Arizona is one of the most beautiful states in the US. From the majestic Grand Canyon to the red rocks of Sedona, there is so much to see and enjoy in this sunny state. But what makes Arizona truly special is its diverse landscape. Whether you’re hiking through the desert or exploring a forest, there’s always something new to discover. And with so many different types of plants and animals, Arizona is a nature lover’s paradise. With its stunning scenery, endless outdoor activities, and fiery red sunsets, all photographers, from hobbyists to professionals, are sure to find something they love. To help narrow down the list and give you some inspiration, here are the best photography spots in Arizona.
The majority of the photos below are from the Wedding Maps list of best wedding photographers in Arizona and used with permission from the photographers.
Grand Canyon
The Grand Canyon is one of the most beautiful places on Earth, making it one of the best photography spots in Arizona. Carved over the course of millions of years by the Colorado River, the canyon is a vast and stunning sight. Its steep cliffs, winding rivers, and vibrant colors are unlike anything else on the planet. And its size is truly breathtaking—at nearly one mile deep and eighteen miles wide, the Grand Canyon is one of the largest canyons in the world. Whether you’re standing on its rim or rafting through its waters, the Grand Canyon is sure to take your breath away. The main challenge for photographers is finding angles and concepts that haven’t been photographed and posted online a million other times.
Horseshoe Bend (Inside of the Grand Canyon)
Horseshoe Bend is a big bend in the Colorado River located near Page, Arizona. It’s a very popular spot for tourists to visit and take pictures, making it one of the best photography spots in Arizona . The red rocks contrast nicely with the green of the trees and the blue of the sky. It’s definitely a place everyone should see at least once in their lifetime with their cameras in tow.
Havasu Falls
Located in the Havasupai Indian Reservation, Havasu Falls plunges 100 feet over a bright red cliff into a pool of blue-green water. The contrast between the vivid colors is truly breathtaking. Visitors can hike to Havasu Falls year-round, but the best time to see the falls is during the late spring when the water flow is at its peak. People come from all over to experience the beauty of Havasu Falls, and it is easy to see why. Whether you are looking for a place to hike, swim, or simply take in the sights, Havasu Falls is a must-see (and must photograph) destination.
Antelope Canyon
Antelope Canyon is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the American Southwest. The canyon is located on Navajo land near Page, Arizona. It is known for its unique geology, which includes red sandstone formations that have been carved out by wind and water over millions of years. Visitors can experience the beauty of Antelope Canyon by hiking, camping, or taking a scenic tour. The canyon is a popular destination for photographers, as its unique rock formations provide a unique backdrop for pictures. Whether you’re looking to appreciate the natural beauty of the canyon or capture some unforgettable photos, Antelope Canyon is sure to leave a lasting impression.
Sedona
Sedona, Arizona is a small town located about two hours north of Phoenix. The town is surrounded by red rocks and has a population of slightly over 10,000 people. Although Sedona is a relatively small town, it is a popular tourist destination because of the tranquil vibe of the town. People come from all over the world to see the beautiful red rocks and to experience the unique desert landscape. There are many hiking trails in Sedona that offer jaw dropping views of the surrounding area. In addition, the town is home to several art galleries and shops. Visitors can also take jeep tours or go horseback riding. Be sure to bring your camera to one of the many beautiful photo spots in this town.
Devils bridge trailhead (within Sedona)
Devils Bridge Trailhead is one of the most popular hiking trails in Sedona, and it’s easy to see why. The red rocks and cliffs provide a stunning backdrop for a hike, and the views from the top of Devils Bridge are simply breathtaking. The trail itself is relatively easy to follow and is well-marked, making it a great option for hikers of all experience levels. Whether you’re looking for a challenging hike or just a leisurely stroll, Devils Bridge Trailhead is sure to please. If you’re taking photos here, be sure to account for the hike in and out of the trail so that you don’t get caught out there after sunset without any light.
Cathedral Rock (within Sedona)
The towering red rock formations of Cathedral Rock are truly a sight to behold. But what makes Cathedral Rock truly unique is its geology. The rock formations are made up of Schnebly Hill sandstone, which is known for its interesting layering. This type of sandstone is also relatively soft, which means it’s easily eroded by wind and water. over time, this erosion has created the signature redrock formations that make Cathedral Rock so distinctive. So when you’re admiring the beauty of Cathedral Rock, you’re also witnessing the power of erosion. This is truly one of the best photography spots in Arizona, especially for wedding and engagement photography, as you can see from the example below.
Desert Botanical Garden (in Phoenix)
The Desert Botanical Garden is a one-of-a-kind experience, offering visitors the chance to see a wide variety of cacti and other desert plants up close. Located in Phoenix, the garden features more than 50,000 plants, including more than 4,000 cacti. The garden also offers a variety of educational programs and events, making it the perfect place to learn about desert plant life. In addition to its unique collection of plants, the Desert Botanical Garden is also home to a variety of birds, reptiles, and other animals. With so much to see and do, the Desert Botanical Garden is a must-visit for anyone interested in learning about desert Ecology. While you need a permit for professional photography, it’s well worth it!
Lost Dutchman State Park
The Lost Dutchman State Park is a state park located in the Superstition Mountains of Arizona. The park is named after the legend of the Lost Dutchman, a man who is said to have hidden a treasure in the mountains. The park covers an area of 6,300 acres and is home to a variety of plants and animals. The main attractions of the park are the Apache Trail, which winds through the mountains, and the Superstition Wilderness, which is a large area of wilderness that includes hiking trails and campgrounds. The Lost Dutchman State Park is a popular destination for hikers, campers, natural lovers, and of course, photographers of all levels.
Ashley Castle
Ashley Castle is a beautiful wedding venue located in Chandler, Arizona. With its classic, regal architecture and picturesque grounds, Ashley Castle is the perfect setting for an unforgettable wedding day. The Castle is also available, with a permit, for engagement, pre-wedding, and styled photo shoots.
The castle features a variety of unique indoor and outdoor spaces, including a grand ballroom, an intimate chapel, and a secluded courtyard. Whether you are planning a small gathering or a large celebration, Ashley Castle has the perfect space to accommodate your needs. In addition to its breathtaking surroundings, Ashley Castle also offers convenient access to all of the best that Chandler has to offer. With its central location and easy freeway access, Ashley Castle is the perfect place to host your Chandler wedding.
Saguaro National Park
Saguaro National Park is a unique and beautiful place to visit and one of the best photography spots in Arizona. The park is located in the Sonoran Desert, in southern Arizona. The desert is home to many different types of plants and animals, including the saguaro cactus. Saguaro National Park is named for this cactus, which can grow to be over 40 feet tall! The park is also home to other desert plants, such as Joshua trees and Palo Verde trees. Animals that can be found in the park include desert bighorn sheep, coyotes, and jackrabbits. Visitors to Saguaro National Park can enjoy hiking, camping, picnicking, and ranger-led programs.
Watson Lake
Nestled in the heart of the Granite Dells, Watson Lake is one of Arizona’s hidden gems. The lake is named for pioneer rancher James Watson, who built a homestead in the area in the late 1800s. Today, Watson Lake is a popular spot for hiking, fishing, and picnicking. The scenic setting is also a popular spot for photography and birdwatching. Visitors can hike to the top of nearby Prescott Peak for panoramic views of the lake and the surrounding desert landscape. Or they can explore one of the many miles of trails that wind through the granite formations. Whether you’re looking for a challenging hike or a relaxing day in nature, Watson Lake is sure to please. Be sure to bring your camera for some out-of-this-world photos.
Monument Valley
Monument Valley is a truly beautiful place and one of the most unique landscapes in the world. Situated in the heart of the desert, it is home to some of the most incredible rock formations in the world. The soaring red cliffs, towering buttes, and winding canyons are unlike anything else on earth. Additionally, the valley is teeming with wildlife, from lizards and snakes to eagles and coyotes. The area is also rich in Native American history, with numerous archaeological sites dotting the landscape. It is no wonder that Monument Valley is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the Southwest. Whether you are an adventurer seeking thrills or simply looking to enjoy the incredible scenery, Monument Valley is sure to leave you mesmerized.
Other Locations to Consider
There are many things that make Arizona beautiful. With such diverse landscapes, from the red rocks of Sedona to the towering saguaros of the Sonoran Desert, you won’t run out of places to photograph. While this article only explored a few of the best photography spots in Arizona, here are a list of more locations to consider. For more photo locations, see these Arizona Wedding Venues and Arizona Engagement Session Locations.
- Canyon de Chelly National Monument
- Hoover Dam
- Saguaro National Park
- Organ Pipe Cactus National Monument
- Chiricahua National Monument
- Goldfield Ghost Town
- Downtown Roosevelt Row
- Cave Creek
- Boyce Thompson Arboretum
Whether you’re hiking through one of the state’s many national parks or simply enjoying a picnic in your own backyard, make sure to bring your camera to photograph all of the natural beauty.
