Fall sessions now booking · Minis on three fall weekends
Fall family photos in the Arizona desert
Cool evenings, golden light, and everyone finally together. Relaxed, joyful family portraits in Chandler, Gilbert, Mesa and Phoenix, with your full gallery of images included.
Fall mini sessions $495
Why fall
The most beautiful time of year for family photos here
- 01
Comfortable evenings
No summer heat, no squinting. Kids and grandparents stay happy, and nobody is melting by the end.
- 02
Golden desert light
The hour before sunset turns saguaros, mountains and everyone's skin warm and soft.
- 03
Ready for the holidays
Photos for cards, gifts and the wall, and a gallery the whole family can download.
Fall family sessions
Two simple ways to book
Mini sessions $495
Three fall weekends only
Fall Mini Session
- 30 minutes on a set Friday or Sunday evening
- Only 3 families per evening
- Up to 5 people
- Full gallery of edited images, 10 or more
- Perfect for holiday cards and a fresh family update
Monday to Thursday and Saturdays
Full Family Session
- Up to 60 minutes on location
- Up to 6 people
- Full gallery of edited images, 20 or more
- Time for the whole family, each child, and a few of just the two of you
Every session includes help with outfits and planning, posing guidance, and high-resolution files with a print release. No ordering appointment and nothing else to buy. Bringing grandparents or extended family? Ask about a longer session for larger groups.
Fall Mini Session dates
Friday and Sunday evenings, one spot each weekend
Mini sessions are at 3:30, 4:15 and 5:00 pm, so each evening is limited to three families. Pick your weekend, choose an open time, and your spot is reserved right away.
Friday, October 30 or Sunday, November 1
Lost Dutchman State Park
Apache Junction
The Superstition Mountains glowing at sunset.
3 spots each evening
Book this weekendFriday, November 6 or Sunday, November 8
South Mountain Park
Phoenix
Saguaros, desert trails and wide-open views.
3 spots each evening
Book this weekendFriday, November 13 or Sunday, November 15
San Tan Mountain Regional Park
San Tan Valley
Classic Sonoran desert, close to Chandler, Gilbert and Queen Creek.
3 spots each evening
Book this weekendSome parks charge an entry fee per vehicle. Can't make one of these evenings? A Full Family Session can be scheduled Monday to Thursday or on a Saturday, at a location you choose.
Recent fall families
Desert light and real smiles
4.9 stars · 98 Google reviews
Kind words
“When I felt awkward she directed me step by step and the photos were beyond my expectations.”
“100% recommend working with Shalista Photography. She will elevate your brand with her expertise and talent.”
“Her thoughtfulness, professionalism and passion far exceed all standards. And that's before you even see her work.”
Before you book
Fall session questions
When is the best time for fall family photos in Arizona?
Fall Mini Sessions are offered on Friday and Sunday evenings over three weekends, October 30 through November 15, and Full Family Sessions run through mid December. The evenings are cool and comfortable, and the light in the hour before sunset is soft and golden. Mini sessions are scheduled at 3:30, 4:15 and 5:00 pm, and full sessions are set for the hour or so before sunset.
How much are fall family sessions?
Fall Mini Sessions are $495 and include your full gallery of edited digital images with a print release. Tell me how many people are coming and which session you'd like, and I'll send the details.
Where do fall sessions take place?
Fall Mini Sessions happen on set Friday and Sunday evenings, with one location each weekend (listed above), so we can make the most of the light. Full Family Sessions can be scheduled at a location you choose, such as a favorite park or your own home. Some parks charge an entry or permit fee, and I'll tell you up front.
What should we wear?
I'll help you plan. For fall in the desert, warm neutrals, soft blues, rust and olive look beautiful against the landscape. Coordinate colors rather than matching, and skip big logos.
Our kids are little. Will that be a problem?
Not at all. I photograph the little ones first while they're fresh, keep things moving, and build in time for snacks and wiggles. Some of the best photos happen in between the posed ones.
Can grandparents or extended family join?
Yes. Larger groups need a little more time for all the combinations, so I offer a longer session for extended families. Just mention who's coming in your inquiry.
How far ahead should we book?
As early as you can. There are only six mini session evenings, with just three families each.
Let's get you on the calendar
Questions first? Send me a note
I'd love to hear what you have in mind. I reply to every inquiry personally, usually within one business day.
Service area
Based in Chandler and photographing in Gilbert, Mesa, Scottsdale, Tempe, Phoenix, Queen Creek and Ahwatukee. Sessions happen at your office, on location, or in a rented studio.