Ultimate Location Guide for Bridals and Engagements in Utah

It takes more than a great photographer to get the perfect engagement and bridal photos you've always dreamed of! Finding the perfect spot can make all the difference. Utah offers a huge variety of landscapes and urban settings, and we've shot it all! This location guide breaks down our very favorite places for Utah photographers to shoot, organized by distance from our hometown in Orem. Whether you want a serene lake backdrop, vibrant city scenes, or dramatic canyon views, this guide covers locations within 30 miles, 30 to 60 miles, and beyond 60 miles from Orem.

Engagements at the Little Sahara Sand Dunes

Locations Within 30 Miles of Orem

Utah Lake

• Large freshwater lake with expansive water views

• Offers beautiful sunrise and sunset lighting for romantic shots

• Open spaces allow for creative compositions with reflections

• Popular for couples wanting a natural, peaceful vibe

• Easy access and parking ($10 fee/vehicle)

Springville Art Museum

• Unique indoor and outdoor art settings for creative bridals

• Modern architecture combined with sculptures and murals

• Great for couples who want a blend of culture and style

• Controlled lighting indoors helps with unpredictable weather

• Fee for photos

Payson Canyon

• Lush greenery and forested trails

• Seasonal changes offer diverse looks: wildflowers in spring, colorful leaves in fall

• Waterfalls and streams add natural elements to photos

• Less crowded than popular canyons

Kyhv Peak (formarly known as Squaw Peak)

• High elevation spot with panoramic views of the valley below

• Best May-Oct

• Sunrise and sunset provide stunning light and colors

Buffalo Point (Provo Canyon)

• Only open May-Oct

• GORGEOUS fall colors

• Great for golden hour sessions with warm, soft light

• Easy access and short walk from parking

Tibble Fork Reservoir

• Mountain reservoir with crystal-clear water and pine forests

• Dramatic mountain peaks frame the background

• Ideal for couples who want a mix of water and rugged terrain

• Great year round

Locations 30 to 60 Miles from Orem

Downtown Salt Lake City

• Urban environment with historic buildings and modern architecture

• Variety of textures: brick walls, glass facades, street art

• Iconic spots like City Creek Center and pedestrian bridges

• Vibrant city life adds energy and contrast to romantic photos

Salt Lake City Capitol Building

• Classic architecture with grand columns and manicured gardens

• Outside is beautiful during spring and summer when flowers bloom, inside year round

• Great for couples wanting a timeless, elegant look

Locations Greater Than 60 Miles from Orem

Bryce Canyon National Park, Zion National Park, Snow Canyon State Park, Moab

• Will never go wrong with the gorgeous red rock formations!

• Ideal for couples looking for a bold, adventurous vibe

• Requires planning for permits and travel time

  
  

Little Sahara Sand Dunes

• Miles and miles of expansive sand dunes makes for epic photos!

• Great year round

• Small fee/vehicle

Final Thoughts on Utah Photography Locations

When choosing a location, consider:

• the mood you want to create

• the time of year

• how much travel you prefer

For photographers, knowing these locations well can expand your portfolio and offer clients diverse choices. For brides and couples, visiting these spots ahead of time can help envision your dream shoot. Use this location guide to plan your next session and create stunning images that tell your unique story.