Utah County offers a diverse range of photography locations
From breathtaking mountain views to charming urban settings; Whether you’re planning an engagement session, family portraits, or content creation for social media, this guide highlights the best places to take pictures in Utah. From rugged mountain peaks that provide sweeping vistas to cozy downtown streets lined with historic architecture, Utah County has something for every photography style. Adventure seekers will love the dramatic backdrops of waterfalls and canyons, while those looking for a more refined setting can take advantage of elegant gardens and picturesque urban spots. No matter your vision, you’ll find a location that brings your photos to life.
Top Photography Locations in Utah County
Nature & Scenic Views
Kyhv Peak (Squaw Peak) – Sitting high above Provo, Kyhv Peak offers a stunning panoramic view of Utah Valley. The peak is especially beautiful at sunrise and sunset when the sky is painted with vibrant colors. The winding road up the mountain provides multiple pull-off points for capturing different perspectives of the landscape.
Utah Lake – As the largest freshwater lake in Utah, Utah Lake provides a serene and reflective backdrop, particularly at sunset. The lake’s shorelines offer diverse scenery, from sandy beaches to tall reeds, making it an excellent spot for couples, family portraits, and moody landscape shots.
Battle Creek Falls – This hidden gem is located in Pleasant Grove and features a moderate hike that leads to a stunning waterfall. The trail offers multiple beautiful stops, including lush greenery in spring and summer, golden leaves in fall, and frozen waterfalls in winter. The rushing water and rocky terrain create a dramatic and naturalistic setting for adventurous photo sessions.
Provo Canyon – This scenic canyon is home to numerous photography locations, including Aspen Grove, which is surrounded by thick aspen trees that turn brilliant yellow in the fall, and Vivian Park, a charming riverside park with footbridges, colorful leaves, and a peaceful atmosphere.
Urban & Architectural Locations
Shops at Riverwoods – This charming outdoor shopping center in Provo features brick facades, string lights, and seasonal decor that add a warm, inviting feel to photos. The mix of greenery and urban design makes it an excellent choice for engagements, senior portraits, and lifestyle shoots.
Downtown Provo – If you love an urban aesthetic, Downtown Provo provides historic brick buildings, modern murals, and a vibrant cityscape. Whether you’re looking for elegant architecture or trendy café settings, there are plenty of diverse backdrops for both candid and posed photography.
Bridal Veil Falls Parking Area – This spot provides easy access to one of Utah’s most iconic waterfalls. The rustic wooden bridges, surrounding foliage, and the towering waterfall itself make for stunning outdoor portraits. The falls are particularly beautiful in winter when they freeze into dramatic ice formations.
Cook’s Farm and Greenhouse – Located in Orem, this picturesque farm and greenhouse burst with colorful flowers and lush greenery, creating a dreamlike environment. It’s a perfect location for spring and summer sessions, offering soft pastel tones that enhance portrait photography.
Seasonal & Unique Spots
Provo Orchards (Spring & Fall) – The orchards in Provo are an absolute dream during both spring and fall. In spring, the trees are covered in soft pink and white blossoms, while in the fall, they turn a rich orange and red, making for an enchanting seasonal backdrop.
Lavender Fields (Summer, Mona) – Just a short drive outside Utah County, these vibrant lavender fields create a magical setting that feels like stepping into a European countryside. The rolling fields of purple contrast beautifully with the blue sky, offering a romantic and whimsical atmosphere.
Sunflower Fields (Late Summer/Early Fall) – Throughout late summer and early fall, sunflower fields bloom around Utah County. The tall golden flowers provide a cheerful and rustic backdrop that is perfect for family sessions, engagement shoots, and solo portraits.
Alpine Loop (Fall Foliage) – This scenic mountain pass is a must-visit in the fall when the aspens and maples turn brilliant shades of gold, orange, and red. The winding roads, mountain peaks, and deep valleys provide breathtaking vistas for landscape and portrait photography alike.
Nearby Photography Locations (Worth the Drive)
National Parks Worth the Drive
Arches National Park (3.5-4 hours) – Known for its stunning natural arches and towering red rock formations, this park is a dream for adventure photography. The Delicate Arch at sunset is a must-capture moment for any photographer.
Zion National Park (4.5 hours) – Zion offers a mix of dramatic canyons, towering cliffs, and lush green valleys. The Narrows, with its winding river walk between canyon walls, is an especially striking location for unique adventure portraits.
Bryce Canyon National Park (4 hours) – Featuring the largest concentration of hoodoos in the world, Bryce Canyon offers a surreal, otherworldly landscape that looks incredible at sunrise and sunset. The amphitheater’s vibrant red and orange tones create a stunning contrast against the blue sky.
Capitol Reef National Park (3.5 hours) – A hidden gem, this park features sandstone cliffs, unique rock formations, and historic fruit orchards. The park’s Cathedral Valley and Waterpocket Fold offer incredible desert vistas that make for breathtaking photos.
Canyonlands National Park (4 hours) – With vast desert landscapes, deep canyons, and stunning overlooks, Canyonlands provides endless opportunities for dramatic photography. The Mesa Arch at sunrise is particularly iconic.
Other Nearby Photography Locations
Tibble Fork Reservoir (American Fork Canyon) – This stunning alpine lake offers crystal-clear water with mirror-like reflections of the surrounding mountains. It’s a popular spot for engagements, family portraits, and even wedding photography.
Little Sahara Sand Dunes – These vast, golden dunes provide a unique, desert-like setting in Utah. The rolling hills of sand create a minimalist backdrop, perfect for fashion shoots, maternity sessions, or creative conceptual photography.
Bonneville Salt Flats – The Salt Flats create an endless horizon of bright white, giving photos an ethereal and dramatic look. This location is ideal for automotive photography, editorial shoots, and cinematic portraits.
Antelope Island – Known for its wide-open spaces, roaming bison, and panoramic views of the Great Salt Lake, Antelope Island offers a rugged yet serene landscape. The golden fields and mountains provide a warm, rustic atmosphere for photography.
Photography Tips for Utah County Locations
- Check lighting conditions – Golden hour (shortly after sunrise and before sunset) offers the best natural lighting for outdoor photography.
- Be aware of seasonal changes – Locations like the lavender fields, sunflower fields, and fall foliage spots have specific peak times for the best photos.
- Look into permits – Some locations, such as national parks and private properties, require permits for professional photography.
- Consider accessibility – While some locations are drive-up friendly, others, like Battle Creek Falls and Kyhv Peak, require some hiking.
Conclusion
Utah County is home to a wide variety of breathtaking photography locations, from natural landscapes to vibrant urban settings. No matter your style or occasion, there’s a perfect spot waiting for you.
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