How to Plan Your Engagement Session in Utah

Planning your engagement session is one of the most exciting parts of being engaged. It’s often the first time you get to celebrate this new chapter in a way that feels intentional, personal, and beautifully documented. And if you’re planning your engagement photos in Utah, you’re in one of the most stunning states in the country to bring your vision to life. From mountain peaks and red rock cliffs to soft lakeside sunsets and modern city backdrops, Utah truly has it all.

As a photographer who has photographed couples for more than sixteen years, here’s everything you need to know to plan an unforgettable engagement session in Utah—one that feels effortless, meaningful, and uniquely yours.

Choose the Right Location That Matches Your Personality

Utah is incredibly diverse, which means you can choose a location that reflects the feel you want in your photos. A few of the most popular (and photogenic) places include:

1. Bonneville Salt Flats – Minimalistic, dreamy, neutral, and cinematic

2. Big Cottonwood Canyon – Lush summer greens, stunning fall colors, and modern mountain views

3. Antelope Island State Park – Golden fields, open horizons, and wild coastal tones

4. Saltair / Great Salt Lake – Soft tones, reflective light, and pastel sunsets

5. Downtown Salt Lake City – Clean lines, modern architecture, and editorial-style portraits

When choosing a location, think about what fits your story. Do you love adventure? Are you drawn to timeless elegance? Do you prefer something quiet, intimate, or iconic? Your location creates the mood for the entire session, so let it reflect who you are as a couple.

Plan Around the Best Light (This Matters More Than People Realize)

Utah has some of the most dramatic golden hours I’ve ever photographed. Because we’re surrounded by mountains and reflective flats, the light changes quickly—and planning your session around it is key.

The best times to schedule your session are:

• Sunset: The most flattering, romantic light for Utah landscapes

• Sunrise: Perfect for couples who want softer light and fewer crowds

• Blue hour: After sunset, perfect for an elevated editorial feel

If you’re unsure which is best, I always help my couples choose the exact time based on the location, season, and desired mood.

What to Wear for Stunning Utah Engagement Photos

Your outfits don’t have to be complicated—they just need to feel elevated, timeless, and true to who you are. Because Utah’s landscapes are so varied, color and texture can dramatically change the look of your photos. I want to make sure that your engagement session in Utah is going to be the best backdrop for your photos.

A few outfit tips:

• Soft neutrals, muted earth tones, denim, deep greens, and black work beautifully in most Utah locations

• Long, flowy dresses add motion and photograph exceptionally well at the Salt Flats, Antelope Island, or mountain overlooks

• Avoid loud patterns or neon colors that clash with the landscape and cast their bright color onto each other’s faces

• Bring two outfits (one dressy, one casual) for variety

• Make sure both outfits coordinate without matching exactly

For inspiration, websites like Baltic Born and Lulus are wonderful for Utah-friendly styles:
https://www.nordstrom.com
https://www.lulus.com

Consider the Season (Utah Weather Has Personality)

Utah experiences all four seasons in dramatic ways. While every season is beautiful, each one affects your session differently:

Spring – Green hillsides, blossoming trees, comfortable weather
Summer – Golden sunsets, wildflowers, glowing mountain light
Fall – Vibrant reds, yellows, and oranges in the canyons
Winter – Snowy, magical, clean, and bright (incredible for Salt Flats)

Weather can shift quickly, especially in the mountains, so always stay flexible. I help my couples navigate backup options when needed, ensuring your session still turns out beautifully.

Bring Small Personal Touches

This is the time to include pieces of your story. Consider bringing:

• A blanket to sit on (solid color or white works great)

• Champagne for popping photos

• A bouquet or small floral accent (local florists)

• Hats or jackets for style variety

• Your dog (yes, I love photographing pets!)

The right small detail can make your images feel more personal and unique. Be sure to check out my what to wear guide for engagement photos.

Relax, Be Present, and Trust the Process

The most beautiful engagement photos come from couples who let themselves be fully present. You don’t need to know how to pose—I’ll guide you through every step with prompts that feel natural and candid. My goal is to help you feel comfortable, confident, and connected so the images reflect the true energy between you.