Fort Collins, Colorado has consistently been ranked one of the best places to live in the U.S. and it’s also one of the best places to take your engagement photos. Located in Northern Colorado, Fort Collins is home to Horsetooth Reservoir, one of my favorite spots for dreamy mountain engagement sessions!
Annelise and Ross chose Horsetooth Reservoir as the final location for their summer engagement session, and it could not have been more beautiful. These two are such a fun, easygoing couple and just genuinely good-hearted people who love spending time together. Their love was so evident in every interaction they shared.
I also had the honor of capturing their fall wedding at the Hudson Gardens in Littleton, Colorado! It was nothing but a joy to walk with them through this season and be the one to capture such special moments for them. Thank you both for choosing me as your photographer!
Fort Collins, Colorado Engagement Session Package
You might have noticed I said Horsetooth Reservoir was the final location. That’s because Annelise and Ross chose my 4-hour experience-based engagement session, which meant they didn’t have to sacrifice any of the ideas or locations they loved… we could do them all! With 4 hours, we were able to build a session that gave them time to enjoy one another and create new, genuine memories.
We started the afternoon with a picnic along Spring Canyon Trail with their handsome pup, Professor, who absolutely stole my heart and will steal yours too. After that, we headed into Old Town Fort Collins for a little date night in the city. They grabbed a sweet treat at Walrus Ice Cream and picked out a bouquet from Paul Wood Florist. A dream date if you ask me!
Their session is just one example of what’s possible with my storytelling-style engagement sessions. If you’re looking for other ideas, you’ll want to see Chloe and Kevin’s staycation at The Armstrong Hotel!
What You Need to Know When Planning Your Horsetooth Reservoir Engagement Session
Here is a quick overview of a few logistics to help your engagement session at Horsetooth Reservoir run smoothly:
Is a photography permit required for Horsetooth Reservoir?
Larimer County requires a photography permit for all professional photo sessions at Horsetooth Reservoir. They offer a single use permit for $25 or an annual permit for $150 that can be purchased online by photographers. I have a full blog post explaining Colorado photography permits, including the Horsetooth one, if you want to check out requirements for other locations, too.
Is there a parking fee at Horsetooth Reservoir?
There is a $10 per-vehicle day-use fee to park at Horsetooth Reservoir. If you’re bringing multiple cars or friends, keep that in mind. You can purchase your day pass in most of the parking lots or online ahead of time.
Are dogs allowed at Horsetooth Reservoir for my engagement photos?
Yes! Horsetooth is a great option if you want to include your dog—just be sure they stay on leash and to pick up after them.
When is the best time to take photos at Horsetooth Reservoir?
Sunset is the most popular time for sessions at Horsetooth Reservoir. It can be especially busy in the summer between photography sessions and sunset-watchers. Weekdays are usually quieter and easier to find parking.
How accessible is Horsetooth Reservoir? Do we have to hike for our session?
You can keep things super easy and stay near the parking areas, or wander a little farther for more privacy and bigger views. There’s a spot for every comfort level and you do not have to hike to get the best views. We didn’t hike for Annelise and Ross’ session!
Fort Collins Engagement Photographer
Hi there, I’m Logan—a Fort Collins engagement photographer offering digital and 35mm film photography. I photograph engagement sessions all over Northern Colorado and Horsetooth Reservoir remains one of my favorite places to bring couples who want gorgeous mountain views and space to roam.
Here’s my motto: your relationship is more than just one location or one activity. So, to tell your full story, I designed my engagement sessions so you can actually have an entire afternoon to go on your dream date, revisit your favorite spots, or try something new together. My approach helps you feel more natural in front of the camera and creates more personal images because every detail means something to you.
If you’re planning your Horsetooth Reservoir engagement photos or looking for the best places in Fort Collins for your session, I’d love to help you plan something both fun and memorable. You can read more about my Colorado engagement session packages and reach out to inquire for your session! I’ll be in touch within one business day to start planning your dream engagement session with you!
