Winter Photoshoot Locations in Northern Utah

Finding a photoshoot location in Utah during the winter can be difficult, especially in the northern Utah where snow can get in the way sometimes. However, there are plenty of gorgeous options to choose from despite the snow, and when we choose to embrace the wintery wonderland! Here is a list of some of my go-to spots I like to do my photoshoots at in Northern Utah in the winter.

Downtown Areas

Because cities are more likely to shovel, and just get more foot traffic in general, the sidewalks are a great place to roam for a winter photoshoot. These photos are from downtown Ogden, but there are plenty of beautiful downtown areas throughout Utah. I’m based out of the Logan, Utah area, so Logan’s Main Street/Center Street are a favorite spot of mine. Shooting in the mornings can sometimes be a better bet to avoid more traffic. Downtown Salt Lake and Provo also have some fun buildings to work with, but there’s unique main streets to work with in many a small towns throughout Utah to get a fun, city vibe for your photos!

Courtyards

Oftentimes, hotels or universities will have courtyard areas that are great to work with for your winter photoshoot. The photo below is at The Grand America Hotel in Salt Lake City. Be sure to check with hotels in advance if you’re welcome to shoot in their courtyard.

Ski Resorts

The great thing about ski resorts, is there’s parking that will be clear for you to start of in. These photos were just outside of the parking lot at Snowbasin Resort. Beaver Mountain Ski Resort between Logan and Garden City is also another ski resort I frequent to take pictures outside of the pullout area.

Sand Dunes

Little Sahara Sand Dunes is a spot worth trying out if you’re trying to get away from the snow. The photos below were right after a snow storm went through, so we got to have a fun mixture of sand and snow, but oftentimes the snow melts quickly and will be a unique option to travel to for your winter photoshoot.

By a Lake

One trick to finding good winter locations for your photoshoot in Utah is to avoid dead trees. Finding a lake is a great backdrop to have to avoid bare trees, and it’s a better bonus when you find a lake with gorgeous mountain views and pine trees. There is several lakes throughout Utah that can fit in this description- Utah Lake, Porcupine Reservoir (when snow levels permit), Little Dell Reservoir, Willard Bay, and the Great Salt Lake at Antelope Island are all accessible and beautiful spots.

Mountain Pullouts

One great thing about Utah is the canyons. In the winter, the amount of pullouts is reduced quite a bit, so finding paved pullouts that are frequented is the trick to finding a good spot. I’ve found that snowshoeing trailheads can be a good source to finding a spot. This spot was near Beaver Mountain Ski Resort at a snowshoeing trailhead. Be sure that the snow levels aren’t at unsafe levels though. Provo Canyon also features some paved lots near the waterfall trailheads at the front of the canyon. And always a favorite is Jordan Pines Campground in Big Cottonwood Canyon.

In the Park

Parks are a great option similar to downtown areas, where shoveling and foot traffic make sidewalks clear and great options for your Utah winter photoshoot. This park is located at the Wellsville Pond and definitely a favorite spot of mine!

Salt Flats

The Salt Flats are one of the most unique places to shoot in Utah. Depending on the weather, it’s definitely accessible in the winter. If there has been heavy snow, sometimes they can flood, so checking beforehand is an important task. There is a live camera on the Salt Flat conditions that can be found here to make sure it’s accessible!

Capital Building

The Salt Lake City Capital Building is one of the more popular options for northern Utah winter photoshoots. It keeps the dress clean, and is full of elegant architecture. Typically the building closes around 6 PM, but the best time to shoot indoors is late morning through mid-day when the sun shines through the ceiling windows.

Studios

Last but not least is studios! There’s a reason photographers often suggest having a studio as an option for your winter photoshoot. Weather is unpredictable, but studios keep your plans safe, and your clothes dry. I have another blog post of some Northern Utah Studio options here you can check out! Best of luck in your winter photoshoot endeavors and stay warm🤍