Snow can be beautiful in pictures! But if you’re anything like me, once January 1st hits, you’re ready for summer, right?! If you’re looking for a Utah winter photo location that doesn’t give a snowy wonderland vibe, we’ve got you covered! Here are 5 of our favorite Utah winter photo locations that don’t scream winter! These spots don’t usually have snow, so you can take pictures in the winter months without your photos looking like you did. If you’re looking for those dreamy, snow-filled locations, we wrote a blog post last month about our 5 top winter photoshoot locations.
Without further ado – here are our top 5 winter photo locations that don’t look like winter!
1. Antelope Island State Park
The prime time for photoshoots at Antelope Island is actually October-March, but the landscape here looks pretty much the same all-year-round. There is an entrance fee of $15 per vehicle (up to 8 people), which it is absolutely worth it for the beach-like scenery in land locked Utah! Bonus, you might even get to see some bison!
2. Little Sahara Sand Dunes
If you’re wanting photos with the stunning desert, bohemian vibe you’re seeing all over Pinterest, Little Sahara Sand Dunes is the spot. Heads up, it can get very chilly here during the winter months, but this is another location that looks the same year-round! Heads up, there is an entrance fee of $20 entrance per car. If you’re driving to these sand dunes and feel like you’re in the middle of nowhere….just keep driving.
3. Greenhouse: Shade Home & Garden
I love when couples tell me they want something green and warm in the middle of winter. Trip to Cali? Not always a feasible option. Easy solution—a greenhouse! Shade Home & Garden is a personal favorite located in Orem. There is a $25 per-hour fee, but again, totally worth it for the pictures. Cactus & Tropical is another great option located in Draper and Salt Lake or Valley Farms Greenhouse near Ogden. If neither of those work for you, we’ll help you to find a charming greenhouse in your area!
4. The State Capitol
Pre 2020 (and Covid-19), the interior was open to the public. While you can no longer go indoors, the exterior is still stunning and makes for very classy, timeless photos! I love this location, especially for bridals and especially in March when the Cherry Blossoms bloom! If you’re looking for a good 2-in-1 location, this is the spot since Memory Grove Park is just across the street.
5. Utah State Lake
I love this location, no matter what time of year it is! You can access Utah State Lake in Provo, or there is a dock and lake area in Lindon. Both are beautiful! The Provo location does require a $15 fee per car, but last I checked, the entrance fee for the Lindon Marina is only a $5 per car. Not a huge difference, but something to be aware of.
If you’re ready to embrace the cold weather but still get the photos you’ve dreamed of, these winter photo locations are for you! So double check the weather forecast, pack those snow boots, and put on your thermals (yes, even under a wedding dress). You’re in for an adventure!
You know what will give you the best photos in these locations? Having the best photographer there to take the pictures! We are very familiar with many of Utah’s best locations and are here to make your session as easy and stress-free as possible. Contact us today!