Phoenix, Arizona is full of beautiful desert areas, cityscapes and hidden green gems. All of which would be great locations for your next family photos. The majority of my clients ask for assistance when choosing a location that is right for their family pictures. Part of the photography process with Cozy Clicks is working together to choose a spot the best fits the look you want. I have created this post for my clients as a starting place when thinking about a good on location area for their photography session.
Below are the top areas I think are the best locations in Phoenix for family photos. And if these ideas don’t suit you, don’t worry! I have many more fun and unique areas I know of. These selections are in no particular order and are based on popularity, beauty, and ease and accessibility.
Top Family and Child Photography Locations in the Phoenix Area
1. Scorpion Gulch
📍 Location: South Mountain Park along South Central Avenue, Phoenix
🏜️ Background: Historic 1930s stone ruins—once a trading post and bar—set against rugged desert and mountain vistas.
✅ Pros:
- Unique, character-rich backdrop with weathered stone textures
- Ideal for dramatic sunset, golden-hour sessions
- Easy accessibility—no lengthy hikes required
- Offers a striking contrast between desert landscape and architectural elements
⚠️ Things to Know:
- Popular, especially at golden hour—weekday sessions recommended
- No shade or facilities on-site
Want to see more sessions from this location heck out more examples here: Family session, maternity session
2. Ahwatukee Hiking Trails (South Mountain)
📍 Location: South-east Phoenix, bordering Ahwatukee – many trailheads
⛰️ Background: Expansive trails, sweeping desert vistas, saguaro cacti, and mountain peaks—perfect for both rugged and refined family portraits.
✅ Pros:
- Over 58 miles of trails with varied terrain and views
- Panoramic Valley views ideal for multi-generational group shots
- Less crowded along lesser-known trailheads—I know the best ones!
- No entry fees
⚠️ Things to Know:
- Some trailhead spots require light hiking
- Mid-day sun can be intense—golden hour preferred
- Minimal shade and not always restrooms at trail sites
Want to see more sessions from this location? Check out more examples here: Family sessions, Child sessions
3. Gilbert Riparian Preserve
📍 Location: 2757 E. Guadalupe Rd, Gilbert
🌿 Background: A 110-acre wetland preserve with ponds, trails, cacti groves, trees, and an educational observatory—ideal for green, natural family sessions.
✅ Pros:
- Abundant water and shade
- Diverse settings: ponds, trees, cacti, and bridges
- Wildlife and birdlife add natural elements
- Less crowded mid-week or evenings
⚠️ Things to Know:
- Trails closed during events
- Some trails may be uneven—plan accordingly for little ones
- Popular location; weekend sessions require early planning
Check out more examples here: Family session 1,family session 2
4. Downtown Phoenix
📍 Location: Central Phoenix— Roosevelt Row, City streets
🏙️ Background: Eclectic mix of historic architecture, brick alleys, vibrant murals, retro signage, and local street art.
✅ Pros:
- Colorful murals and urban textures for lively family portraits
- Great for families wanting a modern, artsy aesthetic
- Easy to walk between diverse backdrops
⚠️ Things to Know:
- Lively area—potential crowds and traffic
- Parking can be challenging during peak hours (metered or garage)
Check out more examples here: Urban Downtown
5. Papago Park- Hole in the Rock
📍 Location: East Phoenix, near Phoenix Zoo and Desert Botanical Garden
🌄 Background: Red sandstone formations, including the iconic “Hole-in-the-Rock,” scenic ponds, palm groves, and desert flora.
✅ Pros:
- Iconic, Arizona-style sandstone backdrop with easy access
- Water features and green palms offer versatile session options
⚠️ Things to Know:
- Popular tourist spot—weekday best to avoid crowds
- Light hiking at the Hole in the Rock
Check out more examples here: Family Session, Extended Family session, Senior session
6. My “Secret” Ahwatukee Park
📍 Location: This hidden gem near Ahwatukee is actually my secret little spot and if you choose this area, I will fill you in on how to get there!
🌳 Background: Lush park featuring mature shade trees, playgrounds, open overgrown grass fields, and mountain views—fantastic for relaxed family or senior sessions.
✅ Pros:
- Almost no other photographers shoot here, it makes for an easy shoot with no people in your photos!
- Unique small desert walking path with overgrown grass, unique trees and plants and even colorful flowers (in the spring).
- Close proximity to Ahwatukee homes—minimal travel
⚠️ Things to Know:
- Public park—sporadic park-goers and activities
- A small amount of walking on a dirt path
7. Coon Bluff Campground
Salt River (Mesa / Lower Salt River Area)
📍 Location: Nestled along the Salt River near Mesa, just northeast of Phoenix in Tonto National Forest
🌄 Background: A scenic riverside campsite with towering cottonwoods, riverbanks, and sweeping desert vistas.
✅ Pros
- Variety of natural backdrops: trees, river, desert, red rock mountains
- Access to water makes for dynamic shots (part of the year)
- Quiet and less crowded than other Phoenix spots
⚠️ Things to Know:
- Requires a Tonto Pass / parking pass (~$8)
- Some walking from parking area to session spots
- No restrooms except vault toilets
See even more sessions from Coon Bluff here.
8. Downtown Chandler
📍 Location: Heart of Chandler’s revitalized downtown area
🏙️ Background: Urban-meets-arts district featuring colorful murals, modern architecture, and eclectic streets.
✅ Pros:
- High variety of urban textures and backgrounds
- Great murals and public art for dynamic sessions
- Pedestrian-friendly and easy logistics
⚠️ Things to Know:
- Potentially busy—some crowds on evenings and weekends
9. Heritage Square Park
📍 Location: Central Phoenix’s historic district
🏘️ Background: Victorian-era homes, landscaped brick pathways, rose gardens, and charming architecture.
✅ Pros:
- Historic and elegant setting with structured beauty
- Lush greenery and floral accents
- Compact and easy to navigate
⚠️ Things to Know:
- This are may not be available during weddings or other events- especially Saturdays
- Parking is metered on street or nearby parking garages
10. ASU /Tempe/Mill Avenue
📍 Location: Tempe’s vibrant campus & downtown area
🏛️ Background: Campus buildings, pedestrian bridges, riverside walkways, flowers, and colorful public art.
✅ Pros:
- Lots of architectural and natural variety
- Bright, youthful vibe perfect for senior/family sessions
- Versatile backdrops in a walkable route
⚠️ Things to Know:
- Parking can be limited
- Busy foot traffic in certain areas especially on game days
See more from ASU here.
11. Desert Botanical Garden
📍 Location: Papago Park, north of Phoenix Zoo
🌵 Background: 140-acre living museum with thousands of desert plants and artistic garden installations.
✅ Pros:
- Wide variety of cacti, agave, and desert foliage
- Sculptural forms and vibrant textures
- Beautiful lighting and color from art exhibits
⚠️ Things to Know:
- Entry fee required (varies, often $25+)
- Can be crowded during events or weekends
See more session from the Desert Botanical Garden here.
12. South Mountain- Tempe Area
Tempe / Ahwatukee (Pima Canyon & East Side Trails)
📍 Location: South Mountain Park near Pima Canyon
🏜️ Background: 16,000+ acre desert preserve with mountainous trails, cacti, and panoramic valley views.
✅ Pros:
- Dramatic terrain with desert and mountain panoramas
- Multiple trailheads with varied scenery
- No fee and less crowded in some trail areas
⚠️ Things to Know:
- Light to mild hiking may be required depending on spot
- No commercial permit, though park regulations apply
See more sessions from Pima Canyon here
13. Granada Park
📍 Location: Central Phoenix neighborhood
🌳 Background: Family-friendly park featuring ponds, grass lawns, pine trees, and desert elements.
✅ Pros:
- Easygoing vibe and little walking—great for kid sessions
- Mix of lush and desert scenery
- Neighborhood park with playgrounds nearby
⚠️ Things to Know:
- Public park—can get busy on weekends
14. Tempe Center for the Arts
📍 Location: 700 W Rio Salado Pkwy, on the shores of Tempe Town Lake
🎨 Background: A contemporary arts venue featuring a reflective lake, modern architecture, fountains, and bridges—perfect for artsy, modern family shoots.
✅ Pros:
- Dramatic architectural backdrops with clean lines and reflective pools
- Vibrant fountains and colorful art installations
- Free admission and easy parking
- Close proximity to Tempe Town Lake for additional water-view shots
⚠️ Things to Know:
- Public and may be busy during performances or events
- Not all areas can always be used if there are events
See more sessions from Tempe Arts Center
15. Mesa Community College Rose Gardens
📍 Location: Southern Avenue & Dobson Road, MCC Southern Campus, Mesa
🌹 Background: Arizona’s largest public rose garden, offering lush blooms in spring and summer—ideal for romantic and colorful family portraits.
✅ Pros:
- Thousands of roses with vibrant seasonal colors
- Multiple garden beds and arboretum pathways for varied backdrops
- Ideal for portraits
⚠️ Things to Know:
- Bloom season is limited (typically March–June)
- Garden is on a college campus—may close during school events
- Parking and restroom options may be campus-restricted
Want more options?
16. Downtown Gilbert
Another great downtown option in the East Valley. See examples here.
17. Encanto Park/Enchanted Island
A great area in central Phoenix. See examples here & here.
18. Scottsdale Civic Center
Newly remodeled. Include the iconic LOVE statue, small garden areas a little bit of downtown/buildings vibe. See examples here.