No matter where we go, we’ll find a spot for amazing photos. I pride myself as a Grand Canyon photographer and guide who also loves exploring the rest of Arizona. With this state’s and the surrounding area’s many tourist attractions–there is so much variety to enjoy! Lake Powell in Page, Arizona is a favorite place that I regularly visit with my couples. Allow me to guide you through capturing my own secret spots for your Lake Powell photos!
Tips & Tricks for Getting the Best Lake Powell Photos
Lake Powell is a unique destination located both in Northern Arizona and Utah in the Glen Canyon National Recreation Area. Not far from Grand Canyon National Park, Lake Powell was originally formed by the Colorado River being damned by the Glenn Canyon Dam. Before the dam, this area was actually a continuation of the Grand Canyon. You can just imagine the Grand Canyon filled with water–it would be absolutely stunning!
Like most locations close to a body of water, it can become pretty windy. I always prepare my couples with how and where to stand in order to see their faces, particularly during a marriage proposal. For ladies with longer hair, pulling your hair back is crucial so it’s not covering your facial expressions during your Lake Powell photos!
In the case of Sid and Mizbah’s surprise proposal, the wind made it challenging to capture her face. When not so restricted by time like these two were, I usually offer a chance to recreate the moment ensuring that we capture their faces. They were already racing against the clock to get to a secondary location so we were unable to reshoot.
While it was getting dark, luckily the rocks in that area reflected a lot of light. This enabled me to get pretty good quality images even after the sun had set. Areas like the one these two used are so quiet and not often visited making it perfect for an intimate proposal.
Planning Lake Powell Weddings
My most frequented spot for Lake Powell photos is a peaceful place that’s an easy 10-minute walk over gorgeous slickrock. One of my favorite times capturing a wedding there was helping Vicky and Paige do an off-roading and glamping wedding at a spot that overlooks the lake.
There are stunning views from the slickrock above the lake which also allows for camping. This requires a little 4×4 drive which makes for a super fun adventure! Vicky was stoked to ride the jeep on the rough terrain and it was really thrilling to watch her enjoy that while Paige was just trying to be brave!
Photo permits are not necessary for couples sessions or portrait photography, but a Special Use Permit is required for a Lake Powell wedding or elopement with a group consisting of eight people or more.
Where to Go for Your Lake Powell Photos
Another option for finding even more isolated Lake Powell photography destinations is by renting a boat. While the water is always cold, there is so much stunning shoreline to explore and many slot canyons with water running through them.
One location I like to use for sunrise or sunset Lake Powell photos is one that would be special even without the lake. The sandstone there really inspires my photography with the beautiful long lines where the sediment was deposited. It’s not flat at all with tons of ways to scramble around and get higher or lower for different angles. It’s easy to make people look small in this landscape and get those epic distance shots!
The location is a fairly easy 15-minute walk from the parking lot to the water’s edge. While it’s a short distance, I still would not recommend walking in heels. Parts of the lake restrict larger boat usage and this makes for still water that creates the most amazing reflections. When the sun is reflecting off of the red rocks and onto the water, it looks golden!
Lake Powell Arizona is an expansive and mysterious place. You could spend your entire life exploring it and never make a dent! There are some great things to see and do in this area, including Horseshoe Bend and Antelope Canyon. You can easily go to two different spots for sunrise and sunset sessions!
Vendors
Location | Lake Powell in Page, Arizona
Photographer | Terri Attridge Photography
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