I'm so excited to share this recent engagement shoot that was an absolute blast! I had the pleasure of capturing an amazing couple in Twentynine Palms, California, and one of my all-time favorite spots for engagement photos is the gorgeous Joshua Tree National Park! This blog serves as a guide to your Joshua Tree engagement, highlighting all the incredible spots and moments we captured. We had such a great time exploring and laughing together, making memories that I can't wait to share. Seriously, there's something so special about these moments that gets me so excited!

Discovering Unique Locations for Engagement Photo Ideas

This spot is amazing! Twentynine Palms and Joshua Tree offer such a variety of landscapes that make the perfect backdrop for engagement photos. I mean, just imagine stunning rock formations and charming local airbnbs, all coming together to create a dreamy setting!

We kicked things off at The Adobe @ Ramsey 29, this adorable Airbnb that’s attached to a really cool motel. It was super cozy and provided the perfect vibe for some fun, relaxed moments. We had casual outfits, and the couple’s adorable furry friends joined in on the fun, which made for some seriously cute shots. Don’t get me started on the tequila shots and that gorgeous bouquet from The Mad Florist!

Capturing the Adventure in Joshua Tree National Park

Next up, we headed into Joshua Tree National Park to catch the sunset, and let me tell you, it was absolutely breathtaking! We started at the less crowded Split Rock Loop trail—such a hidden gem! Then we couldn’t resist stopping by Skull Rock, which is super popular, before wrapping up our adventure at Cap Rock. The flow of hopping around the park made the whole experience laid-back and adventurous, which is totally my jam. Plus, the stunning scenery provided endless opportunities for capturing those wow moments that you just want to frame and keep forever!

What to Expect During Your Engagement Photo Session

Expect a laid-back flow where we hop between beautiful locations in 1.5-3 hours of non-stop laughter and fun, often capturing you in 1-2 outfits! I always aim to plan around golden hour—that magical time just before sunset when the light is soft and dreamy. To top it all off, photos are frozen in time, both digitally and on film, in a comprehensive gallery delivered to you in just 2-3 weeks. You get 100-250 digital images plus 36-72 stunning film photos.

One of my favorite parts of these engagement photo sessions is how they often end with a celebratory dinner!! This is the perfect time to chat about all things wedding-related, answer questions, and spend quality time together. I like to think of it as a mini-date that replaces the typical consultation, allowing us to connect on a more personal level before the wedding day. Many couples use their engagement pictures for ‘save the dates’ or as decor for their various celebrations leading up to the big day.

It’s All About Personalizing Your Engagement Photo Shoot

I truly believe engagement shoots should be fun and a reflection of YOUR love story! To make the most out of your session, I send out a couple's questionnaire about a month before the shoot, and I encourage you to respond via video! This labor of love really helps me understand your dynamic—it’s like a sneak peek into your world while serving as a sweet keepsake of your relationship!

We’ll chat about outfits, plan a mood/vision board, and discuss any fun ideas you’ve got in mind. And the best part? You can reach out anytime—text, call, or voice memo me with your thoughts and questions. I'm here for all the details, big and small!

Engagement Shoot Captured On Film Photography

FAQs About Engagement Photos at Joshua Tree National Park

What time of year is best for an engagement shoot at Joshua Tree?

Spring and fall are definitely the optimal times to visit Joshua Tree. The weather is gorgeous, and the park is at its most photogenic! The fall is considered a "Shoulder season" when you can expect less crowds & cooler weather!

What are some top locations for engagement photos in Joshua Tree?

Joshua Tree is filled with stunning spots! Be sure to check out Hidden Valley for its beautiful rock formations, Barker Dam for a unique desert lake vibe, and Keys View for breathtaking panoramic views. Cholla Cactus Garden offers a cute cactus backdrop, while Jumbo Rocks is perfect for those iconic desert shots. Each of these locations brings something special to your engagement photos!

How can we make the most out of this shoot?

Think of it as a mini-vacation!! Arrive a day early to enjoy the local sights and relax. Engage fully during the shoot by being yourselves. Have some poses in mind, but leave plenty of room for spontaneity. And post-shoot, let's grab a bite together to savor the experience.

(These photos below were taken on film!!!)

Can we bring props or our fur babies?

Absolutely! Bringing personal items, props, or even your furry friends can add a unique touch and make the experience even more memorable. Just let your photographer know in advance so they can plan accordingly!

Book Me as Your Adventurous Engagement Photographer

Creating a space for you to express your love authentically is the heart of my work. As a photographer specializing in film photography, I LOVE capturing those timeless moments that tell your unique story. My goal is to offer not just incredible engagement photo ideas but an unforgettable experience!!

Fill out my contact form today, and let’s plan your adventurous shoot! I can’t wait to hear your love story and bring all that OOEY GOOEY GOODNESS TO LIFE!!

If you’re looking for inspiration for your destination wedding in California, check out my latest blog!

Engagement Photo Ideas for an Adventurous Getaway In California