What are the best spots for your portrait session in Western Colorado?

Western Colorado might be one of the most beautiful places in the US. I feel we have the best of both worlds: the colorful deserts & the alpine mountains. 

This offers great opportunities in terms of locations for your photo session! So what are my recommendations for an amazing background in your high school senior portraits? 

Here are my favorite spots in Western Colorado for your summer sessions: 

Whether you live near Grand Junction, Montrose, Ouray, Telluride, etc. you are surrounded by amazing places that will look just breathtaking in your portrait session. 

There are so many beautiful spots whether you are wanting the mountain range in the background – the San Juan Mountains will look great! Or whether you are wanting waterfalls, lakes, etc. You name it! 

Some of these locations may require a bit of hiking but a lot of them you can access with your car and will be right by the road! 

Telluride

Do you want brick wall buildings, waterfalls, and mountain ranges in the background? Telluride will be the perfect location for you! 

Telluride is an old mining town that is now very popular among tourists, and some of their historical buildings will be perfect for a photoshoot. 

Also, this place has so many waterfalls nearby, and one of them is accessible by car – you will need a high clearance vehicle if you decide to drive there. Plus, if you’re wanting an amazing view of the city with the mountain range, the gondola that goes from Telluride to the ski village above the city is free and allows for some breathtaking views! 

Below is a photo taken at one of the Bridal Veil waterfalls that can be a great spot for your senior photos. Warning: if there is wind, be aware of your hair so it doesn’t blow in your face during your photos.

Crested Butte

I am sure you know where I am going with this… WILD FLOWERS! 

Crested Butte is known all over the country for its wildflowers! So if you’re wanting colorful photos full of flowers, with the mountain range behind you… Crested Butte is definitely your place! 

Also, forests of aspen trees are all over the place, so there is quite a diversity of backgrounds we can include in your portrait session! 

One of the best spots for the wildflowers is definitely along the Kebler Pass. This pass doesn’t require a high clearance vehicle, just be careful (I did it in my VW GTI).

Grand Mesa

If you are near Grand Junction or if you are willing to drive there, Grand Mesa is a great option! 

We are talking lakes, forests, and fresh air! Grand Mesa is home to over 300 lakes and is the largest flat top mountain in the world. Not only that but in mid-July Grand Mesa offers fields full of wild flowers! 

If you’re wanting lakes, roads that go through forests, and wildflowers, Grand Mesa is definitely a great option for you! 

One of my favorite spot is the Carson Lake. Go check it out!! 

Colorful Colorado has its name spot on!

The summer is definitely one of the most beautiful seasons to take photos because of all the beautiful wildflowers, greeneries, and blue lakes that Western Colorado offers. 

TELLURIDE, CRESTED BUTTE, OURAY, GRAND MESA, ETC.

There are so many great and pretty places are surrounding us here in Western Colorado. This is definitely one of the best place to be for your senior photos!