7 Ideas for a Unique Couples Photoshoot in Estes Park

Looking for unique Estes Park couples photoshoot ideas? You’re in the right place, my friend.

Estes Park is a popular vacation destination, and a preferred weekend getaway spot for Colorado locals, too! Whether you’re celebrating an anniversary, engagement, proposal, or having an Estes Park couples photoshoot just because, I’d love to help you capture it. And not only will we capture some beautiful storytelling images of you doing what you love, but we’ll make it a fun experience too.

When you hire me as your photographer, I’ll help you brainstorm some unique-to-you ideas to make your couples photos extra meaningful! Here are some of my favorite local ideas to get you started!

1. Pack a Picnic + Blanket, and Go for a Short Hike

THE VIBE: relaxed, playful, sweet, adventurous, romantic

There is natural beauty all around this town! Simply head into Rocky Mountain National Park, or even visit one of the downtown lakes and nature trails to capture it. While you’re out exploring, take your time. Savor your quality time together, take in the beauty, and find a favorite spot to post up for a little with a picnic blanket or hammock.

Here are some hikes that would be perfect for a couples photoshoot in Estes Park:

• Dream Lake: A pretty mild 2 mile roundtrip hike with multiple overlooks, lakes, and incredible mountain views!
• Sprague Lake: An easy and beautiful flat loop around the lake with stunning mountain views. Sprague Lake is a popular spot for finding
• Bridal Veil Falls: Looking for a longer hike? This is a more secluded 6 mile out and back in RMNP. The trail meanders through open meadows and to a beautiful waterfall. I’d recommend about 3 hours for a photoshoot on this trail.
• Copeland Falls: If you love the idea of waterfalls, check out the cascading Copeland Falls! A lovely little area in the Wild Basin entrance of Rocky Mountain.
• Lily Lake: Another easy, beautiful, and flat loop around a lake with excellent mountain views, forest area, and aspen groves. Hike even further if you’d like, or even climb up above the lake for a unique vantage point! Check out these snowy Lily Lake wedding portraits.
• Lily Mountain: Close to Lily Lake, you’ll find this dog-friendly hike! It’s located just outside of the National Park, so there’s no timed entry in the summer and you can bring your pet along. There are beautiful viewpoints along the way, so you don’t have to hike too far if you don’t want to, but the top offers incredible mountain views in every direction.
• Kruger Rock: Another excellent dog-friendly hike in Estes Park with incredible 360 views from the top! Check out this Kruger Rock elopement.

Looking for something super secluded and private? I’ve got a secret stash of hidden-gem locations to share with you when you book me for your couples session!

2. Rent a Cozy Cabin with a Fireplace and Hot Tub

THE VIBE: cozy, romantic, calm, slow, intimate

Picture this: you watch sunset on the porch of your cabin, snuggled up in a blanket and enjoying each others company. Maybe you break out your favorite game, read old letters to each other, and sip on your favorite cocktail. Just as the sun dips behind the mountain, you start a fire in the fireplace, cuddle up, roast marshmallows and make s’mores. Before it’s time to wrap up photos, you hop in a hot tub out on the deck and enjoy some stargazing.

3. Date Night Photoshoot at The Stanley

THE VIBE: sophisticated, elegant, a hint of mystery and intrigue, potentially spooky

Dress up and take photos wandering around the grounds of the famous Stanley Hotel! Find each other in the hedge maze, swing by the whiskey bar or do some wine tasting, and head out to the gardens. While you’re there, you’re just a short walk from downtown Estes Park where you can capture some cute couples photos at coffee shops, or along the storefronts. Wait until dark during the winter season and even capture couples photos against the extraordinary downtown lights!

4. Paddling or Boating on Lake Estes

THE VIBE: adventurous, playful, vacation-mode, summer-fun

If you’re anything like me, you love a lake day. Grab your partner and enjoy the sunshine out on Lake Estes! You could rent a pontoon and capture some cute boating photos, get on on a kayak or stand up paddle board. There’s even a section near the marina where you can wade in a little (if you’re feeling like you can brave the cold water!). While you’re there, maybe do some fishing or share a picnic spread. You can even head over to Ember Restaurant at The Estes Park Resort, grab some cocktails, and sit out by their outdoor fire pits overlooking Lake Estes for sunset.

And psstt! Lake Estes is dog-friendly, too.

5. Horseback Riding Adventure

THE VIBE: western, rustic, adventurous, bucket-list, summer-fun

Dress up in your best outfits (or dress down) and reserve a private horseback ride at Elkhorn Stables! Grab photos before and after with the horses, and then enjoy the most scenic horseback ride through the mountains with amazing view of Rocky Mountain National Park. Afterwards, swing by Seven Keys Lodge for a fancy cocktail on their deck, or take a slow sunset stroll around Lily Lake.

6. Tailgating with a View

THE VIBE: casual, outdoorsy, a touch of mountain-charm

Got a hatchback or a truck? Drive right up to the shore of Mary’s Lake and set the stage for a romantic, cozy tailgate date. Cast a line along the shoreline, enjoy the tranquil mountain views, and make it extra special with a charcuterie board or a pizza picnic. The best part? This idea works just as well at other Estes Park spots, like Lake Estes, Moraine Park, Upper Beaver Meadows, and beyond!

7. Stargazing Photoshoot in Rocky Mountain National Park

THE VIBE: dreamy, other-worldly, awe-inspiring

Did you know that Rocky Mountain National Park has some amazing stargazing?! On a clear night, you can even see the Milky Way with your naked eye. The fun doesn’t have to end when the sun goes down! Consider extending your session to witness and capture the brilliant night skies!

Your Estes Park, Colorado Photographer

Hey, I’m Amber! Estes Park local elopement + couples photographer.

Story Maker Photo is built on the notion that every moment you spend together is a milestone worth celebrating. Hiring a couples photographer doesn’t have to be a seasonal to-do, it can be a fun date idea too! I urge you to grab your partner and make memories together. And while you’re out there taking in the moment, I’ll take care of the photos.

Learn more about my Estes Park couples photoshoots here, and when you’re ready, book your session by filling out the contact form below!