The Best Summer Family Photo Locations in Utah
Utah is filled with some of the most beautiful and diverse landscapes in the country, and summer is the perfect time to take advantage of it all! Whether you’re dreaming of lush mountain greens, airy fields, or something more modern and minimal like the salt flats, there’s something for every family.
Here’s a roundup of some of my favorite summer family picture locations in Utah—all places I love shooting at, and that photograph beautifully!
Jordan Pines
Tucked away in the mountains, Jordan Pines is a dream location for late summer sessions. Think tall evergreens, golden light filtering through the trees, soft green grasses, and the Wasatch Mountains rising in the background. This spot photographs especially beautifully in late July, when the light is warm and the greens are at their peak.
Little Dell Reservoir
This location feels peaceful and like it is straight out of a painting. A small reservoir surrounded by grassy hills, soft green trees, and white wildflowers, Little Dell gives you that open, natural look while still feeling intimate. It’s perfect for families who love the feel of water in their photos without needing to go full beach or lake.
Utah County Russian Olive Trees
This spot has a more natural, slightly wild look with clusters of soft green Russian olive trees, golden-yellow grasses, and a warm, earthy palette. It’s such a beautiful place for relaxed, barefoot-in-the-grass kinds of sessions.
SLC Russian Olive Trees
Tucked in the Salt Lake Valley, this spot features sage green Russian olive trees, soft beige and green grasses, and even tall fluffy dandelions that dance in the breeze. It feels calm, organic, and so visually interesting—great for families who love those neutral, timeless tones.
Wasatch Mountain
If you’re open to a morning session, this spot is absolutely magical at sunrise. With tall green and golden grasses, soft sage clusters, and the Wasatch Mountains in the distance, this location lights up with soft golden light early in the day. It’s fresh, quiet, and perfect for families with early risers!
The Great Salt Flats
The Salt Flats are an iconic Utah location—and for good reason. With a neutral white backdrop, silhouetted mountains, and incredible light, this location feels clean, modern, and totally unique. It does require a drive and a location fee, but for the right family, it’s absolutely worth it.
Big Springs
Big Springs offers everything you’d want in a classic Utah family photo: a wide open green meadow, a distant tree-covered hillside, and layers of mountains in the background. It’s big, open, and perfect for kids to run and explore while we capture all the moments in between.
Lavender Fields
If you love color and want something unique, the lavender fields are for you! The fields are full of green and purple blooms, and you even get a bonus view of the lake and mountains in the distance. Lavender sessions only happen during the first two weeks of July, and spots go fast!
Alpine Loop
This location features tall spire-like mountains, lush evergreen forests, and grassy fields that catch the light beautifully. It’s dreamy, iconic, and such a classic Utah look. If you want that quintessential mountain backdrop, this is a go-to.
Cottonwood Canyon Quakies
The quaking aspens in this grove are so lovely in summer—green leaves with just a touch of yellow, tall grasses, and that soft light that filters through the trees in the most beautiful way. It’s great for families who want a forested, almost fairytale feel.
Tibble Fork
Tibble Fork is a timeless Utah location that looks stunning all summer long. Families are photographed on a gentle hilltop with towering mountains in the distance and layered evergreens creating a soft, textured backdrop. There’s also the option to incorporate the reservoir if you want water in your images. It’s classic, clean, and works beautifully in the soft evening light.
Saltair
If you’re looking for something a little different from the typical mountain look, Saltair offers a soft and striking alternative. With rolling, dune-like beige hills, creamy golden lighting, and a peaceful, open atmosphere, this location feels almost like a desert dream.
Need help picking the perfect location for your session?
I’m always happy to help you choose based on your style, outfits, and what kind of experience you want. These places are just the beginning—Utah has so many hidden gems, and I love helping families find their perfect spot.
Ready to plan your session? Click here to get started.
