Living in the beautiful state of Colorado, picking out a location for your senior pictures can be overwhelming. Whether you're graduating from high school or college, there are thousands of locations throughout the state that would make great photography spots. If you live in the northeastern part of the state and need help narrowing down your options, continue reading for a list of the best places to take senior pictures in Colorado.
1. Chautauqua Park
One of the most sought after locations for senior pictures in Boulder is Chautauqua Park. Chautauqua Park is located about 5 minutes from downtown Boulder. The park rests at the foot of the Flatiron Mountains, making it a popular attraction for hikers, photographers, and out-of-towners. Because of the remarkable scenery, it's one of the best places to take senior pictures in Colorado.
Even though Chautauqua Park is just a short commute from downtown Boulder, parking is very limited. It's also important to note that visitors must pay an hourly parking fee during the summer on holidays and weekends. Parking is free at all other times of the year. If you decide to have your senior pictures taken at this National Historical Landmark be sure to arrive at least 15 minutes before your scheduled photo session. This will ensure you have enough time to find parking.
2. Crown HIll Park
Another great spot for senior portraits is Crown Hill Park. Crown Hill Park is located in Wheat Ridge, about 20 minutes from downtown Denver. The park consists of a large lake and wildlife sanctuary, which make gorgeous photography backdrops. Photographers love to take pictures at this park because it also has beautiful mountain views.
Crown Hill Park is a great place for photography year round. Even during the winter months, you can walk away with stunning senior pictures. If you’re planning to have your pictures taken at Crown Hill Park, please note that the wildlife sanctuary is closed from March 1st - June 30th each year to protect nesting waterfowl. The rest of the park remains open throughout the year.
3. Daniels Park
An alternative location with mountain views is Daniels Park. Daniels Park is located in Sedalia, about 15 minutes from Castle Rock. Although the park is famous for its bison herd, it also makes for a great portrait photography location. The park has several viewpoints located on the west side which are wonderful for photos with mountain top views and sunsets.
Because Daniels Park has a direct view of the mountains, senior pictures can be taken year round. If you have your pictures taken here during the fall and winter months, you’ll likely have snow capped mountains in the background. If you prefer to have your photos taken in the spring and summer months, then the greenery surrounding you should be brightly colored. Either way, your senior pictures will turn out amazing.
4. Denver Tech Center
As mentioned above, there are thousands of locations for senior pictures in Colorado. If you're looking for a more urban feel, however, the Denver Tech Center is just the place. The Denver Tech Center consists of several hundred acres of elegant office buildings, greenery, ponds, and sculptures. As a result, there are various locations throughout the DTC that are perfect for senior portraits.
The landscaping around the Denver Tech Center is well maintained throughout the year. Therefore, you can take lovely senior pictures any time of year. If you decide to have your photos taken at the Denver Tech Center, however, it's important to take the time of your photography session into consideration. Try to schedule your photo session outside of normal working hours to avoid heavy traffic.
5. South Platte Park and Carson Nature Center
Another popular spot for senior pictures is the South Platte Park and Carson Nature Center. The South Platte Park and Carson Nature Center is located just a few minutes from downtown Littleton. As its name suggests, the South Platte River runs through the middle of the park. There's a pedestrian bridge near the river, which is one of the most desired photography locations within the park. From certain angles, you can even catch a glimpse of the mountains in the background.
Due to its natural beauty, pictures can be taken at the South Platte Park and Carson Nature Center throughout the year. However, it's best to schedule your senior portrait photography session during the summer or fall months. This will ensure the trees are fully covered with leaves.
6. Washington Park
Finally, Washington Park often gets overlooked when searching for places to take senior pictures in Colorado. However, it's actually a perfect location. There are 2 ponds located in the middle of Wash Park which make exceptional backdrops for close up portraits. The trees scattered throughout the park also create stunning senior portrait opportunities.
Depending on the look you're going for, you can take senior pictures at Wash Park throughout the year. Although, it's best to take pictures during summer and fall months when the lakes aren't frozen over. If you're planning on having your senior pictures taken at Washington Park, be sure to check for local events that may be taking place at the park. Sometimes areas of the park are closed for cross country and 5K running events.
Talk To a Colorado Senior Portrait Photographer
If you made it this far, you've read through the list of best places to take senior pictures in Colorado. Hopefully, you have a better idea of where you'd like your photos taken. If you're still on the fence, you can ask your photographer for location recommendations.
Hiring a senior portrait photographer can be challenging. That's why I'm here to help. I'm a boutique portrait photographer specializing in Colorado senior portraits and I'd be happy to assist you. If you have any questions, click the link below to set up your complimentary consultation. For more ideas on where to take senior pictures, check out 10 Beautiful Places to Go in Denver That Locals Rave About.