WELCOME TO YOUR COLORADO LOCATION GUIDE
From dramatic red rock formations to hidden forest trails, sweeping mountain vistas to quiet lakeside spots, Colorado offers endless possibilities for photos that feel adventurous, romantic, and completely you. I’ve photographed couples in each of these locations, so I can help you find the perfect backdrop to capture your story in a way that feels natural, effortless, and timeless.
This guide is for booked clients only and is meant to inspire — not overwhelm.
HOW TO USE THIS GUIDE
START HERE
You don’t need to read this all at once. Skim, save what resonates, and trust that we’ll narrow things down together. Every location includes a short description and a sample gallery so you can get a feel for the energy of each place — not just how it looks, but how it feels.
COLORADO SPRINGS FAVORITES
HIGH POINT OVERLOOK (Garden of the gods)
High Point Overlook offers breathtaking panoramic views of Garden of the Gods and the surrounding Colorado Springs landscape. Elevated above the main trails, it’s perfect for couples who want dramatic vistas and a sense of wide-open space in their photos. The light is especially beautiful during golden hour, and the overlook provides plenty of room for movement and natural, candid moments.
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SIAMESE TWINS (GARDEN OF THE GODS)
The Siamese Twins rock formation is one of Garden of the Gods’ most iconic spots, featuring two massive red rocks that appear joined at the top. It’s perfect for couples seeking striking, adventurous portraits with dramatic natural shapes. The surrounding trails and open spaces allow for a variety of poses and movement, especially during golden hour when the rocks glow in warm, soft light.
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SOUTH GARDEN (GARDEN OF THE GODS)
The South Garden, also known as Ute Trail, offers a quieter, more intimate experience within Garden of the Gods. Winding paths through towering red rocks and open meadows make it ideal for relaxed, natural portraits. This area is especially beautiful in the soft light of early morning or late afternoon, giving couples a private, adventurous feel without the crowds.
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BALANCED ROCK AREA (GARDEN OF THE GODS)
The area behind Balanced Rock offers a peaceful, tucked-away spot with stunning rock formations as your backdrop. It’s perfect for intimate, adventurous portraits, with natural textures and unique angles that make every photo feel dynamic. Early morning or late afternoon light brings out the warm tones of the rocks and adds a soft, romantic glow.
SAMPLE GALLERY
RED ROCK CANYON OPEN SPACE
A slightly more secluded alternative to Garden of the Gods, Red Rock Canyon offers stunning rock formations and open grassy areas that feel private and natural. Late afternoon light is beautiful here, and the wide open spaces make it easy to move freely, capturing natural moments. Minimal hiking is required, and the location’s relaxed vibe makes it ideal for a calm, intimate session.
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North Cheyenne Cañon
This lush canyon brings a forested escape right in the city. Waterfalls, streams, and towering trees provide a dreamy backdrop for intimate portraits. Mid-morning or late afternoon light filters beautifully through the canopy, and moderate trails create opportunities for both movement and still moments.
SAMPLE GALLERY
Cheyenne Mountain State Park
A beautiful mix of open meadows, rolling hills, and forested trails, Cheyenne Mountain State Park offers versatility and privacy for couples. Its natural landscapes create both wide-open adventure shots and intimate forest moments. Accessible trails and multiple scenic viewpoints make it easy to capture a variety of images in one location, especially during golden hour.
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MOUNT HERMAN ROAD
Quiet, low-traffic terrain makes Mount Herman a peaceful escape. Sweeping mountain views provide stunning backdrops, especially during golden hour. Moderate access and easy hiking make it ideal for couples seeking privacy and adventure without a long trek.
SAMPLE GALLERY
PIKES PEAK
Classic Colorado mountains provide dramatic, sweeping vistas. Pull-offs along the highway and trailheads make it easy to access, and sunrise or sunset light creates breathtaking backdrops. The open space is perfect for adventurous couples, and layers are recommended because it can get windy at higher elevations.
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UTE VALLEY PARK
Ute Valley Park offers rugged trails, rocky outcrops, and quiet forested areas — perfect for couples seeking a mix of adventure and intimacy. The park’s winding paths create natural movement for portraits, while elevated viewpoints provide sweeping city and mountain vistas.
SAMPLE GALLERY
LOCATIONS ~1 HR OF COLORADO SPRINGS
Rampart Range Road – Woodland Park
Stretching through forests and open mountain terrain, Rampart Range Road offers incredible versatility. Scenic pull-offs, quiet trails, and expansive views make it easy to explore multiple backdrops in one session. Early mornings or late afternoons provide soft light and minimal traffic, perfect for an adventurous yet relaxed experience.
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Manitou Lake – Woodland Park
A peaceful and intimate spot, Manitou Lake offers calm waters surrounded by forested areas and mountain views. It’s perfect for couples who want reflective, serene portraits or a quiet moment away from crowds. Early morning or late afternoon light brings out soft, golden tones on the water, creating a romantic and dreamy atmosphere.
SAMPLE GALLERY
mueller state park - divide
Mueller State Park is known for its wide-open meadows, rolling hills, and expansive mountain views. With well-maintained trails and accessible overlooks, it offers variety without requiring a long hike. The peaceful setting and beautiful light make it perfect for couples who want space to slow down and be present.
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Dawson Butte - caSTLE ROCK
Dawson Butte Open Space offers wide-open meadows, rolling hills, and distant mountain views that feel calm and expansive. The neutral tones and open sky create a soft, timeless backdrop that lets connection take center stage. With gentle trails and minimal elevation gain, it’s ideal for couples who want an unhurried, low-stress experience.
SAMPLE GALLERY
LOCATIONS ~2 HRS OF COLORADO SPRINGS
SAPPHIRE POINT - near BRECKENRIDGE
Overlooking Dillon Reservoir with panoramic mountain views, Sapphire Point offers a dramatic yet accessible alpine setting. The short walk to the overlook makes it ideal for couples who want big scenery without a long hike. The light here is especially beautiful in the morning and near sunset, creating soft, romantic tones across the water and peaks.
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TWIN LAKES - near leadville
Twin Lakes offers expansive water views, towering peaks, and a calm, open atmosphere that feels both adventurous and grounding. The lakes reflect the surrounding mountains beautifully, creating a timeless, cinematic backdrop that never feels crowded or overstated. Twin Lakes is perfect for couples who want a high-alpine experience without committing to a strenuous hike.
SAMPLE GALLERY
Mount Falcon Park – Morrison
Mount Falcon offers sweeping foothill views, open trails, and a mix of forest and rocky terrain. Its elevated viewpoints create expansive backdrops without requiring a strenuous hike. This location works well for couples who want variety and movement, especially during golden hour when the light softens across the hills.
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Red Rocks Ampitheatre
Carved into dramatic red sandstone formations, Red Rocks Amphitheatre offers a striking, cinematic backdrop unlike anywhere else in Colorado. The layered rock walls, sweeping views, and natural lines create powerful, editorial-style imagery. Early mornings are best for quieter moments and soft light, while evenings bring warmer tones and energy to the space.
SAMPLE GALLERY
OTHER ICONIC COLORADO DESTINATIONS TO CONSIDER:
ROCKY MOUNTAIN NATIONAL PARK
From alpine lakes to dramatic mountain ridges, RMNP is a playground for adventurous couples. Long meadows, hidden forest trails, and iconic peaks create endless possibilities. Sunrise sessions are particularly magical, with soft light and fewer crowds.
ELEVEN MILE STATE PARK
Wide-open skies, expansive reservoirs, and rolling mountain backdrops give Eleven Mile a quiet, cinematic feel. This location is perfect for couples who want space to slow down, breathe, and be fully present with each other. With minimal crowds and endless shoreline views, it offers a peaceful, understated beauty that works beautifully in every season.
GREAT SAND DUNES NATIONAL PARK
This unique landscape of towering sand dunes set against mountains creates playful, whimsical portraits. Perfect for adventurous couples who want something truly different. Early morning or late afternoon light highlights the dunes’ textures beautifully.
MAROON BELLS (ASPEN)
One of the most iconic mountain backdrops in Colorado, Maroon Bells offers breathtaking peaks, reflective lakes, and wildflower meadows. Early morning light and calm conditions make this ideal for intimate, sweeping portraits.
WHAT HAPPENS NEXT
Once you’ve explored this guide, we’ll talk through what stood out, what feels aligned, and what fits your timeline, season, and comfort level. I’ll help finalize the location and handle the logistics so you can stay focused on the experience — not the planning.
A FEW THINGS TO KEEP IN MIND
• Some locations require permits and additional fees
• Weather can change quickly — flexibility is key
• Accessibility and hiking comfort matter more than “the perfect spot”
The best location is the one that feels right — not the most popular.
Additional coverage: $300 per extra hour
Secondary locations Start at $150, depending on distance and timeline impact