Why desert will always be my favorite place for family session | Abu Dhabi Desert Family Photography

Margot S Photography
Sep 19
2 min read

There is no secret that desert sessions are my favorite for many reasons. Whether you're a family living in UAE since a long time or visiting Abu Dhabi for a holiday, here's why I always recommend the desert for your next session:

Adventure

If you are planning a family session, the desert is a perfect location for your kids as it's their natural habitat :) Dunes are simply one big sandpit for kids. Do not think about it as a simple photo shoot where you stand still and smile but as a great experience where your kids can run on delicate sand, jump off dunes, follow tracks of lizards and if we are really lucky spot also some camels.

Light

Desert light — especially at golden hour — is soft, warm, and incredibly flattering. It allows you to create beautiful portraits with this magic sparkle that wraps around you. At sunset, the colors become richer and more romantic — perfect for capturing your memories.

Privacy

Unlike beaches or city spots that can get crowded, most desert locations are completely open and quiet. This calm space creates a relaxed atmosphere where kids can run freely, parents can breathe, and families can just be together — no distractions, no pressure. This encourages a more intimate atmosphere where we have space for cuddles, nose kisses or simple moments of pause.

Minimalist

If you’re drawn to a minimalist style, the desert is the perfect backdrop. With golden sands, soft skies, and minimal distractions, it feels like a blank canvas where the focus is entirely on you and your family. Photographs taken here aren’t just pictures — they become timeless pieces of art, beautifully capturing your love and connection, ready to be displayed on your walls.

Iconic

Whether you’ve called the UAE home for years or are here on a once-in-a-lifetime adventure, experiencing the desert is simply unforgettable. Capturing those moments with your family goes beyond just taking photos — it’s about creating memories you’ll cherish forever. I recently did a desert photo session with my family, and I’m so grateful I went through with it, even though my little one had the biggest meltdown right before we left. Looking back, I don’t regret a single picture we took — only the ones I never captured.

Ready to Experience It for Yourself?

Desert sessions are best done during golden hour (just before sunset), and we’ll take it slow — with lots of breaks and play along the way. You don’t need to pose. You just need to show up, be together, and let the desert work it's quiet magic.

Let’s plan your desert session — I promise it’ll be unforgettable.