Choosing your location for your photoshoot

Let's explore what gorgeous locations we can choose from in the UAE.

As I am based in Dubai, we can shoot anywhere that we are allowed to. Some locations require a permit, some locations are considered private by the government and no photography is allowed. Also, don't let the city limits stop your imagination though. Other Emirates are easily within reach, and we can explore mountains, the red desert dunes, or anywhere that you would like to. I do charge a travel fee to other Emirates, depending on how far you'd like to go. I am completely open to planning and creating a photoshoot that's super special for you and your family.

For Dubai Locations, the most popular are the following:

Desert:

A timeless memory of your visit or years lived within the UAE. The beautiful rolling dunes allow your children to play easily and with joy, enabling me to catch really natural images of your family. I do the desert sessions 1 hour before sunset because it's about a 45 minute drive to the dunes, and it's very far to get there for sunrise, especially with children.

Some points to consider for this location

It is often breezy in the desert in the afternoon. It does give a beautiful feeling of movement to the images. With small children who are 3 years and under, consider that they can get a lot of sand in their eyes which is sore. For this reason, I reschedule any sessions where the wind is over 16 knots.
The UAE is making a big effort to seed in the past few years and it is changing the landscape of the desert dramatically. Over the last year, the desert has gotten increasingly greener, with lots of shrubs on the dunes. I do my best to find dunes that don't have greenery, but it's getting harder and harder every season.
The Dubai desert dunes are smaller than Abu Dhabi and RAK. Our sand is white but if you're looking for huge red dunes, RAK is possible as well. I have some beautiful spots that I've explored and saved to create exquisite dramatic memories for you.

Al Quadra Lakes:

These are a hidden gem out in Al Quadra where you can find a rustic mix of trees, bush, sand and water. It's so beautiful.

Some points to consider for this location

I highly recommend trying to get to this location on a week day if possible as it is a very popular spot on the weekend. Because it is accessible by a sand road, when many cars pass by, it does create a lot of dust. That is the downside. But if you can manage to 'remote work' that afternoon, you will love the location when it's quiet.

Beach:

Unfortunately Palace Beach has shut to the public. My next favorite option is a wide open beach where there's plenty of room to move around and have fun as a family. Couple/maternity photo's is also incredible at the beach.

Some points to consider for this location

I love sunset sessions at the beach. It's my favorite lighting. But this is not possible on the weekends as the beaches are packed in nice weather. I recommend remote working on a week day for a sunset beach session as well. It's so worth having an empty beach to enjoy!

Al Seef:

Al Seef is my favorite part of Old Dubai. I prefer it to Bastikiya because there are so many different nooks to explore.

Some points to consider for this location

This location is best shot in the morning. It does not have to be sunrise as there is shade available. This location is also quiet on weekend mornings which makes it a good option to avoid crowds.

Forrest/Green Location:

This is a very rustic area which is lovely for some native bush and trees of Dubai.

Some points to consider for this location

This area turns into wetlands after the rains. It's very muddy. The water ponds are great, but when it's too wet, it's best to avoid. It can also be a nightmare for mosquitoes after the rains so it's best to apply some mosquito spray to avoid bites.

City:

Opt for a general city view surrounded by lakes, or to get Dubai's icon building - Burj Khalifa. It is possible to walk around Dubai downtown too, but I don't advise this with a family. It is a lot of walking.

Some points to consider for this location