These are some of my favorite places where I have photographed portrait sessions. On this page, I'll share stunning locations in Utah that are relatively close to most residential areas. For more locations, check out my page on Epic Destination Spots (coming soon!) where we explore more unique spots in Utah if you're up for the drive!

Tibble Fork Reservoir is located in American Fork Canyon in Utah County and has just about any backdrop you could hope for. With a vivid lake, wildflowers, rivers, wood fences, large fields, and trees for miles, you're sure to get amazing photos from any angle here. 

There is a small $6 fee per car to visit Tibble Fork and enjoy its landscapes. The canyon has no cell phone service, so I usually have my clients meet me at the first pull off parking lot when entering the canyon so that we can meet up before driving in and easily stay in touch. 

Jordan Pines Campground has become a favorite spot of mine and not without reason. It's absolutely stunning no matter what time of year you visit. The sun goes down a little bit earlier in the canyon, so if you want that golden hour light, make sure to give yourself a little extra time.

During the summer, it's a good idea to bring bug spray if you plan to shoot near the water. If you go during the winter, make sure to dress warm or bring a change of clothes because the snow gets very deep in some spots! 

There is a parking lot at Jordan Pines Campground and a restroom, which make for good meeting points for a photoshoot. 

Tunnel Springs Park is located in North Salt lake and is full of luscious greens during the Spring and Summer seasons. The vibrant greenery will make your photos pop with color, but be sure to pack your bug spray because the tall grass is also home to many mosquitos. 

There is a parking lot next to a playground that can be found before wandering into the more photogenic spots of Tunnel Springs Park. 

Wheeler Historic Farm has beautiful backdrops and greenery. There are darling animals too, making it a fun place to visit with the family. There is a $10 photography pass required to do pictures here that can be purchased online if you plan on visiting after hours. 

With a similar look to the Salt Flats when flooded but about half the drive, the Great Saltair is a great option for some gorgeous, glowy and spectacular images. Shooting here can get messy so be prepared with a change of clothes, a towel, some bug spray, and enough water to rinse your legs off in the parking lot. In the end, it is so worth the gorgeous images!

Ashton Gardens at Thanksgiving Point has something different the more you walk. Full of waterfalls, bridges, and flowers of every variety, it's the perfect spot for photos, or even a date night or family outing.

There is a $20 entrance fee per person to visit Ashton Gardens and it costs $50 for a 2 hour photo pass. 

The International Peace Gardens in Salt Lake City is very similar to the Ashton Gardens in terms of aesthetics. There are statues, flowers, columns, bridges, and more. It's a beautiful spot to do photos in the Spring time and Summer. 

Located in Highland Utah, this park is quite the hidden gem. With a small lake and plenty of trees and greenery, it makes fo a great photoshoot spot while still being able to stay close to home. It can get pretty windy in this area, but the weather isn't quite predictable in Utah. 

The Cove at Herriman Springs has a large duck pond, rocks, and plenty of trees and deer trails. there's also a bridge and a small field that can be found by walking down the trail near the playground. 

This is the best location that I've found to get photos near the Jordan River. A trail full of greenery and access to the river will give you plenty of options for photo backdrops.

This is another spot that is full of mosquitos, so once again I am recommending lots of bug spray!

Blackridge Reservoir is located in Herriman and has the beach vibes that I'm always looking for. With rocks, sand, and water, you'll almost forget you're in Utah. 

Daybreak Lake is a great spot for photos of any occasion. The cattails and sandy beach-like water access make Daybreak Lake a fun alternative to Blackridge Reservoir in Herriman.