Utah, a state adorned with nature’s masterpieces, beckons every photographer’s lens with its unparalleled beauty and diversity. From the giant arches of Arches National Park to the towering cliffs of Zion National Park, Utah proudly boasts one of the most unique geographies of any state. Yet, amidst its natural grandeur, there’s more than meets the eye – it’s a tapestry of moments waiting to be captured. Utah’s landscapes provide not just a scenic backdrop but a stage for creating memories that last a lifetime. Join us in this blog post, where we spill the tea on the best photography locations in Utah!
Iconic Natural Landscapes
Utah’s natural landscapes offer a rich catalog of iconic photography spots, each contributing to a visual narrative of awe-inspiring beauty. While it’s impractical to detail every location, we’ve curated a selection that epitomizes Utah’s diverse and remarkable scenery.
Arches National Park
Three of our favorite photography spots in Arches National Park are the Delicate Arch, the Balanced Rock, and the Landscape Arch. Each of these locations boasts a gorgeous backdrop for the perfect photograph. Keep in mind that these locations require short hikes to arrive to, so plan accordingly with proper shoes and equipment. These locations can get packed during the afternoon, so arriving in the morning or evening should result in the best photographs.
Zion National Park
Two of our favorite photography spots in Zion National Park are the Canyon Overlook and the Zion Human History Museum. Both of these locations offer fantastic shots of Zion National Park without much effort. The Canyon Overlook is considered by many to be the best location to photograph as the sunrise and sunset light offers a dynamic and colorful backdrop. It does however require a half-mile hike down Canyon Overlook Trail. The Zion Human History Museum is a great option that requires no hiking. It offers photographs of the Towers of the Virgin facing the west, which is perfect for sunset photographs. Expect large crowds due to the ease of accessibility.
Capitol Reef National Park
Three of our favorite photography spots in Capitol Reef National Park are Panorama Point, Hickman Bridge, and the Scenic Drive. All of these spots offer picturesque scenery of the striking array of colors in the park’s geological layers without much of a hike. This park is best photographed in the spring and fall when the light is soft and colorful.
Urban Photography Locations in Utah
Salt Lake City's urban landscapes offer a compelling contrast to its natural wonders, presenting unique opportunities to blend the mountains with the striking cityscape. The East Bench of Salt Lake City provides a breathtaking west facing view of the city. Photographing here is extremely easy to access and can be customized to your preference with the inclusion or exclusion of nature as there are large clearings allowing for the city to be the highlight of your photograph.
Park City’s tight knit streets and sprawling mountains are a fantastic alternative to the East Bench. Full of colorful murals and eclectic galleries, each corner of this town shines through with cultural richness. We also recommend Guardsman Pass up the road from Park City, which offers beautiful sunset photography in the Summer. Finally, we recommend the historic districts in Provo and Ogden. Step back in time and capture the vintage charm of the well-preserved buildings and streets for your photography.
Seasonal Photography Locations in Utah
Utah’s ever-changing seasons offer a kaleidoscope of opportunities for photographers to capture the state’s landscapes in various moods and colors.
Autumn
Embrace the vibrant hues of fall as the leaves transition from greens to reds and yellows. Emigration canyon and Little Dell Reservoir provide the full spectrum of Autumn foliage during the fall season.
Winter
Utah’s winter snowscapes can transform your lens into a winter wonderland. Any location is perfect with a blanket of snow, especially in the mountains as you can capture a frozen lake or snow-draped branches of the iconic Utah trees. Heber City offers a unique photographing opportunity with colorful Ice Castles lit up in the nighttime.
Spring
Capture the awakening of nature as Spring unfolds in Utah. Blossoming wildflowers in meadows, orchards, and gardens, showcasing Utah’s delicate and fleeting springtime beauty. One of our favorite Spring locations is up at the Alta Ski Resort in the mountain meadows.
Summer
From lush greenery of alpine meadows to the sun-kissed red rocks, seize the opportunity to photograph the dynamic landscapes that come alive during the warmer months. One of our favorite summer locations is the Sundance Resort surrounded by pine trees and mountains.
Hidden Gems for Photography in Salt Lake City
If you are looking for a lesser-known location to set your photography apart, we have a vast knowledge of hidden gems in Salt Lake City. The McCune Mansion offers a stunning and elegant setting for any occasion. With world-class period architecture and design, it is sure to provide a timeless backdrop and conversation starter for your photography. Keep in mind, that the McCune Mansion charges for photography as they provide private photographing sessions.
For those looking for free hidden gems in Salt Lake, we suggest Memory Grove Park and Garden Park Ward. Both of these serene spaces provide water features and gorgeous architecture to support your photographs. However, due to their free of charge classification, prepare yourself for crowds and unwanted guests in the back of your photographs.
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Our dedicated event concierge service goes beyond photography. Whether you’re planning a special event amid Utah’s breathtaking scenery or envisioning a photoshoot that encapsulates the essence of your unique story, we are here to turn your aspirations into reality.
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