Arizona has stunning views and amazing light, with so many great locations for photography. Are you looking for a Phoenix area photo shoot location? Here are some of my favorite spots around the valley for photos.
- Papago Park
Centrally located, this park is one of the most scenic areas in the valley. It offers sweeping views of red rock buttes and a classic desert look for photos. This location does require a bit of walking so I do recommend wearing good walking shoes here. (Bring the cute ones to change into once we get settled into a spot in the park.) This is my favorite location in the Valley to create silhouette images!
- Desert Botanical Garden
Located within Papago Park, the Desert Botanical Garden is a wonderful location for photos with scenic paved paths that meander through thousands of species of desert cactus, trees and flowers. Fountains, art installations and trails make this a location with so many options. The Garden does require an entrance fee (not included in session fee) but offers free admission the second Tuesday of every month. (Reservations at the Garden are required.)
- Arizona State University
All four campuses of Arizona State University are great locations for ASU graduates, high school graduates and family sessions. There are iconic spots and hidden gems everywhere, giving us lots of options to choose from.
- Veteran’s Oasis Park
This preserve offers a scenic lake, paved and dirt paths, lots of trees and ample parking. The park also boasts a Field of Honor, which pays tribute to veterans, and includes a Korean-war era plane!
- Downtown Gilbert
If you are looking for something more urban, Downtown Gilbert is a great choice! There are lots of options here with great architectural details, murals and the classic Gilbert water tower.
- Rosevelt Row
Looking for something edgy? Rosevelt Row in Downtown Phoenix is your spot! There is such a great art vibe in the area with lots of colors and great murals.
- Riparian Preserve
This beautiful preserve in Gilbert is HUGE! There are multiple lakes and paths making this a popular spot for families. The scenery here is amazing if you are looking for something with a little bit less of a desert look.
- Superstition Mountains
I’ll admit, I’m a little bit obsessed with the Superstition Mountains. They are so unique, and I find myself drawn to them often. There are lots of options for classic, sweeping desert scenery at this location while at the same time offering the backdrop of the mountains. This is another location that requires some walking so be mindful of footwear when choosing this spot!
- Usery Mountain Park
Usery Mountain Regional Park is a beautiful desert location for photo shoots, offering stunning mountain views, towering saguaro cacti, and scenic desert trails. With its classic Sonoran Desert scenery and gorgeous golden-hour light, it’s a perfect spot for capturing Arizona-inspired photos year-round.
- Mesa Community College Rose Garden (seasonal)
It is easy to miss this cute little rose garden if you aren’t paying attention. Nestled in the parking lot of Mesa Community College, this is the largest public rose garden in the Desert Southwest. Here, you will find various types of roses blooming in the spring, which is why this location is seasonal.
