Summer Engagement Session at Saguaro Lake
Tucked away in the beautiful desert scenery of Phoenix, Arizona, you’ll find the lovely Saguaro Lake Butcher Jones Day Use Area—a true slice of Arizona where couples can capture their love in the midst of nature’s beauty. In 2023, I had the joy of meeting Bailyn and Owen, a radiant couple whose love story began in Fort Collins, Colorado years before. They first met working at a country club in high school and fate had a way of bringing them back together years later. One of their shared passions is the great outdoors, so we decided to capture this new chapter of their lives in their new home – Phoenix, Arizona! Keep reading to see more of their gorgeous Saguaro Lake engagement photos!
Golden Hour Engagement Photos at Saguaro Lake
Saguaro Lake Photography Permit For Engagement Session
- Photography Permit: A permit is generally not required for personal use photography, including engagement sessions. However, professional photographers conducting client sessions may need a permit. Contact the Tonto National Forest for permit requirements and read more here.
- Permit Cost: Varies depending on the nature of the shoot and group size. Contact the Tonto National Forest for pricing details.
- Application Timeframe: Permit applications should be submitted at least two weeks in advance, although processing times may vary.
- Park Entrance Fee: There is a daily Tonto Pass fee required for each vehicle entering the Saguaro Lake Recreation Area, which includes the Butcher Jones Day Use Area. The pass costs $8 per vehicle per day and can be purchased at various locations near the lake or online here.
Tips for Planning Your Phoenix Engagement Photos
Planning your engagement photoshoot can be both exhilarating and overwhelming. To ensure your session at Saguaro Lake or any other stunning location in Phoenix is flawless, consider these tips:
- Choose Meaningful Locations: Select locations that resonate with your love story and reflect your personalities. Whether it’s a scenic lakeside, a charming downtown street, or a rustic desert backdrop, pick settings that feel authentic to you as a couple. For some inspiration, check out my guide to the best engagement session locations in Phoenix!
- Coordinate Outfits: Coordinate your outfits to complement each other and the chosen location. Opt for colors and styles that enhance the natural beauty of the surroundings while staying true to your personal style. For more detailed tips on choosing your engagement session outfits, check out my engagement session fashion guide!
- Embrace Candid Moments: While posed shots have their charm, some of the most memorable photos capture candid moments of genuine laughter and affection. Relax, be yourselves, and let your photographer (that could be me!) capture the magic as it unfolds naturally.
- Timing is Key: Consider the time of day for your photoshoot, aiming for the golden hour before sunset for soft, flattering light. In most cases, I suggest avoiding midday when the sun is harsh and shadows are intense.
