If you’re reading this blog post then you have scheduled a Colorado Springs mini session with me and are now thinking about locations. Below I’ve compiled my top 3 Colorado Springs locations for mini sessions. It’s important to note that my photos focus on you and your family. I always try to get a handful of great wide, landscape shots, but the people in front of me are my focus, not the landscape. The photos you see below are ones that best show the area, so you can get an idea of what it might look like.
As you’re considering what location to choose from, here are questions to consider:
- What type of landscape are you envisioning? Mountains and trees? Big views? Known landmarks?
- What type of outfits are you hoping to wear? What outfits will go best with the scenery and the weather?
- How much walking and hiking are you truly willing to do? Think about your shoes and the weather.
Also, you may notice that the colors and editing looks different when comparing the photos together. It varies based on time of year, lighting, and the year it was taken. My editing style continues to evolve and change!
Stratton Location
This is my go-to location for mini-sessions. It’s a lesser-known trailhead in Colorado Springs that offers open grassy areas with mountains in the background and tree coverage for photos too.
Pros: Very quiet location with easy parking. Views of trees and mountains in the background.
Cons: Will require 5-10 minutes of uphill walking on a trail. Some small cactus in the grassy area.
Cheyenne Canyon
This Cheyenne Canyon location will give an “in a mountain field” feel. This location is easy to get to and has a nice parking area. It’s also very quiet aside from an occasional hiker. To get to the open area it takes at least 5 minutes of walking on a trail uphill to the open space.
Pros: Easy to get to. Beautiful views.
Cons: Only the initial walk to get to the location!
Garden of the Gods
Garden of the Gods is always a top request for sessions. GOG is a known Colorado landmark that is free for the public to visit. I primarily use 2-3 locations within the park that have easy parking and are less crowded than normal. That being said, it’s important to note that I rarely shoot near the “heart” of Garden of the Gods simply because it’s usually filled with people.
Pros: Well-known location with a variety of great background options (rocks, big views, etc.).
Cons: Sometimes can be busy, especially on weekends. Red Rocks create a red tone on your skin. Requires some climbing and uphill walking around rocks.
At the end of the day, you can’t go wrong with any of these spots! If you have a specific place in mind please ask about it! It’s possible I’ve photographed there before or I’m always up to trying out new spots for sessions.
Check out these blog posts to see more photos from engagement sessions at Garden of the Gods:
