Salt Lake City Senior Photographer: Best Outdoor Locations
may at the bridge at jordan pines
It is officially senior pictures season! April and May are prime months for Utah senior photoshoots. Here are a few of my favorite locations to shoot around Salt Lake City during these months!
1`. Jordan Pines
april at jordan pines
Jordan Pines Campground is one of the most beautiful forest/ mountain locations in the Salt Lake area. Located in Big Cottonwood Canyon, it’s filled with tall pine trees, open forest floors, and a small creek that runs through the area… and even a cute little bridge!
Why it’s great for senior photos:
Huge pine trees that create a classic mountain feel
Soft, shaded light that looks great in photos
A quiet and peaceful environment that helps people relax in front of the camera
Jordan Pines works especially well for seniors who want a natural mountain vibe without needing to hike far.
This area is BUSY but it is also a large area so it is not too hard to find your own little spot for a shoot.
2. Tunnel Springs Park
august senior pics at tunnel springs
Tunnel Springs Park sits just north of Salt Lake City and offers some of the best sunset views in the area.
The rolling hills and wide-open landscapes create a clean, modern look that works perfectly for senior portraits. During April and May, the hills will turn green which is always beautiful. Other times of the year, the fields are golden or brown.
Highlights include:
Wide views of the Wasatch Mountains
Golden grassy hills that photograph beautifully
Incredible sunset ligh
Tunnel Springs is ideal for seniors who want photos that feel bright, open, and cinematic. I love this spot especially at golden hour, when the fields and hills glow.
3. Layton Bird Refuge
bridals at layton bird refuge
A little farther north, Layton Bird Refuge is one of the most unique photo locations in northern Utah. Instead of mountains, the refuge features wetlands, tall reeds, wooden boardwalks, and open water channels.
Why it works so well for senior photos:
Beautiful natural textures from the grasses and reeds
Soft, flattering light during golden hour
Quiet walking paths that create relaxed photo opportunities
This location feels peaceful and natural, making it perfect for seniors who want something a little different from the typical mountain photo session.
A few tips for this spot, when you shoot at golden hour, your subjects will be backlit. Make sure to plan accordingly. Similar to Tunnel Springs, this location (usually Brown), turns a bright green during the spring months.
4. Buffalo Peak
early summer at buffalo peak
Time to go south. Buffalo Peak offers some of the most dramatic mountain views in northern Utah. The ridgeline views and open landscapes make it feel adventurous and epic. I especially love the views of Timpanogos from this location.
What makes Buffalo Peak special:
Huge panoramic mountain views
Dramatic ridgelines and open skies
Amazing golden hour lighting
For seniors who love the outdoors, this location creates portraits that feel bold and unforgettable.
Something important to note, Kyhv peak road (the road leading to buffalo peak) opens in mid april, if you try to come here before then, the access gate will be closed.
I hope these locations give some ideas for your next Senior picture shoot!
