A Desert Sunset Family Session at South Mountain: Keep doing family photos, even when your kids are Grown
Family Portraits at Sunset at South Mountain Preserve
When you picture a “family portrait session,” you might imagine young kids running around while parents wrangle them for a quick group photo. But what about when your kids are no longer toddlers—or even teenagers—and have started their own lives, careers, or families? Is it still worth gathering everyone together for a family photo shoot? The short answer is a resounding “yes!” Recently, I had the pleasure of photographing a wonderful extended family at South Mountain in Phoenix, Arizona. They live in the West Valley, I’m based in the East Valley, and South Mountain made the perfect meet-in-the-middle location—especially at sunset! In this blog post, I’m excited to share why this desert gem is an incredible backdrop for your next family session and highlight why adult family portraits remain an essential keepsake, even after the wedding photos have been put away.
Beautiful Sunset Family Photography at South Mountain Phoenix
Meeting in the Middle: Why South Mountain Is Perfect for Families in Phoenix
Phoenix is a sprawling city, stretching across the East Valley and West Valley with a vibrant downtown in the center. When you have family members scattered around different areas—like Mesa, Chandler, Gilbert, Tempe (in the East Valley), and Glendale, Avondale, Surprise, Peoria (in the West Valley)—it can sometimes feel like you’re worlds apart. That’s why I absolutely love South Mountain for extended family sessions. It’s nestled in Ahwatukee, close to downtown Phoenix, and truly offers the best of both worlds.
South Mountain Park and Preserve is one of the largest municipal parks in the country, giving you thousands of acres of natural desert beauty. Whether you’re looking for stunning scenic drives, short and sweet hiking trails, or just jaw-dropping views for your family portraits, South Mountain delivers. Its central location makes it a breeze to coordinate for families coming from opposite ends of the Valley. Plus, once you arrive, you’re greeted by those iconic desert landscapes—think towering saguaro cacti, rocky hills, and golden sunlight. As a Phoenix family photographer and East Valley family photographer, this is one of my all-time favorite spots to capture the warm glow of the Arizona desert.
The Magic of a Desert Sunset Session
If you’ve ever experienced a Phoenix sunset, you know how quickly the desert sky can explode with color. We planned this particular family session to coincide with golden hour—the time just before sunset—because that’s when the light is soft, warm, and oh-so-flattering. In a place like South Mountain, the sun drops behind the rugged mountains, creating a halo of fiery oranges and pinks that seems to wrap around your family in a luminous embrace.
During our shoot, the sun dipped low on the horizon, casting a gentle glow across the desert floor. The adult kids, who included newlyweds Kara and Max, were able to stroll comfortably without squinting or dealing with harsh midday heat. There’s a calmness that settles over the desert at sunset, which translates into relaxed, genuine expressions in the photos. Every time I photograph at South Mountain during golden hour, I’m reminded why Phoenix—and specifically, the East Valley—has become such a hot spot for family photography.
Capturing Extended Families With Adult Children
For many parents, the idea of scheduling a professional photo session after the kids have “grown up” might feel like an afterthought. After all, those baby photos and graduation pictures tend to be the milestones we never want to forget. But what happens in between or after those major life events? The truth is, your family’s story doesn’t stop when your kids turn 18; it evolves. Documenting these changing dynamics is incredibly special—and something you’ll be grateful to have later on.
This particular session showcased an extended family that included parents, adult children, and a new marriage. Kara and Max had recently tied the knot, so naturally they have an entire wedding album full of gorgeous, formal portraits. However, they realized they also wanted “neutral” images to hang on their walls—photos that weren’t 100% wedding-focused. Sometimes couples want a bit of separation between the joy of their wedding day and the everyday love they share with their parents, siblings, and extended family. By booking a family session soon after the wedding, they captured an entirely different vibe that they can cherish for years without it feeling exclusively like a wedding memory.
Why Adult Family Portraits Matter
Celebrating Milestones Beyond Weddings and Babies
Let’s face it—life is full of big moments. Weddings, graduations, new jobs, relocations, and career achievements are all reasons to celebrate. But sometimes it’s the quieter milestones that deserve the spotlight. Having a professional photo session with your adult kids is a way to capture who you all are right now. You’re documenting the relationships that have continued to grow as everyone becomes more independent and sets out on their own paths.Preserving the Changing Dynamics
Once children become adults, the parent-child dynamic shifts. You’re no longer the sole caregiver or source of guidance. Instead, you might find yourselves more like friends—people who can share life updates, swap stories, and enjoy each other’s company on a deeper level. Family portraits at this stage highlight the new connections formed when kids become adults.Creating Future Heirlooms
Photographs are an investment in memories. We often think of baby photos or wedding photos as the main forms of “heirlooms.” But an extended family session with adult children offers a snapshot in time that future generations can look back on. Decades from now, these images might be displayed in family scrapbooks or digital frames, telling the story of your family’s journey long after the wedding day has passed.Gifting Options
Looking for the perfect birthday or holiday present for your parents or grown children? Professional family photos are a thoughtful gift that celebrates your shared history. You can frame them, create an album, or even turn them into a canvas print. These gifts become a sentimental reminder of the bond you share.New Chapters and Life Transitions
Adult children may move away, get married (like Kara and Max), or pursue advanced degrees and careers. A family photo session allows you to pause and celebrate these new chapters in a relaxed, stress-free atmosphere. The images become a way to hold on to moments that might feel fleeting as everyone juggles busy adult schedules.
Kara and Max: Newlyweds Looking for Non-Wedding Photos
Kara and Max’s story is a perfect example of why even newly married couples often want a separate family portrait session. Sure, wedding photos are amazing and serve as a beautiful reminder of the big day. But having family images that aren’t tied to the wedding aesthetic offers a timeless appeal. You can hang these photos in your home without feeling like you’re permanently stuck in “wedding mode.” Plus, it’s a chance for parents and siblings to join in on the fun.
During our session, Kara and Max still had that newlywed glow. They were excited to show off their love—only this time, they got to do it in a more casual, family-oriented environment. The result was a collection of photographs that highlight their bond as a couple while also showcasing the larger family circle they’re part of. And let’s be honest: parents love having photos of their children in everyday attire, looking happy and relaxed. It’s the perfect complement to the formal wedding portraits they already treasure.
The Importance of Location in Phoenix Family Photography
As a Phoenix family photographer based in the East Valley, I’m always exploring new places that show off Arizona’s desert beauty. South Mountain consistently ranks near the top of that list. Its central location, rugged scenery, and breathtaking sunsets make it a dream for any family looking to capture timeless images. Plus, the park’s ease of access means you won’t have to wander too far to find incredible views or worry about your session turning into a major hike (unless you want to incorporate some adventurous shots!).
A few reasons why South Mountain works for extended families:
Ample Space: With multiple trailheads and scenic overlooks, it’s easy to spread out a larger group, ensuring everyone has room to breathe and move freely.
Diverse Backdrops: You can get photos among giant cacti, on rocky terrain, or overlooking the city lights from higher elevations. Variety in backgrounds adds richness to your final gallery.
Convenient Parking: Many designated areas have well-maintained parking lots, making it feasible for older family members or those with mobility issues.
Gorgeous Lighting: The desert sun at golden hour is like having Mother Nature’s personal spotlight. It softens faces and creates that dreamy, ethereal glow we all love.
Preparing for an Extended Family Session at South Mountain
When planning a session for an extended family—especially with adult children—it’s important to coordinate in advance. Here are some tips to make the experience enjoyable and stress-free:
Choose a Time That Works for Everyone
Sunset sessions usually begin about an hour or two before the sun actually sets. Send out a family group text or email to confirm availability and ensure no one feels rushed or squeezed for time.Coordinate Outfits Without Being Matchy-Matchy
Decide on a color palette that complements the desert environment. Soft neutrals, earthy tones, and gentle pops of color photograph beautifully against South Mountain’s warm backdrop. Avoid wearing brand logos or busy patterns that can distract from your faces.Arrive Early
Traffic in Phoenix, whether you’re coming from the West Valley or East Valley, can be unpredictable, especially during rush hour. Plan to arrive a bit earlier than you think you need to. This extra cushion can help you feel more relaxed by the time the camera starts rolling.Discuss Must-Have Shots
In extended family sessions, you’ll likely want a mix of large group photos, smaller pairings (like the newlyweds alone), and sibling sets. Make a quick list or let me know in advance if there are any non-negotiable photos you absolutely want.Be Ready to Have Fun
Adult family sessions are a chance to goof around, share inside jokes, and let your personalities shine. Don’t be afraid to laugh, hug, and show affection. This makes for truly authentic images that reflect the real “you.”
Why Preserving Family Photos Matters in Every Stage of Life
It can be tempting to think that once you’ve done a wedding shoot, you’re set on family photos for a while. But think of your life story as a tapestry with many threads. A wedding album is one significant thread, but the fabric of your family continues to be woven each day. Extended family portraits with adult children capture the evolution of that story, adding depth and richness to the memories you hold dear.
Reasons to invest in these photos now:
Legacy Building: These images tell future generations about who you were as a family long after your kids have kids of their own.
Home Décor: Beautifully printed photos aren’t just for wedding images. Seeing your grown children (and maybe some new in-laws!) as part of an extended family portrait can bring warmth and love into your daily environment.
Strengthening Bonds: Scheduling a family session often requires some coordination and compromise, which in itself is a reminder of how meaningful these relationships are. The simple act of making time for each other can deepen your connections.
Capturing Genuine Moments: Adults aren’t immune to the stress of daily life, but when you step into a gorgeous setting like South Mountain and let loose, you create memories that help you reconnect with each other.
The Experience of Being Photographed by an East Valley Family Photographer
As someone based in the East Valley, I’m passionate about highlighting the stunning landscapes of the entire Phoenix area. Whether you live in Chandler, Gilbert, Mesa, Tempe, or way over in Avondale, Glendale, or Peoria, South Mountain is a manageable drive that feels like an escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. My goal is to make your session feel effortless, fun, and personal. I’ll help guide you through posing so it never feels stiff or awkward, and I’ll look for those candid moments that truly define your family’s personality.
I also understand that adult children can have busy schedules with work, school, or family obligations of their own. That’s why I aim to make scheduling as flexible as possible. Evening sessions, especially during golden hour, are often the easiest to coordinate once everyone gets off work. And let’s not forget: the temperatures in Phoenix can be scorching, so a later session can help you avoid the heat while still enjoying that magical sunset glow.
Post-Session: Turning Memories Into Tangible Treasures
Once your session is over, the real fun begins—seeing your images in a beautifully edited gallery! You’ll have the option to select your favorites for prints, albums, or wall art. While digital images are convenient for sharing on social media (especially if you want to show off your desert photos to friends and family outside Arizona), there’s something truly special about having a physical album or prints in your home.
For newlyweds like Kara and Max, adding a few of these “neutral” family images next to or alongside their wedding album offers a balanced view of their life as a married couple within the larger family. And for the parents, these pictures serve as a testament to the loving, supportive environment they’ve nurtured, even as their kids transition into adulthood.
Final Thoughts: Your Story Continues
Your story doesn’t end with a wedding, a graduation, or even an 18th birthday. Families grow, shift, and evolve in countless ways, and each chapter deserves to be remembered. A family portrait session with your adult kids is an opportunity to celebrate where you’ve been and where you’re headed—together.
Whether you’re in Phoenix, the East Valley, or the West Valley, South Mountain is a breathtaking and convenient place to freeze this moment in time. The desert’s dramatic beauty pairs perfectly with the emotional depth of a family’s history, and the sunset provides a warm glow that envelops everyone in a sense of unity and love. As an East Valley family photographer, I find joy in showcasing the best of our Arizona landscapes while capturing the genuine bonds that make your family unique.
If you’ve been toying with the idea of updating those family photos—or if you’ve never gotten around to taking them—consider this your sign. Gather the kids (even if they’re grown), pick a meaningful spot like South Mountain, and let me help you create memories that will last for generations. Wedding photos are incredible, and they mark a huge milestone in your life. But remember: your family’s story extends far beyond that one day. Keep telling it through the power of photography.
Ready to Schedule Your Own Desert Sunset Session?
I’d love to hear from you! Reach out to start planning the perfect time and location for your family portraits. Whether you’re in Phoenix proper, Chandler, Gilbert, Mesa, Tempe, or further afield in the West Valley, there’s a perfect spot waiting for you—and South Mountain might just be that magical meet-in-the-middle location you’ve been dreaming of.
Thanks for stopping by to read about this special extended family session at South Mountain. If you have questions about scheduling, pricing, or just want to chat about the best desert locations in Phoenix, drop me a line. I’m here to help you capture your family’s next chapter in a way that feels warm, genuine, and oh-so-Arizona.