A Colorado portrait session is truly second to none. As a Colorado photographer for more than a decade, I can honestly attest to the unique beauty this amazing state has to offer! From perfectly lit golden hours to stunning natural backdrops and a variety of cityscapes, all easily within driving distance, you really couldn’t manufacture better backdrops. So whether you’re celebrating your wedding or engagement, your senior year, your family, or just looking to update your headshots or personal website, read on for my favorite ways to create a perfect Colorado portrait session. 

Scout Your Location

The first step? You’ll need to pick your favorite scenery, which is no easy task! Colorado has rugged terrain, rocky mountains, wildflower fields, lookout points—even National Parks, forested areas and plenty of scenic trails. If you’re looking for something a little more professional or controlled, there are plenty of historic buildings, amazing studios and indoor spaces, too! 

If you need some guidance, reach out to your photographer and ask if they have any recommendations! Send links (or share pins) to your favorite portrait looks. Your photographer can take it from there to create a perfect Colorado portrait session! Not sure what look you’re going for? Check out some of your photographer’s galleries or social media pages. Maybe they’ve already scouted out the perfect place.

Create a Mood Board

No matter what kind of portraits you’re taking, you’ll need to determine your look and feel. With your location all picked out, it’s time to start picking out which colors you want to wear, items you want to incorporate, etc. If your Colorado portrait session is a family shoot, you’ll want to coordinate outfits, and looking at everything together on a mood or Pinterest board is a great way to visualize your overall aesthetic. 

Seniors, headshots, and families can also utilize plenty of props to show off every unique personality your portrait session is capturing. Think sports equipment, cherished books, a blanket to sit on, baby or toddler’s favorite toys, stethoscopes or cameras for headshots, etc. This is where your mood board can come to life! Google some inspiration and see what types of items best fit the look you’re going for. Add them to your colors and location to make sure it’s all working together toward your vision!

Make a Shot List

Your photographer can help you with this one, too, but it’s always helpful to have an idea of what you’re going for ahead of time. Want to make sure you get prop and no-prop images? Make a note of both! Want to make sure you have senior portraits that include siblings, one or both parents? Make note of those, too. Family portraits? Make sure you have each combination ready to communicate.

Shot lists can ensure efficient and effective storytelling. They maximize your time with your photographer so you walk away with all the images you need. Allow your creative vision to be a part of the process, manage everyone’s expectations, and document the moments that mean the most to you. 

Be Prepared for a Colorado Portrait Session

Colorado is a stunning place for portraits, but it also poses some unique challenges. (Dry skin and chapped lips, anyone?) These Wedding Day Essentials for Colorado Brides aren’t just for bridal portraits! Check out the list linked above and use it to plan your own Colorado portrait session. From hand cream to dryer sheets, ibuprofen and water bottles, trust me, you’ll be glad you did! When you feel good, you look good. And when both come together, your portraits are sure to make your heart swell! 

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.