With its proximity to the majestic Rocky Mountains, the state of Colorado is full to the brim with beautiful and scenic locations like none other in the world! Trust me, I've lived in the mountains for a couple of years and can attest that there is no place like the flat irons of the mile high state.
Of course, with jaw-dropping places like Rocky Mountain National Park, Lily Lake, the Lost Gulch, and Chautauqua Park, its no wonder locals and tourists alike hire professional photographers to capture them in magazine-worthy locations. With my short experience, here are my five top favorite photo locations in Colorado (for now):
1. Rocky Mountain National Park ⛰️
I'd have to admit I am biased towards RMNP because I lived so close to it for a couple of years. I fell asleep to the waves of the aspen trees in the forests and saw moose, foxes, coyotes and bears leave evidence of their silent visits. 💩 The Rockies will always hold a special place in my heart, which is why it is the number one place I love to take photos at in Colorado. You are just so immersed in the mountains, there is literally no way to take a bad photo. The view while you're up there ain't bad, either. 😉
One of my favorite sessions was when Makeyla and I grabbed some neat portrait photos with Longs Peak beautifully cascaded behind her. Check out the rest of these mountain-esque portrait photos in Rocky Mountain National Park on my Pixieset gallery here.
2. The Great Sand Dunes National Park ⌛
I had mixed reactions to rating this so high up but I just had to. This was a 💭 dream venue and no where on earth does it compare to any other location I've ever photographed. The sunrise colors of the sky made the sand dunes pop and proved to be worthy of a 4 hour trip for Carley & Harrison's Engagement photos.
The trip and hike up to the highest peak was, of course, more than worth it. The rolling sand dunes, its scenic mounds and the couple's energy together really created some ✨ magic ✨. I've can't wait for the next opportunity to photograph there again. I've always thought of hosting a styled shoot there one day but we will see! See more Adventure Engagement photos at the Great Sand Dunes National Park here.
3. Lily Lake, Rocky Mountain National Park 🚣♀
Just before you head into Estes Park, you'll come across Lily Lake and be convinced to stop. This beautiful lake is surrounded by hiking trails galore and numerous spots for activities and my favorite, photos 😍 One of my favorite sessions in Lily Lake was photographing Tarah and Dustin's elopement and being able to witness love blossom at one of the world's most beautiful lakes. Whether you want portrait, engagement, wedding or elopement photos, you can never go wrong here 🌲. See more elopement and wedding photos in Lily Lake, RMNP here.
4. The Lost Gulch, Boulder 🌳
Easily one of my go-to places in Boulder to photograph, the Lost Gulch is a photographer-favorite and features a high overlook view over the front range. The overlook itself is not a very large area, but does have numerous private spots for a special conversation *ahem* that might involve someone getting down on one knee 💍🧐.
Which is exactly what I got to photography at Danny's proposal to Ili at the Lost Gulch Overlook. From planning a back story and playing an acting role, we worked together to successfully surprise her (spoiler: she said yes!). Even though the weather was cloudy ☁️ and a photographer's nightmare, we captured some of my favorite pictures for these out-of-state lovers. Ahh, memories. See more of this Colorado Proposal photo session here.
5. Chautauqua Park, Boulder 🏞️
Last, but certainly not least, Chautauqua Park in Boulder is another one of my go-to locations for just about anything. With the iconic flat irons beautifully featured in the background of your photos, you can't go wrong with a quick 10 minute walk to gorgeous mountain views and scenery. Whether you are taking photos for an announcement, an engagement or just for fun, grab your partner, your best friend or your fur-child and enjoy one of the most iconic places to visit in Colorado!
This list doesn't scratch the surface of all the best photo locations Colorado has to offer.
Grab your hiking shoes, head on out and explore them all! Just remember as you scout perfect locations for your photos, check for permit requirements and keep Aliyyah Eniath's quote below in mind. Happy photographing!
“Take nothing but pictures, leave nothing but footprints, kill nothing but time.”Looking for a photographer for one of these locations in Colorado? Inquire today to check date availability or book your session with Swenten Photo Video. I would be more than happy to help you create some of your favorite photos at some of my favorite locations. 🥰 I photograph couples, seniors, professionals and more so get started with me today!