Guide to Epic Desert Engagement Photos and Planning Unique Sessions

When it comes to engagement sessions in the Pacific Northwest, there are many locations that come to mind for everybody… but there are only a handful that are left which not many people know about. These epic desert engagement photos are nearly untouched, and that’s what makes it so special. What I can say is that this location is in Eastern Washington, and a very, very long drive away from Seattle. And every mile was absolutely worth it.

Premier Desert Locations for Photography

For couples that are wanting truly unique imagery that will quite literally last your entire lifetime (and beyond), I cannot recommend these epic engagement sessions enough. For instance, Lior and Katie love adventuring to the Mojave desert of Joshua Tree, a getaway just two hours east of Los Angeles. As the sun set over the desert the two threw their heads back in laughter, wrapped up in each others’ arms, and made Joshua Tree look wild and free in the way only two people madly in love really ever could.

Additionally, the Superstition Mountains in Arizona have endless places for hiking and fall season is the most ideal time to go. The weather isn’t too warm and you are less likely to meet any slithery friends while you’re out there. What a beautiful sunny afternoon for Abby & Connor’s Phoenix desert engagement photos! When my couples trust me to explore the open desert in their date night finest, that’s when magic happens.

Expert Outfit and Styling Advice

We left no detail out – all for the pursuit of the best photographs possible. For their engagement shoot, Katie’s silky emerald green dress with spaghetti straps was such a hit! I loved the textural contrast it brought to the sandy desert floor, yucca trees, and massive tan boulders. Regarding the second outfit, Katie wore a full-length red dress where the top was a silky material and the skirt was layered with a sheer, tulle-like fabric. It gave the dress a ton of dimension and movement which was fantastic from a photography perspective.

To complement these looks, for the first outfit he wore a classic white button-down matching his high-top converse, and black pants that popped against the tan and beige colors of the desert. Lior’s second outfit paralleled Katie’s in the elevated “wow” factor, featuring a long sleeve black-button down with black pants and brown leather boots. A long flowy dress was paired so well for the sunset portion of the session with the blush tone complimenting the desert tones.

Essential Planning and Timing Tips

Part of any session is helping my clients feel as comfortable as possible. Instead of planning engagement shoots in the evenings during the desert’s hottest months, I suggest shooting at sunrise! This provides that glowy, flattering, golden-hour lighting but temperatures will be much more moderate. If sunrise isn’t your jam, you could split your session between the desert landscape and a mod Palm Springs pool photoshoot or visit during a cooler time of year, like April or October.

In my own opinion, there is no where better to watch the sunset dip below the horizon than the desert. The cactus (cholla in particular) almost glow from that sun hitting all those bushy needles. You bet I will make you go stand near them for your photos – just be careful not to touch. Furthermore, when you take engagement, elopement, or wedding photos in Joshua Tree or anywhere else, be sure to Leave No Trace. It’s important to be a good steward of special places by following proper photo regulations.

Comparison of Desert Photography Features

• Eastern Washington: Known for a peaceful setting and a unique environment that is nearly untouched and special.
• Joshua Tree: Offers a Mojave desert backdrop with yucca trees, massive tan boulders, and a wild, free atmosphere.
• Superstition Mountains: Features glowing cholla needles and Saguaros that can be three+ times as tall as a person.
• Phoenix: Best for sunny afternoon sessions in date night finest to capture magic in the open desert.