Preston Ferguson Art

Category: Utah Photographer

Behind-the-scenes stories, featured sessions, and photography highlights from locations across Utah. This category showcases portraits, landscapes, and commissioned shoots while exploring the places and people that make Utah visually compelling.

  • How to Prepare for Your Engagement Session (Without Feeling Awkward in Front of the Camera)

    How to Prepare for Your Engagement Session (Without Feeling Awkward in Front of the Camera)

    Almost every couple says the same thing before their session: “We’re not good at photos.”

    And the truth is—almost no one feels completely comfortable in front of a camera at first.

    But engagement sessions aren’t about modeling or perfect posing. They’re about capturing a moment in your life together. The best engagement photographs come from natural interaction, conversation, and movement rather than stiff, formal poses.

    With a little preparation and the right mindset, your session can feel relaxed, enjoyable, and even surprisingly fun.

    Remember That It’s Not About Perfect Posing

    Many couples assume they need to know how to pose before arriving at their session.

    In reality, most engagement sessions focus less on formal poses and more on natural interaction.

    Simple activities—walking together, talking, laughing, or exploring a location—create authentic moments that translate beautifully in photographs.

    Instead of worrying about posing perfectly, focus on spending time together and enjoying the experience.

    Choose a Location That Feels Meaningful

    The environment plays a huge role in helping couples relax.

    A location that feels comfortable or meaningful can immediately make the session feel more personal.

    Some couples choose places connected to their story, while others are drawn to scenic landscapes.

    Utah offers an incredible range of engagement photo locations, from alpine mountains to desert landscapes.

    If you’re still deciding on a location, you may enjoy reading:

    ➡ The Most Romantic Engagement Photo Locations in Utah

    Coordinate Your Outfits

    Wardrobe can influence how confident and relaxed you feel during the session.

    Choose outfits that are comfortable, coordinated, and reflective of your personal style.

    A few simple guidelines can help:

    • choose complementary colors rather than identical outfits
    • avoid large logos or busy patterns
    • bring layers such as jackets or sweaters for variety

    If you’d like more ideas, you may also find this helpful:

    ➡ What to Wear for Outdoor Family Photos in Utah

    Many of the same wardrobe principles apply to engagement sessions as well.

    Focus on Each Other, Not the Camera

    One of the easiest ways to feel more comfortable is to shift your attention away from the camera.

    Instead of thinking about the photograph, focus on your partner.

    Simple interactions—holding hands, whispering something funny, walking together—create genuine expressions and natural body language.

    These moments often produce the most meaningful photographs.

    Expect a Few Laughs Along the Way

    Engagement sessions often include lighthearted prompts or playful moments designed to help couples relax.

    You might be asked to:

    • walk together down a trail
    • share a quiet conversation
    • spin or move naturally
    • react to something unexpected

    These prompts aren’t meant to feel staged—they simply create space for authentic interaction.

    The laughter that follows often leads to the best photographs.

    Trust the Process

    Feeling a little nervous at the beginning of a session is completely normal.

    Most couples find that within a few minutes they forget about the camera entirely.

    As the session unfolds, the focus shifts from posing to simply spending time together.

    That relaxed energy is what makes engagement photographs feel natural and genuine.

    Enjoy the Moment

    Engagement sessions mark a unique chapter in your relationship.

    Amid wedding planning and busy schedules, the session can become an opportunity to slow down and spend time together.

    Approaching the experience with curiosity and openness allows those quiet moments of connection to emerge naturally.

    And those moments are often what couples treasure most when they look back at their photographs.

    Next step

    Ready to plan your session?

    Share your preferred dates, location ideas, and who will be included. I will respond with availability and a clear plan for your session.

    Contact Form Demo

    Contact Information

    Shoot Details

  • The Most Romantic Engagement Photo Locations in Utah

    The Most Romantic Engagement Photo Locations in Utah

    Utah offers some of the most dramatic engagement photo locations in the country — if you know where to go.

    From alpine lakes and mountain meadows to desert cliffs and quiet salt flats, Utah’s landscapes create an incredible backdrop for engagement photography.

    The right location does more than look beautiful in photographs. It sets the tone for the entire session—whether that means adventurous, peaceful, dramatic, or intimate.

    Choosing a location that reflects your personality as a couple helps the photos feel authentic and meaningful.

    Here are some of the most romantic engagement photo locations across Utah.

    Big Cottonwood Canyon

    For couples who love mountain scenery, Big Cottonwood Canyon offers some of the most versatile engagement photo locations near Salt Lake City.

    Tall pine forests, winding rivers, and alpine lakes create a peaceful atmosphere that feels far removed from the city.

    During summer and early fall, wildflowers and soft mountain light make the canyon especially beautiful for evening sessions.

    The canyon also offers several easily accessible spots, making it perfect for couples who want dramatic scenery without a long hike.

    Antelope Island

    Few places in Utah feel as expansive and cinematic as Antelope Island.

    Surrounded by the Great Salt Lake, the island offers wide-open landscapes, rolling hills, and breathtaking sunsets.

    The light here can be extraordinary, especially as the sun reflects off the water and the sky begins to glow.

    The island’s quiet, open spaces also create a sense of intimacy that works beautifully for engagement portraits.

    Albion Basin

    High in the Wasatch Mountains, Albion Basin is one of the most iconic summer photo locations in Utah.

    In July and August, wildflowers blanket the mountainsides, creating colorful alpine meadows that feel almost surreal.

    Couples who want a dreamy, romantic mountain setting often fall in love with this location.

    Because of its elevation and natural beauty, Albion Basin is particularly stunning during golden hour.

    The Bonneville Salt Flats

    For couples drawn to minimalist landscapes, the Bonneville Salt Flats offer a completely unique engagement photo experience.

    The endless white surface creates a surreal environment where sky and earth blend together.

    At sunrise or sunset, the reflections and open space create incredibly dramatic images.

    This location works especially well for couples who want something bold, artistic, and a little unconventional.

    Utah Lake Shorelines

    For a softer and more relaxed atmosphere, Utah Lake offers beautiful shoreline locations with tall grasses, warm sunset light, and open water views.

    The lake’s calm environment can create a peaceful, romantic feeling during sessions.

    Because the shoreline areas are spacious and quiet, couples often feel comfortable interacting naturally without the distraction of crowds.

    Alpine Meadows and Open Fields

    Some of the most romantic engagement sessions happen in simple natural landscapes.

    Utah’s open fields and alpine meadows offer soft light, wide views, and space to move naturally.

    These locations are especially beautiful during late summer and early fall when grasses turn warm golden tones.

    The simplicity of the environment helps keep the focus on the connection between the couple.

    Choosing the Right Location for Your Engagement Photos

    While Utah offers countless beautiful locations, the best choice often depends on the experience you want during your session.

    Some couples are drawn to:

    • mountain scenery and alpine lakes
    • desert landscapes and dramatic cliffs
    • quiet open fields
    • lakes and water reflections

    The goal is to choose a location that feels authentic to your relationship and comfortable for your session.

    If you’re preparing for an upcoming session, you may also enjoy reading:

    ➡ How to Prepare for Your Engagement Session (Without Feeling Awkward in Front of the Camera)

    A Location That Feels Like You

    Engagement photos are about more than scenery.

    The best images capture the connection between two people during an exciting moment in their lives.

    When the location feels right and the atmosphere is relaxed, the experience becomes less about posing and more about simply spending time together.

    And those natural moments are often the ones couples treasure most.

    Next step

    Ready to plan your session?

    Share your preferred dates, location ideas, and who will be included. I will respond with availability and a clear plan for your session.

    Contact Form Demo

    Contact Information

    Shoot Details

  • How to Keep Kids Happy During Family Photos (So the Session Feels Easy)

    How to Keep Kids Happy During Family Photos (So the Session Feels Easy)

    The secret to natural family photos isn’t perfect posing — it’s creating space for kids to be themselves.

    Children rarely approach a photo session with the same expectations adults do. They aren’t thinking about perfect smiles or carefully arranged poses. They’re curious, energetic, and sometimes unpredictable.

    And that’s actually a good thing.

    The most memorable family photographs usually come from real moments—laughter, movement, and interaction. When kids feel relaxed and free to be themselves, those moments happen naturally.

    A few simple strategies can help the entire session feel easier for both parents and children.

    Choose the Right Time of Day

    Timing can make a huge difference in how kids experience a photo session.

    Most outdoor sessions take place near sunset because the light is soft and flattering. While that light is beautiful, it’s important to consider your child’s schedule.

    If possible:

    • avoid scheduling during normal nap times
    • make sure kids have eaten beforehand
    • allow time for a calm transition into the session

    A well-rested child is far more likely to engage happily with the experience.

    Let Kids Move

    Children rarely enjoy standing still for long periods.

    Instead of trying to hold perfectly posed positions, the best family sessions often include movement:

    • walking together
    • exploring the location
    • playing small games
    • interacting naturally

    Movement helps kids relax and often produces the most genuine smiles.

    It also creates photographs that feel alive and authentic rather than overly staged.

    Bring Small Comforts

    A few familiar items can help children feel more comfortable during a session.

    Consider bringing:

    • a favorite small toy
    • a blanket
    • snacks or water
    • a light jacket for cooler evenings

    These items can provide reassurance and help kids reset if they begin to feel overwhelmed.

    The goal is to keep the experience relaxed rather than rigid.

    Keep Expectations Flexible

    One of the biggest sources of stress during family photos is the idea that everything needs to go perfectly.

    In reality, children are unpredictable—and that unpredictability often leads to the most meaningful moments.

    A quiet hug, a spontaneous laugh, or a child hiding briefly behind a parent can all become beautiful photographs.

    When families embrace those moments instead of resisting them, the session becomes much more enjoyable.

    Encourage Interaction

    Instead of focusing on the camera, the most natural images often happen when families interact with each other.

    Parents can try simple prompts such as:

    • whispering something silly to a child
    • walking hand-in-hand
    • telling a quick joke
    • giving hugs or lifting kids into the air

    These interactions help children forget about the camera and simply engage with their family.

    That’s when the most genuine expressions appear.

    Keep Sessions Playful

    For younger children especially, play is the easiest way to create natural expressions.

    Simple activities like:

    • spinning in a circle
    • running toward parents
    • playing a short game of “follow the leader”

    can instantly bring energy and excitement into the photos.

    These moments often become the images families treasure most.

    Prepare Kids Ahead of Time

    A little preparation before the session can help kids feel more comfortable.

    Let them know:

    • they’ll be spending time outside together
    • it’s a chance to explore and have fun
    • there will be moments for pictures along the way

    Framing the experience as an adventure rather than a formal photo shoot can help children approach it with curiosity instead of pressure.

    Focus on the Experience

    Family photography sessions are ultimately about connection.

    When children feel relaxed and supported, their personalities come through naturally. The laughter, movement, and small interactions between family members become the story captured in the photographs.

    And those authentic moments are often far more meaningful than any perfectly posed portrait.

    Next step

    Ready to plan your family session?

    Share your preferred dates, location ideas, and who will be included. I will respond with availability and a clear plan for your session.

    Contact Form Demo

    Contact Information

    Shoot Details

  • What to Wear for Outdoor Family Photos in Utah

    What to Wear for Outdoor Family Photos in Utah

    The biggest factor in beautiful family photos isn’t the location — it’s wardrobe coordination.

    Utah offers stunning backdrops for family portraits—mountains, lakes, desert landscapes, and open meadows. But even the most breathtaking location can’t overcome clothing choices that distract from the moment.

    Thoughtful wardrobe coordination helps family photos feel timeless, natural, and visually balanced. The goal isn’t to match perfectly—it’s to create harmony between colors, textures, and the environment around you.

    With a little planning, clothing can elevate your photos from simple snapshots to images you’ll want on your walls for years.

    Start With a Color Palette

    The easiest way to coordinate family outfits is to choose a simple color palette.

    Rather than matching the same color, aim for a group of complementary tones that work together.

    Great palettes for outdoor family photos include:

    • Soft neutrals (cream, tan, soft gray)
    • Earth tones (sage green, rust, muted browns)
    • Warm natural colors (dusty blue, olive, soft beige)

    These tones photograph beautifully in natural light and blend well with Utah’s landscapes.

    Avoid overly bright or neon colors, which can reflect onto skin tones and pull attention away from faces.

    Dress for the Environment

    Utah’s landscapes vary dramatically, and clothing should complement the setting.

    For mountain locations, consider:

    • warm neutrals
    • textured sweaters
    • earth tones

    For desert or open field locations, lighter colors often work best:

    • cream
    • tan
    • soft pastels

    For urban or architectural locations, slightly more structured outfits can look great.

    If you’re still deciding on a location, you may also enjoy reading:

    ➡ The Best Locations for Family Photos in Utah

    Avoid Perfect Matching

    Matching white shirts and identical outfits were popular in family photography years ago, but they often look dated today.

    Instead, aim for coordinated variety.

    For example:

    • One person in a soft blue dress
    • Another in neutral tones
    • Children wearing complementary colors

    This creates visual interest while keeping the group cohesive.

    Add Texture and Layers

    Texture adds depth and richness to photographs.

    Consider incorporating elements like:

    • knit sweaters
    • denim
    • linen fabrics
    • layered jackets
    • scarves or cardigans

    These details create subtle variation in the image and help the photos feel more dimensional.

    Keep Patterns Simple

    Patterns can work beautifully—but subtlety is key.

    Good choices include:

    • small floral patterns
    • soft plaid
    • simple stripes

    Avoid bold graphics, large logos, or busy prints that draw attention away from faces.

    In family photography, the goal is always the same:

    the people should remain the focus.

    Think About Movement

    Clothing that moves naturally in the wind or as you walk can create beautiful, organic moments.

    Flowing dresses, skirts, or lightweight fabrics often photograph wonderfully outdoors.

    These small details help bring life and movement into the images.

    Plan Ahead

    The most relaxed family sessions happen when wardrobe decisions are made ahead of time.

    Consider laying out everyone’s outfits together before the session to see how the colors work as a group.

    This simple step can help you catch clashing colors or patterns early.

    If you’re preparing for an upcoming session, you may also find this helpful:

    ➡ How to Keep Kids Happy During Family Photos (So the Session Feels Easy)

    A Final Thought

    Family photos are about capturing connection.

    Clothing should support that moment—not distract from it.

    When outfits are thoughtfully coordinated, the focus stays where it belongs: on the people, the laughter, and the quiet interactions that make each family unique.

    Next step

    Ready to plan your family session?

    Share your preferred dates, location ideas, and who will be included. I will respond with availability and a clear plan for your session.

    Contact Form Demo

    Contact Information

    Shoot Details

  • How to Choose the Perfect Utah Location for Family Photos

    How to Choose the Perfect Utah Location for Family Photos

    Choosing a location is one of the biggest decisions you’ll make for your photo session — and in Utah, you’re spoiled for choice.

    From alpine lakes and mountain forests to modern architecture and dramatic desert landscapes, Utah offers some of the most diverse photography backdrops in the country. Whether you’re planning family photos, engagement portraits, or a personal branding session, this guide will help you find a location that matches the look, mood, and energy you want in your final images.

    As a Utah photographer, these are the locations I recommend most often — organized by vibe, so you can quickly narrow down what feels right for you.

    🌲 Mountain & Forest Locations (Romantic + Timeless)

    Guardsman Pass — Park City

    Description: Alpine overlooks, wildflowers, and iconic fall aspens.

    Address: Guardsman Pass Rd, Park City, UT 84060

    Fees: Seasonal parking fee may apply.

    Best for: Engagements, adventurous couples, fall sessions

    Aspen Grove — Provo Canyon

    Description: Dense aspen groves with dreamy golden-hour light.

    Address: 9521 Alpine Loop Scenic Byway, Provo, UT 84604

    Fees: Canyon access fee may apply seasonally.

    Best for: Families, maternity, couples

    Tibble Fork Reservoir — American Fork Canyon

    Description: Mountain lake with dramatic peaks and easy access.

    Address: American Fork Canyon, UT 84003

    Fees: Day-use canyon fee required.

    Best for: Families, engagements, sunrise sessions

    Jordan Pines — Big Cottonwood Canyon

    Description: Forested creekside location with soft light and easy access.

    Address: FR 632, Big Cottonwood Canyon, UT 84121

    Fees: None typically required.

    Best for: Families with young children

    Silver Lake at Brighton Resort — Big Cottonwood Canyon

    Description: Alpine lake with a scenic boardwalk and evergreen forest — mountain feel without the hike.

    Address: 8073 S Big Cottonwood Canyon Rd, Brighton, UT 84121

    Fees: None typically required; parking can fill quickly.

    Best for: Families, engagements, maternity, easy-access mountain portraits

    Logan Canyon (First Dam Area)

    Description: Water, mountain backdrops, and incredible fall color.

    Address: Canyon Rd, Logan, UT 84321

    Fees: None.

    Travel Fee: Travel fee applies

    Best for: Seniors, families, couples

    Ogden Canyon

    Description: Dramatic canyon walls with evergreen scenery.

    Address: Ogden Canyon Rd, Ogden, UT 84401

    Fees: None.

    Best for: Adventure-inspired portraits

    🏛️ Urban & Architecture Locations (Modern + Editorial)

    Utah State Capitol — Salt Lake City

    Description: Marble architecture and elegant symmetry.

    Address: 350 State St, Salt Lake City, UT 84103

    Fees: No photography fee.

    Best for: Engagements, formal portraits, bridals

    Cathedral of the Madeline — Salt Lake City

    Description: Gothic architecture and ornate details.

    Address: 309 E South Temple, Salt Lake City, UT 84111

    Fees: Indoor sessions may require permission or fee.

    Best for: Editorial couples sessions

    Downtown Provo

    Description: Historic buildings and urban textures.

    Address: Center St, Provo, UT

    Fees: None.

    Best for: Seniors, branding, couples

    Ogden Historic 25th Street

    Description: Vintage brick streets and urban charm.

    Address: Historic 25th St, Ogden, UT 84401

    Fees: None.

    Best for: Stylish portraits

    Provo City Library

    Description: Historic architecture with timeless arches.

    Address: 550 N University Ave, Provo, UT 84601

    Fees: No fee (check current policies).

    Best for: Engagements and classic portraits

    🌅 Open Landscape & Big Sky Locations (Minimal + Cinematic)

    Great Saltair — Magna

    Description: Iconic lakeside structure and dramatic sunsets.

    Address: 12408 W Saltair Dr, Magna, UT 84044

    Fees: Small parking/entry fee may apply.

    Best for: Couples, artistic portraits

    Antelope Island State Park

    Description: Vast lake views and roaming wildlife.

    Address: 4528 W 1700 S, Syracuse, UT 84075

    Fees: State park entrance fee required.

    Best for: Families, golden-hour sessions

    Little Sahara Sand Dunes — Nephi

    Description: Clean sand tones and minimalist landscapes.

    Address: 27020 W Sand Mountain Rd, Nephi, UT 84648

    Fees: Entry fee required.

    Travel Fee: Travel fee applies

    Best for: Engagements, artistic portraits

    Bonneville Salt Flats

    Description: Endless white landscape with surreal reflections after rain.

    Address: I-80 Exit 4 near Wendover, UT

    Fees: None.

    Travel Fee: Travel fee applies

    Best for: Editorial or destination-style sessions

    Spiral Jetty

    Description: Iconic earth artwork with minimalist surroundings.

    Address: Near Corinne, UT 84307

    Fees: No fee.

    Travel Fee: Travel fee applies

    Best for: Fine-art inspired sessions

    🌿 Easy-Access Nature & Park Locations (Family Friendly)

    Memory Grove — Salt Lake City

    Description: Tree-lined paths and soft greenery downtown.

    Address: 300 N Canyon Rd, Salt Lake City, UT 84103

    Fees: No fee.

    Best for: Families, lifestyle sessions

    Tunnel Springs Park — North Salt Lake

    Description: Rolling hills with sweeping valley views.

    Address: 1080 Eaglepointe Dr, North Salt Lake, UT 84054

    Fees: No fee.

    Best for: Families, maternity

    Thanksgiving Point Gardens — Lehi

    Description: Curated gardens and seasonal blooms.

    Address: 3900 N Garden Dr, Lehi, UT 84043

    Fees: Photography permit/entrance fee required; closed Sundays.

    Best for: Families, spring sessions

    Ogden Botanical Gardens

    Description: Floral gardens with colorful backdrops.

    Address: 1750 Monroe Blvd, Ogden, UT 84401

    Fees: None typically required.

    Best for: Family portraits

    🧱 Indoor & Studio Options (Weather-Proof + Modern)

    Studio Elevn — Salt Lake City

    Description: Industrial studio with natural light.

    Address: Salt Lake City, UT (by reservation)

    Fees: Studio rental fee required.

    Best for: Branding, couples, modern portraits

    White Space Studios — Bountiful / Provo

    Description: Minimalist white interiors and clean aesthetic.

    Address: Bountiful & Provo, UT

    Fees: Rental fee required; reservation needed.

    Best for: Families, newborns, modern portraits

    Wild Willow Studio — Park City

    Description: Neutral tones and soft light.

    Address: Park City, UT

    Fees: Rental fee required.

    Best for: Lifestyle portraits

    Kings Peak Coffee Roasters — Salt Lake City

    Description: Industrial café atmosphere with warm textures.

    Address: Salt Lake City, UT

    Fees: Must coordinate with business; possible fee.

    Best for: Lifestyle and couples sessions

    🔥 Southern Utah & Adventure Sessions (Epic + Bold)

    Snow Canyon State Park — Ivins

    Description: Red and white sandstone with dramatic contrast.

    Address: 1002 Snow Canyon Dr, Ivins, UT 84738

    Fees: State park entrance fee.

    Travel Fee: Travel fee applies

    Best for: Engagements, elopements

    Sand Hollow State Park — Hurricane

    Description: Red rock meets vibrant blue water.

    Address: 3351 Sand Hollow Rd, Hurricane, UT 84737

    Fees: State park entrance fee.

    Travel Fee: Travel fee applies

    Best for: Adventure portraits

    Moab (Arches & Canyonlands)

    Description: Iconic desert landscapes and massive scenery.

    Address: Moab, UT 84532

    Fees: National park entrance fees required.

    Travel Fee: Travel fee applies

    Best for: Destination-style sessions

    Capitol Reef National Park — Torrey

    Description: Epic terrain with fewer crowds.

    Address: Torrey, UT 84775

    Fees: National park entrance fee.

    Travel Fee: Travel fee applies

    Best for: Couples and adventurous families

    📌 A Quick Note About Fees & Travel

    Some locations require entrance fees, permits, or studio rentals. These are paid directly to the venue and help preserve these beautiful spaces.

    For locations more than 60 miles from West Valley City, a travel fee applies to cover drive time and logistics — I’ll always confirm this up front so there are no surprises.

    Ready to Plan Your Session?

    If this guide helped you picture your session, you’re already halfway there. Tell me the vibe you’re drawn to — mountains, city, or desert — and I’ll help you choose the perfect location and timing for the best possible light.

    Contact Form Demo

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