If you’re a milspouse photographer heading to Twentynine Palms, CA, I’m so excited to introduce you to Steffanie McCauley! While I understand many people aren’t excited to move here, Steffanie has a wonderful outlook on this area and I think her perspective may help you view this assignment in a more positive light. Let’s take a look at some of her favorite places!

What are your top three favorite locations for sessions? Briefly share about each.

You really cant go wrong with any location in Joshua Tree National Park, but I typically tend to stay to the same 3 or 4 locations as they seem to be a little less busy during the peak season! Traveling down to Palm Springs is always fun for sessions too!

Jumbo rocks camp ground

Located near the Twentynine Palms entrance of the park, this location features big rock formations and plenty of Joshua trees.

Quail Springs

Located near the main entrance of the national park, this location features a field of Joshua Trees with some “mountains” in the background and rock formations.

Palm Springs Windmills

Located about an hour and half away from Twentynine Palms, the iconic windmills in Palm Springs make for such a unique background.

Are there any particularly busy seasons for photographers in this area? Any events an incoming photographer should know about?

Busy season for photographers follows the same trend for tourist season of Joshua Tree National Park (holidays, weekends from Oct–May). Summer months (June-August) are extremely slow due to the crazy heat.

What should an incoming photographer know about permits in this area?

Joshua Tree National Park recently stopped requiring permits for photoshoots, but if your couple is getting married in the park, a special use permit will need to be obtained.

What is the biggest piece of advice you’d give to an incoming photographer?

Depending on where you are coming from, this community is pretty small and can feel isolating, but don’t let that get you down or discourage you. Making friends (especially with other photographers in the area) really helps!

Any other local expertise you’d like to share?

EXPLORE! I feel like the base in Twentynine Palms gets a bad rep for being the worst place to get stationed, but I have honestly loved our time out here! Joshua Tree National Park is beautiful and if you are willing to drive a couple of hours, you have TONS of options for locations (Palm Springs, big bear, etc).

Where can other milspouse photographers connect with you?

Website: www.steffaniemccauleyphotography.com
Instagram: www.instagram.com/steffanie_mccauley_photography

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Are you a milspouse photographer interested in contributing? I’d love to have your insight! Please send me an email at erin@erinthompsonphoto.com and I’ll be in touch with the details!

If you enjoyed this Twentynine Palms, CA photography spotlight, be sure to check out other featured location guides and tips for moving your business!