One of my most asked questions when booking an engagement session is, “do you have any location recommendations, we’re not sure where take photos at?” My answer is always yes!! I have a list of locations that I send to my couples, and I though to myself, “why not share it with everyone?!” So here’s my go-to list of photography locations to take Engagement Photos in Phoenix area!
My follow-up question to couples when asking for location suggestions is, “Do you have a preference for scenery?” The answer to this helps me narrow down the locations I give them so they don’t feel overwhelmed. I’ll start with desert locations- what most people first think of when they think of Phoenix.
Desert Scenery Engagement Photos in Phoenix
There’s tons of great desert locations in the Phoenix area, but these are my top go-to spots!
Usery Mountain Regional Park
I LOVE this spot. This location in the East Valley is one of my favorites and is worth the drive if you’re not in the Mesa area. There are tons of trails, and it’s perfect at both sunrise and sunset. There’s a $7 entrance fee to the park, and it can get crowded in the fall when everyone wants family photos done in time for Christmas cards, but there’s plenty of room on the trails for everyone!
Papago Park
This location is busy, and for good reason! It’s a popular spot for hiking, and if you’ve ever heard of Hole in the Rock, this is where that is. If you want red rocks without driving to Sedona, this will give you that vibe. During the cooler months, it’s busy, so weekdays are the best days to book your session here. During sunrise, there’s a great spot with incredible lighting (pictured below in front of the tall grass).
Lost Dutchman State Park
If you’re looking for an amazing view of the Superstition Mountains, this is where you’ll want to take your photos! There used to be a permit required to take professional photos here, but that has been waived as of this past summer (2023). I recommend shooting here at sunrise for the best lighting. Since the sun rises in the east, it will come up over the mountains so that you’re backlit instead of having harsh light on you during sunset!
Desert Engagement Photo Outfit Ideas
If you’ve read one of my other blogs on what to wear for your photos, you already know my recommendation. Wear neutrals. Neutral colors always look best in the desert or muted tones and pastels. The desert has the most beautiful color palette, so to complement it, I recommend wearing neutral colors. You can find more outfit recommendations here, or you can check out this Pinterest board I created!
Urban Scenery Engagement Photos in Phoenix
Maybe you’ve taken photos in the desert before, or it’s just not your vibe you’re going for, and you want something different. Downtown photoshoots have been very popular with my couples lately, and I love it! There are many places all over Phoenix that offer an urban setting, but these are my favorite go-to spots.
Downtown Phoenix Rooftop
Downtown Phoenix has plenty of rooftops to choose from. I have two spots that I love and share with my couples! Both sunrise and sunset are perfect for a rooftop engagement session. No matter what direction you face, there are great views during both the morning and evening.
Walking Around Downtown Phoenix
There are plenty of nooks and crannies- and beautiful architecture all around downtown Phoenix. These spots are great places to take photos in front of or around! I have a list of places I recommend to my couples. Pictured below are a few of my favorite spots I have found walking around downtown.
Downtown Engagement Photo in Phoenix Outfit Ideas
A lot of my couples opt for neutrals regardless of the setting since I always preach that you can’t go wrong with neutrals. I know I’m getting redundant by preaching all about neutrals, but they’ll never do you wrong. However, when shooting downtown, you can get creative and fun with your outfits! I mean, why not go all-out and wear something fun and bridal?! Here’s my Pinterest board with outfit ideas specific to downtown engagement sessions!
If you haven’t heard about Untamed Petals, let me introduce you to your new obsession! This company has the best bridal dresses and accessories. The best part about their dresses is that you can double your purchase. You can wear one of their dresses for your engagement photos and wear it again during your wedding reception!
Another option is renting a dress. You might be a little confused about this, so I’ll explain! Many brides want to wear something bridal for their engagement session (which I love). Maybe you don’t want to buy something you’ll never wear again? Totally understandable. Let me introduce to you a few dress rental companies that are fantastic, and have some amazing finds! Dalliance Gown Rentals, Taylor Made Rentals, and Wanderlust Dress Rentals all have incredible dresses. I’ve rented from all three of these places, and they’re great to work with!
Greenery Location in Phoenix
I have a few locations that I can recommend if you want something more green for your engagement photos in phoenix. These spots are a little harder to find, but I’ve discovered a couple! I threw in an additional location, it’s not as green, but it offers some gorgeous views!
My Favorite Super Secret Location for engagement photos in Phoenix
I can’t disclose this location to the whole world, but if you book a session with me and you want to take photos here then I will share exactly where this spot is at! It’s absolutely amazing in my opinion.
Saguaro Lake
Maybe you want a beautiful lake in your photos?! This spot is perfect for you if that’s what you’re looking for. I have so many ideas for a lake engagement session, so if you want to book a session with me and want to hear more of my ideas, reach out! There’s a great dock, a beautiful bank, and mountain views.
Saguaro Lake Ranch
Full disclosure, this location is a private ranch and requires a permit to shoot here… and the permit is pricey. I believe it’s $750 to take photos here. If you’re eloping, this is a great spot to do that! I have heard there’s a public spot right down the road that’s FREE! I have yet to check it out, but I’ve heard the views are similar, minus the green grassy field.
Are you ready for your engagement photos in Phoenix?
There are so many incredible locations to take engagement photos in Phoenix that are perfect for couples photography. If you’re looking for an Arizona photographer and want to take your engagement photos in Phoenix, reach out here, and I will be in touch soon!
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