Back to Flow: Our Guide to Reconnecting After Coachella Weekend 2

It’s Tuesday. The music has stopped, the dust has settled, and we’re finally home—lounging with our pups, replaying moments from an unforgettable few days in the desert. This weekend was everything: chaotic, healing, inspiring, exhausting, and filled with moments that reminded us why we do this in the first place.

It all started on what we’re calling Day 0. That was our travel day—when we were just supposed to head into Indio and check into our Airbnb, nothing more. Instead, we found ourselves pulled over on the shoulder where the 10 East meets the 62 junction, car completely done. Our instincts kicked in, and one of the first thoughts was: Is this a sign? That gut feeling that maybe we weren’t meant to make this trip.

But we paused, breathed, and figured it out. A few hours, a lot of problem-solving, and one brand-new engine later (yes, seriously), we were back on track—already over budget and not even through the gates yet. That’s how our Coachella journey began.

From there, everything shifted. Once we settled into the festival, the stress gave way to presence. We wandered through massive art installations, stumbled on speakeasy bars that felt like secret treasure hunts, danced with strangers, and caught sets from artists we’ve loved for years—alongside new sounds that moved us in unexpected ways. We logged over 20,000 steps a day, ran on snacks and adrenaline, and by the end of each night, we were sore, sun-kissed, and completely in the moment.

Monday came fast—and with it, the crash. Physically, we were wrecked. Our legs were toast, our voices hoarse, and all we wanted was to be home with our dogs. And that’s exactly what we did.

Our first full day back wasn’t about catching up on emails or unpacking. It was about landing. We laid on the floor with our pups, didn’t stress about meals (our bodies were begging for fuel), caught up on our favorite shows, and just existed without an agenda. It was messy and perfect and needed.

Now it’s Tuesday, and real life is slowly coming back into focus. We’ve been reviewing finances (because, hello, surprise engine), checking our personal and work calendars, and easing back into our routines. But more importantly, we’re carving out space to rest and regroup—emotionally, mentally, physically.

Later this week, we’re planning a reset day in the mountains. No noise. No plans. Just us, our three dogs, a couple of journals, and the quiet. We know from experience that these little getaways are where we process, reflect, and reconnect—not just with nature, but with ourselves and each other.

If you’re fresh off a music festival or any big trip, and you’re trying to find your footing again, here’s what’s been helping us:

Our Guide to Reconnecting After a Festival

1. Allow a soft landing
We gave ourselves permission to do nothing that first day back. No pressure to be productive. Just space to rest, snack, and let our bodies catch up to our hearts.

2. Reground through routine
Getting back to our daily rituals—walking the dogs, tidying up, journaling—helped bring a sense of calm after so much stimulation.

3. Reflect before rushing back
We talked through the weekend: what moved us, what challenged us, and what we want to bring back into our day-to-day lives.

4. Make time for a detox day
This week, we’re heading to the mountains for a reset—no phones, no emails, just nature, quiet, and fresh air.

5. Lead with gratitude
Even with all the chaos—the breakdown, the spending, the soreness—we wouldn’t trade a second. We came home with full hearts and a deeper appreciation for everything we have.

So, now we’re curious—how do you adjust after a music festival?
Drop your top 3 post-festival rituals in the comments. Whether it’s digital detoxing, binge-watching comfort shows, or diving into your journal—we’d love to hear what helps you land gently.

Hidden Bars & Secret Shots: Discovering Coachella’s Speakeasies Through the Lens

Coachella is known for more than just headliners and desert fashion — it's also home to a series of hidden speakeasy bars that elevate the entire festival experience. Tucked away in corners of the grounds, behind red doors, or hidden within art installations, these secret spots are perfect for those in search of exclusive drinks, chill vibes, and — you guessed it — next-level photo ops.

As photographers, we’re always chasing light, color, and raw emotion. And what better way to capture the soul of Coachella than inside the mystery and moodiness of its speakeasies? Here's a list of some hidden gems — plus tips on how to photograph them without killing the vibe.

1. PDTiki – A Tropical Escape

Inspired by NYC’s famous "Please Don’t Tell" bar, PDTiki at Coachella is a fully themed tiki oasis that feels like a portal to another world. With soft lighting, vibrant colors, and handcrafted drinks, this place is a dream to photograph — especially if you love moody tones and candid laughter mid-sip.

Photography Tip:
Use a low aperture to capture the ambiance — think wide open at f/1.8 to embrace the soft lighting. Focus on hands holding cocktails, decor details, or portraits with neon reflections.

2. The Cabin – Rustic and Retro

Hidden near the Beer Barn, The Cabin looks like a cozy lodge dropped into the middle of Indio. Created by the Houston Brothers (you might know them from L.A.’s Good Times at Davey Wayne’s), the vibe is old-school and warm — perfect for a vintage-style shoot.

Photography Tip:
Push your ISO and lean into the grain for that film-inspired look. Capture moments between friends on couches or detail shots of retro signage and string lights.

3. Golden Hour – If You Can Find It

Golden Hour isn’t just a time of day — at Coachella, it’s also a hidden bar known for its smooth beats and killer drinks. The only catch? You have to find it. No official map. No signs. Just whispers and a good sense of direction.

Photography Tip:
Golden Hour is perfect for — well, golden hour lighting. Try backlighting your subjects just before sunset or focus on dramatic shadows cast across textured walls.

4. Mixteca – Agave & Ambiance

A speakeasy focused on agave spirits? Count us in. Mixteca is another hidden gem that combines the rich flavors of mezcal with equally rich visual settings. Low lights, vibrant bar setups, and cozy corners make this spot feel cinematic.

Photography Tip:
Bring your fast prime lens and play with foreground elements like plants, candles, or cocktail glasses to frame your shots creatively.

How to Find These Hidden Bars

• Follow the Clues: Look for odd doors, buzzing crowds near quiet corners, or even random phone booths.

• Check TikTok & IG Stories: Many users share their discoveries — sometimes even the secret passwords. Hashtags like #CoachellaSpeakeasy or #HiddenCoachella can lead you straight to them.

• Ask Around: The Coachella Reddit community often drops hints, including last year’s password “Chúpamela” for a secret disco bar.

Final Thoughts: Don’t Just Drink It — Shoot It

As photographers, these hidden bars are pure magic. They blend personality, intimacy, and artistry into one unforgettable vibe. Whether you're documenting your own experience, capturing content for a brand, or just adding to your festival portfolio, these secret spots offer a unique backdrop to create something special.

So next time you're at Coachella, keep your lens ready and your curiosity high. That unmarked door? It might just lead to your favorite shot of the weekend.

P.S. Big thanks to creators like @hungrytrish and @secret.losangeles on Instagram for sharing their Coachella speakeasy finds. Check out their journey and give them a follow for more behind-the-scenes gems!

Follow us on Instagram and tag us with your favorite speakeasy at Coachella for a chance to win official Coachella merch!

Coachella Edition: Where to Snap the Best Photos In & Around the Festival

✨ The beautiful featured image in this post is by the talented Joshua Coleman.
📸 For more of his stunning work, check out his Instagram: @joshstyle

Whether you're vibing in a sequin fit under the Ferris wheel or escaping the crowd for a desert sunrise, Coachella is an absolute dream for content creators, photographers, and anyone who loves a good aesthetic. Here's your ultimate guide to cool photo spots — both inside and outside the festival.

Inside the Festival: The Classics

These are the spots you have to capture while you're on the festival grounds:

1. The Ferris Wheel

The Coachella staple. Snap it at golden hour or get a panoramic shot from the top. Major festival vibes.

2. Spectra Tower

The rainbow spiral of dreams. Great lighting inside and out, day or night. Pro tip: Stand inside for a kaleidoscope effect.

3. The Art Installations

Every year features new, mind-blowing pieces. These large-scale art sculptures are interactive, colorful, and perfect for dynamic portraits.

4. The Palm Trees + Desert Backdrop

Line them up with the mountains behind for that dreamy, open-sky, “only at Coachella” look. Best during sunrise or sunset.

When You're Not at the Festival: Photo-Worthy Desert Spots

Take a break from the stages and explore these gems around the Coachella Valley:

1. Lake Cahuilla Recreation Area (10 mins from the fest)

Calm lake views with rugged mountain backdrops. Great for a peaceful shoot in nature — think desert reflection shots at dusk.

2. Moorten Botanical Garden & Cactarium (Palm Springs)

Cactus heaven. Get up close with succulents, vintage desert textures, and a rustic greenhouse that gives serious editorial vibes.

3. Cabazon Dinosaurs (on your way in/out)

Campy and cute. These retro roadside dinos make for fun, offbeat photos — especially if you’re going for something playful.

4. Whitewater Preserve

Lush greenery and water...in the desert?! Yup. A rare oasis with trails, bridges, and mountain views. It’s giving film photo magic.

5. Joshua Tree National Park (45 mins out)

Worth the drive if you’ve got time. Alien landscapes, Joshua Trees, rock formations, and the best astrophotography if you stay past sunset.

Bonus Tips for Shooting Coachella Content

• Golden Hour Rules Everything: Plan your shoots during sunrise or 1 hour before sunset for the best light.

• Protect Your Gear: Bring a lens cloth and zip your camera in a dustproof bag when you're walking around.

• Outfit Changes: If you’re staying nearby, pack options. You'll thank yourself later.

• Stay Hydrated: Desert heat is real, even during golden hour.

Whether you’re shooting reels, selfies, or full editorial sessions, the Coachella Valley is your playground. Just don’t forget to put the camera down and soak it all in sometimes.

Which weekend are you going to — Weekend 1 or 2?
Are you camping or glamping it up?
And tell me — who are you most excited to see live?!
Drop your plans (and your fit checks) in the comments — I wanna see!

Looking for festival fashion inspiration? Explore our Festival Photography gallery for stylish outfit ideas and creative looks.

Capturing Coachella: Photography Tips & Festival Insights

Coachella is almost here, and whether you’re going for the music, the vibes, or just to people-watch, one thing’s for sure—it’s a photographer’s dream. I’ve shot everything from music festivals and concerts to corporate events and private parties, and festival photography has a special kind of energy that makes it both challenging and exciting.

Over the years, I’ve captured so many different environments—crowded venues, low-light performances, outdoor festivals in the middle of nowhere, and intimate moments backstage. Every event teaches you something new about shooting in unpredictable conditions, and Coachella is no different. The mix of golden-hour lighting, insane stage setups, and stylish festival-goers makes it the perfect place to push your creativity behind the lens. Whether you’re bringing your camera, phone, or even a disposable, here are some tips to help you capture the festival in the best way possible.

Essential Coachella Photography Tips

1. Golden hour is your best friend

If you want that dreamy festival glow, aim to shoot early in the morning or right before sunset. Midday sun in the desert is brutal—it’ll wash out colors, create harsh shadows, and make people squint in every shot. If you have to shoot during the day, find some shade or position your subject with their back to the sun for softer lighting.

2. Capture the experience, not just the stage

Coachella isn’t just about the performances—it’s about the people, the energy, the moments in between. Some of my favorite shots from festivals aren’t even of the artists but of the crowd. People dancing, laughing, throwing their hands up when their favorite song drops—those are the moments that tell the real story of a festival.

3. Use a fast shutter speed for action shots

Festivals are full of movement, and a slow shutter speed will leave you with a blurry mess. Keep your shutter speed at 1/500s or higher to freeze the action, whether it’s an artist mid-jump or a crowd going wild. If you’re shooting with a phone, burst mode is your best friend for catching those split-second moments.

4. Experiment with different angles

If you want your shots to stand out, don’t just snap everything from eye level. Get low, climb up on something (safely), shoot through objects—use whatever’s around you to create depth and make your photos more interesting. Wide-angle lenses work great for capturing the scale of the festival, while a telephoto lens can help you isolate moments in a crowded scene.

5. Be ready for low-light challenges

Once the sun goes down, Coachella turns into a neon wonderland, but low light can be tricky. If you’re using a camera, crank up the ISO while keeping an eye on noise. A fast lens, like a 50mm f/1.8, can make a huge difference. For phone photographers, night mode is a game changer, but keep your hands steady or use a small tripod for sharper images.

6. Candid over posed

The best festival photos are the ones that feel real. Instead of trying to get the perfect posed shot, look for authentic moments—friends hyping each other up, someone getting lost in the music, a quiet second before a big drop. These are the shots that actually take you back to the moment.

7. Protect your gear

Coachella is in the desert, which means dust, sweat, and accidental drink spills are all part of the experience. If you’re bringing a camera, use a UV filter on your lens and keep a microfiber cloth handy. If you’re shooting with your phone, a simple lens wipe will keep your shots crisp. And whatever you do, don’t forget extra batteries or a portable charger—you’ll need it.

My experience shooting music festivals

Over the years, I’ve photographed everything from small local shows to massive festivals, and I’ve learned that adaptability is key. My first time shooting a festival, I made every mistake possible—overexposed daytime shots, blurry night photos, and a dead battery halfway through the night. But every event has helped me get better at reading the energy of a crowd, finding the best lighting, and capturing moments that feel alive.

Some of my favorite shots have come from unexpected moments. One time, I caught a perfect silhouette of a dancer against a neon-lit backdrop. Another time, I was able to capture an artist’s raw emotion mid-performance, completely in their zone. These are the kinds of shots that make festival photography so rewarding.

Final thoughts

Coachella is a dream for photographers, whether you’re shooting for fun, content creation, or professionally. The key is to be observant, experiment with different perspectives, and focus on the moments that make the experience unforgettable. Whether it’s golden-hour portraits, high-energy crowd shots, or the neon glow of the festival at night, every part of Coachella is an opportunity to capture something amazing.

If you’re heading to Coachella and want some professional shots of your festival outfits, book a session with Last Minute Photoshoot. Let’s create some magic and make sure you leave with the best memories, captured forever.