Where we shoot
The Front Range is full of incredible backdrops — red rocks, reservoirs, prairie grass, and mountain views. These are the spots Renee has scouted around Parker, Castle Rock, and the Denver metro, with honest notes on parking, light, and which sessions each one suits. Don't see your dream spot? Suggest one — travel is part of the fun.
Castlewood Canyon State Park
⭐Dramatic canyon walls and seasonal creek. Small day-use fee. Two trailheads. Best in morning light. 20 min south of Parker.
O'Brien Park
⭐Parker's largest community park. Open fields, mature trees, and shaded playground areas. Free. Great for active family sessions and kinder photos.
Pikes Peak
Rueter-Hess Reservoir
Beautiful reservoir with mountain views. Large free parking lot. Best light: early morning or 2 hours before sunset. Uncrowded on weekdays.
Cherry Creek State Park
Prairies, reservoir, and riparian trails. Day-use fee (~$10). Varied backdrops: open water, tall grass, cottonwood groves.
Red Rocks Park & Amphitheatre
Iconic red sandstone formations. Free park entry (not shows). Arrive early — extremely popular. Sunrise light is spectacular.
Washington Park
Classic Denver park with flower gardens, two lakes, and open lawns. Free street parking on all sides. Good light throughout the day.
Chatfield State Park
Reservoir, wetlands, and open meadows with mountain backdrop. Day-use fee. Golden-hour views over the water are stunning.
Roxborough State Park
Dramatic red rock fins and spires. No dogs allowed. Arrive early — limited parking. No permit currently required for portrait sessions.
Hudson Gardens & Event Center
Manicured gardens with sculptures, rose garden, and water features. Admission fee applies. Professional photography permit required — book ahead.
Denver Botanic Gardens
Stunning cultivated gardens year-round. Admission + commercial photo permit required. Book permit well in advance — slots fill fast.
Cheesman Park
Elevated Denver park with city skyline and mountain views. Free parking. Neoclassical pavilion makes a great portrait backdrop.
Evergreen Lake
Scenic mountain lake surrounded by pines. Free parking at the lake house. Spectacular fall foliage. Morning mist over the water is magical.
Bear Creek Lake Park
Lake, trails, and meadows with mountain views. Day-use fee. Great variety of backdrops within walking distance. Quieter than state parks.
Settlers Park
Central Parker park near Town Hall Arts Center. Free parking lot. Covered pavilion available. Convenient for local families — no drive required.
Morrison Historic Downtown
Charming small-town streets, brick storefronts, and the Red Rocks backdrop. Free street parking. Very photogenic at golden hour.
Stanley Marketplace
Industrial-chic marketplace with murals, exposed brick, and a lively outdoor plaza. Free parking. Indoor options available in bad weather.
Larimer Square
Denver's most photographed block: Victorian facades, string lights, and warm brick. Best at evening/blue hour. Street parking or nearby garages.
Big Dry Creek Trail
Multi-use trail through natural open space. Free. Multiple trailhead access points along Mainstreet. Mix of open fields, creek beds, and wooded sections.
Boettcher Mansion at Lookout Mountain
Historic stone mansion with panoramic Denver and mountain views. Jefferson County venue — rental required for events. Stunning for weddings.
Barr Lake State Park
Quiet reservoir and wildlife sanctuary. Day-use fee. Excellent for nature and bird photography. Uncrowded. Boardwalk access to the water.
Found a spot you love?
Tell Renee which location caught your eye and she'll plan your session around its best light.
Book a session