The 8 Best Places for a Photo Shoot in Colorado

Maroon Bells — Aspen

The Maroon Bells are one of the most photographed places in Colorado, and it’s easy to see why. The ‘bells’ are actually mountains, nicknamed for their shape and the maroon color of the mudstone that they’re made of. It’s a great place to snap engagement photos, family pictures, and portraits. 

Something to keep in mind before visiting Maroon Bells is that you will need a reservation during parts of the year. During early winter, reservations usually aren’t required and parking is available on a first come first serve basis. However, the road closes a few weeks after the snowy season hits and reopens in late May. You will need to reserve parking from May through October, which usually costs $10 per vehicle. Photography is allowed without a permit. 

Garden of the Gods — Colorado Springs

In between Colorado Springs and Manitou Springs, you’ll find a gorgeous park with tons of photo-worthy spots. The Garden of the Gods features tall peaks, pretty wildflowers, and many fields to shoot in. We really love Siamese Twins, a rock formation with a perfect hollow point in the middle to pose your portraits in!

When it comes to this park, photography is pretty easy to do — as long as the pictures aren’t used for commercial purposes, you are free to shoot. The only exception to this rule is Rock Ledge Ranch, which does require a permit for professional photography. Garden of the Gods is open daily. 

Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve — Alamosa

The Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve will make you feel like you stepped onto another planet. With just sand as far as the eyes can see, this massive park is a unique and beautiful place for photo shoots. It features the tallest dunes in North America, making you feel like you’re climbing mountains of sand! Our favorite times for photos are dusk and dawn when the sky is really working its magic. 

We recommend visiting the dunes in fall, winter, or early spring to avoid the heat and sweat that comes with summer. You’ll also want to be aware of the wind, which feels twice as strong in the dunes where there’s nothing to block it. The most important thing to note about this national park is that you will need a photo permit to do a photo shoot. 

Union Station — Denver

By far the most iconic photography spot in Denver is Union Station. It’s a historic train station that was first built in 1914, serving the city for years before being renovated into its current state. Now, Union Station offers more than just train travel — it’s home to a luxury hotel, dining, shopping, and much more! 

Beloved for its historical exterior and interior, Union Station is a very popular choice for photo shoots. Because of this, all shoots require permits, which can be acquired individually for interior and exterior photo sessions. The great news is that permits are free and can be acquired relatively quickly (you must request at least five business days before the shoot).

Downtown Telluride — Telluride

Our favorite city-themed shoot in Colorado is Telluride. It shows off a perfect blend of a small mountain town atmosphere with big-city lights. Don’t forget to take some pictures on the mountains while you’re there! We love capturing the town in winter, with the snowy peaks and warm city lights twinkling in the background.

The town of Telluride has no photography restrictions for professional photographers. Keep in mind that it’s a pretty busy tourist destination year-round, so your best bet is early morning or late afternoon to avoid some of the daily traffic.

Dream Lake — Rocky Mountain National Park

Dream Lake isn’t just called that, this unique body of water truly is a dream! From engagement pictures to family photos, you can’t go wrong at Dream Lake. While you can’t hold a ceremony there, Dream Lake is also a very popular spot for wedding pictures after eloping at one of Rocky Mountain National Park’s approved locations. 

When it comes to getting to Dream Lake, you’ll probably want to bring your photo shoot outfits with you — especially if it’s your wedding dress. It’s a 1.1-mile hike with 425 feet of elevation gain, which can take anywhere from 30 minutes to an hour. So if you don’t want to get dirt and sweat on your clothes, bring a change to swap into once you get to the lake.

The most important thing to note about photography at Dream Lake is that you will need a permit. Permits cost $50 per day or $350 annually and are included in the price of elopement within the park if you choose to go that route.

Red Rocks Amphitheater — Denver

Red Rocks is one of the prettiest spots in Colorado, from the amphitheater to the hiking trails around it. From the top of the amphitheater, you can take photos with 30-40 miles of views behind your subjects. 

Whether you’re capturing the snow summits of winter or the wildflower-coated trails of spring, it’s hard to beat Red Rocks. When it comes to doing a photo shoot, there are some things to keep in mind. You don’t need a permit on the trails as long as you have fewer than 5 people in your party and use handheld equipment. However, you do need a permit to do photography in Red Rocks. Permits are free but you’ll need to reach out and request one.

Denver Botanic Gardens — Denver

We’re bringing you back to The Mile High City for one last amazing location — the Denver Botanic Gardens. The 24-acre Gardens feature plants from all parts of the world and flowers that will add perfect color pops to your portraits. From the brick pathways to the unique architecture, you’re bound to find tons of places for a photo shoot at Denver’s Botanic Gardens.

You’ll have to get a photography permit to use the gardens as a backdrop for your portraits — even if you aren’t a professional photographer. Permits for single sessions must be booked at least a week in advance and start at $100 for 1-6 people. The permit covers one photography session by one photographer with a 2-hour time limit.