Location is everything.
Well, mostly. It certainly is key in making sure I capture the right tone, feeling, and vibe of my vision. One of my favorite locations is the desert. I have about 2 or 3 desert locations I like to photograph at. Many locals often get sick of the desert look, but I LOVE how it shoots. When I search for a great desert location I look for a saguaro cactus and mountain ranges in the background. I love the warm tones the desert produces; it helps make skin tones look fabulous! The desert also offers some lovely lighting with some AWESOME backlighting. Another pro for desert shoots is it matches almost ANY color pallet. From pastels to earth tones, it can blend well with it all, making it one of the most versatile for family shoots.
One of my desert locations I only take older couples to (no young kids). This locations tends to be…well a little more precarious. It is cacti-fill and has rocks which are easy for kids to trip on. But the adults can handle its rugged nature. I love this particular spot because it has a beautiful range of mountain in the background.
Another desert location I photograph at is a more open desert field with these great boulders I like to use and also another pretty mountain range. I like this location because it is consistent all year round. I know exactly what I am getting each time I come.
What happens after we choose a location?
Once my client and I choose a location and we finalize outfits, I send out an email with the directions of the location. I often send a map screen shot of where to meet and where they should park to make it as seamless as possible. (Nobody wants a stressful photoshoot). And then we commence in the photographic journey.
As a side note: only people who book FULL shoots get to help pick a location. All mini shoots are photographers choice. This is because I need a location that has better lighting for a longer period of time, since I book families back to back in minis. For example, my cotton field location are super open with lots of lighting and not ideal for mini session shoots.
Now bask in the glory of the desert with these stunning images below.
People tend to overlook the desert location. But it really has this magical feel and lighting to it that really make it stand out. So remember that the next time you book.