Elk Meadow Park in Evergreen is one of the best places in the Denver area for senior photos. There are so many backdrops in one place: wide golden meadows, wildflowers, mountain views, and some really cool old wooden structures. You get a lot of variety and unique, beautiful photos without driving all over. This session with a Class of 2024 senior was one of my favorites, full of golden light and real laughs.
The best time to shoot at Elk Meadow
Golden hour in the evening is when this park really glows. The sun drops behind the hills and backlights the tall grass and hair, which is the look you see in almost every photo here. Summer and early fall are especially pretty, with the meadow grasses turning gold. In the summer, keep an eye on the forecast, since afternoon storms roll through the foothills often, and we can move the session if needed.
So many backdrops in one park
We started in the wildflowers and open meadow for full-length photos, then sat down in the tall grass for relaxed, laughing shots. The old wooden structures add great texture and something a little different from the usual field photos. With all that open space, there's room to move, twirl and walk without anyone else in the background.
What to wear
Two or three outfits work really well here. We did a relaxed tee, then jeans with a simple fitted top, and finished with a flowy white dress that looks amazing against the golden grass. Soft neutrals, creams, white and warm tones blend into the meadow beautifully. Comfortable shoes help too, since we'll walk through grass and uneven ground.
Good to know before you go
Elk Meadow is a Jefferson County open space park with trailhead parking lots. Stay on the trails and give any wildlife plenty of space. You may even spot the elk the park is named after. It's about 40 minutes from Denver, and totally worth the drive for a senior session.
