Chapter Thirteen - Escaping the City and Embracing the Desert
As a Las Vegas wedding photographer, I have had the pleasure of capturing some of the most beautiful moments in the Las Vegas city, but I want to focus today on leaving the strip and heading out in the middle of nowhere and finding the beauty in the desert. Here are some tips and insights for taking photos in this stunning desert landscape:
The Beauty of the Las Vegas Desert
The desert landscape of Las Vegas is truly breathtaking. The vast expanse of sand and rock formations provides a stunning backdrop for wedding, engagement or elopement photos. The natural light in the desert is also perfect for capturing beautiful, warm tones in your photos. There are landscapes close to the city of flat nothingness, as well as rough mountainous areas great for hiking or trails.
Timing is Everything
When planning a desert wedding shoot, timing is everything. The best time to take photos in the desert is during the golden hour, which is the hour before sunset. This is when the light is soft and warm, creating a beautiful glow in your photos. It's also important to keep in mind that the desert can get very hot during the day, so it's best to plan your shoot for early morning or late afternoon, which seems to be the most important thing I discuss with every couple I have.
Dress Appropriately
The desert can be a harsh environment, so it's important to dress appropriately. Wear comfortable shoes that can handle the rocky terrain, or bring multiple shoes if we are taking wedding photos, and bring plenty of water to stay hydrated. It's also a good idea to wear sunscreen and a hat to protect yourself from the sun.
Embrace the Landscape
The desert landscape is unique and beautiful, so it's important to embrace it in your photos. Use the natural surroundings to your advantage, and incorporate the rocks and sand into your shots. You can also experiment with different angles and perspectives to create interesting and dynamic photos. I am always looking for the best angles, frame, landscape, sun angle, etc, but I always want to make sure my couples also present their ideas to me too!
Final Thoughts
Capturing wedding photos in the Las Vegas desert is an unforgettable experience. The stunning landscape and warm light create a beautiful backdrop for your special day. By following these tips and embracing the natural surroundings, you can create stunning photos that you will cherish for a lifetime.