As a mother and photographer raising my own family in the Valley, I know the holiday season arrives with a whirlwind of joy—and a to-do list longer than a desert sunset. You want timeless family portraits that feel effortless, not forced. That’s why I created the Cozy Holiday Family Mini Sessions: a focused 15-minute experience that delivers the best of your images hand-edited by me and 5 digital downloads. You are welcome to pick your favorite 5 photos or you can purchase all the images.
I’ve reserved only nine spots across three of my most-loved locations—each selected for its beauty, accessibility, and ability to spark genuine smiles in record time. Think of this as your insider’s guide from one busy mom to another. What if the perfect backdrop was just a short drive away, turning a small window of time into a cherished memory? Let’s explore.
1. White Tanks Regional Park – Desert Elegance with Iconic Arizona Character
Location: Waddell, AZ
Drive from Central Phoenix: ~40 minutes
Why It Excels for Minis: The saguaro-studded hills and warm, directional sunset light create a distinctly Southwestern holiday aesthetic—perfect for cards and memories.
Practical Guidance for Your Session:
- Arrival: Plan to arrive 20 minutes early; there is a lot of parking but fills upon weekends.
- Wardrobe: Earth-toned layers (rust, camel, ivory) harmonize with the landscape. Avoid traditional red and green—let the desert provide the seasonal palette.
- Child engagement: A small blanket for seated portraits often yields tender, frame-worthy moments.
A little extra magic: I remember a session last December where the sun dipped just right, and this wonderful family had a beautiful moment together with the beauty of the White Tanks mountains surrounding them.
2. Rose Park (Goodyear) – Soft Light and Family-Friendly Amenities
Location: Litchfield Park, AZ 85340
Drive from Central Phoenix: ~30 minutes
Why It’s Ideal for Minis: Trees, flowers and green grass with lots of room to play. This is ideal for family with young kids who need to get the wiggles out.
Practical Guidance for Your Session:
- Wardrobe: Soft pastels or muted jewel tones with textured layers—think lightweight cardigans and barefoot moments in the grass.
Child engagement: Allow two minutes of play beforehand; relaxed energy translates beautifully on camera.
A little extra magic: Toddlers who start with time being held by Mom and Dad will be more comfortable starting the session. By the time we are finished with group family photos the kids are ready to walk around and explore.
3. Estrella Star Tower (Goodyear) – Mountain Vistas and Reflective Serenity
Location: Goodyear, AZ
Drive from Central Phoenix: ~35 minutes
Why It’s Exceptional for Minis: This location is perfect because of the variety within one space. You have desert scaping, walking paths and green grass all in one convenient location.
Practical Guidance for Your Session:
- Timing: Arrive 30 minutes before sunset for pink-hued mountains and glassy water.
- Best position: The paved path west of the tower—stroller-accessible and visually rich.
- Wardrobe: Deep navy, burgundy, or crisp ivory allows the landscape to remain the focal point.
- Child engagement: A small LED light encourages gentle movement and joyful expressions.
4. Bonus: Papago Park (Phoenix) – Urban Accessibility with Desert Charm
Location: Phoenix, AZ
Drive from Central Phoenix: ~20 minutes
Why It Works for Last-Minute Bookings: The Hole-in-the-Rock formation requires no hiking and delivers instant impact.
Practical Guidance:
- Parking: Weekday afternoons before 4 PM are optimal.
- Wardrobe: Saturated hues complement the red rock.
- Child engagement: Brief, safe exploration of the formation often produces candid delight.
5. Bonus: Your Own Backyard – Intimate, Zero-Travel Alternative
Why It’s Worth Considering: Some of the most authentic images emerge in familiar surroundings. I offer in-home or backyard sessions for a modest $25 travel fee.
Practical Guidance:
- Setup: Simple string lights and a front porch create cozy ambiance.
- Wardrobe: Coordinated sleepwear or robes evoke “Christmas morning” warmth.
Child engagement: A mug of cocoa often prompts natural, joyful interaction.
A little extra magic: No drive means more time for family fun—and zero meltdowns in the car. A client’s backyard shoot last year? It felt like peeking into their everyday joy, far more precious than any park.
Secure Your December Session
I’ve reserved only nine Cozy Holiday Family Mini spots (November 25–December 7):
15 minutes
5 hand-edited digitals
Sneak peek within 48 hours
$175 (regularly $250)
Availability is limited to three sessions per venue. If you’re ready to reserve your family’s moment, simply reply “BOOK ME” or click above.
Craving the full family story in 2026? Explore my 2025 Family Treasure Sessions with $50 off — includes outfit help, location guide, and 25 digitals.
I look forward to documenting your family’s story with intention and care.
Rosalynn
P.S. Wardrobe uncertainty? My complimentary Holiday Mini Prep Guide includes Phoenix-specific styling recommendations.