Top 5 Locations for Family Photos in the East Valley
It’s my favorite time of year in Arizona! The triple-digit days are finally gone, the sunsets are getting warmer, and it's the absolute perfect time to capture your family's story. Need some help picking out the perfect outfits? Check out my complete guide on What to Wear for Family Photos: Arizona Fall & Winter Edition! Once you're ready for your session, the biggest question remains: where should we go?
As a Phoenix family photographer, I've spent years exploring every corner of the East Valley to find the most beautiful backdrops. To help you plan, I'm sharing five of my absolute favorite locations, each with its own unique vibe.
1. The Superstition Mountains: For the Adventurous Family
There is nothing more iconic than the rugged beauty of the Superstitions at golden hour. The way the light hits the peaks creates a breathtaking backdrop that feels epic, wild, and uniquely Arizonan. It's the perfect canvas for a truly memorable session.
Best For: Adventurous families who want that classic, majestic desert look for their photos.
2. Veteran's Oasis Park: For the Relaxed & Rustic Family
Located right in Chandler, this beautiful park offers a more relaxed, rustic, and natural feel. The quiet trails, gentle light filtering through the trees, and natural desert foliage are perfect for capturing intimate, gentle family moments away from the crowds.
Best For: Families who want a simple, natural, and authentically Arizona feel without a dramatic mountain background.
3. The Salt River: For the Wild & Free-Spirited Family
The Salt River is pure Arizona magic. There is nothing like the combination of flowing water, tall golden reeds, and the dramatic desert landscape in the background. It’s a location that feels wild, open, and full of life. And if we’re really lucky, we might even get a visit from the famous wild horses that call the river home.
Best For: Adventurous families who want a session that feels truly free-spirited and natural. It's also fantastic for kids who love to explore and splash around a bit.
4. Downtown Chandler: For the Charming & Urban Family
I have a special place in my heart for Downtown Chandler. It has such a wonderful blend of historic charm and modern energy. We can find beautiful backdrops everywhere, from the classic architecture of the old San Marcos resort to the vibrant, colorful murals hidden in the alleyways. It’s a location that offers a ton of variety in just a few short blocks.
Best For: Families who want a session with a unique, charming city vibe. It's also perfect for telling a story that might end with a walk to get some ice cream at a local spot!
5. Usery Mountain Regional Park: For the Epic Desert Vibe
If you want that epic desert mountain look without the crowds of some of the more famous spots, Usery Park in Mesa is a hidden gem. It offers breathtaking views of the Goldfield Mountains and is filled with iconic saguaros. The trails are easy to access, making it a fantastic and less-stressful option for getting those stunning, wide-open Arizona views, especially at sunset.
Best For: Families who want a truly majestic desert backdrop with a bit more privacy and ease of access.
6. Bonus: The Storyteller's Choice - A Spot That's Truly You
If you want that epic desert mountain look without the crowds of some of the more famous spots, Usery Park in Mesa is a hidden gem. It offers breathtaking views of the Goldfield Mountains and is filled with iconic saguaros. The trails are easy to access, making it a fantastic and less-stressful option for getting those stunning, wide-open Arizona views, especially at sunset.
Best For: Families who want a truly majestic desert backdrop with a bit more privacy and ease of access.
I hope this guide helps you envision the perfect setting for your family's photos this year! I hope this guide helps you envision the perfect setting for your family's photos this year! No matter which you choose, the most important thing is the memories you create together.
Ready to capture your own family's story? Contact me today to book your session!
XOXO,
Azula Raun