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.
