2022 location guide by luxeandcophotography

The

2021

e id

o i t n a Gu c Lo

Luxe & Co. Photography

Your guide to choosing the perfect photo location.

Tucson, Phoenix, & Sedona

Arizona

The Location Guide This magazine is your guide to picking the perfect location for your unique photo session. Each location has been carefully selected by me as an Ideal place for taking photos.

Table of CONTENTS Tucson, AZ Locations

Locations in the Tucson area

Phoenix, AZ Locations Locations in the Phoenix area

Sedona, AZ Locations

Locations In the Sedona area

Tips for picking the perfect outfit

How to build the perfect outfit for your session

FAQ's All of your questions, answered!

This Is the start of creating your session. Picking

Picking Your Location

your location will determine the vibe and mood of your photos. You want to pick a location that speaks to your style.

The

Location Guide

Tucson, AZ Locations

Gates Pass

Tucson, AZ

Gates Pass A little bit about the location Located in the western part of Tucson’s Saguaro National Park, Gates pass offers a classic Arizona desert landscape. With the best golden light at sunset, this makes for a great evening location. Gates Pass does draw quite the crowd, so weekdays are a recommended.

Outfit Advice Recommended colors: Olives, rust, creams, denim, blush tones, and maroon. Layered denim and other textured outfits like corduroy really pop in this location. Formal outfits also make for dramatic and dreamy photos here. There is very uneven ground so heels are not recommended. If you will be wearing heels, a pair of walking shoes is recommended for the small hike to the shooting location.

Directions If you type in “Gates Pass Trailhead” your maps service will give you the correct directions. Parking fills quickly so keep an eye out for empty spots!

Broarday Trailhead

Tucson, AZ

Broadway Trailhead A little bit about the location Broadway Trailhead is located just outside of Saguaro National Park East. This location offers a lush desert landscape with the Rincon mountains in the background and tons of desert flora like wildflowers, cacti, and juniper trees. Broadway Trailhead is gorgeous at sunrise and sunset, though I am partial to sunrise sessions here. It's quiet and magical.

Outfit Advice Recommended colors: Olive, rust, mustard, creams, denim, and blush tones. Layered denim and other textured outfits like corduroy really pop in this location. Heels are possible here, but tit may limit where we can go for your portraits.

Directions If you type “Broadway Trail Head” into your maps service will give you the correct directions. Parking will be on the left in a dirt lot in between the road.

Sanctuary Cove

Tucson, AZ

Sanctuary Cove A little bit about the location Nestled between Tucson and Marana, this locations offers a stunning desert landscape with warm golden light at sunset. This location is best for an evening sunset session, but can also work for a sunrise session. Sanctuary Cove is a popular hiking spot in town, so it can get busy. Arriving a few minutes early is recommended just in case you have to wait for parking (there is a $25 permit fee as well).

Outfit Advice Anything neutral works here! Olives, rust, creams, dark and light blues, blush tones, and maroon. Layering and accessories will add visual interest and help make you stand out. There is uneven ground so heels are not recommended. If you will be wearing heels, a pair of walking shoes is recommended for the small hike to the shooting location.

Directions Typing "Sanctuary Cove" into your GPS should give you the correct location. Starting on N. Silverbell Road, Turn left onto Continental Reserve Loop, in 0.5 miles Turn right onto W Pima Farms Rd. Turn left onto N Scenic Dr after 0.8 miles. Continue on this road for 0.4 miles, then turn left on W Staggs Dr. Stay on W. Staggs Drive for 0.2 miles, and Sanctuary cove will be on the left hand side.

Sonoita

Sonoita, AZ

Sonoita A little bit about the location About an hour south of Tucson, Sointa has exquisite rolling hills and lush grasslands that offer the perfect location for a more dreamy photo session. This location is best for an evening sunset session, as the golden hour hues here are otherworldly.

Outfit Advice Anything neutral works here, but a pop of color really gives a glam look! Olives, rust, creams, dark blues, blush tones, and browns. Minimalism in terms of layers and accessories is best here. Light and flowy materials will really catch the wind and ad some drama to the photos. There is uneven ground so heels are not recommended. If you will be wearing heels, a pair of walking shoes is recommended for the small walk to the shooting location.

Directions Typing "Sonoita, AZ" Into your GPS will get you close. I will send you a direct pin to the location prior to your session so you know exactly where to meet me. Being that this location is in a more descolate area, the pin will take you to the exact spot.

Windy Point

Tucson, AZ

Windy Point Vista A little bit about the location Windy Point is easily one of my favorite location in Tucson. It offers sunsets like nothing you’ve ever seen! Windy Point is an impeccable lookout on Mount Lemmon that has views over the Catalina Mountains. Weekends tend to be VERY crowded so weekdays are recommended. This location is great for late spring and summer, since it often has cooler temperatures. Though, Windy Point is gorgeous year round!

Outfit Advice Recommended colors: Olive, black, mustard, creams, navy, and blush tones. Great for dramatic and formal outfits. Long, flowy dresses with lots of movement make for great photos here. Heels and uncomfortable shoes are not recommended here due to very uneven ground. If you are wearing heals, It Is recommended to bring a comfortable pair of shoes for walking, then changing Into your heals.

Directions If you type “Windy Point Vista” into your maps service will give you the correct directions. There is parking on both sides of the road, but can fill quickly, as a lot of people come here to watch the sunset.

Downtown Rooftop

Tucson, AZ

Downtown Rooftop A little bit about the location If you're looking for an urban feel without all the chaos of being downtown, this downtown roof top Is the perfect location. It has a great view of downtown Tucson to the East, and to the west you can see A Mountain. This location Is going to be best In the evening or early morning.

Outfit Advice Recommended colors: Black, white, greys, tan, browns, and jeans all look great here. Simple Is going to be better. A minimalistic approach to your outfits will really make this location stand out In your photos. Layers and accessories like hats and jewelry can really step up your outfit too. This Is more of a casual outfit kind of location, but a flowy dress would be beautiful too.

Directions I will send you a location pin to the garage, as the GPS doesn't always take you to the right place.

Middle Bear

Tucson, AZ

Middle Bear A little bit about the location Middle bear Is a whimsical little place about half way up Mount Lemmon. Middle bear is perfect if you're looking to escape the heat for a little while. It Is also an ever changing location. Some parts of the year It Is more brown and dry, while other parts of the year It Is lush and green. There are tons of trees and lots of tall grass all year round though. No matter what It looks like, Its beautiful year round!

Outfit Advice Recommended colors: White, brown, olive, tan, jeans, creams, and greys. Solid colors with texture work well In this location. You can also add layers to amp up your outfit since It Is significantly cooler here. Long, flowy dresses, jean jackets, cardigans, scarfs, all those things look great and can help take your outfit to the next level. The ground here Is a bit uneven, so heals are not recommended, but bring a pair of walking shoes if you plan to change Into them for photos.

Directions I will send you a location pin to the area, but If you type Middle Bear Into your GPS, It should take you to the correct location.This spot does get busy, so plan to leave early just In case you have to wait for parking or park up the road.

Sabino Canyon

Tucson, AZ

Sabino Canyon A little bit about the location Sabino Canyon has one of Tucson's most iconic desert landscapes, offering lush desert greenery and a breathtaking golden hour. With the Catalina Mountains in the background, this location is best for an evening session when the sun makes the cacti glow. This location is fairly isolated, so it isn't ideal for a session with multiple locations. Sabino Canyon has an $8 parking fee as well.

Outfit Advice Recommended colors: Olives, rust, creams, charcoal, denim, blush, and maroon. Layered denim and other textured outfits like corduroy really pop in this location. Heels are possible here, but there is a little uneven ground in some spots. If you’re wearing heels, a chunky heel is best.

Directions Search “Sabino Canyon Recreation Area” in your GPS, and it will give you the correct directions! Head north on Wilmot Road, follow it as it turns onto Tanque Verde Blvd. From there, take a left on Sabino Canyon Road. In 2 miles take a right to stay on Sabino Canyon Road. The entrance will be on the right in 2 miles..

San Xavier

Tucson, AZ

San Xavier A little bit about the location San Xavier Is the oldest Intact european structure In Arizona, where construction began In 1783. This location Is unique In that It has beautiful masonry vaults, giving It an Interesting look for a spanish style building. This location Is beautiful for a couples session where you don't want the typical desert landscape of arizona, but still want that arizona feel. San xavier Is best for evening or sunrise sessions during the week. Weekend sessions are not available unless you can get permission from the pastor.

Outfit Advice Recommended colors: White, rust, creams, black, denim, olive, and maroon. Unique pieces work really well here. Fringe, sparkle, lace, different textures all compliment the location so feel free to get funky with It. A Southwest vibe Is also great here, as It brings a fun element of playfulness and romance to your photos.

Directions Search “San Xavier Mission” in your GPS, and it will give you the correct directions! We will meet In the parking area on the west side of the main building.

Bear Wallow

Tucson, AZ

Bear Wallow A little bit about the location Bear Wallow Is a a forest type location closer to the top of Mount Lemmon. Bear Wallow is perfect if you're looking for something a little different than the typical desert location. It Is pretty green In the summer and offers gorgeous fall colors In the fall. Bear Wallow has a cute little meadow area, as well as cascading pines, aspen trees, and lush tall grass. It's got a romantic feel but It's also perfect for families and pets.

Directions

I will send you a location pin to the spot near the meadow, as the GPS doesn't always take you to the right place.

Empire Ranch

Sonoita, AZ

Empire Ranch A little bit about the location About an hour south of Tucson, in Sointa Is where you will find Empire Ranch. If youre looking for that western vibe, this location Is perfect. There's a couple of old barns, exquisite rolling hills and lush grasslands that offer the perfect location for a dreamy western photo session. This location is best for an evening sunset session, as the golden hour hues here are otherworldly.

Outfit Advice Anything neutral works here. Olives, rust, creams, dark blues, blush tones, and browns. Layers and accessories like a cowboy hat, large turquise type jewelry, and jackets work well here. Light and flowy materials will really catch the wind and ad some romance to the photos. There is uneven ground so heels are not recommended. If you will be wearing heels, a pair of walking shoes is recommended for the small walk to the shooting location.

Directions If you type "Empire Ranch" into your GPS, it will take you to the correct location. I will also send you a location pin to the ranch just In case.

Phoenix, AZ Locations

Lost Dutchman

Gold Canyon, AZ

Lost Dutchman A little bit about the location Lost Dutchman Is an Iconic desert location. It Is located neer apache junction In Gold Canyon. This location features a dramatic mountain with unique textures. At sunset, the mountain takes on an orange and purple color that Is just mezmerizing. If you're looking for a desert location with a bit more to offer than just cacti, this Is It!

Outfit Advice Anything neutral works here! Olives, rust, creams, soft whites, blush tones, and mustard. Layering and accessories will add visual interest and help make you stand out. There is uneven ground so heels are not recommended. If you will be wearing heels, a pair of walking shoes is recommended for the small hike to the shooting location.

Directions I will send you a location pin to the spot near the meadow, as the GPS doesn't always take you to the right place. Side note: You will turn onto a dirt road just before the parking lot. The road Is well maintained and easy to navigate, but parking does fill up quickly In peak season.

White Tanks

Waddell, AZ

White Tanks Mountains A little bit about the location The White Tanks are located west of phoenix In the Buckey area. This location features beautiful mountains with a classic desert background. Sunset offers a creamy haze like golden light that is just beautiful. This location is best for an evening sunset session, but can also work for a sunrise session. Being that this photo location Is fairly Isolated, It Is not Ideal for a session with multiple locations. (There Is an entrance fee of $7)

Outfit Advice Recommended colors: Olives, rust, creams, charcoal, denim, blush, and maroon. Layered denim and other textured outfits like lace really pop in this location. Heels are possible here, but there is a little uneven ground in some spots. If you’re wearing heels, a chunky heel is best. If you will be wearing heels, a pair of walking shoes is recommended for the small hike to the shooting location.

Directions

We will meet at the White Tanks Mountan LIbrary. From there you will follow me Into the park to the shooting location. There Is an entrance fee of $7

Boyce Thompson Arboretum

Superior, AZ

Boyce Thompson Arboretum A little bit about the location Boyce Thompson Arboretum Is a hidden gem described as a lush beauty of the upland sonoran desert. It Is Arizona's oldest and largest botanical garden. This location features many "collections" from the worlds deserts spread across miles of trails as well as a great view of Queen Creek Canyon. It Is quite the enchanting place! The foliage here Is ever changing with the seasons and also offers a bit of an escape from the heat, being that It Is about 10 degrees cooler than the central phoenix area. (There Is an entrance fee of $15/ person)

Outfit Advice Recommended colors: Olives, rust, creams, charcoal, denim, blush, and pastels. Solid colors with texture work well In this location. You can also add layers to amp up your outfit since It Is significantly cooler here. Long, flowy dresses, jean jackets, cardigans, hats, all those things look great and can help take your outfit to the next level. The ground here Is a bit uneven and consists of a decent amount of walking, so heals are not recommended, but bring a pair of walking shoes if you plan to change Into them for photos.

Directions

Located about 30 minutes from Mesa, If you type Boyce Thompson Arboretum Into your GPS, It will take you to the correct location. We will meet at the front near the admission area.

Downtown Phoenix

Superior, AZ

Boyce Thompson Arboretum A little bit about the location If you're looking for an urban feel without all the chaos of being downtown, a downtown roof top Is the perfect location. It offers a great view of the skyscrapers, and the surpunding city buildings . This location Is going to be best In the evening or early morning.

Outfit Advice Recommended colors: Black, white, greys, tan, browns, and jeans all look great here. Simple Is going to be better. A minimalistic approach to your outfits will really make this location stand out In your photos. Layers and accessories like hats and jewelry or patterned jackets will help to add visial interest to your outfits. This Is more of a casual outfit kind of location, but a formal dress would add a lot of drama to the location.

Directions I will send you a location pin to the garage, as the GPS doesn't always take you to the right place.

Salt River

Mesa, AZ

Salt River A little bit about the location If your Ideal location has a lush desert background and water, this Is the one for you! This area of the salt river Is located In Mesa, about 30 minutes away from central phoenix. You get the classic desert scenery combined with the salt river to help escape the heat a little! It doesnt get much better than that!

Outfit Advice Recommended colors: Olives, rust, creams, charcoal, denim, blush, and maroon. Layered denim, flow dresses, and other textured outfits like corduroy really bring this location to life. Heels are possible here, but there is a little uneven ground in some spots. If you’re wearing heels, a chunky heel is best. If you plan on getting In the water for your session (highly suggested), be sure to bring water shoes or sandals, as the rocks are slippery.

Directions I will send you a location pin to the meeting spot, as the GPS doesn't always take you to the right place. This location has 2 different spots that we will drive to.

Sedona, AZ Locations

Airport Mesa

Sedona, AZ

Airport Mesa A little bit about the location This Is the one place In sedona where you can get a 360 degree view of the whole town. You can literally see EVERYTHING. Featuring the classic Sedona red rocks, unique trees, and over all good energy, this location Is quite dreamy. It Is a very popular location so a sunrise session Is best to avoid the crowds. Minimal hiking Is Involved to get to the location, so keep that In mind.

Outfit Advice Recommended colors: Olives, rust, creams, mustard, browns, and tans. Earth tones are always a top choice in Sedona. They are perfect to tie in with the intensity of the red rock color. Layered denim, flow dresses, simplistic accessories are best. Heels are possible here, but It Is best to wear a pair of comfortable shoes for the hike, then change Into your heals once we start shooting.

Directions

I will send you a location pin to the meeting spot, as the GPS doesn't always take you to the right place. There is limited parking half way up Airport Rd. (on the left). For those able to do a longer hike, there is a large parking area at the top of Airport Rd. (on the left).

Chavez Crossing

Sedona, AZ

Chavez Crossing A little bit about the location Chavez Crossing Is a beautiful location featuring Oak Creek. The creek Is canopied by huge trees offering lots of shade and a very romantic vibe. This location does not offer the views of the Sedona red rocks, but It Is still one to be noted. Most deal for an afternoon or early evening session. This location Is popular on the weekends and in the summer, as the creek offers a refreshing adventure out of the hot desert sun.

Outfit Advice Recommended colors: White, jeans, creams, pastels, browns, and tans. Light, breathable pieces are going to add a romantic and playful vibe to this location. Layered pieces, flowy dresses/ tops, and simplistic accessories are best. Sandals or shoes you dont mind getting wet are best. The rocks can be slippery, but not too bad. If you want to go In bare foot, you can.

Directions

I will send you a location pin to the meeting spot, as the GPS doesn't always take you to the right place. There is limited parking so arriving a few minutes early to snag a spot Is a good Idea.

Devils Bridge

Sedona, AZ

Devils Bridge A little bit about the location Devils Bridge Is a standout In Sedona and the views are Incredible. A few things to note about htis gorgeous location: A 4 wheel drive vehicle with high clearance Is needed to get to this location. If you dont have access to one, there Is the option to hike. The hike Is moderate In dificulty and Is about 2 miles one way. Devil's Beidge Is a VERY popular location, so solitude will not be part of the experience. Sunrise Is the best time of day and there are less people on week days.

Directions I will send you a location pin to the meeting spot, as the GPS doesn't always take you to the right place.

Courthouse Vista

Sedona, AZ

Courthouse Vista A little bit about the location Courthouse Vista Is the perfect location for anyone wanting one of Sedonas most well know rock formations In the back ground. You can see Bell Rock and all of Its glory from this location, and Its Incredible. So you get get all the glory of Bell Rock without having to make the strenuous hike to the top. There are many different trails to take at Courthouse Vista so there are plenty of options In terms of getting different scenery too. Things to note: Parking here fills up FAST, so arrive early to snag a spot.

Outfit Advice Recommended colors: Olives, rust, creams, mustard, browns, and tans. Earth tones are always a top choice in Sedona. They are perfect to tie in with the intensity of the red rock color. Layers, flowy dresses, simplistic accessories, and textures are best. You can even go a bit more casual here as well. Heels are possible here, but It Is best to wear a pair of comfortable shoes for the hike, then change Into your heals once we start shooting.

Directions I will send you a location pin to the parking area, as the GPS doesn't always take you to the right place.

Schnebly Hill Vista

Sedona, AZ

Schnebly Hill Vista A little bit about the location Schnebly Hill Vista Is HANDS DOWN my favorite location In Sedona. It Is truly something to experience. From this location, you can see Munds mountain, Airport mesa, and Chimney Rock. This location changes with the seasons, so It Is always a little different depending on the time of year. Occationally, clouds will roll In and sit below the mountains, leaving you In for a view like no other. Things to note: This location Is only accessible by high clearance 4X4 vehicles. It takes about 2 hours to drive to the top from the base of the mountain a. Schnebly Hill Vista Is best duited for an adventure session longer than 1 hour.

Outfit Advice Recommended colors: Olives, rust, creams, mustard, browns, and tans. Earth tones are always a top choice in Sedona. Minimalism in terms of layers and accessories is best here. Light and flowy materials will really catch the wind and ad some drama to the photos. There is uneven ground so heels are not recommended. If you will be wearing heels, a pair of walking shoes is recommended for the small walk to the shooting location.

Directions I will send you a location pin to the meetme and then we will make our way up the mountain together.

Super Secret Location

Sedona, AZ

Super Secret Location A little bit about the location A Hidden Gem of a location In my opinion. It's highly underrated, but consists of an Incredible view of Cathedral Rock. This location Is Ideal at sunrise, but can also work for sunset. Surrounded by trails with desert flora, It also offers a bit of a change from the red rocks to mix up your session a little bit. There is a short hike on mostly flat ground to get to the location, but It Is extremely easy. Things to note: Parking can fill up In the evenings. Weekdays are less crowded too.

Outfit Advice Recommended colors: Olives, rust, creams, mustard, browns, and black. Earth tones are always a top choice in Sedona. Minimalism in terms of layers and accessories is best here. Light and flowy materials will really catch the wind and add some romance to the photos. Caual, minimalist outfits also work well here. There is uneven ground so heels are not recommended. If you will be wearing heels, a pair of walking shoes is recommended for the small walk to the shooting location.

Directions I will send you a location pin for where to meet me.

How to Pick Tip 01

THE PERFECT OUTFIT The first rule to picking out an outfit for your photos Is to dress like the best version of yourself.

Tip 02 Tip 03

Wear an outfit that fits In with your location. Think about what colors and fabrics will really stand out.

Coordinate, but you don't have to be twins with your outfits.

More Tips Mixing Patterns can be tricky, and distracting.

Tip 04

Try to stick to a single item In a pattern. You can add Interest by bringing In textures and complimenting colors. Wear something that you would actually wear

Tip 05

In real life. As a good rule of thumb, If you wouldn't wear It on any sort of date night, you shouldnt wear It to your session.

Bring two outfits. A casual outfit and a more

Tip 06

dressy outfit. If you will only be wearing one outfit, accessories are recommended to help change up the look a bit.

Tip 07

Bring your makeup with you. Things like powder and lipstick are the Most Important for touchups.

FAQ's Should I get my hair & makeup done for my session?

What colors should I avoid wearing?

Should I go with something classic or trendy?

While It Is not required, It Is

Neon colors are the number

If you’re a style blogger, you

highly recommended. It will

one thing to avoid. A lot of

get goin with your bad self.

make you feel more confident,

people will say to avoid

But if you’re booking a shoot

and that confidence will show

wearing white, but I actually

for longevity — where these

In your photos.

think It's beautiful and can be

photos will represent your

very romantic.

love or family leave the trends at home. Trust me, ee and a belt bag years later.

What If I can't decide on an outfit?

When Is the best time to get a haircut before my session?

Picking an outfit Is hard! Bring

I always say 3 days to a week

Im cool with the rain! I have

options on the day of and I can

Is the best time to get a

super cute clear umbrellas

help you decide what to wear

haircut, especially for the guys.

we can use too.

based on our location and

If their hair Is cut too short, this

what will look best.

gives you a few days for It to grow out and look more natural.

Luxe & Co. Photography

What if It rains?