If you aren’t sure where to take your bridal portraits in the Bay Area, the Stanford Arizona Cactus Garden in Palo Alto is such a great option! There are SO MANY cacti and succulents everywhere, and they are super well taken care of.
It’s an incredibly popular spot for bridal portraits, maternity, senior, and family sessions. The garden definitely looks the best during the Summer and Spring, as it is sometimes covered during the Fall and Winter in order to prevent the cacti and succulents from getting their roots rotted.
The only downside is that since it’s so lovely and popular, it can get pretty busy, so patience will be required. There is no entry fee, so if you are looking for a budget spot that doesn’t require a permit, the Stanford Arizona Cactus Garden is one of my top recommendations.
There is a parking fee, and the lot is small, so I always suggest arriving far earlier than your session time to allow time to find adequate parking.
It definitely was the perfect spot for Anna and Erik, who unfortunately had to postpone their wedding due to the pandemic. We ultimately decided to do a styled bridal shoot on the day they originally had set for their wedding at the garden.
Once it’s safe we can go ahead with the plans for the big wedding later this year. I am so excited to be able to capture their love for one another again!
Interested in a session at the Stanford Arizona Cactus Garden? View other sessions here!
Here’s what Anna and Erik had to say about our photo session at the Stanford Arizona Cactus Garden:
“Carla is an outstanding photographer from start to finish. She is the definition of a true professional. We always appreciate Carla’s communication skills and her attention to us.
For example, before our wedding day, Carla contacted us frequently to check-in with us.
During our wedding photos, she made us feel comfortable throughout the session. My husband is camera-shy and does not know how to pose; however, Carla solved this problem immediately.
She showed us photos and gave us ideas on the spot, which was very helpful to us. Due to the pandemic, we are having two weddings.
Carla has already photographed our first wedding and will be photographing our second wedding in 2021. She will become our family photographer for future events, that’s how much we love her work.
Indeed, we have the highest praise for Carla and we are beyond happy with her work, talent, and professionalism.”
Congratulations Anna and Erik! I can not wait to capture precious memories for you two again!
