Choosing the perfect location for your family photos can make all the difference in capturing beautiful, timeless memories. Luckily Colorado Springs has quite the variety of stunning backdrops, from dramatic red rock formations to lush greenery and western charm. Whether you're wanting mountain views, open fields or a stunning park, Colorado Springs has the perfect location for your dream photos.
In this guide, I'll share some of the best locations for family photos in Colorado Springs plus some tips to help make your session easy peasy!
"Colorado is an oasis, an otherworldly mountain place." - Brandi Carlile
What to Consider When Choosing a Location
Before we dive into the best locations for photos in Colorado Springs, here are a few things you should keep in mind before choosing the perfect location for your family.
- Accessibility - Will it be easy for your family to access the location? Be sure to ask your photographer if it's stroller/wheelchair friendly and how far of a walk it is from parking to location. I also suggest asking about the parking situation as some locations have limited parking so that you can allow plenty of time to get there.
- Best lighting - Golden hour (shortly after sunrise or before sunset) is the BEST time for soft, dreamy photos. Your photographer will be able to guide you as to what time golden hour is depending on the location and time of year.
- Crowds - Popular spots can get busy, especially on weekends. Consider timing or a less visited location for a more intimate feel.
- Seasonal Beauty - Some locations shine during specific seasons, like the golden aspens in fall or snow covered mountains in winter.
Now let's get to the good stuff, Colorado Springs best locations for family photos.
Location, Location, Location
Garden of the Gods
Best for: Iconic red rock formations, stunning views of Pikes Peak and year round beauty
This is certainly one of the most famous landmarks in Colorado Springs. Garden of the Gods offers breathtaking rock formations that create a dramatic and timeless backdrop. The variety of trails and open spaces make it perfect for family photos and the scenery is beautiful no matter what time of year.
Best time: weekdays during sunrise or sunset to avoid large crowds
Pro tip: Earth toned outfits complement the red rocks beautifully
North Cheyenne Canon Park
Best for: Wooded trails, waterfalls and a peaceful setting
If you love lush greenery and secluded trails, North Cheyenne Canon Park is an amazing choice. With winding trails, towering trees, and even a few waterfalls. This location is perfect for capturing the essence of nature while keeping the focus on your family.
Best time: Late spring to early fall
Pro tip: Neutral colored outfits enhance the natural surroundings
Ute Valley Park
Best for: Mountain backdrops, open fields and a peaceful atmosphere
Ute Valley Park is a hidden gem that offers a mix of rocky landscapes and wide open spaces, perfect for families who want a relaxed, natural setting. It's less crowded than Garden of the Gods but still provides stunning views and soft golden lighting in the evening.
Best time: Anytime of year in the evening
Pro tip: This location works well for both casual and dressy outfits
Red Rock Canyon Open Space
Best for: Red rock beauty with fewer crowds
Similar to Garden of the Gods but with fewer visitors, Red Rock Canyon Open Space offers stunning sandstone cliffs, winding trails and open meadows. It's an excellent alternative if you want a classic Colorado Springs red rock look with more privacy
Best time: Early morning or late afternoon
Pro tip: Wear bug spray during the summer as flies and mosquitos can be present
Pro Tips for a Stress Free Family Photoshoot
- Coordinate Outfits
Choose colors that complement the surroundings. Earthy, neutral tones are best and you should try to avoid loud patterns. Coordinating instead of matching can help relieve the stress of choosing outfits.
- Bring Snacks and Water
Keep your little ones happy and hydrated
- Plan to Have Fun
Playful interactions make for the best candid shots. Tickle, hug and laugh to bring out genuine smiles and authentic memories.
- Trust the Process
Relax and enjoy your experience, your photos will reflect the joy and love. in your family.
Ready to Book Your Colorado Springs Family Session?
Your family's story deserves to be captured in a way that feels natural, joyful and uniquely you. Whether you want an epic mountain backdrop or a cozy natural setting, I'll help you choose the perfect location and make the experience fun and stress free.
I know how important these moments are and my goal is to create images that truly reflect your family's love and connection - photos you will treasure for a lifetime.
If you're ready to have your family's story documented in a stunning Colorado Springs location, reach out to Sacred Bond Photography LLC today!
Get in Touch
I'm a Colorado Springs family and motherhood photographer passionate about capturing genuine moments and creating timeless memories. Let's make your family photo dreams come true, contact me here to book.
