Best Photoshoot Locations in the Phoenix East Valley (Gilbert, Chandler, Mesa)
Best Photoshoot Locations in
the Phoenix East Valley
Best Places for Family Photos in Gilbert, Chandler, Mesa, and Phoenix East Valley
- A Photographers Guide.
The East Valley is full of hidden gems, that are perfect for family portraits. However choosing the perfect location for your family photos in Gilbert, AZ can feel overwhelming, but it doesn't have to be. As a family and senior photographer I have spent years exploring the East Valley, I’ve gathered my favorite spots for natural, authentic and beautiful portraits.
Whether you want desert, greenery, water, urban, textures or something that shouts Arizona. These locations offer backdrops that feel personal and timeless. Here are the best places for family photos in Gilbert and beyond, each photographer tested and family approved.
Here are the best places for family photos in Gilbert and beyond, each photographer tested and family approved.
Riparian Preserve at Water Ranch - Gilbert, AZ
If I had to pick just one spot for family sessions, Riparian Preserve would be it. This location changes constantly with the seasons, the water levels and the light, which means no two sessions look the same. You can get desert trails, tall grasses, eucalyptus trees, water reflections, bridges, and even open fields.
It is full of so much variety, making it fantastic for families who want a variety of looks without traveling to multiple locations.
Great For: families, young kids, seniors, engagement, or brand photos.
Vibe: Earthy & Natural…it shouts AZ without being too desert
Lighting: LOVE at golden hour.
Parking: Can get full on the weekends, overflow parking at the library.
Parking: Free but it can get full. Overflow parking is available at the Gilbert Regional Library right next door.
Nichols Park -Gilbert, AZ (Hidden Gem for Families) (Temporarily Closed - as of December 2025)
Nichols Park is one of those quiet, underrated spots that works beautifully for family photos—especially if you want green backgrounds without dealing with crowds. It has wide grassy areas, a pond, mature shade trees, and long pathways that are perfect for walking shots. The open sky here glows at sunset, and the light reflects beautifully off the water. It’s ideal for families with young kids because everything is close together and easy to move between.
Best for: families with little ones, maternity, simple & sweet sessions
Vibe: clean, green, peaceful, suburban
Perk: rarely crowded, easy parking
Veterans Oasis Park – Chandler, AZ
Think of Veterans Oasis as the Riparian Preserve’s quieter southern cousin. It has the same mix of desert and greenery, but also includes unique spaces like a tree grove (and yes — cherry blossoms if you catch them in bloom!). Wide walkways, fishing ponds, and big open skies make it perfect for movement-based family photos.
Best for: families with small kids, desert lovers
Vibe: desert-meets-greenery, peaceful, natural
Unique feature: cherry tree grove, huge sky views
Downtown Gilbert (Discover Downtown Gilbert):
When it’s quiet (usually weekdays or early mornings), Downtown Gilbert is a dream. You can find everything from bright white walls and modern glass windows to rustic brick textures, colorful murals, and neutral backdrops. There's even a rooftop option with the iconic Gilbert water tower in the background and strings of lights that glow after sunset. If your family likes variety or feels comfortable in an urban setting, this is a playful, unique choice.
Best for: families with teens, seniors, branding, urban-loving families
Vibe: modern, artsy, colorful, textured
Pro tip: avoid peak dining hours — it gets busy!
Tempe Town Lake & Tempe Bridge
This spot delivers modern “architecture meets Arizona” vibes. The bridge lines are stunning in photos, and the carved Arizona flag details make an iconic backdrop. There’s water, high walkway paths, and sunsets that reflect off the lake. If you want something different from your typical desert shots, this location is a great pick.
Best for: seniors, families with older kids, stylish family sessions
Vibe: modern, clean, architectural
Best time: sunset
Papago is pure Arizona. Palm trees, lakes, sweeping desert landscapes, and the famous Hole-in-the-Rock formation create an iconic backdrop. It's an excellent choice for families visiting Arizona or those who want a dramatic desert look close to home.
Best for: families, seniors, extended families
Vibe: bold desert, earthy, iconic Arizona
Bonus: water + palm trees + red rocks in one place
Desert Botanical Garden (Entrance Fee Required)
The Desert Botanical Garden is like stepping into an Arizona dream: towering cacti, unusual desert plants, modern sculptures, and artisan glass installations. It’s a mix of nature and art that photographs beautifully. There is an entrance fee, but the experience and variety are unmatched.
Best for: families wanting an elevated, artistic session
Vibe: curated desert beauty, colorful, dynamic
Perk: every corner offers a new backdrop
FREE Day once per month : must register
Salt River (Coon Bluff, Phon D Sutton, Water Users)
If you want water + reeds + desert + wildlife (hello, wild horses!), the Salt River is unforgettable. Different river access points offer different looks, from rugged rocks to sandy banks to reflective water. This spot feels peaceful and adventurous at the same time.
Best for: families, seniors, branding for Arizona businesses or adventurous couples
Vibe: river, reeds, mountains, soft golden light
Tip: sunset or early morning works best
Chandler has a cleaner, less busy version of the Downtown Gilbert vibe. Neutral walls, brick corridors, shaded alleys, and modern storefronts give you great variety without crowds. It’s perfect for families who want a simple urban feel.
Best for: families, seniors, branding
Vibe: calm urban, clean, modern
If your family loves color or murals, Downtown Mesa is full of personality. Vintage storefronts, creative art walls, tile work, and unique architecture line the streets. This area photographs best at sunrise or sunset when the sidewalks glow.
Best for: teens, families with older kids, seniors
Vibe: colorful, artistic, bold
This spot is a hidden gem — long paths, tall grasses, tree tunnels, and soft green backgrounds. It’s calm, quiet, and has beautiful natural light almost all year. If you want a soft, airy session without driving far, this is a great choice.
Best for: families, maternity, kids
Vibe: woodsy, natural, warm
If you’re looking for help choosing the perfect spot for your family photos, I’d love to guide you. Every location photographs differently depending on the season and light, and I help my clients choose what fits their family best. You can reach me here to start planning your session.
