St. George has an incredible range of backdrops within a short drive: red sandstone right in town, turquoise water against red sand, lava fields and seasonal lavender. Here are the spots I recommend most, and who each one is best for.
Pioneer Park & Dixie Rock
Best for: Engagements, seniors and quick red-rock sessions in town
Pioneer Park sits on the red bluffs above downtown St. George, with sandstone ledges, small slot-like passages and a view over the whole city from near Dixie Rock (Sugarloaf). It's minutes from almost anywhere in town and great at sunset.
- Minutes from downtown
- City and red-rock views
- Some scrambling; wear good shoes
Snow Canyon State Park
Best for: Families and couples who want classic red-and-white sandstone
Just north of town near Ivins, Snow Canyon has petrified dunes, white sandstone and black lava fields all in one place. See my Snow Canyon photo spots guide for the best areas.
- Photographer pass required
- Lots of variety
Sand Hollow
Best for: Bright, colorful photos with red sand and blue water
Sand Hollow State Park, near Hurricane, pairs deep red sand and sandstone with a turquoise reservoir. It's a fun choice for couples and families who want something different from the canyon look. State park day-use fees apply.
- Red sand + blue water
- Day-use fee
- Can be windy
Veyo lavender fields
Best for: Maternity, families and dreamy portraits during bloom season
A short drive north of St. George, the lavender in Veyo blooms for a few weeks, usually in early summer. Soft purple rows and evening light make some of the sweetest photos of the year. See my lavender sessions page.
- Short bloom season
- Book early
Your own home
Best for: Newborns, little ones and cozy family stories
Some of the most meaningful photos happen at home: snuggles on the bed, kids in the kitchen, the nursery you worked so hard on. In-home lifestyle sessions are relaxed and comfortable for babies and toddlers.
- No travel for baby
- Natural, cozy light