Planning a desert photoshoot in Dubai?
This is for the mum thinking about desert photos in Dubai and wondering what she’d actually be signing up for once she books a desert photoshoot.
I’ve been a family photographer in Dubai for twelve years and here I will cover how I work, what a session with me feels like, and which images you’ll keep afterwards. I hope it encourages you to stop delaying the photo session and step into the frame with your family this winter season.
What’s so special about a desert photoshoot?
If you’re looking for a Dubai icon, the desert is it. The vastness and the ripples of the dunes make it one of the symbols of Dubai, and no wonder it’s the most popular location for an outdoor shoot.
What I love most is that it’s like a big, blank canvas and the focus is all on your family, no distractions.
A desert session with me is built around slowing down and letting go. You’re in a stunning sandy backdrop and the kids are small and playful. There’s happiness, chaos and joy. You slow down to enjoy it and I am there to capture it all for you. There is no particular script for the shoot and no list of poses we are after. Each family is different and so is their session.
The beautiful photos come from that. From you being together, walking, climbing and running on the dunes. There are quiet moments, but mostly it is play and exploration. And let me tell you, I have never seen anyone not smile when they run down a dune or a bored child in the desert.
Why the prep before we step on the dunes matters
We depend on the weather, the light and the infamous desert wind (the only one who usually doesn’t get the memo to behave). But the shoot of your dreams isn’t made on the day. It’s made before it.
When you book with me, I send you a questionnaire. It’s where you tell me what actually matters to your family, and the little things you’d like me to look out for. On the day, that’s what lets me guide you gently instead of running a script. I will also send you a styling guide to help you select your outfits for the shoot.
I come prepared too. I know my location and I know how to work with the light there. We’re a team working towards this beautiful gallery and memory.
The session isn’t a performance you have to survive. It’s your special moments that you create to remember.
What your images will look like
My editing is intentional and subtle and I keep my galleries true to life, yet still artistic.
With my top collection you’ll receive over 70 of the best images, plus a print credit, so the evening ends up on your walls and in frames, not lost as files on a phone.
You’ll have beautiful portraits and the classic shots, but I keep the in-between moments too - running away in the distance, climbing the dunes together, cuddling and sharing a kiss and many little details. It’s a reality you’ll miss deeply years from now, and that’s what I’m keeping for you in this big package.
If you choose the smaller collection, you will receive a selection of your 20 favourite images.
Where to start
If one afternoon of slowing down with your husband and kids, and a big, beautiful gallery of photos showing how much you love each other, sounds like a day you’ve been picturing for some time, message me and we’ll have a short chat first. If it feels right, we book your date and I’ll take it from there.
I’m writing this in early November and most of my weekend dates are already taken, so reach out now. I’d hate for you to miss the desert session you’ve been longing for.
I still get so excited when I step on the dunes and the light and shadows start playing on the sand. The desert can be harsh but also so enchanting. Don’t just take my word for it.
Come with me and I will show you.
If you’d like to learn more about my family sessions in Dubai, head over to my Family portfolio page.