We are looking to have pictures done. Where is the best place to go and is it open and easy(ish) to get to?

With the canyon road closed to cars your best bet is to park below and walk up into the canyon. Trust your photographer, they will know the places to get the pictures done. My wife and I did the same thing in 08 for our engagement photos when the canyon road was closed with flood damage.

There's a sloped path that takes you down to the creek. How hard that is depends on your situation. In most cases, I'd say it is easy. Do bring Creek walking shoes.