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!

Last-Minute Photoshoot Idea in Palm Springs: “Golden Hour Getaway”

Photo Credit: Kelly Repreza 📸
This stunning portrait was captured by the talented @kellyrepreza — if you love her style, be sure to check out more of her work on Instagram!

Whether you're a couple visiting the desert, a solo traveler embracing self-love, or a content creator chasing golden light, this last-minute photoshoot idea in Palm Springs delivers cinematic magic with zero stress. As portrait photographers, we know that some of the best moments happen when they’re unplanned — and this shoot proves that you don’t need a full production to capture beauty.

Concept: Golden Hour Getaway

Inspired by desert road trips and effortless adventure, the “Golden Hour Getaway” is all about soaking up that rich sunset light and letting Palm Springs’ natural backdrops do the heavy lifting. With the perfect mix of mid-century vibes, mountain views, and palm-lined streets, this shoot is made for quick setups, candid emotion, and timeless portraits.

Top Last-Minute Photoshoot Locations in Palm Springs

These are our favorite locations to shoot on short notice — no permits required for small sessions and easy to access with minimal gear:

1. Palm Springs Windmill Farm (just off I-10)

✔ Wide open desert views
✔ Iconic wind turbines and dramatic skies
✔ Best for movement shots, editorial vibes, and powerful silhouettes

2. Palm Springs Visitor Center (2901 N Palm Canyon Dr)

✔ Mid-century modern architecture
✔ Clean lines, retro color palette
✔ Best for solo portraits, fashion, or brand sessions

3. Indian Canyon Drive (between Palm Canyon Dr & Murray Canyon)

✔ Palm tree-lined streets
✔ Expansive road shots with mountain backdrops
✔ Best for romantic walking shots, wide couple portraits

4. Ace Hotel & Swim Club (Outside) (701 E Palm Canyon Dr)

✔ Retro desert charm and desert landscaping
✔ Pops of color, bikes, and textures
✔ Best for lifestyle portraits, editorial, or fashion-forward looks

5. Moorten Botanical Garden (1701 S Palm Canyon Dr)

✔ Over 3,000 desert plants and cactus gardens
✔ Small greenhouse for soft, diffused light
✔ Best for intimate, earthy portraits (small fee applies)

6. Tahquitz Canyon Trailhead (500 W Mesquite Ave)

✔ Scenic desert hiking trail and rocky textures
✔ Unique natural lighting around golden hour
✔ Best for adventurous couples and nature lovers (entry fee required)

7. Random Pull-Offs Along CA-111

✔ True “middle-of-nowhere” desert vibes
✔ Natural textures, scattered palm trees, and total silence
✔ Best for solo portraits, elopements, or bold editorial shots

Props & Styling Tips (Quick and Easy)

Even with little time, adding a few thoughtful touches can elevate the session:

• Sunglasses or a wide-brim hat for personality and shadow play

• Neutral tones or earth-inspired colors that complement the desert palette

• Statement accessories like a scarf, iced coffee, or vintage camera

• A weekender bag or vintage suitcase for a subtle storytelling element

• Blanket or mini stool for relaxed seated poses or lounging shots

Portrait Photography Tips for Fast, Natural Shoots

Whether you're shooting a quick 30-minute mini session or a spontaneous lifestyle session, these tips help make the most of the light and moment:

1. Time it right: Shoot 45–60 minutes before sunset for soft, flattering golden light.

2. Get a mix of wide & tight shots: Establish the scene, then focus on connection and emotion.

3. Use the environment: Palm trees, shadows, and textures naturally enhance your composition.

4. Prompt with feeling, not just posing:

   • “Walk like you’re headed toward something exciting.”

   • “Take a breath and turn your face into the sun.”

   • “Lean back and laugh like no one’s watching.”

Final Thoughts

Palm Springs is a dream for portrait photographers — even on short notice. With its iconic backdrops, soft golden-hour lighting, and relaxed energy, it’s the perfect location for authentic, effortless portraits. Whether you're a traveler looking to capture a spontaneous moment or a brand needing content fast, the desert has your back.

And as photographers, we know that sometimes the most meaningful images are the ones we didn’t plan — the ones that happen when we show up with our camera, a little intention, and a willingness to create something beautiful in the moment.

Looking for a last-minute session in Palm Springs?
We’ve got you covered. Whether you’re traveling solo, on a girls’ trip, or planning a surprise couple shoot — let’s capture the magic while the light is still golden.

Explore our curated portrait photography gallery for last-minute photo session ideas in Palm Springs and beyond.

5 Last-Minute Photography Ideas in Temecula You Can Shoot Today

If you're a local or visiting photographer looking for last-minute photography ideas in Temecula, you're in luck. Temecula is a stunning playground for photographers—filled with rustic charm, natural beauty, and vibrant colors that look great through any lens. Whether you’re a full-time Temecula photographer or someone seeking a spontaneous shoot location, these five spots are perfect for capturing breathtaking shots with little to no planning.

1. Old Town Temecula – Vintage Vibes & Urban Texture

Old Town Temecula is a goldmine for photography in Temecula. Its rustic wood-paneled buildings, brick storefronts, and historic charm provide a variety of textures and tones ideal for portraits, engagement shoots, and lifestyle content.

Tips for shooting in Old Town Temecula:

• Golden hour adds a warm glow to the vintage structures—perfect for portraits.

• Explore alleyways and side streets for unique backdrops away from crowds.

• Visit after sunset for night photography—the string lights and signage make for magical shots.

2. Rose Haven Heritage Garden – A Floral Wonderland

Just a few minutes from downtown, the Rose Haven Heritage Garden is one of the best-kept secrets for last-minute photography in Temecula. With over 2,000 varieties of roses, this garden is a color explosion in spring and early summer.

Tips for photography at Rose Haven:

• Spring mornings are ideal—soft light + full blooms = dream shots.

• Bring a macro lens to capture details of the roses.

• Use the gazebo or stone benches for posing clients or product shots.

3. Temecula Wine Country – Classic & Romantic

If you're looking for those iconic, sweeping vineyard shots that scream “Temecula photography,” head to Wine Country. Locations like Ponte Winery, Callaway Vineyard, and Wilson Creek Winery offer endless opportunities—from dreamy sunset shots to rustic barrels and wine glasses.

Tips for photographing in Temecula Wine Country:

• Always ask for permission—some wineries are photo-friendly; others require permits.

• Use props like picnic baskets, wine glasses, or vintage hats to tell a story.

• Plan for sunset sessions—the golden light on the grapevines is unreal.

4. Santa Rosa Plateau – Nature’s Perfect Backdrop

The Santa Rosa Plateau Ecological Reserve is ideal for last-minute nature photography in Temecula. With its miles of trails, oak trees, wildflowers, and vernal pools, this spot is perfect for family sessions, solo portraits, or nature lovers.

Santa Rosa Plateau photography tips:

• Arrive early or late for soft, directional light.

• Stick to marked trails and respect the wildlife.

• Ideal for moody, earthy tones—perfect for editing!

5. Lake Skinner – Wide-Open Space Meets Tranquility

Just northeast of Temecula, Lake Skinner offers tranquil water views, wide-open skies, and grassy hills that look beautiful in every season. It’s a peaceful spot great for last-minute family photography, graduation shoots, or even landscape photography in Temecula.

Lake Skinner photo tips:

• Get there during sunrise or sunset for those bold horizon colors.

• Look for reflections on calm water to double the drama.

• Check if a permit is required if you’re planning a commercial or client session.

Final Thoughts: Temecula Is a Photographer’s Dream—Even Last-Minute

The beauty of being a Temecula photographer is having access to so many versatile locations—from rose gardens and vineyards to old-town charm and peaceful lakes. These spots require little to no planning, making them perfect for last-minute sessions, spontaneous creative shoots, or building your Temecula photography portfolio.

So pack your camera, charge your batteries, and hit the road. Temecula is waiting—and it's picture-perfect.

Need a last-minute photographer in Temecula?
Book your session at www.lastminutephotoshoot.com or follow us on Instagram @lastminutephotoshoot for behind-the-scenes, client stories, and location tips around Southern California.

Finding Your Photography Style: A Guide to Portrait Photography

Portrait photography is more than just taking pictures—it’s about capturing emotions, telling stories, and making real connections. As a portrait photographer, developing a unique style can set you apart, attract the right clients, and create a signature look that makes your work instantly recognizable.

Whether you're drawn to natural light portraits, dramatic studio portrait photography, or headshot photography, refining your approach will help you stand out in a competitive industry. In this guide, we’ll explore ways to develop your style, essential portrait photography tips, and how to create stunning, professional portraits.

Why Finding Your Photography Style Matters

Your photography style is your artistic identity. It shapes how you compose your shots, how you use lighting, and how you edit your images. A well-defined style in portrait photography helps you:

• Attract ideal clients who love your aesthetic

• Create a strong portfolio with a consistent look

• Stand out in the industry with recognizable, high-quality work

Whether you specialize in lifestyle portraits, candid photography, beauty portraits, or creative portrait photography, honing your signature style is key to growing as a professional portrait photographer.

How to Find Your Portrait Photography Style

Experiment with Different Portrait Photography Techniques

To discover what resonates with you, explore different approaches to portrait photography:

• Natural light portraits are perfect for soft, glowing images with organic tones. Golden hour, overcast skies, and window light can all create beautiful, natural effects.

• Studio portrait photography offers complete control over portrait lighting setups, from softboxes to dramatic rim lighting.

• Candid photography is great for storytelling, capturing real emotions, and making your portraits feel natural and unscripted.

• Dramatic lighting portraits use high contrast, shadows, and strong highlights to create bold, artistic images.

Define Your Editing Style

Post-processing plays a huge role in developing your style. Experiment with different editing techniques to see what fits your vision:

• Lightroom presets and color grading can create a signature tone for your portraits.

• Black and white photography adds a timeless, emotional quality to your work.

• Skin retouching techniques like dodging and burning or frequency separation help enhance portraits while maintaining a natural look.

Choose the Right Portrait Photography Lenses and Equipment

Your choice of camera gear significantly impacts your photography style. Some of the best lenses for portraits include:

• 50mm f/1.8, also known as the nifty fifty, is an affordable and versatile lens for natural-looking portraits with beautiful bokeh.

• 85mm f/1.4 or f/1.8 is a classic portrait lens that offers flattering compression and dreamy depth of field.

• 70-200mm f/2.8 is ideal for professional portraits, allowing you to capture stunning close-ups from a distance.

Study Other Portrait Photographers

Looking at the work of established portrait photographers can help you refine your own style. Pay attention to:

• Composition and posing techniques that create flattering images.

• Lighting setups, whether they use natural light, reflectors, or studio strobes.

• Editing styles and color tones that define their aesthetic.

Build Strong Connections With Your Clients

One of the most important aspects of portrait photography is creating a comfortable environment for your clients. When your subjects feel at ease, their true personalities shine through.

• Ask about their story and what they hope to capture in their portraits.

• Guide them with simple posing tips to encourage natural movements.

• Keep the session relaxed by playing music, chatting, and making the experience fun.

Conclusion

Finding your portrait photography style takes time, practice, and experimentation. The key is to shoot consistently, analyze your work, and refine your approach based on what feels most authentic to you. Whether you love vibrant lifestyle portraits, moody black-and-white shots, or classic studio headshots, your unique style will develop as you grow.

Your style will continue to evolve as you gain experience, but the most important thing is to stay true to your artistic vision. Keep learning, stay inspired, and enjoy the journey of capturing meaningful moments through portrait photography.

The backbone of our Economy: Small businesses at the Tyler Galleria Farmers Market

Small businesses are undoubtedly the backbone of our economy. They drive local communities, offer unique products and create opportunities for meaningful connections. Recently, we had the pleasure of meeting with a handful of inspiring business owners at the Tyler Galleria Farmers Market to talk shop and snap a few photos of their vibrant setups.

Held every Sunday, the Tyler Galleria Farmers Market is a hub of activity, featuring a diverse collection of vendors offering everything from artisanal goods to fresh produce. It's a gathering place where entrepreneurs showcase their hard work and creativity and where the community can come together to support them.

During our visit, we spoke with a variety of vendors, each with their own unique story. From small-batch food artisans to handmade craft sellers, each setup reflected the passion and dedication that goes into their products. Every table had something special to offer and it was clear that these business owners put their heart and soul into what they do.

One of the highlights was capturing the vendors in action. Whether they were serving customers or perfecting their displays, the energy was contagious. We took the opportunity to snap some candid shots, hoping to capture not only the products but also the personalities and stories behind each booth.

The Tyler Galleria Farmers Market isn't just a place to shop, it's a space for connection. Walking through the market, you feel the community's strong support for local businesses. You see familiar faces greeting each other, hear the vendors' excitement as they talk about their products, and experience the warmth that only comes from supporting small, independent businesses.

If you're looking for something special or simply want to spend your Sunday surrounded by local flavor and creativity, the Tyler Galleria Farmers Market is a must-visit. Below are a few of the vendors that caught our eye:

1. [4seasonsjerky] – Bold flavors that’ll last all year long. What started as a quick alternative for bar snacks on the go has now become Thom’s full time passion. After 10 years in the business he’s still serving up the same quality jerky that started it all.

   Thom L. Instagram.com/4seasonsjerky

2. [2rips3d] – Eddie’s 3D print business brings creativity to life with fun, unique designs! From custom figures to quirky accessories, every piece is crafted with precision and passion.

   Eddie M. Instagram.com/2rips3d

3. [Alpine Sharp Edge] – Ron, the heart behind Alpine Sharp Edge, carries a family tradition that has been passed down through generations. He learned the craft of sharpening from his father, a skill that became their bond. After his dad’s passing, Ron felt a deep calling to honor his memory. Now, every knife and tool he sharpens at the market keeps that connection alive, a tribute to the lessons and legacy his father left behind.

   Ron M. (650) 918-8129

Each vendor we met reminded us why small businesses are so important. They're more than just places to buy products, they’re the heart of our local economies. So, the next time you visit a farmers market or a local shop, take a moment to talk with the people behind the counter. Their stories are often just as special as what they're selling.

We left the Tyler Galleria Farmers Market feeling inspired and grateful to have met such amazing entrepreneurs. If you’re in the area, be sure to swing by on Sundays and experience it for yourself!

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Adapting to a new environment: What we learned (and the mistakes we made) During our first networking event photoshoot.

Photographing a networking event for the first time was an eye opening experience for us. While we’ve shot at music festivals, graduations and weddings this felt like stepping into a completely new territory. The intimate business focused atmosphere came with its own unique challenges and we definitely made a few mistakes along the way. Here’s what we learned so you don’t have to make the same mistakes and how we grew from it.

1. MISTAKE: UNDERESTIMATING THE PACE At music festivals, everything is fast paced, chaotic and full of action. We expected the same level of movement during the networking event but things were more calm. We found ourselves anxiously waiting for big moments only to realize later that the beauty of networking events lies in the smaller, quieter exchanges, those genuine handshakes, warm smiles and moments of connection. LESSON LEARNED: Pay attention to the subtle interactions, these small moments tell the story of the event and capture the true essence of networking.

2. MISTAKE: BEING TOO OBVIOUS I’m used to positioning myself wherever I need to get the shot but in a networking event, standing in the middle of conversations or being too visible can interrupt the flow. I learned quickly that I needed to be more discreet, moving more slowly and blending into the background. LESSON LEARNED: At networking events it’s important to be a fly on the wall. Use longer lenses to keep respectful distance and avoid drawing attention to yourself.

3. MISTAKE: MISSING OUT ON KEY PEOPLE I focused so much on capturing the overall event atmosphere that I missed photographing a few of the key speakers and vendors. Networking events often revolve around specific individuals, businesses and those moments are crucial for your client. LESSON LEARNED: Communicate with the client ahead of time or Do Your Own Research (D.Y.O.R) to understand who the key players are and make sure to prioritize capturing them. A quick shot list can save you from scrambling or missing important figures.

4. MISTAKE: NOT PACKING ENOUGH GEAR We thought we could get away with just a camera and a few lenses but made a rookie mistake by leaving our flash at home. The lighting in the venue was much dimmer that we anticipated and it became a real challenge to capture well lit images without the extra light source. Thankfully, we were able to adjust the lighting in post but it was far from ideal. LESSON LEARNED: Always pack for the unexpected. Even if the venue seems well lit during the setup, bring flash, extra memory cards and plan for what if scenarios. You’ll save yourself a lot of headaches if you prepare ahead of time.

5. MISTAKE: OVER RELYING ON CANDIDS While candid shots are a must at networking events, we initially hesitated to ask people for posed shots worrying it would break the flow of the conversation but we quickly learned that most people are happy to take a quick photo if you approach them with grace and confidence. LESSON LEARNED: Don’t be afraid to ask for posed shots, especially when people have naturally paused in conversation. As Wayne Gretzky famously said, “You miss 100% of the shots you don’t take.” If you approach them with grace and respect, these photos are often the ones clients value most because they clearly highlight who attended the event.

Our final thoughts: Photographing our first networking event was a learning curve but it pushed us out of our comfort zone in the best way. Every mistake helped us refine our approach and sharpened our eye for capturing the subtle but important moments. While shooting a networking event may be slower paced than a music festival, the challenge of telling a story through quiet, candid moments just as rewarding.

Next time, we’ll be more prepared, lighter on our feet and ready to capture those all important connections without a hitch!

CLICK HERE FOR PICTURES