How to Choose the Right Location for Your Engagement or Bridal Session


Let’s talk locations, because where you take your photos can make or break the vibe. The scenery, the colors, the lighting — it all ties into how the final gallery feels. Also, I’m not about just picking a spot because it’s trending. I want it to feel unique and intimate and personal. That's how you get photos you'll love.

Whether we’re shooting engagements or bridals, here are a few things to think about when choosing a location that fits your style and tells your story.


1. Think About the Overall Feel You Want

Are you wanting something romantic and soft? Adventurous and wild? Chic and modern? Cozy and laid back? The vibe you’re going for should help guide the location. If you’re picturing barefoot in the grass with flowy outfits and glowy light, we’re probably not going to shoot downtown. On the flip side, if you love clean lines and a more editorial feel, let’s find something urban or even go for a studio.

If you’re not sure what vibe fits you best, I’ve got a whole list of location ideas to help narrow it down.


2. Is There a Place That Means Something to You?

You don’t have to choose somewhere sentimental, but sometimes it’s extra special when you do. Maybe it’s the trail you always hike together, your favorite date spot, or where you got engaged. Even a cabin your family goes to or a little hidden spot near your home can make the shoot feel more personal.

And if there’s not a place like that? No worries at all. We can still find something beautiful that will end up being meaningful just because you chose it for this part of your story.


3. Light Is Everything

This one’s on me — I’ll help pick the best time to shoot so the light works with us. Some locations are only magical at golden hour. Some glow at sunrise. Some are tricky in the middle of the day. You don’t need to stress about this, but it’s definitely something I keep in mind when recommending spots.

Basically, location and light go hand in hand. Even a simple spot can look amazing with the right light.


4. Keep the Season in Mind

Utah is honestly such a good location — we get all four seasons and they’re all so different.

  • Spring: blossoms, soft green, fresh and bright
  • Summer: golden fields, mountains, long warm nights
  • Fall: changing leaves, crisp air, cozy colors
  • Winter: snow, pine trees, white frosted red rock

Think about what season your wedding is in too. If your wedding is in the winter, you might want warm, sunny engagements to balance it out. If it’s a summer wedding, a fall bridal session could be really fun.


5. Don’t Be Afraid of Studios or Styled Spaces

If you’re wanting a clean, minimal look or just don’t want to stress about weather, studios can be such a good option. There are some really pretty ones out there, and we can totally style it up with florals, props, or even outfits that match the space.

Sometimes it’s nice to just control everything — the lighting, the backdrop, the overall vibe — and a studio gives us that flexibility.


6. Want to Travel? Let’s Do It

If there’s a spot you’ve always wanted to go to, now is such a good excuse. Moab, Zion, the Salt Flats, the Oregon coast — I’m down to travel if you want something outside the norm. It could be a full weekend adventure or a quick road trip. I’m always happy to help with planning or scouting new locations.


Final Thoughts

At the end of the day, your location should feel like you. There’s no pressure to pick somewhere “cool” or Pinterest-perfect. If it fits your vibe and makes you feel good, that’s all that matters.

And I’m here to help with all of it — finding the right spot, picking the time of day, planning outfits… whatever you need. I want you to love the whole experience, not just the photos at the end.

By coordinating all of these things, the images we create will be stunning and look like we chose the most stunning location we could find.