Explore Locations


Best Photography Locations in NEW MEXICO | JT Photography

Looking for the best places to take photos in New Mexico? Whether you're planning engagement photos, family portraits, or senior pictures, New Mexico has a beautiful mix of desert landscapes, historic charm, and urban backdrops. As a professional photographer, I’ve explored some of the best spots for stunning photos—here’s my guide to the top photography locations in New Mexico!

 

Sandstone Bluffs National Park


Best for Dramatic Desert Landscapes & Golden Hour Magic


📍 Location: Sandstone Bluffs, El Malpais National Monument, NM (about 1.5-hour drive from Albuquerque)

⏳ Best time to shoot: Sunset for warm, golden tones and striking shadows; sunrise for soft, diffused light

🏜 Best for: Elopements, adventure engagement sessions, landscape portraits, fashion/editorial shoots


If you're looking for a photoshoot location that captures the raw beauty of New Mexico’s desert landscape, Sandstone Bluffs is a must-see. This spot features expansive, rugged sandstone formations overlooking ancient lava flows—perfect for creating bold, earthy, and timeless images.


The wide, open views feel adventurous and serene, making it an ideal backdrop for intimate elopements, dramatic engagement sessions, or artistic portraits. The rich textures and sweeping desert backdrops provide endless creative possibilities.


Why You’ll Love It for Photos:

✔ Golden Hour Magic: The textured sandstone reflects warm, golden hues during sunset, adding depth and glow to your photos.

✔ Dramatic Textures & Layers: The rugged formations offer unique lines and layers, perfect for creative compositions.

✔ Versatile Backdrops: From panoramic desert vistas to intimate rock formations, every angle offers a stunning shot.


💡 Pro Tip: Earthy tones like terracotta, olive green, or burnt orange look incredible against the sandstone. For a bold, editorial feel, deep jewel tones or classic black work beautifully. Wear comfortable shoes for exploring, but consider barefoot moments to capture an organic, natural vibe.


Sandstone Bluffs isn’t just about scenery—it’s about creating photos that feel authentic and adventurous. Whether it's a romantic elopement or an editorial shoot, this location offers a stunning, timeless backdrop.

White Sands National Park


Best for Dreamy Desert & Minimalist Aesthetic


📍 Location: White Sands National Park, NM (3.5-hour drive from Albuquerque)

⏳ Best time to shoot: Sunset for golden-hour glow, sunrise for soft pastel tones

🏜 Best for: Elopements, engagement sessions, fashion/editorial shoots, fine art portraits


If you’re looking for a breathtaking and ethereal photoshoot location, White Sands National Park is unlike anywhere else in New Mexico. With its rolling white gypsum dunes, endless open skies, and soft, glowing light, this location creates a minimalist, timeless, and high-fashion aesthetic. Whether you’re planning a romantic elopement, a dramatic engagement session, or a stunning solo portrait session, White Sands provides an unforgettable backdrop.


Why You’ll Love It for Photos:

✔ Soft, natural light reflects beautifully off the white sand for a glowing effect

✔ Minimalist, clean backdrop makes subjects stand out dramatically

✔ Perfect for flowing dresses, boho styles, and artistic poses


💡 Pro Tip: Since the sand is bright white, wear bold colors like deep reds, mustard yellow, or emerald green for contrast, or go for neutrals like beige and soft pastels for an airy, editorial look.

A silhouetted figure in flowing dress stands on a snowy slope against dramatic sunset clouds.
A couple in black clothing sits together on white sand against a pastel sunset sky and turquoise waters.
Couple dressed in black sits together on white salt flats during a colorful sunset with distant mountains.
Two silhouetted figures walk across pristine white sand dunes under a cloudy sunset sky creating long shadows.
A couple walks hand in hand on a snow-covered slope against a dramatic cloudy sunset sky.
A tender romantic moment between a couple embracing during golden hour against a soft sunset backdrop.
Three silhouetted figures walking together holding hands along a hilltop ridge against a light sky at dusk.
Close up of a couple in elegant black formal wear standing together intimately against light background.
A romantic black and white silhouette of a couple embracing on sand dunes at sunset.
Two people sit together on pristine white sand during sunset, creating a romantic silhouette against the dreamy landscape.
A silhouetted figure in flowing dress stands on a snowy slope against dramatic sunset clouds.
A couple in black clothing sits together on white sand against a pastel sunset sky and turquoise waters.
Couple dressed in black sits together on white salt flats during a colorful sunset with distant mountains.
Two silhouetted figures walk across pristine white sand dunes under a cloudy sunset sky creating long shadows.
A couple walks hand in hand on a snow-covered slope against a dramatic cloudy sunset sky.
A tender romantic moment between a couple embracing during golden hour against a soft sunset backdrop.
Three silhouetted figures walking together holding hands along a hilltop ridge against a light sky at dusk.
Close up of a couple in elegant black formal wear standing together intimately against light background.
A romantic black and white silhouette of a couple embracing on sand dunes at sunset.
Two people sit together on pristine white sand during sunset, creating a romantic silhouette against the dreamy landscape.

Las Conchas Trailhead


Best for Lush Forests & Riverside Scenery


📍 Location: Jemez Mountains, NM (1.5-hour drive from Albuquerque)

⏳ Best time to shoot: Morning for soft light, late afternoon for golden-hour glow

🌿 Best for: Engagement sessions, elopements, family portraits, adventure photography


If you love lush forests, flowing rivers, and scenic mountain backdrops, Las Conchas Trailhead is a hidden gem in the Jemez Mountains. This picturesque trail follows the East Fork of the Jemez River, weaving through towering pines, rocky cliffs, and open meadows, making it an ideal location for dreamy, nature-inspired photoshoots.


Why You’ll Love It for Photos:

✔ Lush greenery & river views create a romantic and serene setting

✔ Great for adventurous couples & families who love the outdoors

✔ Dramatic rock formations & wooden bridges add depth and texture to photos


💡 Pro Tip: Since this location is full of rich greens and natural textures, wear earthy tones like rust, olive, beige, or deep blues to complement the environment beautifully.

Elena Gallegos Open Space


Best for Mountain Views


📍 Location: 7100 Tramway Blvd NE, Albuquerque, NM

⏳ Best time to shoot: Sunset for golden hour, early morning for soft natural light

🌄 Best for: Engagements, family portraits, solo sessions


If you want epic mountain views and open desert landscapes, Elena Gallegos Open Space is one of the best outdoor photography locations in Albuquerque. With rolling hills, desert grasses, and a breathtaking backdrop of the Sandia Mountains, this spot is a favorite for romantic sunset sessions.


💡 Pro Tip: Wear earthy or neutral tones like beige, rust, or olive green to blend beautifully with the desert setting.

Downtown Albuquerque

Best for Urban & Modern Aesthetics


📍 Location: Central Ave & 6th St, Albuquerque, NM

⏳ Best time to shoot: Late afternoon for soft shadows, nighttime for neon city lights

🏙 Best for: Fashion-forward portraits, engagement sessions, senior photos


For a modern and edgy feel, Downtown Albuquerque offers urban architecture, colorful murals, and city energy. If you want a bold, contemporary look, we can explore downtown alleyways, textured brick walls, and sleek glass buildings.


💡 Pro Tip: Love city night vibes? We can shoot after sunset for cinematic-style photos with streetlights and neon signs.

Nob Hill


Best for Retro & Colorful Street Scenes


📍 Location: Central Ave & Carlisle Blvd, Albuquerque, NM

⏳ Best time to shoot: Late afternoon for soft light, evening for neon lights

🎨 Best for: Lifestyle portraits, couples, senior sessions, creative shoots


Nob Hill is one of the most vibrant places in Albuquerque with its retro signage, colorful murals, and trendy boutiques. It’s perfect for fun, playful, and artistic sessions with a mix of vintage charm and modern energy.


💡 Pro Tip: For a bold, creative look, wear vintage-inspired outfits or pops of bright color to match the artistic Nob Hill aesthetic.

Gilman Tunnels


Best for Epic Rock Formations & Adventure Vibes


📍 Location: Jemez Mountains, NM (1.5-hour drive from Albuquerque)

⏳ Best time to shoot: Late afternoon for golden light, fall for vibrant colors

🏞 Best for: Adventure sessions, elopements, senior portraits, engagement shoots


If you’re looking for a one-of-a-kind backdrop for your photos, Gilman Tunnels is an incredible hidden gem. Nestled in the Jemez Mountains, these historic tunnels were originally built for a logging railroad in the 1920s and now create a jaw-dropping setting with towering red rock walls, winding canyon roads, and a rugged, adventurous feel.


Why You’ll Love It for Photos:

✔ Epic rock formations that make for bold, dramatic images

✔ Perfect for adventurous couples who want something different from typical desert landscapes

✔ Gorgeous in the fall when the leaves turn golden and contrast with the red canyon walls


💡 Pro Tip: Since this location is a bit remote, bring comfortable shoes and plan for extra time to explore the best angles and lighting spots!

Cibola National Forest & Sulphur Canyon


Best for Forest & Mountain Vibes


📍 Location: Cibola National Forest, Near Tijeras, NM

⏳ Best time to shoot: Early morning or late afternoon for soft, filtered light

🌲 Best for: Couples, family sessions, adventure portraits


If you’re looking for a woodsy, mountain feel, Cibola National Forest—especially Sulphur Canyon—offers tall pine trees, winding trails, and a peaceful forest setting. Unlike the typical Albuquerque desert scenery, this location feels cool, refreshing, and intimate.


💡 Pro Tip: Wear lighter or earth-toned outfits to contrast beautifully with the deep greens of the forest.

Old Town Albuquerque


Best for Historic Charm


📍 Location: 200 Romero St NW, Albuquerque, NM

⏳ Best time to shoot: Morning for fewer crowds, golden hour for warm light

🏡 Best for: Engagements, senior portraits, lifestyle photography


Old Town Albuquerque is full of rich history, vibrant colors, and adobe-style architecture, making it one of the top places for engagement photos in Albuquerque. The wooden doors, charming courtyards, and rustic walls provide a timeless and romantic setting for portraits.


💡 Pro Tip: If you love a bold, vibrant look, wear deep reds, mustard yellows, or turquoise to contrast beautifully against the adobe walls.

Los Poblanos Open Space


Best for Lush Fields & Dreamy Farm Vibes


📍 Location: 4803 Rio Grande Blvd NW, Albuquerque, NM

⏳ Best time to shoot: Sunrise for soft golden light, sunset for warm, dreamy tones

🌾 Best for: Family sessions, engagements, maternity, senior portraits


Los Poblanos Open Space is one of the most peaceful and scenic photography locations in Albuquerque. Unlike the rugged desert landscapes New Mexico is known for, this spot offers lush farmland, towering cottonwood trees, and wide-open fields—perfect for soft, romantic photos.


Why You’ll Love It for Photos:

✔ Beautiful open fields with golden light filtering through the trees

✔ A natural, countryside feel without leaving Albuquerque

✔ Perfect year-round (lush greenery in summer, golden tones in fall, soft pastel skies in spring)


💡 Pro Tip: Wear soft, flowy fabrics in neutral or earthy tones (beige, sage green, warm browns) to complement the peaceful, natural setting.

Paseo del Norte & 2nd St


Best for Wide-Open Fields & Mountain Views


📍 Location: Paseo del Norte & 2nd St, Albuquerque, NM

⏳ Best time to shoot: Sunset for golden hour, early morning for soft natural light

🌄 Best for: Family sessions, engagements, senior portraits, lifestyle photography


If you’re looking for a quiet, open-air location with stunning views of the Sandia Mountains, Paseo del Norte & 2nd St is a hidden gem in Albuquerque. This area features expansive fields, tall desert grasses, and an unobstructed view of the mountains, making it a fantastic spot for natural, relaxed, and timeless portraits.


Why You’ll Love It for Photos:

✔ Wide-open landscapes create a dreamy, airy look

✔ Soft, golden-hour light makes portraits glow beautifully

✔ Minimal crowds allow for an intimate, peaceful session


💡 Pro Tip: The golden grass and mountain backdrop look amazing with neutral or earthy outfits—think beige, rust, sage, or deep blues for the best color contrast.

Eagle Nest, NM


Best for Mountain Views & Lakeside Scenery


📍 Location: Eagle Nest, NM (2.5-hour drive from Albuquerque, 40 minutes from Taos)

⏳ Best time to shoot: Sunrise for soft pastel skies, sunset for golden-hour glow

🏞 Best for: Adventure elopements, engagements, family portraits, senior sessions


Nestled between the Sangre de Cristo Mountains and Eagle Nest Lake, this scenic mountain town offers breathtaking views, wide-open landscapes, and a peaceful lakeside backdrop. If you're looking for a tranquil, natural setting with crisp mountain air and stunning reflections on the water, Eagle Nest, NM is the perfect photoshoot destination.


Why You’ll Love It for Photos:

✔ Panoramic mountain views create a cinematic, high-altitude feel

✔ Lakeside scenery offers dreamy, reflective water shots

✔ Golden meadows & wildflowers (seasonal) add a soft, romantic touch


💡 Pro Tip: The high elevation means cooler temperatures, so if shooting in fall or winter, dress warmly and bring layers! Soft neutrals and deep jewel tones (burgundy, emerald green, navy) look stunning against the mountain backdrop.

Willow Creek Trailhead


Best for Open Fields & Cottonwood Trees


📍 Location: Willow Creek Trailhead, Rio Rancho, NM

⏳ Best time to shoot: Sunset for warm, golden light; early morning for soft shadows

🌾 Best for: Family sessions, senior portraits, engagement photos, maternity shoots


Located in Rio Rancho, Willow Creek Trailhead is a hidden gem offering wide-open fields, scenic walking trails, and towering cottonwood trees. The area provides a peaceful, natural setting with a mix of grasslands, Cottonwood Trees and distant mountain views—perfect for capturing soft, organic, and timeless portraits.


Why You’ll Love It for Photos:

✔ Beautiful cottonwood trees provide a natural canopy and stunning seasonal colors

✔ Open fields & rustic wooden fences create a classic Southwest feel

✔ Gorgeous golden-hour lighting makes this spot ideal for sunset sessions


💡 Pro Tip: The grassy fields and earthy trails look best with neutral or earth-toned outfits like beige, sage green, or warm browns. If shooting in fall, expect beautiful golden foliage!

Santa Fe Plaza


Best for Historic Architecture & Southwestern Charm


📍 Location: Downtown Santa Fe, NM

⏳ Best time to shoot: Early morning for soft light & fewer crowds, golden hour for warm tones

🏛 Best for: Engagement sessions, elopements, senior portraits, fashion/editorial shoots


If you love Southwestern charm, historic adobe architecture, and vibrant culture, Santa Fe Plaza is one of the best photography locations in New Mexico. With its colorful wooden doors, vintage storefronts, charming alleyways, and iconic adobe buildings, this area provides a timeless and artistic setting for stunning portraits.


Why You’ll Love It for Photos:

✔ Classic Santa Fe adobe architecture for a warm, rustic aesthetic

✔ Colorful doorways, historic buildings & unique textures add visual interest

✔ Nearby Cathedral Basilica of St. Francis & Loretto Chapel provide elegant, grand backdrops


💡 Pro Tip: The earthy adobe tones look best with bold colors like deep reds, mustard yellows, or turquoise, or neutral tones for a timeless, high-end look.

Alameda Open Space


Best for Scenic River Views & Cottonwood Trees


📍 Location: Alameda Blvd NW, Albuquerque, NM

⏳ Best time to shoot: Sunrise for soft, dreamy light; sunset for golden-hour glow

🌳 Best for: Family portraits, engagement sessions, maternity shoots, senior photos


If you’re looking for a peaceful outdoor location with a mix of natural landscapes, Alameda Open Space is a beautiful spot in Albuquerque. Nestled along the Rio Grande, this area offers lush cottonwood trees, sandy riverbanks, and scenic walking trails, creating a versatile and serene backdrop for portraits.


Why You’ll Love It for Photos:

✔ Stunning cottonwood trees & seasonal foliage (golden leaves in fall, green canopies in spring/summer)

✔ Open fields, dirt trails, and views of the Rio Grande for a variety of natural backdrops

✔ Soft, golden light filtering through the trees makes for warm, dreamy portraits


💡 Pro Tip: If you’re shooting in fall, the vibrant golden leaves and soft light create a magical look. Wear earthy tones like rust, mustard, or deep greens to complement the natural colors.

Rio Rancho Water Wise Garden


Best for Unique Desert Landscaping & Vibrant Florals


📍 Location: 950 Pinetree Rd SE, Rio Rancho, NM 87124

⏳ Best time to shoot: Late afternoon for golden-hour lighting; spring for peak blooms

🌵 Best for: Family portraits, senior sessions, engagement shoots, nature photography


Tucked away in Rio Rancho, the Water Wise Garden is a beautifully designed space featuring New Mexico’s native desert plants, colorful flowers, and peaceful walking paths. Designed to showcase water-efficient landscaping, this garden blends lush greenery with textured rock formations, making it a unique and visually interesting photography location.


Why You’ll Love It for Photos:

✔ Diverse plant life & flowers create a vibrant, natural backdrop

✔ Winding pathways & rock features add depth and structure to portraits

✔ Quiet & peaceful location with minimal crowds for a relaxed session


💡 Pro Tip: Since this location features warm desert tones, wear earthy neutrals (beige, rust, sage, mustard yellow) or deep jewel tones (burgundy, emerald, navy) for a bold contrast.

Casa Rondeña Winery


Best for Elegant Vineyard & Rustic Charm


📍 Location: 733 Chavez Rd, Los Ranchos De Albuquerque, NM 87107

⏳ Best time to shoot: Golden hour for warm vineyard glow; fall for rich autumn tones

🍷 Best for: Engagement sessions, weddings, elopements, anniversary photos, senior portraits


Casa Rondeña Winery is one of Albuquerque’s most romantic and picturesque photography locations, offering lush vineyards, elegant Spanish-style architecture, and a tranquil atmosphere. Whether you’re dreaming of a rustic vineyard engagement session or an elegant bridal photoshoot, this award-winning winery provides an unforgettable backdrop.


Why You’ll Love It for Photos:

✔ Beautiful vineyard rows for dreamy, romantic shots

✔ Elegant Spanish-inspired architecture with arched doorways & rustic wood details

✔ Serene reflecting pond & lush greenery for a timeless, sophisticated feel


💡 Pro Tip: The warm, golden tones of sunset make Casa Rondeña absolutely glow! Wear flowy dresses, neutral or deep jewel tones (burgundy, emerald green, navy) to complement the surroundings beautifully.



Albuquerque Botanic Garden


Best for Floral & Greenery Backdrops


📍 Location: 2601 Central Ave NW, Albuquerque, NM

⏳ Best time to shoot: Spring and early summer for peak blooms

🌸 Best for: Engagements, maternity sessions, senior portraits


For lush greenery and seasonal blooms, the Albuquerque Botanic Garden is a perfect choice. With colorful flowers, winding garden paths, and charming gazebos, it offers a fairytale-like setting for romantic portraits.


💡 Pro Tip: Check ahead for admission fees or permits required for professional photography.

UNM Campus


Best for Classic Architecture & Lush Greenery


📍 Location: University of New Mexico, Albuquerque, NM

⏳ Best time to shoot: Late afternoon for golden-hour glow; spring & fall for seasonal colors

🎓 Best for: Graduation photos, engagement sessions, senior portraits, lifestyle photography


The University of New Mexico (UNM) campus offers a beautiful mix of historic Southwestern architecture, tree-lined walkways, and peaceful courtyards, making it an ideal location for classic and timeless portraits. Whether you're celebrating a graduation, engagement, or senior milestone, UNM’s variety of backdrops provides a refined and scenic setting for photography.


Why You’ll Love It for Photos:

✔ Iconic campus landmarks like Hodgin Hall, Zimmerman Library, and the Duck Pond create stunning backdrops

✔ Lush trees & seasonal foliage add a touch of nature (golden leaves in fall, fresh greenery in spring)

✔ Elegant adobe-style architecture blends historic charm with modern university vibes


💡 Pro Tip: For graduation sessions, bring a cap & gown plus a second outfit for a mix of classic and fun shots! Neutral tones or UNM's cherry & silver colors work great in this setting.

Home / personal property

We love capturing beautiful moments wherever you feel most comfortable! In addition to outdoor sessions, we also offer photoshoots at your home, reserved stays at resorts + hotels, or private property—perfect for a relaxed, personalized experience.

 

 

 

"The best thing about a picture is that it never changes, even when the people in it do."

 

 

 

Andy Warhol
Intimate couple sharing a tender romantic moment together in warm lighting at home.
Two people enjoying a drive in a convertible car at sunset, with hair blowing in the wind and visible in rearview mirror.

 

Let's work together

Whether it’s a portrait session, a special event, or a custom photoshoot, we’re here to bring your vision to life. Get in touch, and let’s make it happen!