Philly Photographer Blog: Palm Springs Travel Photography Experience
As a Philly travel photographer, I recently spent four incredible nights in Palm Springs, California. This trip was originally booked back in March, as my fiancée and I thought it would be our only major getaway this year. Little did we know, the last 90 days would also take us to Chicago, Zurich, NYC (for a day trip), and Washington, DC. This blog post will focus on our Palm Springs experience, with plenty of photos to capture the highlights.
Traveling to Palm Springs
Our flight from Philadelphia was at 7 a.m., so we were up bright and early—around 3:45/4 a.m. Flying out of Philly can be a bit tricky, not because the airport isn’t nice, but because direct flight options are limited for some destinations. For this trip, we flew Delta, which is my preferred airline. When I lived in NYC, Delta was my go-to, and it still remains a favorite over American Airlines.
We had a quick layover in Salt Lake City before landing in Palm Springs. Stepping off the plane, we found ourselves already outside. I’ve never experienced an outdoor airport terminal before—it was fascinating to see people smoking in what felt like a mix of indoor and outdoor space. The scenery and vibe in Palm Springs were unique and refreshing, and I even created a video showcasing some of the stunning views. You can watch it below:
Exploring Palm Springs: Food, Architecture, and More
The food in Palm Springs did not disappoint. We enjoyed one sushi restaurant so much that we went there twice. Other highlights included brunch spots and a delightful Vietnamese dinner. The culinary scene alone makes Palm Springs worth visiting.
One of the most memorable parts of the trip was an architectural tour of mid-century modern homes. These homes looked like they belonged in a movie—timeless, stylish, and full of character. Driving around with a tour guide, we learned the history behind these incredible properties. Here are a few photos from the interiors and exteriors of the three homes we toured:
A Visit to Joshua Tree and Indian Canyons
No trip to Palm Springs would be complete without visiting Joshua Tree National Park. It was about an hour’s drive from our hotel, so we woke up around 4:40/5 a.m. to make it there by sunrise. While the experience of seeing Joshua trees was surreal, we actually enjoyed exploring the Indian Canyons more. The beauty of the canyons, coupled with fewer crowds, made it a more serene and immersive experience. For $12 per person, it’s absolutely worth it!
Why Hire a Street Photographer for Travel and Hotel Photography
As a Philly travel photographer with a strong background in street photography, I bring a unique perspective to my work. Street photography emphasizes storytelling, capturing authentic moments, and showcasing spaces in a natural yet compelling way. When applied to travel and hotel photography, this approach ensures that every image feels alive, inviting viewers to step into the scene.
Hiring a photographer with a street photography background can elevate hotel or travel visuals, highlighting the essence of a location. For hotels, it means showcasing the ambiance in a way that resonates with potential guests. For travel shoots, it’s about creating timeless images that inspire wanderlust.
If you’re a hotel or travel brand looking for a Philadelphia photographer who photographs hotels, I’d love to collaborate. Let’s create imagery that tells your story.
Support My Work
If you enjoyed reading this blog post, you can support me by purchasing a print from my print shop hosted via Darkroom. A selection of photos from this trip is available for purchase, allowing you to bring a piece of Palm Springs home.