Where Can I Take Pictures With A Desert Background In Phoenix?
This seems like it should be so easy right, I mean we are in the middle of the desert here in Phoenix. But, if you are traveling from out of town or may not know all the rules and permit fees at each desert spot in the area, finding a desert photo location in Phoenix, Arizona to take photos may become a difficult task.
Here is a break down of some great desert photo locations for photos in Phoenix, Arizona with additional info and what you’ll need in order to take pictures there. (For additional locations in Phoenix for photos that might not be in the desert check out this list)
Desert Photo Locations in Phoenix Arizona
South Mountain- (SW Ahwatukee)
This beautiful desert photo location in Phoenix, Arizona is one of my favorites because of the open desert, large cactus and mountain views in the background. There is very little hiking involved it it usually is not very crowded. This location is free to take photos at. The only downside is that there is a very small window of time where the light is ideal. When scheduling, I’ll be able to help choose the best time for your session.
South Mountain- Scorpion Gulch (Central Phoenix)
This is a great desert location because it offers open desert area with some cactus, but it also is home to Scorpion Gulch, which is an old trading depot with neat old western architecture. This spot provides both desert backdrops along with a little more variety. There are no additional fees to take photos at this Phoenix desert location, but parking can be extremely limited, especially on weekends.
Lost Dutchman State Park- Apache Junction
The unique background of the Superstition Mountains is the highlight to this popular desert photo location in Phoenix Arizona for photos. The unique color and shape of the mountain is beautiful in pictures. Surrounding the mountain are plenty of cactus and open desert giving lots of variety to the photo shoot. The location is slightly East of Phoenix. This photo location does require booth a parking fee and a permit fee to take photos.
Papago Park- Central Phoenix
Papago Park is iconic to Phoenix and the perfect backdrop for pictures. The Hold In The Rock offers the red rock look that many think they can only find in Sedona, yet it is right in the middle of central Phoenix! The red rock mountain is the highlight of this desert location, but when you walk farther, you’ll find some cactus and many desert tress and add to the background of your photo. There are no additional fees at this desert location in Phoenix.
Dreamy Draw Trailhead- North/Central Phoenix
This beautiful trailhead in the Northern part of Phoenix is desert beauty for photos. With trails leading to both open desert and mountains, to greener desert trees, there is a lot of variety for photos. While a beautiful location for desert photos, this spot does require some walking/hiking. It is also very popular for bikers, so make sure to be respectful to others sharing the path. There is no additional fees at this Phoenix desert photo location.
South Mountain- East Side Trailheads
You might have noticed that South Mountain makes an appearance on this list of beautiful desert photo locations in Phoenix quite a bit. With the mountain being so large, there are many different areas of the mountain that are perfect for photos. The trails on the Eastern side have quite a bit of variety and allow you to walk right in to the rocky mountains or simply stand near the base. These trails are perfect for sunset desert photos. Once you schedule your session, we can choose the exact trailhead on this side of the mountain that works with your family and how much you’d like to hike!) There are no additional fees here.
Here are a few of my favorites, but I know many more Phoenix desert locations! If you are interested in having a desert backdrop for your photos, email me today emily@cozyclicks.com We can discuss availability, photo session type and the location that is best for you!
