SEDONA, ARIZONA PHOTOGRAPHY LOCATIONS
Pamlea Goodyer, a renowned photographer, has curated the best photography locations. Sedona, Arizona’s main attraction, is its array of red sandstone formations.
We travel to Sedona, Arizona, to do photography each year on our photo tour and bring you the first-hand details.
CATHEDRAL ROCK PHOTOGRAPHY SPOT
You can photograph it from a distance or hike the trail. The trek up Cathedral Rock is an experience you will remember. The giant rock formation juts up from the desert landscape with two prominent spires at its summit and a massive saddle in between, providing incredible vistas of Sedona’s west side. This hike may be short, but it’s pretty steep in certain sections. If you’re accustomed to hiking, take your time, rest when needed, and enjoy the exquisite scenery.
CHAPEL OF THE HOLY CROSS
This is another must-visit location, perched dramatically between two red rock spires. The modernist architecture of the chapel contrasts beautifully with the rugged natural surroundings, making it a unique subject for photography. The interior, with its large cross and stained glass windows, offers a serene and contemplative atmosphere.
SCHNELLY HILL ROAD, SEDONA PHOTOGRAPHY LOCATION
We traveled to Schnelly Hill Road, a vantage point in Sedona, and found this overlook-style photography spot. This scenic route winds through the rugged landscape, providing sweeping vistas of the red rock formations that Sedona is famous for. As you journey along the road, the vibrant hues of orange and red cliffs contrast against the clear blue sky. There aren’t very many places to pull off to the side to take photos, but there were a few; that’s where we got this shot.
RED ROCK CROSSING
When we arrived at Red Rock Crossing—one of Sedona’s premier photography locations—we encountered several photographers already positioned along the banks of Oak Creek. This iconic spot offers the perfect vantage point to photograph Cathedral Rock’s towering 4,967-foot formation reflected in the still waters below, particularly during the golden hour when the red sandstone glows with remarkable intensity against Arizona’s azure sky.
AIRPORT ROAD, SEDONA CITY OVERLOOK
Sedona’s City Overlook beckons from above, promising panoramic vistas where crimson buttes and spires stretch to the horizon like nature’s cathedral. Take Airport Road (Follow the signs to the airport). The road climbs through juniper and pinyon pine, each switchback revealing new perspectives until you reach the summit parking area. We went during sunrise, and there were several people there.
MIDGLEY BRIDGE
WHAT IS THE BEST TIME TO PHOTOGRAPH SEDONA?
The best time of year to photograph is during April and May. This is when the desert landscape is in full bloom and the temperatures are mild. The red rocks are incredibly vibrant during this time of year, standing against the bright blue sky. Always look at the average yearly temperature before planning your trip. It can get very hot here. See below the most crowded times and then decide.
WHAT PHOTOGRAPHY GEAR SHOULD I BRING?
A wide-angle lens is essential to photograph the expansive landscape and grandeur of the red rocks. A tripod and cable release will help you get sharp images even in low-light conditions. A fast aperture lens and a star tracker are recommended for night photography.
WHAT ELSE SHOULD I BRING?
In addition to your photography gear, you should bring plenty of snacks and water as the desert can get hot. A hat, sunscreen, and bug spray are essential for exploring in the sun. Good hiking boots are important for visiting slot canyons or hiking trails.
HOW BUSY WILL IT GET?
This location is a popular destination for people worldwide, so it can get busy during peak season.
The busiest season is between late February and May or September through November. The weather during those periods is optimal, but the area is busy all year round. To avoid the crowds, especially on long weekends, try visiting mid-week in the morning or evening.
LIST OF SEDONA PHOTOGRAPHY SPOTS
BELL ROCK
A trek around Bell Rock is relatively straightforward. You can photograph it from afar or walk the trail. The hike is slightly more than one mile long. It has been maintained well and is easy to navigate, which makes it ideal for newcomers or casual hikers. On this stroll, you can catch sight of some other red-rock formations, such as Courthouse Butte. More advanced hikers may choose to climb up to the peak of Bell Rock or at least ascend halfway.
LEE’S FERRY NEARBY – Read the full article
The Sedona Heritage Museum
Otherwise known as the Jordan Historical Park, offers a retreat from the hubbub of town and a look back into what life was like for pioneers Walter and Ruth Jordan over a hundred years ago. It’s a great way to learn about local history. Photograph the grounds and visit the museum.
SEVEN SACRED POOLS
The admired chain of stone pools known as The Seven Sacred Pools is approximately half a mile long. Depending on the season, the ponds could appear drained or brimming with water flowing down from higher elevations. Nonetheless, they make for a breathtaking view no matter what.
DEVIL’S BRIDGE
This area offers a dramatic setting for photographers, with its natural sandstone arch providing a striking focal point. The hike to the bridge is moderately challenging, but the reward is a panoramic view of the surrounding red rock formations. Early morning light casts long shadows across the landscape, creating depth and texture in your shots.
OAK CREEK CANYON – Read the full article.
Although there are not many locations to park and photograph, the road through this area is one of our top ten drives. The creek meanders through the canyon, its clear waters reflecting the towering cliffs above. You can stop along the water in a few areas, and the sound of flowing water adds a serene backdrop to your shoot.
MILKY WAY PHOTOGRAPHY LOCATIONS IN ARIZONA
Sedona, Arizona, offers many locations for insanely dynamic photography. The Chapel of the Holy Cross, Cathedral Rock and the airport view provide good locations. But don’t forget about night photography. They have some pretty dark skies outside of town and within it.
SEDONA ARIZONA DARK SKIES
Arizona has some of the darkest skies in the lower forty-eight. An abundance of clear skies makes it the perfect location to plan a Milky Way photography trip. It is effortless to create jaw-dropping Milky Way images here. There are red rocks to strategically put in your Milky Way images, as you see in the pictures on this page. You can be near the city lights, and the Milky Way still screams bright colors above you.
If your family comes with you to view the night sky, they can do some stargazing. The kids will be amazed at the number of stars and their brightness.
Be sure to visit our How-to Milky Way Photography page. Knowing when the Milky Way is visible is crucial if you intend to photograph it. We strongly suggest you learn this skill and incorporate it into your trip. It’s one of the most incredible experiences you can have.
AREA INFORMATION
Entrance Fees:
A Red Rock Pass (or America The Beautiful Interagency Pass, Golden Age, or Golden Access) is required when leaving your vehicle unattended while recreating on National Forest land around Sedona and Oak Creek Canyon. View the Red Rock Country Map to see locations of fee areas where the Red Rock Pass is required.
The pass must be displayed on the windshield of the vehicle. Vehicles parked in the National Forest in the Red Rock area that do not display a valid pass on the windshield are subject to receiving a citation. A pass is not required for incidental stopping to enjoy a scenic vista (approximately 15 minutes or less).
WHERE TO CAMP
Be featured here. Please send us an email.
Manzanita Campground
- Recreation.gov
- Phone reservations 877-444-6777
- TTY 877-833-6777
- International 518-885-3639
Review the Camping and Day Use Reservation Policies on Recreation.gov for information on cancellations, refunds, and other details.
HOTEL INFORMATION
Enchantment Hotel
RESTAURANT INFOMATION
Chocola Tree is a sanctuary where each Being can nurture their Authenticity. Each dish is created using 100% organic, vibrant foods, is gluten-free, and is entirely homemade.
Restaurant Open:
Thursday – Monday 8am – 8pm
Tuesday & Wednesday 10am-4pm
1595 West Hwy 89A
Reservations for Parties of 6+ required
(928) 282-2997
Serving daily in the indoor dining area & garden oasis, weather permitting.
Offices Open Monday & Thursday 8AM – 3PM
orders@chocolatree.com
WEATHER INFORMATION
