Best Places To Take Pictures in Phoenix (with sample photos)
Phoenix, Arizona is a beautiful city known for its breathtaking natural landscapes, stunning architecture, and vibrant culture. With so many picture-worthy locations to choose from, it can be challenging to find the best spot when you want family photos, engagement pictures, and more!
Often, I get asked, “What’s the best place to take photos?” or “What location do you recommend for pictures?”
Whether you’re looking for places to take pictures in Phoenix—maybe for a dating profile, senior photos, family session, or graduation—or you’re on the search for a location to hike, having a list of locations is a handy tool to make the search process a little easier. I put together my top 9 best places to take pictures with sample photos, so you can easily pick your favorites next time you’re trying to decide on a session location!
Why It’s Important to Pick the Right Location for Your Photoshoot
In photography, location is everything! The right location can upgrade an average photo into a masterpiece. When it comes to capturing the magic in Phoenix, deserts and the outdoors are the way to go! But the city also offers a range of locations that are perfect for your session. From desert landscapes to urban backdrops, each spot has its own unique charm and appeal. By carefully selecting your locations, you can create stunning photographs that truly capture your vision.
💡 P.S. Remember that your location will also determine your outfit. You don’t want to blend in with the background!
1. South Mountain Park in Phoenix
This is by far one of my favorite locations because (1) it’s free, and (2) it has so many different colors, especially during sunset!
If you plan on going here for your photography session, make sure you get to the top of Dobbins Lookout with enough time to park. If you don’t go early, you’ll spend 20 minutes just trying to find parking.
Fun fact: South Mountain Park is the largest municipal park in the United States and is home to over 50 miles of hiking and biking trails. The park offers stunning views of the city skyline, as well as panoramic views of the surrounding mountain ranges. It’s also home to several ancient petroglyphs, which make for a unique photography opportunity!
Best time to go: Visit during spring when the desert flowers are blooming—typically around March and April. I recommend visiting on weekdays to avoid crowds and easily find parking, as weekends can get extremely busy.
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Website: https://www.phoenix.gov/parks/trails/locations/south-mountain
Trailheads:
- South Mountain Park/Preserve
10919 S. Central Ave. - Main Entrance
10211 S. Central Ave. - Pima Canyon Trailhead*
4800 E. Pima Canyon Rd. - Mormon Trailhead
8610 S. 24th St. - Beverly Canyon Trailhead
8800 S. 46th St. - Buena Vista Trailhead
N. Buena Vista Rd. (Accessed via South Mountain Park/Preserve Main Entrance) - Desert Foothills Trailhead
14251 S. Desert Foothills Pkwy. - Chandler Blvd. and 19th Ave. Trailhead
15451 S. 19th Ave. - 19th Ave. (Ma-Ha-Tauk) Trailhead
10484 S. 19th Ave.
Parking & Entrance Hours:
- 5 a.m. to 7 p.m. (Standard Hours)
- Extended Summer Hours (June 1 – Sept 30): Pima Canyon Trailhead open until 9 p.m.
Trail Hours:
- 5 a.m. to 11 p.m. (Daily)
2. Agritopia in Gilbert
If you want lots of greenery but don’t want to drive all the way to Flagstaff, this location is PERFECT! You will need a $75 permit to have your photos taken here, but it can be easily purchased on their website.
Address: 3000 E Ray Rd, Gilbert, AZ 85296
One of the best parts of Agritopia is the variety of nearby restaurants, so you can enjoy a delicious meal after your session. Some favorites include:
- Barnone AZ
- The Uprooted Kitchen
- The Coffee Shop
- Joe’s Farm Grill
- Fire & Brimstone
- 12 West Brewing Co.
- Garage-East
Permit Information: To have your photos taken here, you’ll need a $75 photography permit, which can be easily purchased through their official website.
Best time to go: You might think fall is ideal, but NOPE! The trees and grapevines at Agritopia are sensitive to the cold, so the best time to visit is from spring through early summer.
Pro tip: Plan your session on a weekday to avoid crowds, as weekends can get packed with visitors.
Hours of Operation (Farm Store):
- Monday – Thursday: 10 a.m. – 6 p.m.
- Friday – Saturday: 9 a.m. – 7 p.m.
- Sunday: 9 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Note: These are the hours for the Farm Store. Individual restaurant hours may vary, so check their websites for details.
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3. Salt River in Mesa
Known as “Arizona’s Beach,” Salt River is a stunning location with beautiful views and a serene shoreline. It’s a perfect spot for capturing nature-filled portraits. There are plenty of hikes you can explore—though I haven’t made it to the top yet (heights aren’t my thing, lol).
Permit Information:
- There is a $50 fee to shoot here, and you’ll need to purchase an event/commercial permit at least 30 days in advance from the USDA website: USDA Tonto National Forest.
- You can also buy a Tonto National Forest visiting pass and a commercial photography pass here:
Best time to go: Winter! Trust me—avoid spring. Once the weather warms up, families flock here for swimming, making it nearly impossible to capture clean shots without people in the background.
Pro tip: Sunrise sessions are magical here—the soft lighting and peaceful atmosphere make your portraits shine!
Address:
Salt River Tubing and Recreation
9200 N Bush Hwy
Mesa, AZ 85215
Operating Hours:
Salt River Tubing operates seasonally, typically from late April through September. During the season, hours are generally 9:00 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. daily. However, hours can vary, so it’s best to check their official website or call ahead at (480) 984-3305 for the most up-to-date information.
Please note that while the tubing company has specific operating hours, access to the Salt River itself is subject to Tonto National Forest regulations. Always verify current conditions and any restrictions before planning your visit.
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4. Scottsdale Desert
The Scottsdale Desert (often referred to as the North Desert) is known for its breathtaking sunset colors and vibrant cactus flowers! If you’re looking for photos that showcase Arizona’s iconic landscapes, this is the place to be. 🌵✨
Permit Information:
- A permit is required for photoshoots:
- $50 for a one-day permit
- $300 for an annual permit
- Your photographer will need to obtain the permit at least 30 days prior to your session. You can view more information about permits here. (Add your link to permit details if you have one!)
Best time to go: Spring! This is when the cacti bloom, creating stunning pops of color against the desert backdrop.
Pro tip: Schedule your session during golden hour (just before sunset) to capture that soft, dreamy desert glow.
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5. Boyce Thompson in Superior
If you loved the movie Narnia, then this location is a MUST! With its magical trails and lush scenery, it feels like you’ve stepped straight into a fairytale. Plus, you can explore and take photos almost anywhere on the grounds!
Location:
37615 E. Arboretum Way
Superior, Arizona 85173
Website:
Boyce Thompson Arboretum
Admission Information:
- Adults: $24.95
- Youth (Ages 13-17): $24.95
- Children (Ages 5-12): $10
- Members & Children under 5: Free
Note: Admission fees are subject to change. Please check the official website for the most current information.
Hours of Operation:
- October through April: Open daily from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
- May: Open daily from 6:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
- June through August: Open 6:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m., Wednesday through Monday (closed on Tuesdays).
- September: Open 6:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m., Wednesday through Monday (closed on Tuesdays).
The last admission is one hour before closing. Hours may vary on holidays; it’s recommended to verify current hours on their Visit page.
Best Time to Go: Winter!
- The arboretum closes at 5 p.m. during winter months, allowing you to take advantage of the golden hour for photography.
- In summer, closing time is earlier (as early as 12 p.m. in some months), so winter provides more flexibility for late-afternoon sessions.
Pro Tip: Plan to arrive a couple of hours before closing to explore multiple spots and capture that magical light filtering through the trees.
6. Lost Dutchman in Phoenix
Right in the Superstition Mountains, Lost Dutchman State Park has a stunning desert landscape that’s perfect for capturing Arizona’s natural beauty. With its rugged trails and panoramic views, it’s a favorite among photographers and our clients!
Location: 6109 N. Apache Trail
Apache Junction, AZ 85119
Website: Lost Dutchman State Park
Admission and Permits:
- Park Entrance Fee: $10 per vehicle.
- Photography Permit: As of 2024, a separate photography permit is not required for personal or commercial photography sessions. However, it’s always a good idea to verify current policies on the official website before planning your visit.
Best Time to Visit: To minimize the risk of encountering rattlesnakes, it’s advisable to schedule your photoshoot during the cooler months, typically from late fall through early spring. Rattlesnakes in Arizona are most active from March through October, especially during the warmer parts of the day. Therefore, planning your visit during the cooler months reduces the likelihood of snake encounters.
Pro Tips:
- Golden Hour Magic: Arrive an hour before sunset to take advantage of the soft, warm lighting that enhances the desert’s natural hues.
- Stay on Designated Trails: This not only ensures your safety but also helps preserve the park’s delicate ecosystem.
- Check Park Hours: The park is open from 6 a.m. to 8 p.m., but hours can vary seasonally. Always confirm current operating hours on the official website before your visit.
By planning your session during the cooler months and staying informed about park guidelines, you can enjoy a safe and picturesque photoshoot at Lost Dutchman State Park.
7. Sedona
Okay, so this isn’t part of the City of Phoenix, but it’s too good not to share! 😍 The next three locations are outside the Phoenix metro area, but they’re seriously some of my absolute favorites for photo sessions! Sedona is full of gorgeous red rocks, stunning views, and that magical desert glow. Plus, if you’ve ever wanted to see red rocks dusted with snow, winter is chef’s kiss for dreamy shots. ❄️
Location: Bell Rock Trail, Sedona, AZ
This session was shot at Bell Rock Trail, which is actually one of the shortest (and easiest!) hikes in Sedona. But don’t let “easy” fool you—it’s absolutely stunning!
Parking Info:
Most spots are free to shoot, but you’ll need a Red Rock Pass to park at most trailheads (including Bell Rock):
- $5 for a daily pass
- $15 for a weekly pass
- $20 for an annual pass
You can buy your pass right at the kiosk by the trailhead (credit cards only).
Best Time to Go: Spring through Fall!
I know, I know… winter photos here are GORGEOUS because of the snow, but hear me out! Most of Sedona’s best spots require a little hike, and winter means icy trails. So, spring through fall is perfect—warm light, stunning colors, and fewer slips on your butt. 😉
⚠️ Important PSA! Plan your shoot to end before sunset! Every location here involves a hike back, and let me tell you—it gets dangerously dark. Like, “can’t-see-your-hand-in-front-of-your-face” dark. There are no streetlights out here, so make sure you’re safely back before the sun dips.
Pro Tip: Sunrise is magical at Bell Rock
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8. Flagstaff
ANOTHER FAVORITE!!! If you’re ready to ditch the cacti and desert vibes for lush forests and fresh mountain air, Flagstaff is where it’s at! Seriously, the landscapes here are magical, and the weather is perfect—especially during the summer when the Phoenix heat is unbearable.
Location: Anywhere you go here is a stunning backdrop!
Photography Permits:
Good news! Most parks in Flagstaff are totally free and don’t require a photography permit.
Best Time to Go:
Honestly? ANYTIME! Each season has its own charm:
- Summer: Lush green forests and wildflowers —perfect for family, couples, or graduation shoots!
- Fall: Gorgeous golden aspens (and HELLO, fall vibes )
- Winter: Picture-perfect snowy wonderland. If you want cozy, snowy portraits—this is it. Just bundle up!
- Spring: Blooming meadows and fresh mountain air.
Pro Tip: In the winter, plan ahead! Roads can get icy, and some areas may be closed after a heavy snowstorm. If you’re driving up for a snow session, check road conditions and leave extra time for travel.
My Favorite Spots:
- Lockett Meadow: Aspens galore—SO dreamy in the fall.
- Buffalo Park: Easy access with mountain views.
- Snowbowl: Stunning scenery year-round, plus it’s iconic for winter shots.
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9. Monument Valley (a Navajo Tribal park)
Okay, okay… I know—this one isn’t even close to Phoenix, but if you’re up for an adventure, this is a must-see! Monument Valley is iconic for its towering sandstone formations and jaw-dropping views. Plus, it’s been a star in movies like Forrest Gump, Back to the Future Part III, and National Lampoon’s Vacation.
Location: Right on the Arizona-Utah border. It’s about a five-hour drive from Phoenix—perfect for a day trip or weekend getaway.
Entrance Fee:
- $8 per person (cash or card accepted at the entrance)
- No special photography permit is needed for personal sessions, but for commercial shoots, you’ll need a permit from the Navajo Nation Parks & Recreation Department.
Best Time to Go: Fall
Here’s why:
- The park closes at 5 PM year-round, so in the fall, you’ll hit golden hour perfectly without rushing.
- Winter has fewer crowds, so you’ll have more room to shoot without people in the background.
- Bonus: You might even catch a light dusting of snow on those iconic red rocks for stunning shots.
Pro Tip:
- Be ready for some driving—Monument Valley Scenic Drive is a 17-mile loop with plenty of beautiful photo stops.
- The roads are mostly dirt, so if you’re not in a 4×4, stick to the viewpoints and visitor center.
- Plan to arrive by 2 PM to scout your favorite spots and capture that golden-hour glow.
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Tips for Taking Great Photos in Phoenix:
- Time of Day: Shoot during the golden hour (one hour after sunrise and one hour before sunset) for the best lighting conditions. The soft, warm light is perfect for creating beautiful, glowing portraits.
- Lighting: Adjust your camera settings for Phoenix’s bright, sunny conditions. Lower your ISO, increase your shutter speed, and consider using a lens hood to reduce glare.
- Composition: Get creative! Experiment with different angles and perspectives to capture unique shots. Use foreground elements like cacti or desert rocks to frame your subject.
- Equipment: Bring a tripod for stability, a polarizing filter to cut through glare, and a wide-angle lens to capture sweeping landscapes.
Arizona offers some of the most stunning photography locations, from desert landscapes to urban settings. Whether you’re a professional photographer or simply love taking pictures, Phoenix and its surrounding areas have plenty to offer. So grab your camera and explore these top locations!
This wraps up my top nine photo locations around Arizona (and beyond)! Which one are you adding to your bucket list? Want me to help you plan your session at one of these stunning spots? Contact me here!
