The Republic | azcentral.com

Arizona is known for its great vista points and must-see locations that are sprinkled across the state, but Phoenix isn't exactly known for its photogenic nature.

Whether you're looking for the best places to take family pictures in Phoenix or a great engagement photo location, here are 20 places in the Phoenix metro area that prove that the Valley knows how to take a great picture.

Camelback Mountain

Camelback Mountain's unique profile is a distinctly Arizona landmark that can be seen from across the Valley. Whether you are climbing to the top or catching it in the background of a selfie, it's one of the best places to take a photo.

Representing Arizona State University

Whether it's from the top of "A" Mountain in Tempe, at a Sun Devil sporting event or anywhere on its campus, the maroon and gold always make for a good photo.

15 reasons to love being an ASU Sun Devil

Diving Lady neon sign

Go retro by taking a Polaroid in front of Arizona's most famous neon sign. After a 2010 storm, the Diving Lady neon sign in Mesa was taken down for renovations. But she's back and ready to dive into your photo.

Roosevelt Row

Bring some color and art to your photos by hitting Roosevelt Row in downtown Phoenix for a selfie or group photo after First Friday, visiting an art gallery or trying some great food.

Guide to Phoenix First Friday art walk

Tempe Town Lake

Tempe Town Lake is the perfect place for family photos or to catch the sunset, enjoy a day outdoors and attend a festival or concert. Subsequently, it's a great spot for photos.

LOVE sculpture in Scottsdale

Sometimes love really is all you need, especially if you are looking for a great engagement photo opportunity in Scottsdale.

With animals at the zoo

Head to the Phoenix Zoo or Wildlife World Zoo in Litchfield Park for a photo with lions, tigers and bears, or a nice family photo. A cute (or intimidating) animal takes any photo to the next level.

Giant hiccuping tortoise takes selfie at Phoenix Zoo

Diamondbacks or spring-training baseball game

Baseball is definitely one of Arizona's favorite pastimes, and there's no better way to show it than with a photo at Chase Field or one of the many spring-training stadiums across the Valley. Snap a selfie with Baxter, your favorite players, the newest specialty hot dog or other fans.

Batter up! Cactus League spring-training stadium guides

The Riparian Preserve At Water Ranch

Birds of a feather flock together at the Riparian Preserve At Water Ranch and maybe they'll even flock into the frame for your outdoorsy photo.

Gilbert water tower

After grabbing a bite to eat at Joe's Real BBQ, Joyride Taco House or Postino, take a snapshot with downtown Gilbert's most recognizable landmark looming in the background.

Dobbins Lookout at South Mountain

Despite the roughly 4-mile hike to Dobbins Lookout at South Mountain, the view of the sprawling Phoenix metro area stretches at your feet. Get a photo to show off your hard work (and the view)!

Lake Pleasant

There's a reason Lake Pleasant earned its name. Head north for a day on or around the lake and snap a few photos while you are catching some rays or fish.

Schnepf Farms

Head to Schnepf Farms to pick peaches, get lost in a corn field maze or see Fourth of July fireworks, and take a couple selfies while you're there to remind everyone that the Valley is more than just freeways and subdivisions.

University of Phoenix Stadium in Glendale

University of Phoenix Stadium may be the Cardinal's home, but it has played host to many other events over the years. Whether you are there for a football game, monster truck rally or some other event, the huge stadium makes for one unique photo.

Pioneer Park in Mesa

Mesa's Pioneer Park is home to a train engine from 1912. While children used to be able to climb on it, it's now fenced off due to safety concerns. Don't worry though, you can still get a photo with it, especially a family photo.

White Tank Mountain Regional Park

Bask in the splendor of the desert while casually taking photos of or with one of the most recognizable signs of the Southwest. White Tank Mountain Regional Park. As an added bonus, you can get some fresh air and see petroglyphs. If you go in the spring, you'll also see the desert floor carpeted in wildflowers.

Best places to see Arizona's wildflowers

Desert Botanical Garden

The Desert Botanical Garden is a beautiful retreat from the speed of life within the Valley. Learn about the lush plants that grow under Arizona's blue skies, check out the annual luminaria display and take a few photos while you are there. Also makes a great engagement photography location here in Phoenix.

Hole in the Rock in Papago Park

While many Phoenix residents have likely been to Papago Park, they may not realize that the big butte called Hole in the Rock is a unique place to do sunset photography because of its glorious views of downtown Phoenix and the Valley and a great place for family photos.

Japanese Friendship Garden

The Japanese Friendship Garden provides a perfect retreat from the noise and bustle of downtown Phoenix. Stop in for the relaxation, step out with a photographic souvenir. A great place for engagement photos.

Sahuaro Ranch Park in Glendale

Sahuaro Ranch Park, the Glendale park that's rumored to be haunted, has much more to offer. The beautiful rose garden and historic buildings make the perfect backdrop for any photo.

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