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Being a Colorado photographer is one of my favorite titles to claim (along with wife and mother, of course!). This state is home to some of the most picturesque locations, and the incredible mountain range includes some of the most photogenic peaks in the country. But whether you’re new to the Centennial State or you’re a native, I’m sure you have questions—especially if you’re choosing a Colorado photographer for the very first time! No worries. I’m here to help! Here are five frequently asked questions for a Colorado photographer (and their answers!)…
1. Do you need a permit to shoot at the best Rocky Mountain locations?
This one is tricky, because the answer isn’t always consistent. You don’t need a permit to have a photo session at Garden of the Gods, but locations like Union Station in Denver do require permission. Others like Maroon Bells only require a permit for groups larger than three (two clients and one photographer), and Glen Eyrie Castle has a reservation and application process to complete. Everything is doable with a little planning, and I’d love to talk through your vision! Being a Colorado photographer for more than 10 years means I probably know the drill.
2. When is the best time for outdoor photos?
Being a Colorado photographer has its unique challenges—like losing the light sooner (and quickly!) when the sun goes behind the mountains for the day. But let’s back up a minute and talk seasons. I personally recommend autumn for your outdoor sessions because you can capture that perfect backdrop of colorful foliage and snow-covered mountains. If you’re looking for a Spring or Summer shoot, I suggest a late morning time slot that allows for sunshine, but works around the stray storms that usually move through each afternoon. As for the winter, shoot for early morning or late afternoon if you want the shadows and contrast to work in your favor.
3. Can you have mountain views with an indoor wedding?
Simply put… yes! I know when you think “Colorado wedding” you probably think of the great outdoors. And why not? The mountains set some pretty amazing stages. But guess what. There are some pretty incredible (and equally stunning!) indoor wedding venues in Colorado, too. And they might just be the perfect place for your dream wedding! After all, the only thing more beautiful than snow-covered mountains is looking at those gorgeous peaks from somewhere warm and cozy. Check out a few of my favorites here.
4. As a Colorado photographer, what is your travel radius?
Colorado is the eighth most extensive and 21st most populous U.S. state. And let’s face it. There’s not a bad backdrop for photos in all 104,000 square miles! I serve clients in Colorado and beyond; primarily Colorado Springs and Denver, but I’m always up for a trip to the mountains or anywhere—domestic or international! Subscribe to my newsletter for upcoming travel dates if you’re thinking beyond the Rockies. Or if you have a specific location in mind, the best thing to do is get in touch. I’d love to talk through the details!
5. Do you have suggestions for the best locations?
Of course! There are so many gorgeous locations for a Colorado photographer to choose from, but I definitely have my favorites and recommendations. Let’s start with the obvious: My top five most photographic spots in Colorado. (Think Garden of the Gods and Ute Valley Park.) Looking for more of a hidden gem? Check out my less traditional Colorado spots here, or if you’re looking for weddings specifically, I’ve got you covered there, too.
Have more questions? Ask away! I love connecting with people, hearing about their visions and answering the questions that lead to a perfect photo shoot.
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Ladies and gentlemen, the summer weddings are in full swing! Did you know that more than a quarter of all 2023 weddings took place between June and August last year? With fewer commitments, warmer nights and gorgeous sunshine, it’s no wonder these months are the most popular—especially in colorful, scenic Colorado! Whether your 2024 summer wedding is fast approaching or you’re a 2025 bride-to-be, here are my 5 top tips to make the most of the season, and beat the heat for a perfect summer wedding.
1. Provide Some Shade
If you’re planning a backyard or park wedding, make sure you have some shady or indoor spaces available to keep your guests comfortable and safe from the elements. Try mixing elegance and shade with ceiling drapes, or go with clear-top tents or canopies instead. If you’re saying “I do” at an outdoor venue, ask about alternative spaces for rain as well as heat relief. If you’re not thrilled with the options, check in with your vendors. They might have some stylish solutions, too, like having themed umbrellas on hand to block sun in a pinch.
2. Keep Things Light
When it comes to summer weddings, keep it light—in every sense of the word. Dark colors attract heat, so make sure your linens and floral palette create a cool and comfortable setting. Opt for lighter foods over warm, heavy plates, and make sure your menu is stocked with icy drinks and cool desserts. Stick with lemonades and flavored water until the reception has started since alcoholic beverages can lead to dehydration, and accent drinks and hors d’oeuvres with cooling flavors like cucumber and mint.
3. For Summer Weddings: Relax the Dress Code
If you’ve always envisioned a black tie-affair, summer weddings might not be ideal. Even if your ceremony and reception are indoors, your guests still need to travel to and from the festivities in the summer heat—and that isn’t a great time to slip into a long black gown or full, formal tuxedo. If you have a gorgeous outdoor wedding in mind, I suggest relaxing your dress code to include seasonally appropriate, loose-fitting clothing. Bottom line: Your guests know what they need to spend a considerable amount of time in the summer sun, and that might look different for everyone in attendance on your big day.
4. Style for the Season
Speaking of dress code, be sure to keep the summer temps in mind when you style yourself and your bridal party. Choose elegant updos over (potentially sweaty) trailing tresses for the girls, and go with fewer layers in lighter colors for the guys. Save the smokey eyes for another day, and choose a natural makeup look that compliments some naturally rosy cheeks. And always have some spare powder, antiperspirant/deodorant and blotting sheets on hand to touch up any sweaty spots throughout the day.
5. Be Prepared
Whatever Mother Nature has planned for summer weddings, make sure you have what it takes to keep you and your guests cool, calm and comfortable. Keep plenty of icy coolers full of bottled water and baskets of sunscreen nearby, and have some ice packs chilling on standby in case of any overheating. Equip the tables at your reception with small, battery-powered fans or misters, and plan any physical activities like dancing after the sun goes down. Have some light hand towels or moist towelettes available for your guests, as well as paper/program fans or welcome kits designed to help everyone stay sun smart.
Concerned about the sun? Don’t worry! Summer is the most popular wedding season for a reason, be it for the gorgeous weather (which means gorgeous photos!), all the fresh flowers and produce, or simply the optimal travel time. With a little bit of consideration, it’s still the perfect time to celebrate your love. However you choose to beat the heat at your summer wedding, above all, make sure you’re staying true to your wedding and its theme. After all, the focus of the day’s events should be the bride and groom—not the weather.
