Riparian Preserve at Water Ranch in Gilbert
The paths where the trees are big, or paths are long create great photo opportunities. Weekends are always busy here so we would have to share the space. It can make mini sessions hard.
If you have a favorite spot, or want to go ahead of time and scope one out you are welcome to.
Your House
Salt River
There are many wonderful places at the Salt River.
Water Users - there's a short trail at the very north end overlooking the river and a view of Four Peaks
Coons Bluff - amongst the trees or at the river
Granite Reef - has quick access to the river with views of Red Mountain
Sheeps Crossing - This area can get busy, but not as bad as Blue Point (across the river). There is easy river access and a lot of mature trees.
Red Mountain Park
The park has a lot of diverse places for photos. It has the lake with islands of very mature trees. On the west side there is a grassy area with some fun trees. The disc golf course on the west side also has some large boulders and fun trees as backdrops. The west side of the lake, facing east is my favorite backdrop. Down low you have a lot of desert plants, but higher you have the mature deciduous trees. Some angles at the park you can also capture the Superstition Mountains in the background.
Neighborhood Parks
There are many smaller neighborhood parks that would be perfect for photos without being photo bombed.
If that sounds appealing I can help you find one close to your home if you prefer.
The Farm at South Mountain
This is a wonderfully beautiful and peaceful place with a lot of different restaurants with Farm to table dining, a large garden, and a grove of Pecan trees.
Prior authorization and approval is required
The facility charges a $125 fee for up to 4 people and $10 per additional person.
Desert Scenery
Since we live in the desert there are some great locations for desert scenery.
Four Peaks Mountains
Usery Park
By the Salt River or Saguaro Lake
Superstition Mountains
Meridian and Lost Dutchman Blvd
Usery Trailhead to Bull Dog Canyon
San Tan Regional Park
Meridian and Guadalupe
Idaho Rd and Southern
South Mountain
Papago Park
Schnepf Farms
The farm offers numerous picturesque spots, including the "Meadow," the historic Farmhouse, and peach orchards.
Must be scheduled and approved ahead of time by Schnepf Farms. A shooting fee may apply.
During events: Photography is permitted with the purchase of admission during events like the Pumpkin and Chili Party.
Event restrictions: Outfit changes and props are not allowed during the festival.
Industrial or City Feel
Mesa Arts Center
Downtown Phoenix
Roosevelt Row
Arizona Science Center
Rustic or Western Feel
Downtown Gilbert
The Farm at South Mountain
Forest - Pine trees, firs or maples
I will travel out into the AZ mountains at no charge. I have a lot of secret places I won't divulge online. If you don't have a favorite spot, I can help you find one for your perfect shots. Here are the areas I will gladly travel to:
Payson
Pine/Strawberry
Mogollon Rim
Heber
Snowflake/Taylor
Anywhere in the White Mountains
Flagstaff
Cottonwood/Camp Verde
Fall Colors
Here are the timeframes for fall colors. I will gladly travel to fall colors if I have availability.
USE THIS LEAF-OMETER TO FIND WHERE THE COLORS ARE AT:
https://www.flagstaffarizona.org/plan-your-trip/leafometer/
Flagstaff - Aspens changing 10/4 - 10/25
Oak Creek Canyon - Maples, Oaks, Locust and Apples - October
Tonto Creek & Christopher Creek - Maples, Oaks, locust - Late October
Camp Verde & Cottonwood - Late October to early November
White Mountains - Aspens, maples in the city - October