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
If you haven’t visited this rustic and western area of Phoenix, you need to go check it out. Located at the base of South Mountain, the cool stone buildings are full of texture and a uniqueness only found in the desert. This area gives lots of variety by offering neat?architecture, but also mountains, cactus and Arizona sunsets. Want to see more sessions from this location heck out more examples here: Family session, maternity session
2. Ahwatukee Hiking Trails
This small town south of Phoenix and next door to Chandler has so much beauty to offer. Just take a drive through the foothills of this town and look around. You’ll find many places that would make for lovely family photos. This area is characterized by mountains, hiking paths, and desert backgrounds. Want to see more sessions from this location? Check out more examples here: Family sessions, Child sessions
3. Gilbert Riparian Preserve
This location is a fantastic area for family pictures! A popular area for many photographers, the Riparian Preserves offers both green and desert scenery. In the middle of the preserve sets a lake and bridge with small streams, grassy areas and footpaths around the location. Want to see more sessions from this location? Check out more examples here: Family session 1,family session 2
4. Downtown Phoenix
Downtown is full of areas for family , child or senior portraits. This location offers a cool urban feel with lots of architecture and graffiti. Look closer and there are some pretty cool historical areas of downtown too, which make it look like you’re not even in a big city. Want to see more sessions from this location? Check out more examples here: Urban Downtown
5. Papago Park
Next to the Phoenix Zoo, Papago Park is a dream for family photos. Papago is characterized by the red rock mountain located right in the middle of the park. Walk just a little bit off the base of this mountain and there is a lake, palm trees, cactus and more! This spot captures a lot of the beauty of Arizona. Want to see more sessions from this location? Check out more examples here: Family Session, Extended Family session, Senior session
6. Coon Bluff Campground
This beautiful Phoenix area photo location gets you right into the wilderness. Full of trees and dirt path, this is a beautiful spot for photos. Salt river runs right through this campground, so if you are adventurous enough to get down by the water, you can add some cool variety to your shoot. Some areas here do require a little walking. There is a small parking fee with this location. See even more sessions from Coon Bluff here.
7. Downtown Chandler
This area offers a fun downtown/urban feel without all the big city hassle. Lots of photo opportunities and variety line the streets with colorful murals, textured buildings and fun architecture!
8. Heritage Square Park
Right in the middle of downtown Phoenix, this location is full of charm. Grass, tress and a rose garden are among some of the features at Heritage Square Park. You’ll also see a number of historic buildings, which make for some interesting shots! See more from this location here.
9. ASU /Tempe/Mill Avenue
I love this location because of all the variety there is to offer. Look around any corner or street and there is new texture, buildings, flowers and more. This location does not look anything like the desert. This is a very cool spot for senior portraits or family sessions! See more from ASU here.
10. Desert Botanical Garden
This gorgeous location offers desert plants galore! In addition, the quarterly art exhibits can add an interesting touch to family or senior photos. So much beauty and variety. This location does require admission into the garden and can be busy weekends and during events.
11. South Mountain- Tempe Area
Gorgeous trailhead located on South Mountain near the Southern end of Tempe. Mild hiking required. Beautiful mountain view and open desert area with lots of cactus!
Want more options?
12. Encanto Park/Enchanted Island
A great area in central Phoenix. See examples here & here.
13. Veterans Oasis Park near South Chandler
14. Tempe Center for the Arts
Fun artsy area in Tempe! Not a lot of walking, colorful walls, bridge and fountains.
