HOW TO PICK THE RIGHT LOCATION FOR YOUR ENGAGEMENT PHOTOSHOOT
Colorado is such a beautiful state. There is such a wide variety of scenery. You can go from the pure white rocks at the Paint Mines to the hulking green and brown Rocky Mountains.
Because of the vast possibilities and endless choices, I have narrowed it down to seven locations that I think would would make for a beautiful mountain engagement photography session.
The location you choose should reflect who you are as a couple. Think of your happy place and consider what makes it so special. Now keep that in mind while deciding your location.
If you already have the perfect outfit in mind, make sure it compliments your location, and the same goes both ways. If you want to wear a green dress, don’t choose a park full of greenery and If you want pictures by the ocean, maybe wear white instead of blue.
Locations not in RMNP
Loveland Pass
Locations in RMNP
Sprague Lake
Loveland Pass
Keystone, Colorado
***This is my favorite & recommended spot based on what you’re looking for***
Recommended Time
Loveland Pass is truly gorgeous no matter what time you go at but sunset is going to have the best lighting. It doesn't get too crowded up here even on the weekends.
Extra Fees
None
Key Features
- Sweeping mountain Views
- Not too crowded
- Diverse landscapes including lakes
- Great spot for astro photography if the sky is clear
- No cell service
Sapphire Point
Breckenridge, Colorado
Recommended Time
Sapphire Point is another spot that I don't think time really matters. Afternoon/evening tends to give off softer lighting but it's totally up to you! Sometimes in the early afternoon, clouds start rolling in getting ready for an afternoon thunderstorm which provides soft lighting for photos.
Extra Fees
None
Key Features
- Sweeping mountain Views
- Not too crowded
- Diverse landscapes including the lake
- Not the best cell service
Lost Gulch Overlook & Chautauqua Park
Boulder, Colorado
Recommended Time
I'm pretty adamant about photographing these locations at either sunrise or sunset. The lighting is just so dreamy at these time that I can't really recommend anything else.
Extra Fees
A $25 photo permit is required for the majority of photo shoots and can be obtained through Boulder Country Park Services.
Key Features
- Sweeping Mountain Views
- Can be crowded
- 10 minutes from each other
- Only 30 minutes from Denver
Indian Peaks Wilderness
Ward, Colorado
Recommended Time
Indian Peaks Wilderness is SO pretty during sunrise. It's the time I recommend the most for this location as the mountains light up in oranges and reds and the sun rises. It's definitely worth the lack of sleep.
Extra Fees
$14 Entry Fee
Key Features
- Sweeping mountain Views
- Not too crowded
- Diverse landscapes including lakes
- No cell service but easy to find each other
Garden of the Gods
Colorado Springs, Colorado
Recommended Time
Sunset is the time for photos in Garden of the Gods. The sun makes the red rock glow and it’s so beautiful!
Extra Fees
None
Key Features
- Diverse scenery
- Can be crowded on weekends
- Diverse landscapes
The Following Locations Are in Rocky Mountain National Park
Any locations within Rocky Mountain National Park are based on their Timed Entry. Timed Entry Slots open 24 hours before the time we want to go in and it will be based on availability. Weekends are more difficult to reserve than weekdays because of crowds.
View the Time Entry Park Services Webpage.
All locations within RMNP are subject to a $50 photography permit fee that I do not personally cover, though I am happy to obtain the permit for us.
Rocky Mountain National Park
Sprague Lake
Overview
Unfortunately, I have only been to Sprague Lake during foggy weather :'( but there are beautiful mountains in this location. Anytime here is great but if you want to avoid crowds then sunrise is the best. This is the case for all of the RMNP locations.
Extra Fees
$50 Photo Permit & Entrance Fee
Key Features
- Beautiful mountain & lake views
- Close to Bear Lake & Moraine Park
- Versatile: forest & mountain backdrops
Bear Lake
Overview
Bear Lake is tucked away from the rest of the park and is gorgeous. How the lake looks is very dependent on the season. Anytime is great for this location as far as lighting goes. Because it's so close to a mountain, the sun drops behind the mountains here a lot earlier than some of the other locations.
Extra Fees
$50 Photo Permit & Entrance Fee
Key Features
- Secluded feeling
- Versatile: forest & mountain backdrops
Moraine Park
Overview
Moraine Park is one of the first views once you enter RMNP. It's gorgeous and even if you choose another spot in RMNP we can quickly stop here as well.
Extra Fees
$50 Photo Permit & Entrance Fee
Key Features
- Beautiful mountain views
- Easy to get to
