More than just the desert landscapes, Arizona is filled with natural beauty, making it ideal for engagement photos!

Arizona Engagement Photos Guide

Engagement photos in Arizona means an amazing variety of equally beautiful backdrops to choose from. This state is so diverse that you can choose between the peaceful forests in Flagstaff, the city desert vibe in Phoenix, or the incredible red rocks in Sedona. All of these locations offer something completely different, but all make stunning backdrops for engagemetn photos! You’re sure to find exactly what vibe you’re looking for here for your session!

Arizona Engagement Photos Locations

Arizona is filled with the most flawless landscapes, with the wide open desert views, cacti, red rocks, and even the wooded mountain areas in the northern part of the state. Choosing where to do your engagement photos all depends on the type of vibe you have envisioned for your session. So here are a few popular and stunning locations around Arizona that would all make a great choice for your engagement photos!

Scottsdale

Scottsdale has no shortage of amazing places to take your engagement photos! You could go for a fun, city feel by wandering through Old Town Scottsdale, choose a hotel to stay at like Sonder the Monarch (like we did for this session) or the Omni Resort & Spa and make the most of their gorgeous spaces, or head over to the Desert Botanical Garden for a backdrop filled with stunning desert plants. Scottsdale is the perfect place to explore with your person!

Lost Dutchman State Park

Lost Dutchman State Park is one of Arizona’s most breathtaking spots, with the dramatic Superstition Mountains in the background and desert views filled with cacti all around. The park is so spacious that it’s easy to find a quiet, tucked-away area for photos without the crowds. Plus, its close proximity to Phoenix, Scottsdale, and Mesa makes it a super convenient choice if you’re planning your session in the Valley.

Sedona

If you’re looking for the most unforgettable scenery for your engagement photos, Sedona is hard to beat. The red rock formations are truly one-of-a-kind, and with so many beautiful spots for photos, you have endless options to choose from. It’s also the perfect place to turn your photo shoot into a getaway. Spend time exploring Sedona’s incredible restaurants and boutique shops, or, if you’re up for an adventure, head out on a hike to iconic spots like Cathedral Rock, Bell Rock, or Devil’s Bridge. Not only will you come away with stunning photos, but you’ll also create lasting memories in one of Arizona’s most magical places.

Horseshoe Bend

Horseshoe Bend, just outside of Page, Arizona, is one of those bucket-list spots that makes for breathtaking engagement photos. After a quick walk, you have panoramic views of the Colorado River winding through massive sandstone cliffs, which is unforgettable. While it does take a little adventure to get there, the payoff is incredible, and the setting often feels surprisingly private. It’s no wonder this landmark has become such a beloved destination for couples and travelers alike!

Saguaro National Park 

With the saguaro cacti and expansive desert views, this park offers one of the most quintessential Arizona backdrops for engagement photos. It is divided into two sections, East and West, each offering their own unique, but equally beautiful settings. The mix of cacti and a golden sunset couldn’t make a more gorgeous background for photos!

When to Take Arizona Engagement Photos

Arizona offers different experiences depending on the season and location you choose for your engagement photos. It all depends on the vibe that you’re looking for! So let’s cover what each season can be like here in Arizona.

Spring (March to April): Spring is really beautiful in desert areas, where wildflowers bloom with comfortably warm temperatures. It can be especially beautiful in early spring, like March, where you have the cooler temps of winter lingering and you have the opportunity to just explore the area without worrying about heat!

Summer (June to August): Summers can be scorching hot, especially in places like Phoenix. Opt for higher elevation locations such as Flagstaff or Sedona, or plan for a late evening session to escape the midday heat. But if you’re planning a session in Scottsdale or Phoenix area, you’ll probably want to avoid the months of June-August (and sometimes May & September as well!)

Fall (September to November): Fall brings cooler temperatures and vibrant foliage, especially in northern Arizona. The weather during this season is generally beautiful across the state, although the warm temps of summer are still there in September and October typically. Choose a late fall session if you are looking for fall foliage in Phoenix, or head up north in early fall where the weather is already dropping, making it truly gorgeous!

Winter (December to February): Winters are mild in southern Arizona, making desert locations perfect for a cozy winter engagement session. In northern Arizona, expect colder temperatures and the possibility of snow, which is pretty magical in Flagstaff and Sedona.

What to Wear for Arizona Engagement Photos

When it comes to choosing outfits for your Arizona engagement session, it’s important to think about both the season and the setting. In the warmer months, lightweight fabrics will keep you cool, while in higher elevations or during cooler times of year, having a few layers on hand is always a smart idea.

For couples planning an adventurous shoot, like hiking to a lookout or tucked-away spot, comfortable shoes are a must. You can always pack your photo outfits in a bag and change once you’ve arrived at the location, so you’re both comfortable and ready for photos.

Since Arizona’s landscapes are already filled with bold colors and striking textures, simple and neutral clothing usually works best. Earth tones, whites, and soft blues photograph beautifully without competing with the backdrop. Solid colors are often the way to go, as patterns can feel busy against such dramatic scenery. But always wear what you feel most confident in for the most enjoyable session!

Arizona Wedding Photographer

Hi, I’m Chloe, an Arizona Elopement Photographer + Destination Photographer! Arizona is one of my absolute favorite engagement photo locations because of its natural beauty. I am here to guide you through the entire process while capturing every candid and heartfelt moment of your adventure. Ready to chat more? Let’s do this dang thang! Connect with me here.