Sedona Engagement Photos

Sedona, Arizona is the ultimate spot for jaw-dropping engagement photos. With its stunning red rocks and epic desert views, it’s no wonder couples from all over flock here for their shoots. Whether you want a quick walk to a gorgeous location, a scenic hike, or a thrilling off-road adventure, Sedona has something for everyone.

Sedona Engagement Photo Locations

Sedona is filled with locations that will leave you breathless! There are so many different views of the red rocks and they all make perfect locations for an engagement session. Here are some of my favorite scenic spots in Sedona:

Bell Rock

For iconic Sedona views without a strenuous hike, Bell Rock is an ideal choice! A short walk takes you to the base, where you can explore and capture stunning photos against the beautiful Bell Rock or the surrounding landscape. 

Be aware that parking is limited, so visiting on a weekday during the off-season is your best bet. This striking rock formation, rising 500 feet into the sky, resembles a massive bell and is framed by Sedona’s famous red rock canyon walls. The vibrant reds and browns of Bell Rock contrast beautifully with the lush greenery, creating a perfect backdrop for your engagement photos.

Cathedral Rock

Sedona is home to many impressive red rock formations, but Cathedral Rock stands out with its striking, multi-hued striations. This majestic formation is not just a sight to behold from afar; hiking the Cathedral Rock trail gives you a closer look, but an even better view from the top.

Though the trail is less than a mile long, it’s challenging and requires some climbing, especially in the steep middle section that rises over 600 feet. The hike is best tackled in the afternoon when the eastern side of the mountain is shaded, making the journey more comfortable. Once at the top, the narrow plateau provides breathtaking views and perfect spots for engagement photos. 

For a different perspective, take a detour on Templeton Trail at the base of Cathedral Rock. This path leads through a forest, following Oak Creek to Red Rock Crossing, where you can capture stunning photos of Cathedral Rock from behind.

West Fork

West Fork Trail in Sedona’s Coconino National Forest is a peaceful trail surrounded by trees and the dramatic red rock scenery. The trail itself offers an easy stroll and you’ll navigate several stream crossings, which always adds a little adventure! For a more secluded experience and optimal lighting, plan your visit during quieter times like weekday mornings or off-season periods. Remember to respect this natural sanctuary by leaving no trace, ensuring the beauty of it endures for future couples!

Seven Sacred Pools

The Seven Sacred Pools hike in Sedona offers a moderate trek through stunning natural scenery, especially rewarding for engagement photos if timed well. These pools, carved from red sandstone and fed by seasonal streams, hold spiritual significance for local Native American communities and serve as vital watering holes for wildlife. Nestled between verdant juniper and oak trees on one side and towering red rock mountains on the other, the pools cascade into waterfalls during rainy periods, creating a picturesque backdrop. 

Accessible to hikers of all levels, including children, the hike to the pools is best enjoyed during the temperate spring and fall months, ensuring optimal weather and breathtaking landscapes for your engagement photo session.

Want to plan an elopement here in Arizona instead? Check out this guide on eloping in Phoenix!

When to Take Engagement Photos in Sedona

Sedona’s beauty shines nearly year-round, offering consistent landscapes that remain stunning regardless of the season. Unlike other regions, you won’t find stark changes like bare trees in winter, making it ideal for sessions year-round with appropriate layering for cooler months. However, summer brings daily thunderstorms and flash flood risks, making it less predictable for clear, rain-free photos. 

For the best conditions and picturesque settings, consider scheduling your engagement session during the mild and reliably beautiful spring or autumn seasons, ensuring your photos capture Sedona’s natural charm without weather interruptions.

What to Wear for Sedona Engagement Photos

When planning your wardrobe for Sedona engagement photos, opt for neutral tones that compliment the vibrant backdrop of the red rocks. These earthy hues blend beautifully with Sedona’s natural scenery. 

Comfort is key, so dress in layers to accommodate the desert’s fluctuating temperatures—from warm days to cooler evenings. Consider bringing two outfits: one casual, such as jeans and a comfortable top, and one dressier option like a nice dress or tailored pants. Changing outfits during your session is possible, but keep it to a minimum to maximize your time at each location. 

Don’t forget to pack hiking shoes for easier navigation between spots, and a light jacket if your session extends into the cooler hours post-sunset, particularly outside of summer. But most importantly, wear what makes you feel comfortable and confident for your session!

Sedona Wedding Photographer

Hi, I’m Lo, an Sedona Wedding Photographer and I will forever be obsessed with the desert vibes in Arizona! It has so much incredible natural beauty with plenty of opportunities to explore, so I’m always ready to go back. So if you’re looking for someone to help you plan your Sedona engagement photos or Sedona wedding and tell your love story, I’d love to chat!