Heenat Salma Farm Illuminated Archway

This image was taken from the southwest side of Heenat Salma Farm. The best way to get to this remote location is by car. Upon arriving at the property, drive down the main road and find parking in the area near the check-in. Then, take the path that passes by the five green houses. Make sure to take a peek inside to see all of the amazing vegetables they are growing! Proceed to the other side of the tree line. From there, you'll see a building they call Majlis, which is central to the farm and surrounded by gardens, sidr trees and the lodging/tent area. This space houses a wellness treatment room, a library, an outdoor terrace for relaxation and a lap pool. We found the front exterior to be the most photogenic angle, so try to position yourselves centered with the archways. Reference the GPS coordinates and you'll see the exact spot where we stood for this perspective.

The fall and winter months will provide the most comfortable weather, although the Heenat Salma Farm will look the same year-round. We visited in November and the temperature was perfect!

If you want to capture this scene with the candles lit, you'll have to hang out until the sun sets, just before dark at blue hour.

While you're on the property, respect the locals by keeping your camera away until you start taking photos.

Make sure to avoid photographing any staff members or guests of the farm, too.

I recommend using a tripod so you can get a longer exposure and high-quality image at blue hour.

Try to hold camera perpendicular to the ground at eye level and make sure your lines are straight for a sense of symmetry.

I think it looks best to have your subject stand in the center archway so that they're framed well.

If you'd like to capture more of the building, use a wider focal length. We shot at 17mm.

Tour the grounds of this amazing property! Check out the greenhouses and the date palms for some really satisfying leading lines to photograph. You can also walk through the traditional tents in the camp area and have a tea at the Majlis.