HOW TO HAVE AN ADVENTURE SESSION IN THE DESERT

Behind epic photos are crazy stories and experiences that are just as exciting as the images themselves. Disappearing into miles of rolling white sand dunes will not only give you the adventure you are thirsty for, but will undoubtedly give you stories to share and treasure for the years to follow.

I’ll never forget this adventure with these two love birds, Diamond and Derrick. We landed in Midland, Texas early on a Friday morning... right in the middle of a sand storm. It was incredibly dusty and visibility was pretty dang low. I could see those nervous smiles stepping off the plane...but y’all, I love a good challenge… the rewards are always so much sweeter when you have to work for them.

Diamond went straight to hair and makeup while my handsome husband (and talented videographer) and I, set off down the highway to the dunes. It did not take long for us to find the most perfect spots for these two to hike, climb, spin and kiss. Dust and wind may not have been in the plan, but the adventure is one we will not soon forget. And lucky for us, the storm died down just enough to get some stunning photos from the sky!

A few things you might ask when planning for a desert session:

1. What should I wear?

This is always the first question I get asked and my standard answer is “whatever you feel most comfortable in!” And while that still rings true with an adventure session in the desert, there are a few things I would suggest you take into consideration. First, the desert is - more time that not - very windy. A mini skirt won’t stand a chance in these conditions, unless of course we want a Marilyn Monroe styled shoot. Wind does make for beautiful and exciting movement - so don’t be afraid of that long maxi dress - the two paired together make for gorgeous moments! Of course, making sure you have the proper undergarments on is key. Secondly…sand sand sand and more sand. Yea, I know “DUH”, but hear me out… shoes matter. I highly suggest easy and dependable sandals (like tevas or chacos) for that climb to the top unless you are a free spirit, like me, and prefer the bold & brave barefoot climb. If you want your fancy shoes, bring em with you and carry them until we’re ready to use them. Sand will also absorb and reflect that bright, warm yellow sun. So wear light linens and breathe-able fabrics to help from getting to hot!

2. How do I find the perfect location?

There are so many logistics that go into the “perfect” location and to be quite honest, this can be overwhelming without the proper preparation and knowledge. While we can’t predict all circumstances thrown our way, scouting and planning well before the session is ideal. Which is why I commit to doing all of the heavy lifting in this department. It’s important to note that national and state parks, like Monahans Sandhills, do not always allow for an easy parking lot and quick walk to your dream spot. Depending on your vision, it is imperative to map out the hike, be aware of the sun positions and have a few back up spots for the unexpected.

3. Are there any regulations I should be aware of?

Most likely, “yes, absolutely.” Many of those images you have found on pinterest - you know, the ones that take your breath away - were shot at an area with a permit. There are also strict rules on where you can or cannot fly a drone. You do not want to find yourself at a place where you were hoping to get that beautiful photo from the sky, only to find out that you are in a “no fly zone” and your drone will not fly. Acquiring all of the proper licensing can be overwhelming as well, which is why we, as professional travel photographers, will be sure to have the proper credentials so that we will never find ourselves in that situation.

4. What is the best way to get there?

Plane? Train? Automobile? The correct answer is : all of the above. Many times, we will meet up with our couple at the airport or the hotel/airbnb. When we nail down our timeline, we do it in such a way that plans for everything you hope to experience. Remember, this session is more than just pretty pictures. It is an experience, and adventure and a memory to cherish - those gorgeous pictures you get to at look back at for years to follow is just the cherry on top.

5. What else?

One of the most important parts of planning an adventure session is to truly plan a day that you will enjoy, from start to finish. Every adventure session is different and it is important that it is unique to you and your special someone. Make sure you find an photographer that not only takes epic photos, but can bring your ideas to life and help you have a fun time living it out. If you think I’m the photographer for you, reach out to me so we can start planning!