In many ways, Utah is a hidden little gem when it comes to its expansive views and a wide variety of interesting engagement photos locations. From quaint little towns to vast open spaces, massive mountain chains to desert sand dunes – Utah has got it all. In this blog, we cover why Utah is perfect for your engagement session, multiple bomb locations to choose from and a sweet and concise engagement photoshoot guide to make the best of your experience. 

Why choose Utah for an engagement session?

Trying to find engagement photos locations can be an overwhelming experience. Whether you have many or few options, there is still so much on top to try and consider. You could be looking to cover different settings in your shoot or satisfy what both you and your partner want. Depending on what kind of scenery you are looking to compliment your shoot, Utah has you covered. From urban to rural, to truly stunning outdoor backdrops. From rolling prairie hills, striking red-toned stone structures, and stunning mountain peaks you will hit everything on your bucket list and more! 

I have shot in a variety of places like Arizona, California, and Oregon – but Utah has my heart. There are SO many benefits to choosing Utah as your destination for an engagement session. Being true to all seasons, Utah is beautiful year-round! Our summers are filled with warm weather and golden hour sunsets. In turn, our snowy winters are the place to be for the adventurous spirit.

Still not sure if Utah is the location of your dreams? Take a look at Ady and Tyson’s sweet and eclectic shoot in the heart of Utah at the end of this blog. Really get a feel for what a Utah engagement session can look like.

Top 10 Engagement Photos Locations in Utah

Here is our top 10 list of Utah locations that will complement any kind of engagement sessions you are looking to have. From city shoot options to wide-open spaces, I got you covered! 

10. U-Pick Orchards

There is something so special about orchard engagement sessions, especially in the fall time as the leaves are turning. The long lanes of apple trees make for great dimension in pictures. Not only can you bring cute picnic props to make your photoshoot feel cozy, but also walk away with as many hand-picked apples as you would like. It’s a win-win!

9. Red Butte Gardens

The vibrant gardens will provide you with many options for your engagement shoot in just one location. It happens to be a well-known wedding venue but also provides quaint small ponds, an indoor greenhouse and so much more. The gardens are surrounded by sensational views of the mighty Wasatch Mountains and the Salt Lake Valley. 

8. Little Sahara Sand Dunes

If you want dessert vibes for your engagement shoot but don’t want to travel far, try considering the Little Sahara Sand Dunes. Not only do the dunes feel like they go on forever but you can incorporate fun activities in your shoot to spice it up. Up for a round of sandboarding? Run around with your loved one in this charming location made for an adventurous engagement photoshoot!

7. American Fork Canyon

This canyon makes you feel like you’re in the Pacific Northwest overlooking striking mountain views. With accessible and easy trails, you will have a variety of location options for your fall engagement shoot. The changing leaves, the lightly covered snowed mountains, and the calming lake will provide you with the perfect romantic setting to capture your love. 

6. Tunnel Springs

Depending on the time of year you’ll either get lush green or tan hay-like fields spreading out as far as the eye can see. My favorite is when the fields lose their green and you get this beautiful color combination of honey tan with shades of blue and warm golden tones from the sunset. Pure bliss. 

5. Thomas S Monson Building

For a more regal aesthetic, the Thomas S. Monson Building is the place for you. This historic building stands out with large pillars framing the entrance and intricate details throughout. The location is ideal for couples looking to dress up and have an elegant feel to their engagement session. 

4. Ember SLC

The Ember SLC is an urban event space available to anyone. The architectural style is an industrial-chic with concrete floors, brick accent walls, wood beams, and open ceilings. Not only does this location make for a unique engagement photoshoot spot but an incredible venue to host your wedding. 

3. Albion Basin

The Albion Basin looks like something out of Switzerland in the summer when all the wildflowers bloom. The ground is covered in lush green rollings hills and hugged by the surrounding Wasatch mountains of the Cottonwood Canyons. If you are looking for a summer engagement session, this should be at the top of your list. 

2. Park City Main Street

Park City’s main street is a charming town with a mix of Victorian and contemporary architecture. The street is embraced by a lush forest that comes to life around the holiday season. This is a perfect location to add to your list if you want some cityscapes for your engagement shoot. 

1. The Great Saltair

Even though we’re miles away from any ocean, The Great Saltair provides the same calming feeling you get from the sea. It consists of roughly 25% salt making anyone choosing to swim in it, float! The scenic backdrop is of course an added bonus. Making any picture look endless with its big and vast traits. You’ll be sure to stand out among this glass-like lake adjacent to white sandy beaches.

Engagement Session Guide, a freebie for you

I am so excited to share these awesome engagement photos locations with you. I truly have fallen in love with Utah and all it has to offer. Alongside my recommendations, I created an engagement session guide freebie for you to take the guesswork out of preparing for your shoot.

It can be easy to forget small details when you’re excited – or maybe a little nervous – about your engagement session. The guide is an easily downloadable PDF that you can print off as you are getting prepared. It comes with checkboxes so you can mark off the items you have acquired as you go down the list – type A or not, you know it’s satisfying! I hope this engagement session guide helps you stay at ease in knowing you will have everything you need so that you can get back to what really matters, showcasing your love and sharing your story. Click below!