean you can’t wear color… wear whatever you want! I love when white dresses are incorporated in engagement sessions, there are so many options, and you can play into your “bridal era”! Here is my Pinterest board with downtown engagement session ideas. You can use this to find outfit inspiration as well!

If you’re looking for a wedding or engagement photographer to capture your downtown Phoenix engagement photos, reach out to me here!